Setting
Default Location for Assassin's Pledge: Awakening
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Cre' Est is a part of 
Assassin's Pledge: Awakening.
7 Characters Here
Korriban "Aetrius" Borral [480] "They took everything that I had, and I will have my revenge."
Linde Xe' Almna [452] "Kyero is the Red-Eyed Demon, but he's also a human being."
Lonán Arzura [430] “By this sword I live, by this sword I will restore my family name.”
Kyero [239] "My purpose in life is my own to find. Nobody will tell me where I belong or what I can become!"
Josephine Dezantro [127] "I pray there is a purpose for me in this world."
Kieran Borral [103] "She's done everything she could to get me back, and I will make sure all of their efforts weren't for nothing."
Okumi Chrysanth [91] "... ...! ..."
Start Character Here »
Josephine listened intently, never looking away or saying a word to interrupt him as he finished his relation of the situation to her.
When it was over, she closed her eyes and subtly dipped her head.
”I understand.” She said quietly.
She opened her eyes and looked at the fire.
”... Honor is a frail thing. Easily damaged, and even more easily broken. To hold it close without it shattering is a near impossible feat, even for some of the greatest warriors our world has ever seen. They've all had several moments in their lives where they felt they'd lost or at least damaged their honor... I'm certain of it.”
She began speaking more softly, almost on a whisper, as if just talking to herself.
”Sometimes I wonder if my own honor remains in tact... For some, being able to tell if they remain on the path of honor and glory is a near impossible feat in and of itself. Is it possible to judge for oneself whether or not you remain in honorable mention among your ancestors or peers?”
Her eyes began to darken.
”... Do some of us even still deserve to be mentioned in the same sentence as the word 'honor'?” She asked quietly.
She took a deep breath, closing her eyes for the duration before opening them again on the exhale and turning her head to once again look Lonan in the eyes.
”I feel what you search for, Sir Arzura, is not 'strength', but reason. You're looking for a reason to look your father in the eye, forgive and forget, and move on. After all, what he's done can never be undone or erased from the history of your clan. It will always be the black mark that defines his legacy. But that doesn't mean he's without hope or a future... But does he see that himself yet, I wonder?”
The final question was more aloud to herself than to Lonan as she'd looked at the fire while saying it.
”Perhaps if he forgives himself and finds a way to move into a future worth living, you'll find what you seek.” She said, looking back to him.
”Regardless, I hope you find what you're looking for. Now, if you'll please excuse me. I'm going to bed.”
She stood up and gave him a soft bow of her head before walking to her tent and disappearing within leaving Lonan to think about her words.
When it was over, she closed her eyes and subtly dipped her head.
”I understand.” She said quietly.
She opened her eyes and looked at the fire.
”... Honor is a frail thing. Easily damaged, and even more easily broken. To hold it close without it shattering is a near impossible feat, even for some of the greatest warriors our world has ever seen. They've all had several moments in their lives where they felt they'd lost or at least damaged their honor... I'm certain of it.”
She began speaking more softly, almost on a whisper, as if just talking to herself.
”Sometimes I wonder if my own honor remains in tact... For some, being able to tell if they remain on the path of honor and glory is a near impossible feat in and of itself. Is it possible to judge for oneself whether or not you remain in honorable mention among your ancestors or peers?”
Her eyes began to darken.
”... Do some of us even still deserve to be mentioned in the same sentence as the word 'honor'?” She asked quietly.
She took a deep breath, closing her eyes for the duration before opening them again on the exhale and turning her head to once again look Lonan in the eyes.
”I feel what you search for, Sir Arzura, is not 'strength', but reason. You're looking for a reason to look your father in the eye, forgive and forget, and move on. After all, what he's done can never be undone or erased from the history of your clan. It will always be the black mark that defines his legacy. But that doesn't mean he's without hope or a future... But does he see that himself yet, I wonder?”
The final question was more aloud to herself than to Lonan as she'd looked at the fire while saying it.
”Perhaps if he forgives himself and finds a way to move into a future worth living, you'll find what you seek.” She said, looking back to him.
”Regardless, I hope you find what you're looking for. Now, if you'll please excuse me. I'm going to bed.”
