Location: Forest Kindred Territory Taiah felt a strange sense of something wrong. Humans were always wishing for more than they needed. Always wanting to kill more than their stomachs could eat along with their constant need to gather beautiful skins such as tigers. Disgusting habits these creatures had, granted Theoden was much better since she lived with tigers until the slaughter. Why must these creatures be so cruel?
A few more steps made the feeling crawling sensation worsen. Something was seriously off and there was no way to tell why. Her figure shifted to the nearest tree, slowly shifting her paws against the tree, paws spreading for a much better grip and climbed upwards for a better advantage. Here they would be a bit more safer though ten to one they would be on their trail. That was if they weren’t already. Her grey eyes lowered as the other tiger seemed to be still following. ” Looks like we’re safe for now. Damn it why was I such a moron. Con we even make it towards the forest line?” The female wondered to herself.
Rathe had finished with his rights, burying his men and giving them their last farewell. It was a sad and solemn ritual that he took upon himself. Following it he'd have his scribes draft up letters to their respective families and loved ones, giving them closure and letting them know their children, husbands, wives, and lovers died as true heroes and men and women to be proud of. It was at this point, in the Field of the Fallen that a messenger came to him. Waiting for his final moments to pass before addressing the Warden Commander of Fort Helios in the fashion proper to his rank. A crisp snap to attention and a salute made by putting one's hand over their heart, curled into a fist. "Sir, we have found a message on the invaders. It's addressed to you." He said, holding out the piece of paper in question to Rathe.
Rathe reached out to take hold of the parchment, glancing over it as he saw the words for himself. Silently he began to move with a purpose back to the keep. Before long he was assembled in the war room with his Wardens of various fields. The Warden of Blades stood to Rathe's right, a man of many years and many battles, scarred and marred to show his worth. To his left was the Warden of Bows, the ranged master of the fort and easily the greatest shot this side of the world. To the right of the Warden of Blades stood the Warden of Siege, a master engineer who either built or oversaw the construction of all the siege engines in Fort Helios. Then finally to the left of the Warden of Bows was the Warden of the Arcane, a master magister and great teacher and scholar of the fort. And of course Chiya sat on the table next to Rathe, trying to seem confident and regal as all the others in the room had, but in truth it looked for like he had a stick up his hind end, making him look like a statue staring up at the chandeliers. It was more adorable than regal in actuality.
"It's quiet clear what this entails. It's a missive for summons. Yet to round up a Rhilander army? This is worthy of war!" The Warden of Siege spoke out quiet angrily. Even smashing a fist onto the 3D map that made up the table. "We can't be so rash, it's clear that this queen of Hyall has power and that power can be brought to bear against our keep. If they wish to have an audience we should heed it. After all there is no threat conveyed." The Warden of Bows spoke up to say in response, "It's clear that this is nothing more than a show of force. We were made to win, yet still view the power this queen holds. I say we send our delegation to meet her." She concluded, offering a second alternative. Meanwhile the Warden of the Arcane chimed up to add, "We can't just walk into this situation blindly. Why make such a drastic show of delivering a message? It's meant to subjugate and make us be afraid. So I agree we should go, but not to know what this Queen demands. Instead to show that we will not be made afraid by her actions."
Rathe heard the words of his advisors, but through it all he held to his convictions, "No. I will go to Hyall to meet this Heketah. Not because she summoned me, not because we must show her we are unafraid, but because she has commit murder. She sent these invaders against us and by their hand did they kill twelve of the brave men on the walls. That blood is on her hands and she will answer for her crimes." He started, tensing Harbinger in his right hand as he shifted the weapon to his side, standing up from his chair to accent that silence was to be held in his war room. "I leave the fort in your hands my Wardens, she will be safe until I return." He concluded collecting up his weapon using it to gesture at the model on the table. The fine tip of his blade touching the territory of Hyall. "It is a trek to her land, but one that will not take a small band very long. We can move fast and keep to the chief roads of Ashkavi for most of the way. I leave tomorrow and I have made my decision." He finished tapping the bottom of Harbinger on the stone floor like a gavel. The Wardens looks among one another, quiet a bit shocked as this would be the first time in 200 years that Rathe would have left the walls of Fort Helios. He's known as the Eternal Warden for a reason after all. Yet, he didn't seem to be bothered by the idea of leaving his keep.
Chiya broke free from his confident pose and looked back at Rathe with wide eyes. In Kindred he spoke out with jubilation that seemed to almost radiate from his little form, "We're leaving the fort!" He spoke out with enough glee to match the vigorous wagging of his tail. His whole hind end wagging wildly and blindly as he hopped around on the table. "I can't wait! I can't wait! I can't wait! Are we going to see the plains? And the forests? And I heard about big bodies of water called oceans! Are we going to an ocean?" He continued, wildly speaking his mind with no censor.
For Rathe he looked at the hyped pup and with his usual cold and blank face he held out a hand to make a bridge that Chiya happily jumped up to reach his usual position on Rathe's shoulder. Sitting down, but that didn't stop his wagging tail or constant questions. "Have you been to the ocean? I know it's a lot of water. Like a LOT a lot of water and it's not water you can drink, because it has salt. And the salt actually makes you..." He continued on, seemingly talking without end long into the night.
On the cusp of the next morning, the team was made ready. Rathe and Chiya were to travel with four other guards of Fort Helios as an envoy that would forge a path into Hyall and to meet this Queen Heketah.
Mikahiel was enjoying his tea when he noticed the commotion within the inn. It sounded like the usual commotion of merriment and friends and people meeting each other. But then he felt a certain chill come from the window that was right behind him. He knew this area was not particularly warm however he could feel the drop in temperature on the back of his neck. He could only look back without a prediction of what he would see. For the sounds of merriment were hushed.
He could feel the sudden shift in the moods of the people within the inn. He had to remove strands of hair from his face from the Whiplash he nearly receives from turning so fast. His blue eyes looked over the expressions of the people inside. It took only a second for him to notice the tall man who was better dressed than everyone else, by Royal standards, being the center of attention. He thought the Centaur he met was strange however this man that he witnessed gave an aurora that was different from any creature he's ever met.
With a sip of his tea he merely watched the display of violence. The cold made him thankful that he was drinking something hot. Though not a stranger to fighting and casual murder Mikahiel found the ongoing events inside distasteful. He couldn't help but roll his eyes at the actions of such a man who appeared of high class. Was this to be expected of the Queens entourage? They seem no more than thugs at this point to him. He laid a prayer within his mind that the artists here will be better behaved and even more talented.
His head turned to look up at the centaur who was keeping him company. "Quite the commotion." He said with a sigh. He took a sip of his tea as Dujae exited the building. His expression was if he did not care though his eyes did follow. As it followed and wandered he found the tasteful design of a store or two that may pique his interests. He was certainly not in the mood for violence and wanted only to relax and perhaps befriend a centaur. "I apologize I did not mean to ignore your kind offer. I do not think it's proper for a lady to purchase a man... A man's meal." He knew little of Centaur customs but a woman was a woman and he was a certain kind of man. "I am very happy that you enjoy the tea though. It is not often I get to share such Delicacies with strangers." He took a small napkin and wiped his lips before setting it down folded on the table. "But since I did suggest something for you to try perhaps you can suggest something for me to try." He gave a gentle smile, as if the earlier commotion was already out of his mind. "Though service may be a little slower." He gave a smirk.
"If I may ask what's next for you after visiting Hyall?" @13org
Tempest arrived on Hyall’s outskirts, the winds and altars used to travel between realms delivering her safely there. She walked into town and kept her eye out so she doesn’t bump into anyone. Even though the crowd was congested much today. She carefully kept her eye out for certain things in the shop windows including someplace to take it easy. ”I need to relax some,” Tempest thought to herself.
She was a bit too distracted with the shiny jewelry and expensive dresses in the shop windows. She bumped into someone in the middle of the pathway. She was embarrassed at her own clumsiness as she and the stranger ended up stopping in the middle of the street. ”I’m sorry for bumping into you,” Tempest said politely. She was hopeful this person would just forgive her and allow her to go on.
Onyx looked back up at Dujae as he spoke, a small smile on her face. That was that then, she and Kirara would be out of his hair as soon as they ate. The barman came over and took their orders, Onyx getting herself and Kirara a meal to share. As Dujae dropped a bag of gold on the table, she narrowed her eyes at him slightly, but said nothing. If he wanted to get drunk, she couldn't really stop him... though it was difficult to hold herself back from starting her usual speach about how some alcohol was okay, but not too much. "You have to look out for your health you kn-"
Kirara stopped her from continuing, the Scelt standing up on the table and putting his paw on her face. "Big sister should eat before lecturing people." He sat facing her now, a look on his face that could almost be considered Stern. "Food is almost here."
Onyx laughed quietly, more to herself than anything. "Okay, okay. I know how you hate having to listen to my chiding Little Brother." She sat back on her chair, watching the strange interaction between Dujae, Faeril and the newcomer, the woman Isadora. Isadora said nothing to either of them, yet Onyx still got a sudden feeling of wariness. Glancing between the two women, she began to realize something. She couldn't understand Faeril's interest in the Prince before, but if she were a Widow...
Just as she made the connection in her mind, Dujae stood suddenly, the air growing colder as he moved to confront someone at a nearby table. Kirara's fur stood on end as her hopped down off the table and began to move towards the door, yipping at Onyx as she stood too. Yep, time to go.