She stood up and gave him a soft bow of her head before walking to her tent and disappearing within leaving Lonan to think about her words.
Lonán was astonished. Her words carved into what he had said about his father far deeper then he ever imagined any weapon would on the subject. The fact that Josephine viewed what he was looking for as far as his father was not the strength, but for the reason made his stance on his father shake ever so slightly. Who was this woman? Why did her words stab into him, and why did her very presence made his heart Hammer like a drum?
He’d have to ask Linde tomorrow. But for now he could only call out, ”Good night, Miss Dezantro.” before tending the fire and preparing to head to his own tent , but not before looking at the only other observer still up, to whom Lonán only gave a small nod to to bid him goodnight, no other words were said as Lonán stretched his back and headed inside to do a self check on his shoulder before sleeping the night away.
He’d have to ask Linde tomorrow. But for now he could only call out, ”Good night, Miss Dezantro.” before tending the fire and preparing to head to his own tent , but not before looking at the only other observer still up, to whom Lonán only gave a small nod to to bid him goodnight, no other words were said as Lonán stretched his back and headed inside to do a self check on his shoulder before sleeping the night away.
The night had passed by all too quickly for the whole group yet again, as the sun had slowly begun to rise above the horizon. Aetrius slowly began to stir from her recent daily reaction of being woken up early by the sunlight, but she remained in her half awake half asleep phase as she remained in her position of cuddling Linde. But as she went to close her eyes yet again as sleep was all but too tempting, an all too familiar sound began to slowly make its way towards them again, resulting in Aetrius quickly getting out of her spot and began to put on her armor and weapons by her side as she listened to the sound, metal on metal, countless of footsteps, and horses. Her heart began to sank as she could only think of one thing, the people from Veilbrand managed to find them after all.
She held her weapon by the grip, and slowly began to exit the tent, as she motioned for Linde to stay inside out of pure instinct. As she exited, she saw that the others had the same instinct and idea and decided to get out while they could instead of being lying ducks. But what was there surprised Aetrius, it was a group of heavily armed soldiers equally armed with heavy weapons, and crests on their armor Aetrius couldn't recognize. She glared at them as they slowly enclosed the space between their encampment and the road. Aetrius looked at Kieran who stood by her as well, "Kieran, who are these men...? I don't recognize the symbol..." she said softly and casually, Kieran gritted her teeth and held her weapon closer to her body as she recognized them, "Yes...They're Egruus, The Dictator's men, he sends them out fairly regularly just to keep an eye on things. And to make sure no one is causing any trouble. As long as we leave them alone, and pose no threat, we should be fine. Just don't do anything brash." she said softly. Aetrius nodded ever so slightly and kept her eyes trailed on the men as she conversed with Kieran quietly, "How do you know them and I don't..?" Kieran slowly looked down and away, then back up as she spoke with a saddened voice, "When we were first seperated, and I was taken from the city where you were, me and the slavers ran into them...Clearly I'm fine, but they're not good news, I'll tell you that much.." she said.
Aetrius gripped her weapon tighter by the hilt as she listened, "So you've been to Cre' Est before, then..." her voice was slightly angered, as she realized how far and wide Kieran had been transported, the realization making her sick. "Yes..For..Business purposes in the past...I'm sorry.." her voice dipped a bit, as shame and memories came back in waves, which resulted in Aetrius gently squeezing her hand, she peered over at Kyero, "So, what do we do then, Kyero...?" she said as she awaited her orders.
She held her weapon by the grip, and slowly began to exit the tent, as she motioned for Linde to stay inside out of pure instinct. As she exited, she saw that the others had the same instinct and idea and decided to get out while they could instead of being lying ducks. But what was there surprised Aetrius, it was a group of heavily armed soldiers equally armed with heavy weapons, and crests on their armor Aetrius couldn't recognize. She glared at them as they slowly enclosed the space between their encampment and the road. Aetrius looked at Kieran who stood by her as well, "Kieran, who are these men...? I don't recognize the symbol..." she said softly and casually, Kieran gritted her teeth and held her weapon closer to her body as she recognized them, "Yes...They're Egruus, The Dictator's men, he sends them out fairly regularly just to keep an eye on things. And to make sure no one is causing any trouble. As long as we leave them alone, and pose no threat, we should be fine. Just don't do anything brash." she said softly. Aetrius nodded ever so slightly and kept her eyes trailed on the men as she conversed with Kieran quietly, "How do you know them and I don't..?" Kieran slowly looked down and away, then back up as she spoke with a saddened voice, "When we were first seperated, and I was taken from the city where you were, me and the slavers ran into them...Clearly I'm fine, but they're not good news, I'll tell you that much.." she said.
Aetrius gripped her weapon tighter by the hilt as she listened, "So you've been to Cre' Est before, then..." her voice was slightly angered, as she realized how far and wide Kieran had been transported, the realization making her sick. "Yes..For..Business purposes in the past...I'm sorry.." her voice dipped a bit, as shame and memories came back in waves, which resulted in Aetrius gently squeezing her hand, she peered over at Kyero, "So, what do we do then, Kyero...?" she said as she awaited her orders.
The next morning, Kyero glanced to the side to observe the soldiers as they approached from down the road on their patrol. He kept his hood down, but remained seated on his tree stump. Linde, meanwhile, stayed beside Aetrius after waking up groggily and holding her arm to her chest.
”Just let them pass.” He said quietly.
The minutes ticked by as the soldiers passed through and disappeared over the hill.
Kyero sighed.
"Good."
Josephine emerged from her tent fully dressed and prepared to travel.
"Good morning, everyone... What did I miss?" She asked innocently.
”Just let them pass.” He said quietly.
The minutes ticked by as the soldiers passed through and disappeared over the hill.
Kyero sighed.
"Good."
Josephine emerged from her tent fully dressed and prepared to travel.
"Good morning, everyone... What did I miss?" She asked innocently.
Aetrius listened as Kyero said to just let them pass, and so she did, but that didn't stop her from staring them down all the while until they had gotten far enough away again. She was only shaken out of her state as she felt her arm being pulled by something, then the feeling of warmth and something soft. Aetrius couldn't help but stiffen up at the contact and as she peered to look over to see who and what her arm was against, she felt her face turn a bright pink as to what was before her. Just remain calm, all is right with the world. This is okay, this...is...Holy Heresta save me..., she thought to herself as she could only helplessly stand there with her arm in Linde's dead arm lock. Kieran looked over and chuckled as she walked away, "Might as well just get a room, you two." she chuckled and began to prepare food for the group with Rose's help as they'd be heading out again. Aetrius shot Kieran a sharp and deadly glare, and then looked back as Josephine as what she had missed.
Aetrius was only able to chuckle, but not in a good way, how she managed to over sleep through the sound of soldiers and never mind be so carefree about it, annoyed her a bit as her left eyebrow twitched. "A whole group of soldiers just passed through here. What's more worrisome is that you slept through it, and didn't seem to notice." she said rather sharply and coldly, as she looked at the blood haired woman that stood across from her.
Aetrius was only able to chuckle, but not in a good way, how she managed to over sleep through the sound of soldiers and never mind be so carefree about it, annoyed her a bit as her left eyebrow twitched. "A whole group of soldiers just passed through here. What's more worrisome is that you slept through it, and didn't seem to notice." she said rather sharply and coldly, as she looked at the blood haired woman that stood across from her.
”Hmm...”
She looked out to the path and saw the footprints.
”I suppose I did.”
She shrugged and gathered all of her belongings, folded up her tent, and tossed all of it into the saddlebags on her horse's saddle. She checked her blade in its sheath and hopped into the saddle.
”Are we good to move on?”
Linde was still in her night gown and half asleep holding Aetri's arm between her bewbs and blinked lazily.
”Do we have to leave right noooooow?” She grumbled.
She looked out to the path and saw the footprints.
”I suppose I did.”
She shrugged and gathered all of her belongings, folded up her tent, and tossed all of it into the saddlebags on her horse's saddle. She checked her blade in its sheath and hopped into the saddle.
”Are we good to move on?”