Once out on the street, and a fair distance from the inn, the two paused. She looked down at Kirara, who was now sitting by her feet, looking around them to make sure he wouldn't get run over by anyone in the crowd. "Sorry little brother. We'll eat at home. I believe I've had enough of people today... The Scelt seemed to nod at her, and the two started walking once again, heading to the edge of the city so they could hop on a wind going home.
Before long, Onyx found herself being walked into by a small Hallylan woman. Kirara growled quietly as the girl spoke.
”I’m sorry for bumping into you,”
Onyx nodded at the appology, saying "It's fine.. See glanced down at Kirara in confusion as he kept growling however, and after a second she bent down to pick the Scelt up off the ground. She cuddled him in an effort to calm him down some, and the sound he made did get quieter, but his gaze was fixed on the little woman.
"Little brother? What's wrong?" She spoke softly to him, stroking his fur as she did. He finally stopped growling as he answered her. "She ran into you, and I don't like her." After a second the low growling sound returned, and Onyx glanced at the woman apologetically.
"He's not normally like this... but you're fine. Just, watch where you're walking a little more, alright?" Onyx smiled kindly at the woman, the way she would at a patient. Considering the combination of her kind smile and the growling Scelt however, she had no idea how this woman would react.
Naaji followed the female tiger as they walked away from the smell. Naaji remembers what happened to his mother when he was just a cub. He remembers the cruelty, the horrible scene... If he said that the only reason he followed the tigress was just out of curiosity, and to know her better, he would be lying. He had already seen some hunters before, but the smell of fur made him feel a little bit uncomfortable. Walking away was simply the best thing to do right now.
Naaji watched as the tigress climbed the tree, following her. She looked really uncomfortable, even more than Naaji was right now. Naaji himself wasn't that preoccupied with the hunters, at least not as much as the tigress was. Seeing her like that made him wonder if he was being too careless...
Laying down on the branch just next to her, he looked at her, gently touching her face with his nose. "Don't worry, we will be ok." He said, trying to comfort her. He doubted the hunters would really want to mess with them, but if they did... Well... there were two grown up tigers. He was sure they would be able to at least run away without being harmed.
"Even if they're really... hunters..." Naaji said, proffering the word hunters with a low growl, almost like he was angry as he pronounced that word.
"... I'm sure that we will be able to run away." He continued, trying to cheer her up.
"I wont let that happen again... Not again..." He mumbled to himself.
"You still haven't said your name! Your fur is very... beautiful." He said to her, awkwardly, trying to forget the unpleasant memories that came up on his mind.
The tea was truly wonderful, but something interrupted the small moment she had to enjoy the tea. The moods rapidly shifted inside the inn. She didn't know what happened, but the hostile air was clear as the day. The culprit appeared to be a very elegant, tall man, wearing quite fancy clothes. He walked and moved himself with such grace that it was hard to believe he was really a man... But that wasn't the only noteworthy things about that man. The cold air that the man exhaled, the dangerous aura around him... There was... something with him. Aisha didn't know exactly what, and she honestly didn't care, but there was something different with him.
But Aisha was too busy enjoying her tea to actually pay enough attention on the commotion and the other people's expressions and mutterings to realize the man that was the reason behind all that was actually a powerful prince. For her, he was just a very well dressed noble. She didn't live in Hyall, so it was only natural for her to don't know who were the most powerful in the city.
Aisha had already witnessed many fights on taverns, inns and the like. So she knew that things like that display of violence were... prone to happen. Especially in big cities such as Hyall.
As the tall man walked outside the building, she felt the strange, cold air again, making her feel really uncomfortable.
"Quite the commotion." Aisha heard Mikahiel sighing, making her forget about the strange man that just passed by them. Honestly, she didn't care who he was, or what he was doing as long as he left her and Mikahiel be, she really didn't care. Obviously she wasn't happy with the situation, such unsightly display of meaningless violence, but she couldn't do anything about it. Mikahiel too didn't seem to be that satisfied with the situation, making Aisha smile after he rolled his eyes and said those words.
Mikahiel continued shortly after that, still speaking with a charming and very polite tone. She curiously listened to him as he spoke, saying it was improper to let a lady to purchase a man's meal. Aisha wasn't used to being treated as a 'lady', as for the centaurs, both men and women were exactly the same. But in the other hand, she was familiar with such thing as 'pride'. Even if the concept of a women buying a man's meal being something improper being very strange for her, she could understand 'pride'.
"Really? I feel a bit embarrassed making you pay for the tea." she said, smiling to him. "Indeed is quite rare to find people that enjoy drinking tea. It is quite relaxing, even with some small interruptions, its always good to sit down, relax, say nothing for a few seconds as you feel the herbal aroma coming from the tea... It is a very good way to get to know someone better, if you ask me." She said, with a gentle smile on her face.
After Mikahiel said about her suggesting something for him to try, she got a bit less embarrassed with him paying for the tea. That could be a way to repay him for his kindness, so it wasn't that bad. "Hm..." She said, touching her lips with her finger as she looked around. She didn't knew much about Hyall, so she hoped she could find something for them to do nearby...
"After Hyall?" She asked, after Mikahiel asked what she would do after visiting the city.
That question really got her by surprise. Aisha lived her life in a really... carefree way. She went wherever the wind led her.
"Well... If I knew, I would tell you!" She said, laughing. "I have no destination, really. I simply go wherever the wind takes me." She said, just when she saw a certain store nearby, making her eyes shine with excitement.
Right next to that other shop selling furs, there was a jewelry smith. Extravagant necklaces, beautifully crafted body chains were displayed on the windows. They were all really beautiful! Aisha was so curious to see what other beautiful jewelry that shop sold! She surely would find something for her there! After looking at the store for a few, very noticeable seconds, she looked at Mikahiel for a second. She was trying to suggest something for Mikahiel to do... not her. He looked like some of the traveling artists, musicians and bards that she encountered on her travels... So maybe he was interested in art or something like that? If that was the case, there was a perfect location right near them.
The store was called 'The Crimson Brothers'. It dwarfed every other shop nearby. Inside it you could see basically everything related to art, in various different areas. Maybe he would enjoy that?
"The Crimson Brothers..." Aisha repeated, looking at the shop. "It is a pretty big and fancy shop... Maybe there is something interesting inside...?" She asked, looking to Mikahiel and studying his reaction. "After that... We could go to that shop over there..." She said, a bit embarrassed. "Would you like to help me to choose a necklace or a body chain for me? I've been wanting to buy one since I got here." She said, smiling kindly to him.
Kael rubbed his neck and looked up as the widow spoke to him. He gave a firm nod of agreement and was completely entranced by the woman that was so very easily stroking his ego. ”Certainly! He is nothing more than an untrained pet” The insult was spat as he rubbed his neck again. Being that he had never seen the ice healer had zero idea what she was doing to him just yet. He nodded once more. ”He’s treated just so special because the queen favors him. All I see is some wild dog that needs training”
Kael’s attention was soon grabbed by the glacian woman. Both of these exotic woman were extremely beautiful to him, so having his ego stroked by both was something very pleasant for him. Though, before he could comment any further he found himself essentially passed out. His body moving freely to wherever Isadora wanted it to go. He came back to on the bed.
Kael blinked several times and then gave a small smile as the glacian woman glided toward him. He found himself with a wider smile as she climbed on top of him, his hands starting to move when suddenly, he couldn’t see anymore. He couldn’t use any of his senses except for touch. Soon panic set in and now he was wishing he had paid more attention to what she had said earlier as blinding pain engulfed him. His mind sent him through waves of extreme pain as the widow completely changed who he was. Kael the new and improved version laid on the bed knocked out cold after the entire ordeal with no idea what was going to happen to him next.
location: Forest outside of Hyall-Terreille
The man had no chance against the stronger male. He soon found himself in a ton of pain with his jewel torn away from him along with being bound and gagged. Being that he was basically the school yard bully type he was not more than a little terrified. He was terrified so much in fact, that he did not even try to do any jewelless magic and just laid still. Hoping that the man with wings would leave. Sadly for him, he was not considered important enough to have a ring.
The mare quivered while she witnessed everything happening. Too scared to run or really do anything else at the moment. Her head lowered and as the winged one approached her she flinched and pawed at the ground nervously with one hoof. She was not as fearful of him because he had wings. The ones with wings were always better than the ones without. Many kindred were more likely to trust the Eyriens than any other race because of the wings that marked them as closer to kindred then other races. The touch on her shoulder was met with a quiver of the flesh. A fear of pain to follow instead of the comfort she was receiving. Nervous pawing of the ground continued for a moment before she relaxed. As she did so she was slowly able to understand what was actually being said to her. Her red haired ears slowly pricked forward. Cautiously she gently nudged his mind before attempting to speak to him. ”My….name is Summer….I am a healer, but my escort….hes….they killed him” It was clear this horse was still a bit shell shocked and by the sound of her voice she had only recently received her offering jewel.
Her head lowered as she wearily glanced at him and then at the man that shattered her jewel. ”I will gladly accompany you winged brother”
location: Hyal-Terreillel
As the glacian found the brat, the slaver was intent on finding the thing that had resulted in so much pain for him. He still clutched his side as he made his way through clusters of people his eyes scanning for the urchin that did this to him. Luckily for the both of them he was not able to find them and instead gave up and went to find a healer to patch up his wound and hide his wounded pride.