Linde was still in her night gown and half asleep holding Aetri's arm between her bewbs and blinked lazily.
”Do we have to leave right noooooow?” She grumbled.
Lonán was wide awake when he heard the soldiers. He waited for them to pass before he emerged with his armor on and his things thoroughly packed. He nodded to everyone a good morning nod as he noticed Josephine was just about ready to go. ”Guess this means breakfast on the road.” he muttered to himself. He noticed Linde was still in her nightgown as he tried hard to not look directly at her. When he heard her question though he had no choice but to contribute an answer.
”Considering one of us is in a hurry most likely. I suggest you wake yourself up the rest of the way Linde and get changed.” He said as he began to get Hawk set up and ready for the day and gave the horse half an apple and a carrot for breakfast. From the way everyone got slightly spooked by the passing soldiers, it’d be a Really long day, but at least they’d be on the road for Cre’est. The thought of separating from Miss Dezantro However put an odd weight on his mind.
However He’d still have to talk to Linde later in the day after they got started on their way. He needed an answer for the drumming heartbeat he felt when seeing Josephine and the times talking to her. The fact she was in her armor made the heartbeat jump a bit.
”Considering one of us is in a hurry most likely. I suggest you wake yourself up the rest of the way Linde and get changed.” He said as he began to get Hawk set up and ready for the day and gave the horse half an apple and a carrot for breakfast. From the way everyone got slightly spooked by the passing soldiers, it’d be a Really long day, but at least they’d be on the road for Cre’est. The thought of separating from Miss Dezantro However put an odd weight on his mind.
However He’d still have to talk to Linde later in the day after they got started on their way. He needed an answer for the drumming heartbeat he felt when seeing Josephine and the times talking to her. The fact she was in her armor made the heartbeat jump a bit.
Aetrius watched as Josephine packed her things and and mounted her horse, declaring they'd leave now instead of in a few minutes. She sighed, and began to prepare her things as well, taking down the tent and packing things up, food would have to wait for the road. As Lolan spoke up of Linde having to get changed, Aetrius agreed, but she was not prepared for what would happen after she said the following, "Come on, Linde. Hurry up and get changed, we're heading out." she said as she placed things on Bree.
Linde rubbed her eyes sleepily with one hand.
"Mmm... Okay..." She mumbled.
Linde let go of Aetrius' arm and, to everyone's shock save Kyero's, she began to tug at the shoulder straps of her night gown pulling them to the side and exposing her shoulders. If she let go of them... The nightgown would drop to the ground.
Aetrius watched as Linde slowly began to get undressed right in the middle of everything that was going on, her jaw slightly dropped and she felt her face turn a bright red. She quickly reacted on instinct, and attempted to quickly cover Linde with Aetrius' cloak, but she was quickly pulled back by something on her arm, she looked back to see Kieran holding her arm, "Wha...What the hell are you doing?" she growled, Kieran chuckled and kept her grip on Aetrius, "What? She's gotta learn one way or another to wake up and be on her toes. Hmm...I know." she said with a grin and let go of Aetrius, and pushed her forwards, "H-huh, wha..!" she exclaimed as Aetrius lost balance and ended up tripping and landing on something. Kieran smirked and dusted her hands and turned back to join the others, seeing her plan had been a success.
Linde made an "Mmmm" sound as Aetrius was pushed forward and fell face first into Linde's now bare chest as the night gown fell to the ground around her ankles. Thank the Gods she had undergarments on to protect her... Ahem... Area.
Linde grunted a little as Aetrius fell into her chest, but looked down at Aetrius with a smile and chuckled sleepily as she kissed the top of Aetri's head.
"Mmmm I love you too... But we need ta git going..." She mumbled.
Aetrius found her face turning a bright red as Linde spoke, only being able to awkwardly fumble about and away from Linde, only after she threw her cloak over Linde, keeping it closed as she held it tightly in her hands, looking away from Linde as she found herself getting a bit light headed and her face felt warm, "J-just get dressed, we-we need to leave as soon as we can." she said as she looked away, her face bright red, and looked back at Kieran and gave her a powerful and bitter glare, which only resulted in Kieran grinning and giving her a wink as she turned tail with the others and started to leave, leaving Aetrius alone with Linde.
Linde mumbled in agreement and started going to her tent to get dressed. A few minutes later she emerged clothed and yawning as she and Aetrius folded up their tent, put it in the saddle bag, and began to leave with everyone else.
Aetrius let Linde get back into her clothing and helped get her things packed and loaded on Bree, and after they finished packing, Aetrius helped Linde get onto Bree, and got on herself and once they were ready, Aetrius pushed her heels into the horse's sides and eventually caught up with the others. Kieran looked at Aetrius and grinned and mouthed, "You're welcome." to her, which only resulted in a low growl from Aetrius, who looked straight ahead and tried to not get anymore flustered than she already was.
Linde rubbed her eyes sleepily with one hand.
"Mmm... Okay..." She mumbled.
Linde let go of Aetrius' arm and, to everyone's shock save Kyero's, she began to tug at the shoulder straps of her night gown pulling them to the side and exposing her shoulders. If she let go of them... The nightgown would drop to the ground.
Aetrius watched as Linde slowly began to get undressed right in the middle of everything that was going on, her jaw slightly dropped and she felt her face turn a bright red. She quickly reacted on instinct, and attempted to quickly cover Linde with Aetrius' cloak, but she was quickly pulled back by something on her arm, she looked back to see Kieran holding her arm, "Wha...What the hell are you doing?" she growled, Kieran chuckled and kept her grip on Aetrius, "What? She's gotta learn one way or another to wake up and be on her toes. Hmm...I know." she said with a grin and let go of Aetrius, and pushed her forwards, "H-huh, wha..!" she exclaimed as Aetrius lost balance and ended up tripping and landing on something. Kieran smirked and dusted her hands and turned back to join the others, seeing her plan had been a success.
Linde made an "Mmmm" sound as Aetrius was pushed forward and fell face first into Linde's now bare chest as the night gown fell to the ground around her ankles. Thank the Gods she had undergarments on to protect her... Ahem... Area.
Linde grunted a little as Aetrius fell into her chest, but looked down at Aetrius with a smile and chuckled sleepily as she kissed the top of Aetri's head.
"Mmmm I love you too... But we need ta git going..." She mumbled.
Aetrius found her face turning a bright red as Linde spoke, only being able to awkwardly fumble about and away from Linde, only after she threw her cloak over Linde, keeping it closed as she held it tightly in her hands, looking away from Linde as she found herself getting a bit light headed and her face felt warm, "J-just get dressed, we-we need to leave as soon as we can." she said as she looked away, her face bright red, and looked back at Kieran and gave her a powerful and bitter glare, which only resulted in Kieran grinning and giving her a wink as she turned tail with the others and started to leave, leaving Aetrius alone with Linde.
Linde mumbled in agreement and started going to her tent to get dressed. A few minutes later she emerged clothed and yawning as she and Aetrius folded up their tent, put it in the saddle bag, and began to leave with everyone else.
Aetrius let Linde get back into her clothing and helped get her things packed and loaded on Bree, and after they finished packing, Aetrius helped Linde get onto Bree, and got on herself and once they were ready, Aetrius pushed her heels into the horse's sides and eventually caught up with the others. Kieran looked at Aetrius and grinned and mouthed, "You're welcome." to her, which only resulted in a low growl from Aetrius, who looked straight ahead and tried to not get anymore flustered than she already was.
Lonán’s eyes widened at the scene layer out to him as he turned to focus solely on Hawk. ”Again?! Again?!” He thought angrily in a mental rant and rave, with his blush turning as red as his hair. ”Linde’s going to be the death of me! Heresta! I get the message! I need to have a mate while I’m still young!”
He glared daggers At Kieran as he got onto his horse. What a terrible sister to embarrass her like that. ”I thought elder siblings were supposed to be figures of respect. Then again, I don’t know who amongst my Father and Uncle was the elder brother.” he said aloud as he rode in the middle of the pack. Indeed, if it weren’t for Zedar’s Habit of dyeing his hair, there’d be no way of telling him apart from Baldur. Until of course, the latter’s forced retirement injury causing a very visible limp in his right leg.