As Rayven ran through the crowds and the alleys she met little resistance. Each person she did bump into gave her a rather disgusted or rude expression before carrying on to what they were doing. Barely paying any mind to the urchin running about doing whatever it wa such low class creatures do. Though, one man that she bumped did push her back with a small amount of force with a face of irritation.
location: Kindred Forest-Kaeleer
The two tigers would be able to see some of the massive size of the forests of the kindred territories. Trees of multiple different types stood proudly. In the distance to one side were the Askavi Mountains of Kaeleer, to the other side was the snow capped mountains that Glacia claimed home to. Very far into the distance the trees eventually broke down into plains where horses and unicorns claimed home to. Various ponds, lakes, and rivers, dotted the area. This was truly the pinnacle of all things nature.
The group of humans formed a circle around the two tigers. Most were still down wind and they were hiding in such a way that even in the tree the two could not spot them. One man with a lighter opal jewel sprung forward, his clothes haggard looking and he gave a surprised sound at the sight of the two tigers in the tree.
The man’s palms went up and his eyes lowered. ”Im...Im sorry for intruding. I must have gotten lost, would you mind showing me the way brother and sister?” The rest of the group remained silent where they were. Hidden and waiting for the tigers to make their move.
location: Askavi Mountains-Hyall-Terreille
The mountains of Askavi were enormous and proud. Jutting into the sky as if to defy the very limitations of size itself. Several passes made up the party’s way to exit the proud location. Worn paths used by merchants who wished to try to trade with the more tribal yeet proud race. Trees and other beautiful flora occupied their space on either side of the path.
The travel was fairly uneventful, yet peaceful. A light breeze was tossed between the base of the massive mountains as occasional shadows from Eyriens pass above them going about their various tasks. As they continued an Eyrien woman was visible gently plucking various flowers. She paused and turned tucking her darker colored locks behind her ear. She gave a small head bow. ”Travel well brother” She looked like she could be a simple witch, but she was a priestess. Her kind honey colored eyes giving a kind glance before she spread her large wings and took to the air.
Other than that encounter, nothing else bothered the group. They eventually watched the mountains slope into nothingness as a small forest with a path sprung into place. Continued walking would find the party seeing the trees break away into the outskirts of the town. Compared to the rest of the liveliness there was a barren feeling here. Dust and dirt replacing greenery which was fairly unusual for a location with an active queen. The town was bustling however, much like a bee hive swarming about to keep their daily tasks going. Many seemed excited, as if they received a more….friendly invitation for the events coming up.
location: inn at Hyall-Terreille
As the two artists spoke, the innkeeper was busy insuring that the frost was gone. She made sure that everything was running smoothly before making her way outside to her other guests. She seemed to be a short lived race with freckles and green eyes. She paused next to the two artists and cleared her throat. I apologize for Prince SaDi and any interruption he may have caused. He has….a rather short fuse like most warlord princes. I hope he did not startle you in any way” She paused before continuing, ”May I bring you another kettle of tea? I would like to show my sincere apology to you” While it seemed she had asked, it also seemed like she was intent on doing this no matter what the answer to the question was and went back inside. After a few moments she returned with more tea for the both of them and carefully set it down. ”On the house for all the tea you have had. Please come again soon” She gave a bright smile and then went back inside.
location:Hyall-Terreille
As the priestess bumped into many a person before fully bumping into Onyx, the crowds gave a rather wide berth around them. As if they knew that these two individuals would not be moving any time soon and wanted to avoid being bumped into by either person. After all, many had to prepare for the festivities they had coming up. It would be grand and beautiful nothing less would be expected from the queen of Hyall. If it was any less then they would not be in the proper location would they?
location:Askavi-Hyall-Terreille
As Sul’ryk made his flight from Askavi to Hyall, he would experience much the same thing as Rathe. Though for him it was much more of a bird’s eye view then the grounded view that Rathe received. Each mountain top had Eyrien. They thrived amongst the peaks and flew between the ones closer to each other. While the much larger separated groups were not even able to see the other groups. Many glanced his way before going back to their tasks until there was no longer large enough peaks for tribes to live. Instead a few lone housing areas occupied the smaller ones until it got to the point where there was not even enough space for that.
The mountains lazily slopped into the ground and soon small forests sprung up in their place. Proudly holding their ground like sentinels of nature. Then, almost abruptly, the trees broke off into dust. A more barren feeling arose as the city sprung into view. The bustling area filled with shops and further back fanciful homes with small patches of land. At the very back the large beautifully ornate castle stood proudly. It showed all its wealth.
If he kept focused however, and looked he would spoke a fairly fanciful library. One that would most likely hold the information he needed considering it was one of the larger locations and older looking. As if the place had been there for quite some time.
Faeril Ashkevron sat at a table and sipped at the ale she had found on a patron who had exited during their little freeze out. Disgusting, but she was fortifing herself against what she was about to do. A clear warning than whatever Isadora was plotting against this fool. Her wings had spread to their full width as she gazed with a glacier calm into the drink. Looking up as she heard footsteps approach. Isa looked gleeful at her work, informing her that this Consort would turn his life to shambles. Nodding slowly she rose and moved to the stairs. "One last thing, a little against what I would normally do... But I want to make sure the message is clear- in evidence." She stated quietly, walking into the room containing the passed out Consort.
He looked rather innocent there, a lie lying before her. What she was doing was going to cause problems. But that was her patient. Her duty was to heal. More than that, this male and his mistress was going to harm her patient. Something she wasn't about to allow. Drawing a dagger, she raised her arm and struck. A burst of power searing where his ringed finger once was to stop the bleeding. The finger falling into the sheets, the ring still fitted about it's base. Laying her fingertips against the man's head she ripped into his mind. One last thing, one last little twist in the webs of life. Her power find a slight strand of thread and slowly reforming it to her liking- and his disliking. Not a dislike, a aversion. A nightmare was forming. Oh, he would be a Isadora made him. Arrogant to the extreme, ruining his own life. But she slowly seeded the thoughts that this Sadist, this Dujae SaDiablo was to be obeyed. Deferred to. A fitting touch against his originally mockery.
Giving a cruel smile, she picked up the finger with the ring attached and tossed it into the fire place. Let it burn, she decided. Exiting the room she wiped the dagger off on the bed sheet and walked pass her fellow Widow. Linking her arm in the younger's, Faeril sighed in annoyance. Leading them both from the Inn. "What did you find in his-?" Slim fingers flickered as to fill in the last word of 'mind'. Leading the fellow Widow towards the exit of the city and the Wind that would take them to her own home where a irate Eyrien male most likely waited. It would not do to stick about this diseased city, the people were most certainly not to her liking. A Black Widow with a fraying temper was not something she wished to reveal to the world. "And lovely work, my dear, as always. Will you be staying about long, I believe Gen would be happy to see you. He's going to be rather hard to live with due to my little outing." A understatement. Gen would be furious that she went to Hyall and alone. While he couldn't go, he would have insisted that she call up one of his brothers to escort her. Something she was loath to do. Two of them were pranksters and had tried to shove her in a box when her friend's clan had been helping her stock up for a bad winter a few years back. She was a grown woman and not a little child to be mocked! Irritating boyos. Faeril was unaware of the small smile that graced her hardened face. The thoughts of those innocent times lightened her mood.
Gen Saroth
Location: Forest
Gen nodded slowly as he listened to the now apparently young mare speak. Summer, with the Summer jewel. A fitting name, he thought. But then the Kindred were rather straight forward with such things. Generally. The Warlord hadn't expect her to speak mind to mind, but he should have seen it coming Gen scolded himself. Shaking his head in amusement over the fact that scolding voice sounding a lot like Faeril at her most exasperated. Which made perfect sense seeing as how often he did hear her exasperated with his 'helping'. Fae wasn't one to enjoy someone's help or affections easily. She'd squall and squawk with insults, but not mean a word. Then the minute you got hurt, the little woman would be there demanding that you get better or else. His eye gleamed with humor. It was when she actually said something positive to another person about actually enjoying their company and not being gruff about it that you could be assured. It would take more than a mountain to stop that woman from helping or being there for those she cared about that deeply!
Moving his thoughts back to the present problem, he lightly patted her shoulder, he spoke still using that calming tone with a boyish glee and grin. Something to make the mare feel at ease. "Lady Summer, then. Hope you don't mind bedding down in the tool shed? It's made for wings, so you'll fit. Just till I get down to the village and bully some of my kin out of straw floor will be a tad hard." His voice was rather apologetic about this fact. "It's got a fireplace so it'll be warm enough... Eh, you'll need anything else? My knowledge of horses is a tad limited." Embarrassment colored his voice and his eyes. He really didn't know overly much what she might need, and honestly wanted to ease the mare's time among them. For a burly Eryien the man had a good heart. Picking the abused abuser of a male and tossing him over his shoulder, he gestured that Summer follow. "And you, fool, get to talk to a Black Widow friend of mine. Ol' Scapel Tongue, as I call her. Don't worry, you'll probably get a nice long chat before she gets creative." Gen gave a mockery of a evil laugh. Though he winked charmingly at the mare. "Lets just hope, between you and me buddy, she doesn't get in her head to give you a good shave. Or feed you to her Sisters." Turning about he walked towards his cabin, offering to the mare that she might accept his shield so they could ride a Wind back.