His father. What Josephine said resounded still in his mind about his father. Did his father have the capacity to forgive himself? He didn’t stay home long enough to know what his thoughts were on the Situation. Only about the gambling debt and how said debt virtually ended his chances in joining the Military. He thought on that for a moment, before moving his focus once more on the road ahead. Hopefully they’d reach Cre’est soon.
He glared daggers At Kieran as he got onto his horse. What a terrible sister to embarrass her like that. ”I thought elder siblings were supposed to be figures of respect. Then again, I don’t know who amongst my Father and Uncle was the elder brother.” he said aloud as he rode in the middle of the pack. Indeed, if it weren’t for Zedar’s Habit of dyeing his hair, there’d be no way of telling him apart from Baldur. Until of course, the latter’s forced retirement injury causing a very visible limp in his right leg.
His father. What Josephine said resounded still in his mind about his father. Did his father have the capacity to forgive himself? He didn’t stay home long enough to know what his thoughts were on the Situation. Only about the gambling debt and how said debt virtually ended his chances in joining the Military. He thought on that for a moment, before moving his focus once more on the road ahead. Hopefully they’d reach Cre’est soon.
Josephine had ridden slightly ahead and didn't see the shenanigans taking place behind her. But as Lonan rode up behind her and, soon after, Aetrius and Linde rode up ahead, she sighed softly in contentment.
Meanwhile, holding Aetrius' stomach, Linde rested her chin on Aetri's shoulder and hummed a soft tune contentedly.
Meanwhile, holding Aetrius' stomach, Linde rested her chin on Aetri's shoulder and hummed a soft tune contentedly.
Aetrius sat utop Bree with her back straight, head held high and her eyes constantly scanning the view infront of them, making sure everything was safe for them. She kept her swords by her side, and her bow was attached to the side of the saddle, and the supplies tied down behind Linde. The latter of who was humbing a calming tune in Aetrius' ear, which caused her to relax a bit, but maintain her posture. Kieran moved their horse closer to Aetrius and Linde, which resulted in a groan from Aetrius. Kieran looked at her and chuckled, "Look, I'm sorry okay? What I did back there was meant to be wholesome fun...I'm sorry.." she said softly, looking back at Linde as she awkwardly rubbed the back of her neck and blushed, feeling a big bad at what she caused. Aetrius gave Kieran a look, one that they only understood, it was one of understanding. The two smiled and nodded, and kept their eyes open and alert to anything that may come across their path. Meanwhile Rose rolled her eyes at the sisters and chuckled, and looked at Linde and only shook her head as she kept her arms around Kieran for support.
For a good half hour he rode in silence, as he pondered and puzzled on what he should do to fill in his time. He wanted to Talk to Josephine about what was said last night, at least to thank her for the words. However, he was still thinking on what was said. It indeed raised a lot of questions he had to ask himself. Nodding to himself, he simply decided to against it for now. The best subject was no particular subject for this moment. A simple good morning would suffice.
He rode to keep in pace with her horse using Hawk and cleared his throat. ”Good morning Miss Dezantro. Today looks to be a beautiful day does it not?” He said looking forward at the road keeping an eye out as he spoke. Until he thought of a better topic of discussion with Josephine, he was content with simply riding in the midst of the group, close to Josephine and close to Aetrius so that he’d be able to pass the alarm down should anything dangerous show up.
This was the idea of comfortable Journey for now. Hawk simply carried his master, inwardly plotting on how best to either help, or mess up Lonán’s pleasant mood today.
He rode to keep in pace with her horse using Hawk and cleared his throat. ”Good morning Miss Dezantro. Today looks to be a beautiful day does it not?” He said looking forward at the road keeping an eye out as he spoke. Until he thought of a better topic of discussion with Josephine, he was content with simply riding in the midst of the group, close to Josephine and close to Aetrius so that he’d be able to pass the alarm down should anything dangerous show up.
This was the idea of comfortable Journey for now. Hawk simply carried his master, inwardly plotting on how best to either help, or mess up Lonán’s pleasant mood today.