Ravyn Ghosteye
Location: Hyall
The looks people gave her didn't bother the brat over much as she raced to escape. People were jerks at the best of times, savage at the worsts. If they were from or in Hyall? Savage was the best she could and would hope for. Hearing a cry behind her, she sped up realizing she was being ran after. This caused the small girl to bump into a man, who shoved her away. Staggering to the side and into a alley. She stumbled losing the rhythm of her running, and fell. Hitting the ground, she tumbled for a second before struggling to get her legs back under her to run on. This split second of breathless desperation led her to look back and notice the glacian man. Who most certainly was not the slaver or the Black jeweled man. Her panic eased some though not overly much. A male was still a male.
Tugging her hat low over her golden eyes, a gift from her unknown father, and dusty hair. A attempt to disguise the silver coloring of the Dea Al Mon. Something that would gain her odd looks from those surprised and looks she would rather avoid from those who wanted what she had. Trying to deepen her voice, Ravyn glowered at the well dressed aristo. "Aint nothin' happened, Sir. Some idiots tweakin' the tail of someone they ought not 'ave." She answered gruffly, standing up and hurrying on. Not running this time, but trying to fast walk away. Maybe he would take it as that and let her go on her merry way. But greed was thick with her now and thrice lucky was a thing... She brushed by the man, giving him a sharp shove with her shoulder. Risky, but she was the Procurer! She was a risk taker! Especially as her hand subtly grabbed onto his purse and pulled it from him when she shoved him. Another step and she was about to take off. The man's purse with her, and he clueless. Or that was the idea.
Rathe Grey & Chiya! Location: Traversing the Realm of Terreille
Rathe and his expedition party had quiet the trip heading away from the fort they all called home to venture deep into the Realm of Terreille. The long stretch of lands that led from the rocky crags of the Askavi Mountains all the way to the forests and fields of the realm proper. Having spent such a great, long time high in the mountains robs one of their memories of beauty that nature can provide. For Rathe in particular it is far to rare that he ventured from the peak that he called home and for Chiya this was quiet literally his first time. Taken as a pup to slavery he was never privy to the sights of nature beyond the mountains. Of course he'd heard of them from the soldiers of the fort, but that only gave him a greater need to seek out these wondrous sights, and the ocean to boot!
The first leg of their journey was calm and peaceful. Sleeping in nights under the cover of tents and pavilions, striking fires to stave off the cold winds of the high peaks. However, after a week of work through the higher altitudes of the world the party found the more temperate climate that waited for them in the forests. Chiya couldn't contain himself and from that point on refused to sit upon Rathe's shoulder for transportation. Instead he ran about, chasing circles around the party as they continued on, determined to get answers. Still didn't mean that some fun couldn't be had and several of the party members began to chase after Chiya, playing with him when energy was abound and spirits were high at the fire. Much to Chiya's joy and entertainment. Rathe stayed to his course as he had a goal in mind. He needed answers and Heketah had to provide them. She had 12 names to know, and 12 accounts of murder to be charged with. He was nothing, but a man of conviction and right now his path took him to Hyall.
It wasn't too long before they met another on the road. It was a rare sight indeed and a welcome one as the party greeted her in kind, wishing her well just as she did to them. Given her appearance she must have been a Priestess and that only served to compound the warm feelings. The men and women of Helios were almost like them in an abstract sense. Protecting the gates that lead to new worlds.
Time passed on and Chiya tried, and succeeded, to take Rathe's mind off his mission a few times, but still he was brought back and just in time for the party to crest a small hill at the cusp of a forest. Seeing the trees part, just as the land unfurled before them to show the outskirts of Hyall. Having already been on the trail for a few weeks it was a welcomed sight and one that came after a hard day of travel. Even Chiya was tired and resting on Rathe's shoulder to pass the last few legs of the journey. Similarly Rathe was no fool. Though he knew that his quarry rested in the big, luxurious castle that sat deeper in the town, but who useful would his men and he would be if they were tired and ragged from the road. Instead Rathe guided his men through the streets which made a strange sight given their abnormal garb as well as their militaristic movements. They did not belong in a city of merchants and barters.
Before long though the party made their way to an inn that seemed to be reputable and well traveled. This meant that the likelihood of foul agents would be minimal, given that so many must venture in and out each day. Nobody could spend enough time to set up their respective shop. Upon stepping inside Rathe approached the bar proper, greeting the keeper and ordering three rooms to be reserved for himself and his compatriots. Upon giving the keys to his men they retired to go and rest while they had the chance to.
Rathe stayed present in the common room of the inn taking to an empty seat away from people as he rested Harbinger at a leaning position. Still firmly in his grasp to give the big, imposing man a sense of power about him. That in turn kept folks at bay. For Chiya however, he was rested from Rathe's shoulder and now was curious about all the sights and smells that he was experiencing. Leaping down from Rathe's shoulder to the table and then to the floor after a brief shake to get the sleep out of his bones. Running around and scampering about the inn to greet new people and of course investigate all the nice new smells.
Most times the tigress was much more careful. Much more in tune to her warning system. Yet here she was up a tree with hunters all around them. A web of death entangling them within. Just like that single moment that flipped the animal’s life around and a promise of this event never happening again. A failed attempt in reality. Slowly Taiah’s figure lowered downwards in order to lie upon the branch’s safety.
Her grey eyes flickered towards the male, as if watching his movements closely, only to be repeat that no harm was meant with another nose touch. It had been a while since she felt safe with another tiger though his words did hurt her heart. “ You’re wrong. We won’t be alright. We’ll never be alright. These types of humans tend to take all that they want from us. All that makes kindred beautiful. All that makes us happy.” She remarked with a sigh. She carefully shifted her paws, noting that they were headed toward the white area. Most likely they would be unwelcome making this option unusable and right now there were very few humans around than the previous scent implied. Perhaps more than 15? Granted that this was just a guess.
“ I take it as you lost family to them before Naaji. Seems like almost everyone I met has lost family to them.” Taiah remarked with a saddened tone. Her head slowly lowered upon her paws. The thoughts of that day once again crept into her mind. A curiosity forming in order to see what this tiger would do if he heard the story.
“ I always had a curiosity for other kinds. As I repeat the events I usually try to think of other ways I could have avoided finding Theoden as a cub. And every single time I repeat what happened, as if I was drawn towards that little human female. Perhaps I was considering she was hiding in the grassy area around our home. Covered in blood. Perhaps I was supposed to take Theoden home with me. In order to learn the ways of hunters but to be honest wit you. I don’t really regret it because I love my sister. I really do.” The tigress said lifting her head and rubbing it against Naaj’s shoulder in a calming motion.
When the man released a strange sound her eyes shifted towards him. This event felt so strange.“ I don’t quit understand exactly why you’re here exactly. You can just turn this way.” The female stated while shifting her left paw to point farther into the forest. “ Move straight with haste before the ball in the sky lowers human. Unless you have something else planned. After all there was some of your kind’s scents earlier. Them having something that doesn’t belong to them. My question is how do we know you’re not one of them?”
Arsenio slowed his run to a walk as the girl tripped, stopping several feet away as she started to get up. He took a moment to examine her, left hand coming to rest on his sword's crossguard and his right hanging loose. While the relative lack of light in the alley concealed much of her features, he could tell the girl was small and dexterous. He was still trying to discern more about her when she croaked out an excuse about someone having stuck their nose where it hadn't belonged and made to leave. He was going to let her before he felt a shoulder crash into his side and a few fingers brush over his hip. Ever alert, Arsenio's right hand shot out and gripped the girl's upper arm. While there was malice to the grab, it swiftly faded and the monotone voice of the sociopath came forward. "You're not about to run off with my coin."
He took a long moment to look the would-be thief over, taking in every detail from her hat to her boots. She was dirty on a bad day, dusty on a good one, and keen. In here eyes he saw an opportunist, a girl that couldn't resist a loose pocket or heavy purse. From the state of her dress, he could tell she had been less than fortunate lately, and she was desperate. The look in Arsenio's eyes turned from a cold hardness to somewhat warmer stare. His grip loosened slightly as he plucked the back of gold back, affixing it to his belt again. "Though, you do need it more than I do. How does lunch sound about now?" Without waiting for a proper answer, Arsenio began to pull the girl by her wrist towards the inn. While he wasn't applying much force, he wasn't about to let go of her with the intention to give her some food in mind. "So, what's your name? I never caught it."
Isadora passed Faeril on her way back down to the inn's main room, giving her a slight smile as she passed. Once in the room proper, she returned to the table at which she had sat earlier with that group, now waiting for Fae to finish what she had planned. While waiting, she made a trip up to the bar to order herself a drink and some food, a simple mug of ale and a plate of some kind of meat. It took a fair bit of time to prepare, but she received her meal and sat back down just as Fae returned from whatever it was that she had been doing.
"There wasn't much of interest, really. Not that I was looking for anything," she said between mouthfuls. She looked up from her food just in time to see a mountain of a man come through the door, and she pegged him as a warrior of sorts immediately. He went to the bar and exchanged words with the tavernkeep, resulting in him getting a number of keys, which his company took. Not a female in them, Isadora noted. He would definitely be a score if one existed. "Fae, you'll forgive me if I don't head home yet. I have some... additional business, to conduct," she added, not acknowledging the fact that her covenmate was already gone.
Isa then noticed the wolf pup that had jumped from the man's shoulder, and made a conscious decision to get his attention. With a light snap of her fingers, she leaned down from the table with some of her meal in hand in an attempt to get the small dog's attention. And hopefully his favor as well.
Tempest noticed a Scelt growling at her and was slightly confused why. She smiled when she heard what the woman said. She noticed her pick up the scelt in question who was growling at her. ”What is his name, lady?” Tempest asked politely. She blinked in confusion at what the woman said towards the Scelt. ”That’s strange… but the Scelt is a cutie,” Tempest thought to herself with a smile on her face.