Josephine's helmet was tied to her horse's saddle, letting her blonde hair fall and gently sway behind her as her horse walked down the road.
”Good morning, Sir Arzura. It does look beautiful, but we're going to be in for some rough winds later.” She replied.
”Good morning, Sir Arzura. It does look beautiful, but we're going to be in for some rough winds later.” She replied.
Lonán, after hearing what Josephine said, looked about the area in slight confusion as if to try and perceive what she meant. ”Uhh, Miss Dezantro? I’m possibly a bit of a novice at telling the weather.” He sheepishly admitted, with which he heard a neigh from Hawk that almost suspiciously sounded of laughter. Frowning he resumed his focus and shifted in his winter travel gear. ”Can you please show me how you’re able to tell the rough winds coming in?” He asked curiously, giving his horse a slight glare for his behavior. At least he’d get a lesson in predicting the weather out of this moment in time, that’s for certain.
Josephine chuckled softly seeing Hawk give Lonan a hard time, and following his question she pointed at the clouds up ahead.
”Do you see how the clouds out there seem to be getting stretched out, almost as if they're being pulled apart with the tops being fairly flat? That's an indication of high wind currents. It's not likely anything too serious, but it will definitely be getting colder and windier as we continue into Cre' Est so long as we see clouds like those overhead.”
She leaned back in the saddle a bit to stretch her arms out above her head which, even though it was unintentional, emphasized the curves of her back and chest given that she was once again dressed in that armor from before. As she finished the stretch she cracked her neck and gripped the reins, relaxing her other hand on her lap.
”The kind of skies to worry about are when the clouds are darker and have an almost greenish tint to them. That's an indication that there's a high chance for a tornado touching down, which Cre' Est does get from time to time. So once we reach Cre' Est, whether the skies are clear or not, it would be wise to keep a weather eye open just in case.”
”Do you see how the clouds out there seem to be getting stretched out, almost as if they're being pulled apart with the tops being fairly flat? That's an indication of high wind currents. It's not likely anything too serious, but it will definitely be getting colder and windier as we continue into Cre' Est so long as we see clouds like those overhead.”
She leaned back in the saddle a bit to stretch her arms out above her head which, even though it was unintentional, emphasized the curves of her back and chest given that she was once again dressed in that armor from before. As she finished the stretch she cracked her neck and gripped the reins, relaxing her other hand on her lap.
”The kind of skies to worry about are when the clouds are darker and have an almost greenish tint to them. That's an indication that there's a high chance for a tornado touching down, which Cre' Est does get from time to time. So once we reach Cre' Est, whether the skies are clear or not, it would be wise to keep a weather eye open just in case.”
Lonán listened to her explanation and nodded at her, turning in her direction to ask a question when he witnessed her stretching. A slight blush reappeared on his face as he turned to look towards the road to try and hide said blush. When she explained about tornados however, he looked back towards her.
”Tornados? If that be the case I agree with you Miss Dezantro. I don’t want to end up being caught by one of those Wind-devils.” he muttered, patting Hawk to try and calm down from his relative unease about tornados. He heard about how devastatingly destructive they can be, and that generally it’s best to try and get out of it’s path.
Those scared him worse then the Sandstorms of Saharan. He hoped The trip to Cre’est would be peaceful, otherwise the weather would simply fill him with dread.
”Tornados? If that be the case I agree with you Miss Dezantro. I don’t want to end up being caught by one of those Wind-devils.” he muttered, patting Hawk to try and calm down from his relative unease about tornados. He heard about how devastatingly destructive they can be, and that generally it’s best to try and get out of it’s path.
Those scared him worse then the Sandstorms of Saharan. He hoped The trip to Cre’est would be peaceful, otherwise the weather would simply fill him with dread.
Josephine nodded.
”Indeed. Getting caught in a Cre' Itian tornado is a death sentence.”
Up ahead, with Linde and Aetrius, Linde smiled at Kieran as she apologized to Aetri and kissed Aetri's neck.
"It's nice to see you two getting along." She whispered.
”Indeed. Getting caught in a Cre' Itian tornado is a death sentence.”