She looked directly at the woman and smiled. ”That’s okay, I haven’t really made a good first impression. What’s your name, lady?” Tempest asked politely and somewhat curious. She moved her hand to her golden necklace than up to her chin. ”Ohh sorry, my name is Tempest. I kinda forgot to introduce myself…,” Tempest said, embarrassed.
Rathe was contented with his observations of the new city that he found himself within. The people who crossed were not of his kin and several gave him odd glances, some even bordering on curious and filled with desire. Yet through it all he remained on his vigil as he always has. True he was no longer at the walls of Helios, but now his vigil was for both himself and for his compatriots. That is why he only purchase three rooms, so his companion would double up and be able to watch one another's backs. Just as he and Chiya would in the third room. Yet just because they were in a foreign place, did not mean one could not enjoy it. Chiya making a prime example of this by running all about in the inn, like a kid in a candy shop. Wide-eyed and happy to make such new discoveries like currency, perfume, and silk. All while under the watchful gaze of the biggest Eryian in the place.
For Chiya he was amazing by everything. Scampering around with his small size to weave a path in between legs of both people and chair as he ran up to many strangers who took on a different appearance from the Eryians he was used to seeing. Taking his chance to run up to a table of Hayllians and chipperly chiming up with his tail wagging so fierce his entire hind end was sway side to side, "Hello! I'm Chiya! I don't know who you are, but now you know me! And I haven't seen people like you before! What are you and I like your eyes!" He blurted out, though to a mixed take and it appeared that they didn't understand him. Though one did speak up to hi and that he is called Jared. So the race must be called Jaredians! What a strange name for a race... Chiya thought to himself before scampering off to his next big find.
Though before he could go and make a new discovery, it appeared as if somebody made a discovery of him! Some lady with black silks and she wasn't like others he has met. She looked kinda different, but she offered something in her hand at his height! Looking over to her he sniffed the air and raised his head, directing his attention to her before lowering his head and sniffing his way closer. Though before he reached her his nose was raised, his tail began to wag ferociously and he ran at her. Just barely skidding to a stop before he started speaking out to her, "HI! My name is Chiya! I don't know who you are, but now you know me! What do you have?" He looked away from the lady's face and down towards her hand, sniffing at the morsel in her mits before giving it a second look and taking a snap. Yoinking the bit from her grip and chomping it into his maw. A quick taste and a snarf later and he had consumed the snack, looking back to the treat giver and speaking up cheerily once again, wagging his tail even more feircely as he did, "That was good! And tasty! THank you for it, but who are you? And why did you give me that? Is that how your people say hello? WIth offerings of food? If so then I'm sorry, but I don't have something for you but I can get something! But first! Um... what is your name! My name is Chiya! Like I said before, but now you know it again! You know, in case you forgot! Not that I thought you did! But better be safe than sorry! That's what my big brother always says!"
It didn't matter how much Naaji tried to say that, he knew that things would never be like that. He knew better than anyone how it was to loose someone... He saw with his own eyes her mother being slaughtered by those hunters... Her blood, her flesh, her fur, her life... Everything was taken away from her. Taiah's words made him see himself on her. She knew how cruel the humans could be. He experienced that himself.
Taiah's words were unfortunately, true. Most of the kindred had lost someone to hunters... It wasn't only him and Taiah... Just like Taiah said, they took whatever they wanted from them. They respected nothing, they loved nothing. They only came to destroy and kill...
"You are not the only one, Taiah... Maybe it is foolish of my part, but I was always curious about the humans... I believed that there are two type of humans. The normal humans, who come to the forest to do their strange things such as cut trees, hunt a few small animals... and then there are the hunters... Those who come only to kill, destroy and take everything away from us..." Naaji said, gently resting his head on her paws.
"Maybe I'm just foolish... It seems that every time we interact with them, someone close to us pays with blood... My mother was killed, butchered right in front of me for her fur... Maybe that is right... Maybe I'm just being too naïve and thinking that there are good humans around... Even if I only saw humans that weren't hunting me a few times." Naaji said, in a saddened tone.
Naaji was so distracted talking with Taiah that he didn't perceive that before, but there was something very, very wrong in the air... Hunters... They were surrounded by them. Immediately, Naaji stood up in front of Taiah protectively, showing his fangs towards the man that just appeared in front of them.
"Hunters..." Naaji said, looking at the man with an aggressive posture.
"Taiah... He is a hunter... And he is not alone." He said, roaring towards the man, giving a step forward.
"Go away, and take your friends with you. Last warning, otherwise I wont hesitate to kill you." Naaji said, ready to pounce on the man.
"Run Taiah... I wont let someone die in front of me again. Please run, I will try to hold them back." He whispered to her.
”Please do not feel embarrassed for I am a gentleman. One who believes his true wealth is beyond just coin and magic." He looked longingly at the far off skies and breathed in the heat of his cup. A memory of being else where filled his senses. This tea and conversation began to help him feel more familiar with this place.
He was then brought back by her mention of the crimson brothers. He could see the store in the distance. He found the name of the store to be kind of odd. Were these crimson brothers red with blood? Seemed cryptic to his tastes. But the name did intrigue him. "Surely I will accompany you to this place. Perhaps this way we can assure neither bumps into anyone else." He chuckled softly.
His eyes met the sight of the inns front doors being flung open as the waitress who was serving them returned. She apologized profusely for the man from earlier. He was an odd sight. "It was nothing. I chose a out door seat for a reason. People can be rowdy." But just as quickly as she came she made her swift return to the inn. Her barrier. Mikahiel merely sighed at the sight of fresh tea he did not ask for. He did however appreciate the gesture. "A good attitude is good for business. She deserves a tip." With that said Mikahiel left behind his napkin a few extra coins for his tea. Enough to purchase a dinner let alone a pot of tea. "Lead the way. I believe I've had my fill of tea for now." @13org
It seemed the crowd could sense the scenario playing out between the two women, the excitedly moving people parting around the trio like they were a large rock in the stream, leaving the two plenty of space to have their little conversation. Of course, the people of the crowd could also have just been hearing Kirara's low growl and decided not to mess with them. There was currently a very real possibility of getting bitten if anybody got too close. Overprotective Scelts sure are fun to deal with. Although, as Onyx noticed the people skirting around them, she did try to calm Kirara down again by ruffling his fur and scratching the top of his head. Normally picking him up and hugging him was enough, but even now he still growled at the Priestess..
"His name is Kirara. Sorry about the growling- he's a bit protective of me." Onyx said, and he finally stopped growling at the mention of his name. After a second he turned his head so he could lick Onyx's cheek. "Put me down please..." She hesitated, but smiled slightly at his next words. "I won't hurt her, unless she comes close to you again."
She whispered back to him before putting him down. "Better not.." As soon as he was back on the ground again, he sat right in front of Onyx, glaring at Tempest as he addressed her. "Onyx is my person. Back off." It didn't matter if she understood him or not, she would probably get the idea just from how he was acting. Onyx just shook her head and sighed. "It's Bright. Onyx Bright." Another sigh came as Kirara yipped at a person in the crowd who stepped too close, and Onyx gave Tempest another apologetic look.
"It was nice to meet you, Tempest, but we should be going now." Kirara began to follow her as she turned away. She called back to the woman over her shoulder, "Have a good day!"
As the two gained some distance from her, Onyx glanced down at Kirara. "You haven't been that.. openly hostile to a complete stranger in a while. What's wrong, Little Brother?"
"Nothing." He yipped back. "I just.. want to go home now." As he finished speaking, they finally got to one of the gates out of the city.
The more she heard Mikahiel, the more she saw herself on him. He talked acted and saw the world in a similar way as she did. He seemed to have the same free spirit as her. He was a very interesting man, especially because he didn't seem to be looking at her with prejudice or treating her differently because she was a centaur. That was the part that genuinely let her even more surprised. He was treating her like a lady, and not like an... animal.
"Surely I will accompany you to this place. Perhaps this way we can assure neither bumps into anyone else." Aisha heard him saying, making her open a discreet, but kind smile.
"Maybe that was a good thing?" She said, with a chuckle. "Somehow... I can feel like I can trust you. You have a free soul, just like mine. I feel like you see the world just like I do. Maybe this is what people call 'soulmates'?" She said, giggling without realizing that she had just unintentionally flirted with him.
Before she could continue, the doors flung open as the innkeeper came to their table apologizing by all the confusion caused by the tall nobleman, which she called 'Prince SaDi' with a smile and even offered, or better, brought another kettle of tea without them even accepting it. Aisha could appreciate her politeness and her smile, but she felt like the additional kettle of tea was unnecessary. The beauty of drinking tea wasn't drinking it too much, but appreciating it in the right amount. Luckily, Mikahiel dealt with the situation smoothly, even before Aisha could feel uncomfortable by not drinking the tea the innkeeper brought, letting a generous tip under the napkin.
"It's decided then! First we'll go to the Crimson Brothers, then just after that you'll help me to choose a new body chain for me on that jewelry smith, ok?" She said, excited after he said for her to lead the way.
"I can't help it but feel strange. I'm usually not that talkative... Surely it may not come as a surprise, but people aren't exactly that kind to centaurs... It's weird..." She said, while walking towards the big store.
"Oh, and before you even say something, I wont allow you to pay for the body chain, ok? I also have my pride, you know..." She said, with a chuckle.
Stopping right in front of the huge store, she turned towards Mikahiel. "So, would you mind telling me a bit about yourself?" She asked.
location: Outside the Drunken Unicorn Inn in Hyall-Terreille
Ever so slowly as the two widows spoke, Kael made his way out of the room via window and bolted for the castle. He managed to grab a carriage ride there and effectively made it to the castle with haste. What exactly happened to this man once he got to the castle isn’t quite known, but to put it simply, the man no longer walked amongst the living.
A courier made his was through the cobbled streets, skirting around the large fountain in the center as he made his way for one particular individual. In his left hand was a small hand sized box that seemed to be wrapped with a red velvet bow while in his right hand was a similar box wrapped with a purple velvet bow. The man’s eyes were scanning each individual until he spotted the exotic looking winged woman and made his way to stand in front of her. ”Hello miss. I seem to have a package for you.” He then tipped his head and moved away to the next new owner of a strange box with the red velvet bow.
location: The Drunken Unicorn Inn in Hyall-Terreille
The courier made his way into the drunken unicorn and balked at the sight of multiple winged individuals and a wolf puppy. This was certainly not a normal sight as Eyriens were not exactly that common in Hyall and to see so many at once was a tad bit off putting. Especially one that was so large. He shook his head and scanned the faces until he found a woman playing with that wolf puppy that matched the description he was given.
With hesitant steps he made his way to Isadora and lightly cleared his throat to get her attention away from the pup. ”Hello miss I believe I have a package for you” He lightly handed her the remaining box with the purple velvet bow and dipped his head before feeling his pockets.
location: The Drunken Unicorn Inn in Hyall-Terreille
As the wolf pup went from table to table some of the people willingly gave up pieces of food or pet him behind the ears. Overall, there was nothing hostile there, though some people gave the pup an odd look. This look seemed to convey a reminder which turned into grief for a moment before they looked away. One patreon spoke up to the man she was with after the event with Jared. ”Oh dear….this little one reminds me of Dusk. Whatever happened to her?” The man had a look of intense grief before he said anything. ”She just disappeared one night remember?” The man looked away before standing and exiting the drunken unicorn with the woman glancing at Chiya before following the man freeing up the wolf pup to do as he pleased.
Meanwhile, the courier patted his pockets and pulled out a rather familiar looking envelope. With hesitation he approached the rather large Eyrien and handed him the letter that held a rather official and familiar looking seal. ”Hello sir, I believe this is for you. Have a nice day” With that he gave another head nod before walking rather swiftly out the door and to his home. His duty done, he no longer had to worry about the possible consequences for not performing the tasks correctly. The letter Rathe read as the following:
“Hello Prince,
I have received word that you were able to make it here without any hitches. I am so very glad! Since you are here, I believe this means that you have accepted my invitation and I am so looking forward to speaking to you. Please arrive to the ball in formal attire. If you require clothing simply tell a tailor that Heketah sent you and you will be sure to receive what is necessary. A gift to you from me. You may also bring your men, but be sure to have them in formal wear as well. I would hate for anyone to stand out too much. This is a ball after all!
I look forward to meeting you, Heketah Queen of Hyall
At the bottom of the letter was a wax seal as if she needed to signify who sent the letter. The writing itself was very precise and elegant with the signature done just so. This was clearly the invitation meant to include the entire party Rathe had with him, but how did she know? As the letter was looked over a small pocket in the letter was clear that held a small piece of parchment with Party invite elegantly written on it.
location: Outside The Drunken Unicorn Inn in Hyall-Terreille
As Arsenio pulled Rayven along a female courier made her way to the duo. With a look of determination in her golden eyes she cut them off and cleared her throat, her hand going into the messenger bag slung across her shoulder. ”Hello sir, I have a letter for you. I was sent with haste so it must be pretty important” She produced a rather elegant envelope sealed with a golden wax piece that held the sigil of heketah. She quickly handed it to him before dipping her head, spinning around on her heel and swiftly walking off to her next target.
The envelope contained a letter that read the following, “Hello Arsenio,
I am very pleased that you chose to come to Hyall as an ambassador for Glacia. I would very much like to speak to you. With that, I do invite you to my ball being held tomorrow. It is formal wear and being that this is short notice I implore you to get some formal clothing from a tailor. Tell them Heketah sent you and they should provide you with anything you require. Also, feel free to bring the urchin with you. I am looking forward to meeting the both of you and speaking to you.
I hope you enjoy Hyall, Heketah Queen of Hyall
The letter had a rather fanciful seal stamped at the bottom and did not seem to hold the answers to how exactly Heketah knew all of this. Was she a psychic? At the bottom of the letter there wa a small pocket on the parchment that held a small piece of parchment with Plus one invitation elegantly written on it.
location: Forest outside of Hyall-Terreille
Summer tilted her head and priced her ears forward as she listened to him speak. Dark eyes seemed to be completely focused on Gen. Her head tilted a bit before she responded. ”I’m sorry winged brother….I have never been around your kind until I came here.” She had zero clue what any of what Gen was saying was exactly, but she trusted him, that much was clear in those dark eyes.
The mare seemed more than okay with what Gen was saying. She really was not certain on most of what the winged brother was saying, but the way he was saying it made her glad that he was able to save her. She seemed weary about being put into a shield, but once she understood what Gen was planning more she tossed her head showing that she accepted the shield to be able to ride the darker winds.
location: Kindred forest-Kaleer
The man sighed and looked down and away from the two tigers and slid his hands into his pockets. ”I am sorry.” It was all that came from him before the rest of the hunters closed in. Before either tiger could react they were soon pulled from the massive tree branch by several invisible tendrils and a view that were visible to them.
Once the tigers were pulled from the branch strong nets were tossed upon them. The nets were pulled tightly shut and the tigers were dragged off back to the hunters camp. Once they were there, the tigers were dumped into the cages and the hunters stepped back to inspect the creatures. The group seemed extremely thrilled with their catches and the idea of what rewards they would receive in return.
~Timeskip~
The kindred tigers found themselves in covered cages with new smells all around them. The cart underneath the cage rumbled on what sounded like cobble stone pathways. Soon the cart stopped and there were muffled voices and sounds of the furs being removed from the cart and taken into somewhere. Moments after the cart was unloaded the cart continued on its way to the next destination.
Soon, the cart came to a halt and both cages were hefted off of it and taken inside somewhere. More muffled voices, one in particular sounding a lot like a woman’s before the cages were hefted once more. This time once they were set down the covers were removed and the doors opened into what looked like a large cell, the opening they were being put through being only big enough for the opening of the cages. It was dimly lit, but if they were to focus they could smell and hear other animals. They seemed to all be canine or wolf in nature. None of them were making any noise. Once the tigers were in the cell the small opening was shut and the cages were moved. Distantly they could very faintly hear the occasional pained scream coming from an unknown part of the castle.
location: Hyall-Terreille
As Onyx began to make her way out of the town the female courier made her way up to her with a determined look. ’Hello miss! You seem to have a letter from the queen. Probably super important.” She dug another fanciful envelope from her bag and handed it to onyx before dipping her head in a nod, spinning on her heel and making her way to her next target.
The envelope itself was sealed with a golden seal containing the sigil of the queen. Once opened equally fanciful parchment was seen with elegant writing dancing upon it. It read the following:
Hello Healer,
I have heard that you came here and I was just so thrilled to hear this news. I would very much like to speak to you about a proposal I have for you. That being said please accept this invitation to a ball I am hosting tomorrow. It is of course formal wear. Oh, and do feel free to bring long your scent friend. I do so love the kindred. Please also accept a gift of formal wear of your choice from a tailor.
I look forward to speaking with you, Heketah Queen of Hyall
Near the signature was a familiar sigil and at the bottom was a small pouch containing a piece of parchment with Plus one invite written on it. How strange, she knew not only about onyx, but also about Kirara.
location: Hyall-Terreille
As the courier left Onyx and made her way back down the streets she walked right past Tempest. She paused then backed up and spun on her heel to face the priestess. She hastily dug in her bag and produced a fanciful envelope. She handed the letter over with a small smile. ”Hello miss! This letter is for you I believe. Seems important and boy am I handing out quite a few of these. Anyway...have a good day miss” She gave a quick head nod before spinning on her heel and swiftly walking to where her next target might be.
The envelope was sealed with golden wax stamped with the queen’s sigil and once opened contained fanciful parchment dancing with elegant handwriting. The letter read as the following:
Hello priestess,
I heard that you are new in town and I very much wish to welcome you and speak with you about a proposal. To welcome you to the city, I am inviting you to a ball I am hosting tomorrow. It is of course formal and I would hate for you to arrive unprepared. Please accept my gift of your choice of formal wear from a tailor.
I look forward to meeting you, Heketah Queen of Hyall
The queen did not seem to know as much about her, but clearly she knew that Tempest was a priestess. Did she really go through the effort of finding more out about her?
location: Outside the Drunken Unicorn Inn-Hyall-Terreille
As the painter and the centaur left where they were, the courier scanned the people for her next targets. It should not be too hard to find them...oh! There they are! Spotting the centaur she made her way over. Once she was in their view she dug through her bag and handed them each their own letter. ”Hello sir! Hello miss! I have a letter for each of you. Seemed super important! Anyway have a nice day!” With that business done she gave a polite tip of her head before spinning on her heels and heading off for more normal mail delivery. She had no idea the chaos she just delivered to these people.
Each letter was held within a fanciful envelope held shut by a golden wax seal emblazoned with the queen’s sigil. The letters themselves were written upon equally fanciful parchment and addressed to each individual. The letter for Mikahiel read as such:
Hello painter,
Tales of your art have reached quite far and I am so very pleased that you have chosen to come to my town. I must say I am a very big fan of your art and would love to speak with you about a few things. Before that, I would like to invite you to a ball I am hosting tomorrow. Formal wear of course is required. However, as a gift I offer you your choice of formal wear from a tailor.
I look forward to seeing you, Heketah Queen of Hyall
Near the sigature was the same sigil. Odd that she knew that Mikahiel was there, but there was nothing that was odd about the request unless one considered being a fan of art odd.
The letter to Aisha was held in an identical envelope. Her letter however, held different words than the letter that was given to Mikahiel. Her particular letter read as such:
Hello centaur,
It is ever so rare for someone as exotic as yourself to travel to my town. I must say it pleases me ever so much! I would love to learn more about you and give you a proposal. Before that, to welcome you to town, I invite you to a ball I am hosting tomorrow. It is formal wear of course, so please accept a gift of your choice of formal wear from a tailor.
I am so looking forward to speaking with you, Heketah Queen of Hyall
Just like Mikahiel’s letter there was the queen’s sigil near the signature. There was nothing too odd about the letter, but then again...how did she even know the centaur was there?
location: The Nosey Needle-Hyall-Terreille
While there were more than a few clothing stores and other tailors, the nosey tailor had a reputation for being the best. The store itself was not as grand on the outside as the crimson brothers, but it held a charm to it. A large window by the rather beautiful wooden door held a display of a gown and a suit. Both velvet and a lush sapphire blue. The sign itself held the name of the shop with a spool of thread holding up a needle.
The inside held many pre made items for those who could not afford a completely custom item along with a table and stool for the head tailor to sketch on. Along one side of the wall next to a flight of stairs was a pedestal in front of curved mirrors so customers could view the work and works in progress at all angles. Tucked away in a corner was a small step stool and the head tailor herself was at the table busily sketching away with no idea the flow of people she was about to receive into her store.
Location: Hayll - In the Street outside of the Drunken Unicorn Inn Snaketooth Counter: 24 days left
Location: Forest
Brushing his hands off Gen smirked at the door with something of a odd satisfaction. One wicked man locked in a special little 'chest' in Faeril's basement. Shield in Green so the poor bastard was truly stuck awaiting the judgement of a wicked Widow. Normally he wouldn't keep the idiots who rubbed him the wrong way and take the wrongdoer to the Queen. However, this one- Faeril would want to see him. Wasn't every day that someone was breaking and killing Kindred. The house= cabin really- held a lovely living room mixed with a dinning room and a closed off kitchen. Necessary to curb the raids of a gathered force of hungry Eyrien males during any gathering. Namely with the last name of Saroth.
Luckily Gen was allowed in the kitchen.
A set of matching bedrooms- the master bedroom sacrificed for Fae's work as a Healer of mind as well as body. Holding her needs to be therapist, mediator, Healer, or whatever she needed to be to give her patients the care they needed to recover in both respects. Gen poked his nose into that room as he passed, making sure everything was in place and she hadn't taken anything too worrisome. A full bathroom was wedged between the living and sleeping quarters, as well was a final room. The door firmly shut. Gen didn't bother to give it a second look. Settling back into a chair- a book cracked open and a mug of ale. The Warlord sighed happily- then swore as his earring flickered and a voice echoed.
"Gen. Gen! GEN YOU FAITHLESS GIT!" The voice was irritated- enraged almost. Gen growled, and snarled back. Not bothering to leash his temper from his oldest friend. "Dammit, Ashke. I can hear you! What's got your wings tangled?"
"Well I suppose I have a hand to deal with that should that happen." Faeril's voice echoed dryly back. "We're to attend a ball and get the correct formal wear for it. By order of Heketah- Queen of Hya-" She paused as a warcry echoed back through her jewel fragment along with a demand to know what she did. "It's better you don't know."
Gen rubbed his forehead. The book fallen to the floor and a drained mug of ale. Cursing the woman soundly he growled deep in his throat. It was a blessing he wasn't a Warlord Prince. She would test the patience of one of them to the breaking point. She had in the past. Irritating woman. "Where do I meet you when I get to Hyall and you better hope I don't mention this to my brothers." He smirked darkly, knowing full well he was going to mention it.
Faeril knew as well as she swore and cursed him soundly. "Nosey Needle. Seems a decent place. And Gen if you tell your brothers, I'll-!" She growled as she curled her hands into fists. Her long time escort having severed the connection. He would come, and he would mention it to his brothers. This was exactly why she would never take a lover like those arrogant Saroth fools!
Gen sighed and walked out of the cottage, circling about to peer into the now straw filled shed. The door open to the outside and fully stocked with a bad of grain, boxes of apples, carrots and oddly enough a vase of flower. Flower helped sick people- did it work the same for Kindred? He hadn't asked, not wanting to offend the mare. "That bastard's locked up... If he does manage to get out- not that he should... Kick him between the legs and run down to the village. Anyone with the name Saroth, or looking like me will help you, Miss Summer. I hate leaving you alone like this but I've got to go collect a fool of a Healer." He rubbed the back of his neck, looking a tad bit indecisive as what to do or say. "Probably be gone for the night. But we will be back as soon as we can. I'll promise you that, Ma'am." Nodding his head in agreement with this he began moving about and making sure the mare had everthing. Beforing going about his own tasks. Preparing for a sneak of a fight. He didn't trust what he had heard form Faeril. She wasn't one for parties. Not when there was work and never one in Hyall.
Ravyn Ghosteye
Location: Hyall - Being dragged to an Inn
Just as she thought she was free and in the clear to bolt off. Just when she thought she was three times lucky! Her arm was grabbed in a vice grip by the Glacien man. "You're not about to run off with my coin." Her hand shot up to her hat, being sure it at least remained on her head. Perhaps she could play this off? Boys dared each other a lot. She might be able to use that to get him to let go. Opening her mouth to protest, she was cut off as his grip loosened and he took back his gold. The latter generally expected. However his words and offer of food made her blink in surprise. She stumbled for a minute when he turned away, essentially hauling her towards an inn even as he asked her name. Claiming he never caught it.
"I never gave it!" She protested, loosing her gruff voice to her higher pitch. Though with the thought of food, she didn't lag behind. Though she made sure she was slightly behind, it wouldn't seem to appear too eager. If he turned threatening she did have a knife in her boot and could use it. Though she hadn't taken a life- yet. It was only a matter of time and her illusions and quick feet kept her out of danger often enough. "An' I'm a boy, don't go callin' me a girl." She grumbled, putting on a good show she thought of a indignant male. That sort was often indignant and it was a very funny thing to watch. Hoping to distract him from her actuality and the slight flush of her cheeks at his statement that she needed the coin more than he. She continued planning to pester him into obliviousness. "'Sides, ye never gave yer name! An' ye just go chasin' after me! What was I to think? Big man wiv' a sword runnin' after me! Best get outta the way, aye! More'n that yer callin' me a girl an' all that!" Her tone of disgust wasn't feigned at him thinking her was a girl. "'n me name's Crow." Ravyn lied, continuing that grumbling tone.
Onyx was just about to walk through the city gate, when a woman’s voice caught her attention. Kirara watched the Courier carefully as she handed Onyx a letter and then turned to leave just as quickly as she’d appeared. As soon as Onyx saw the seal on the envelope, she groaned. She almost tried to call the Courier woman back to tell her to give the letter back to the woman who had sent it. She wanted nothing to do with anything that woman wanted.
The two shared an almost pained look as Onyx opened the letter. So what’s keeping us away from home now? She pursed her lips as she read, wanting to throw the letter on the ground as soon as she was done. A small part of her almost did. Another part wanted to chase down the Courier woman and claim that the letter wasn’t for her. The queen hadn’t bothered to write her name on it, after all.
color=f9ad81]"What does it say Big Sister?"[/color] Kirara sat, looking up at Onyx as he watched her emotions play across her face. Onyx sighed, and pulled the “plus one” invite out of its pouch, handing it to Kirara as she spoke. "Well, it starts out with ‘Hello Healer’ and ends with the both of us being invited to the queen’s ball tomorrow. That’s for you." Kirara took the piece of paper from her, putting it on the ground in front of him so he could see it. He couldn’t read very well yet- Onyx had been trying to teach him for almost a year now and well…
He’s a Scelt. Can you really blame him for not wanting to sit still long enough to read through a poem? Still though, he recognized a few of the letters and decided that was good enough. He put a paw over the scrap as he looked back up at Onyx, head tilted to the side as he spoke. "So, are we still going home right now?" Before she could really respond he stood up and began wagging his tail. Guess he could sense her whole attitude about that or something. "A Party should be fun! We can sing, or you can anyway, and we’ll dance together. It’ll be great!"
Onyx smiled, only slightly sarcastically. "Oh yeah, Dancing and Singing in public. Don’t really get to do that every day." Kirara’s tail stopped wagging and he tilted his head at her, and now her smile was genuine. "Okay, I’m kidding. But it could be fun, if that’s all we need to do. Are you done with your invite now?" She knelt to pick the paper up, putting it back in the little pouch it came from as she did. Kirara began to dance around her in circles, his tail wagging as he grabbed the hem of Onyx’s dress and began to spin her until she was facing the city once again.
"Woah, what? What are we doing now Little Brother?" Onyx looked at him in confusion before he began to walk back the way they’d just come. "We can’t go home until we can." Onyx began following the Scelt, not understanding what he meant at all. "But… We could go home right now? We don’t need to do anything else here- we can just come back tomorrow for the ball."
Kirara paused, looking back at her as she caught up to him. "Are you sure?" "Yeah." "Really? What about-" "Hey look, a squirrel!" Kirara’s ears perked all the way up as his eyes scanned the area wildly. Onyx smiled to herself as she watched. She kind of hated this little trick, distracting Kirara like that, but it was one of the only ways to get her way in an argument. Kirara froze as he spotted what he thought was his quarry. Oonyx narrowed her eyes at this however, because obviously, there wouldn’t be any squirrels in the city, right?
And then he took off running. Onyx watched, stunned for a moment at his sudden departure, before realizing he was actually chasing something. "Oh. Shoot." And with that she took off after him. She followed the little grey fluffball through the crowd, almost all the way back to the inn from before. When she finally caught up to him again, sure enough, he had a squirrel pinned down against the cobblestones. "Wow. Didn’t think there was actually a squirrel there."
Kirara let the poor creature go as Onyx spoke. "What do you mean? You saw it first!" He bowed playfully, yipping at Onyx as she sighed at him. Glancing around, she noted were they were and shook her head. They were right back where they started. Great. She reached up to brush her hair out of her face, but paused halfway through and began to visibly panic. Kirara stood back up normally and tilted his head at her. "What’s wrong Big Sister?"
"The letter! While I was following you- I-" She began to look around at the ground around them, sighing in relief as she spotted the envelope sitting on the cobblestone not too far away. She went to pick up the paper, brushing it off as she did and checking it to make sure it was okay. The golden wax that had been the seal caught the sunlight and glimmered as she did this- like she was holding a little fairy in her hands.
As she held the envelope, the tailor of the nosey needle did what she did best. She became nosey. She had seen the letter hit the ground and seeing the very well known golden glimmer she poked her head out of the door. Her head tilted as she watched Onyx for a moment and then she spoke up. ”Hey.” She gestured for Onyx to go to her, because talking about anything involving the queen too loudly was not the best idea.
Onyx looked up at the woman, walking over as she was beckoned. "Hello..? Did you need me for something?" Kirara followed Onyx, staying silent for now. For all either of them knew, this could be a Healer thing- people aren’t usually very vocal about needing help when they need it.
The tailor rolled her eyes and as soon as Onyx was close enough she plucked the letter from her hands and scanned just the last sentence. She gave a nod then handed it back and put her hands on her hips. ”Looks like you're in luck. I just happen to be the best tailor here. Now… In you go!” She opened the door to the shop and clearly she was not taking no for an answer.
"Uhh, okay?" Onyx shrugged and walked through the door. The letter had said something about getting a new formal outfit… but "I don’t really need a new dress, miss." She paused and turned to face the woman, an apologetic look on her face. "I had a dress at home in mind."
The woman simply looked at Onyx as she slowly crossed her arms. ”Hon...you may think you do not need a new dress, but I can tell you, you are going to need a new dress.” She shook her head and then gently pushed Onyx into a chair that sat across the table from where the sketching supplies were. The 4 foot tall woman made her way to that side and appeared to be sitting on a rather tall stool as she was now at eye level. ”Now...tell me about this dress you have in mind” Apparently she is completely ignoring the implied no from Onyx.
Onyx sat, not really sure whether she should try to leave or not just yet. As the Tailor took her seat, Onyx sighed. May as well humor her. "Well.. It’s black, and blue.. The skirt flares out kind of like… hmm." She shook her head as Kirara hopped up on the chair next to Onyx, putting his head on her lap as she spoke. "It, would be a lot easier to draw it for you."
The tailor clasped her hands together and rested her chin upon the tops of them. Icy blue eyes studying the woman in front of her with amusement. She stayed quiet and at the statement of drawing being easier, lightly pushed the sketch pad over along with a pencil. She gestured at it. ”Be my guest. Though I will recommend velvet to be somewhere on it. Being that you are going to the castle… it will be cold.”
"Cold? It’s the middle of summer.." Onyx took the pencil and within 5 minutes had a rough sketch of the dress she’d been thinking of. Though, as she drew it began to morph away from the reality of the little blue-and-black thing that hung in her closet, and ten minutes later she handed the sketchpad back to the Tailor. It was strange but, the more time she spent actually thinking about this, the more she wanted to see the vision in her mind come to life.
"That, should work with velvet, right?" She Waited a second and then pulled the sketchpad back, adding another thing. "and, a two-layer cape. With the under layer as dark blue velvet and then the top would have little stars? Like the night sky?" She put the pencil down now, having to force herself not to draw anymore.
The tailor simply nodded and then became entirely focused on the sketch appearing on the pad. Blue eyes following each line as she clearly thought of how to make the image come to life. ”Yes that certainly would.” She chuckled as the sketch pad was taken back and a large happy smile appeared on her face at the idea of a two layer cape. She nodded. ”My dear, I would love to make that for you.” She lightly pulled the sketch pad to her and began writing notes on the side and putting faint lines to label certain areas. Once satisfied she hopped off the stool and went to stand next to Onyx. She paused before placing a hand on her own forehead. ”My apologies I completely forgot to introduce myself. My name is Deja. Now...let's get you measured and I will have that dress ready for you before the event.” She beamed. ”It's what I am known for after all!”
Onyx smiled back at Deja before standing as well. "Alright. I’m Onyx, and this is Kirara, by the way." As Onyx stood Kirara stayed lying on the chair, head resting on his paws, just watching the two women now. "Hello Deja-person." He was quiet, knowing that it wasn’t really any help for him to be loud or hyper right now. Onyx glanced down at him for a second, and even though she knew he was fine, seeing him calm like this always ended up making her think he was sad.
"Could.. Could you make something for him too? Like, a bow that matches the dress?" Onyx’s eyes lit up as she said that, realizing what a cool idea it was. "Actually, yeah! A big bow we could tie around his neck, with the same velvet and glittery-star pattern?" She paused, a bright smile on her face as Kirara’s ears perked up. He didn’t get to dress up very often.
"Of course, he wouldn’t really need the velvet with all that fur. Maybe just the transparent starry-night like the cape has?" Kirara tilted his head at her while still resting it on his paws, tail wagging slightly as Onyx looked back at Deja, both of them wondering what the tailor thought.
Deja happily lead Onyx to the pedestal and then tilted her head as Onyx spoke about another idea. She lit up and nodded her head. ”Oh yes I can for sure do that.” She then waved for the scelt to join Onyx. ”That means you get to be measured as well little brother” She beamed at both of them before moving and grabbing the step stool that had been tucked away. In a smooth movement she placed it just behind her and unrolled a rather long tape measurer. ”Try not to move too much Onyx” Then she got to it, she moved quickly, occasionally moving her arms and nodding as she seemed to store the numbers in her head.
Once she was done with measuring Onyx she quickly moved to the table with the sketch pad and wrote down a series of numbers with notes and then moved back and kneeled in front of the scelt. ”Chin up and stay still little brother” quickly the tape measurer went around his neck and she took in the numbers. She smiled and took it away before straightening and moving doing the same thing of writing in measurements and notes on a separate page. Once fully finished she moved walked back and moved the step ladder out of the way. ”Alright all done with that bit. I will have this done for you in time that I can promise. Now you can go exploring and such, but some advice….I would not recommend going too far until after the event” She gave another smile then went back and sat on her stool.
Onyx held as still as she could as Deja went about her measuring, watching curiously as the woman didn't bother to write down any of the numbers until they had all been found. Kirara also tried to sit still, but as the Tailor wrapped the tape measure around his neck, he couldn't help but squirm a bit. Onyx smiled as she saw this, and reached down to pat Kirara on the head as Deja went to write down his numbers.
"What do you mean exactly by “going too far”? I thought the ball wasn't until tomorrow." Kirara’s head shook in a small sneeze before he spoke up. "We were going to go home and come back tomorrow. And I have a squirrel out there somewhere that needs to be tracked down again." Kirara tilted his head at Onyx as she looked back at him quizzically. "What? You’re the one who let him get away Big Sister." Onyx just sighed, shaking her head as Kirara began to wag his tail.
Deja continued to write notes as Onyx spoke. She then paused and lightly put down her pencil and looked at her, blue eyes exposing nothing. ”Because the queen hates people being late. If your home is not too far and you are confident in your travels… then sure, but I would not recommend leaving.” She wrote a few more things before pausing again. ”Be careful.” With that she gathered up her supplies and flashed Onyx a small smile before retreating up the flight of stairs where her voice mixed with a few others. Clearly, she did not work alone.
Onyx sighed to herself as Deja left, listening for a moment to the chorus of voices that popped up soon after. So Deja was just the queen-bee in this. Onyx smiled to herself at the thought. It’s a good thing the woman didn’t have to work alone.
Motioning for Kirara to follow, Onyx left the store. She wasn’t sure just yet about whether or not she would try to go home and just come back for the ball tomorrow, or if she and Kirara should just go get a room at an Inn somewhere. There were downsides to both options it seemed. After a minute of walking, her stomach growled at her and she sighed, looking down at Kirara as she spoke. "We should get some food now, for sure. After dinner I’ll decide whether we go home or not." Kirara wagged his tail and yipped at her in agreement. With that the two started making their way back to the Drunken Unicorn.