Up ahead, with Linde and Aetrius, Linde smiled at Kieran as she apologized to Aetri and kissed Aetri's neck.
"It's nice to see you two getting along." She whispered.
Aetrius listened as Lolan and Josephine talked about the weather and how they best be on the look out for bad weather that could be heading their way, she kept an eye on that and nodded. She remained looking ahead when she heard Linde speak up, and how she was glad to see her and Kieran getting along, and as she was about to talk she felt Linde kiss the side of her neck that caused her to blush.
Kieran grinned and chuckled looking at Linde, "Ya know, I've never seen her light up like this. Not even with her past relationships." she gave Aetrius is a sly grin and then whistled a casual tune from Saharan, which resulted in Aetrius to give a low growl and slump into the saddle some, yet again.
Kieran grinned and chuckled looking at Linde, "Ya know, I've never seen her light up like this. Not even with her past relationships." she gave Aetrius is a sly grin and then whistled a casual tune from Saharan, which resulted in Aetrius to give a low growl and slump into the saddle some, yet again.
Linde chuckled for Kieran and nodded silently as Aetrius grumbled and slumped into the saddle. So, to cheer her up, Linde began humming an old Shaharan war march theme she'd heard growing up when learning about the nation and its people. And through some of the pauses, she whispered.
”I'm happy, my love.” And kissed her cheek.
Two days later the group acme to the border between Cre' Est and Veilbrand. They passed a checkpoint easily enough and continued on their way. That evening they pitched camp, but Kyero was on edge the entire evening from sundown until now. As the moon rose high overhead and everyone was beginning to sleep, Kyero was wide awake and scanning the tree line sensing something malevolent in the area.
But was it a person? An animal? Or something else altogether?
Sensing a rise of malevolent intent, Kyero stood up slowly and drew both of his daggers. The moon light overhead shone through the transparent green metal highlighting the solid black core running from the handle to the tip. Kyero's senses tracked a presence through the trees from left to right and back again. He couldn't see or hear anything, but he could sense it.
He felt a low rumbling not in the ground, but the very air itself as he continued to track this presence. And inside Kyero heard a deep, dark voice which he was all too familiar with...
You cannot defeat this presence alone.
Be silent. I don't need your help.
If you do not accept my help, it will kill someone. Perhaps even you.
You won't let your vessel die.
True. And you won't let them die... So what will it be?
If and only if it attacks, I will do whatever I must to stop it. But I refuse to rely on you.
Very well. But if I sense a danger to my vessel, I will help whether you like it or not.
You will try.
The voice in his head went silent, and Kyero's focus tightened. His blades came up defensively, reflecting and directing the moon's light into the tree line trying to illuminate something... But nothing could be seen. Until-
!!!
For the briefest moment, Kyero's eyes caught sight of pitch black fur only illuminated by the subtle flash of light from his dagger. It was large... Very large, whatever it was. Pitch black and stalking so silently even his sharp ears heard nothing. The only thing he could do was sense it. But why? Why could he sense it? No animal had this level of malicious intent that he could literally feel it. So what was...
... No...
Kyero's mind finally caught up with all of the signs as the faintest hint of a red glow emanated from the darkness before disappearing, taking the feeling of this creature with it. Kyero looked at his daggers and saw his hands were shaking. He was actually shaking. Him. The Red-Eyed Demon.
"What was that thing?" He whispered to himself.
Kyero cautiously sheathed his daggers and sat down. Feelings something foreign run down his forehead, he wiped it with a finger and found it to be a drop of sweat. Something Kyero almost never did unless he was overexerting himself. So for him to sweat for this... Kyero looked back to the darkness. Nothing was there, and his senses had relaxed. But still his hand quivered at the thought of whatever that thing was.
"... Is this what it's like to know fear?" He whispered softly to himself.
Meanwhile, his ears picked up something new. He turned his head towards Josephine's tent and heard the faint, slightly muffled whimpers of Josephine in her sleep... She was crying. He could tell. A welling of negative emotions were overtaking her in her dreams. Or, rather, her nightmares.
Kyero dipped his head beneath his hood and closed his eyes, waiting for the morning.
”I'm happy, my love.” And kissed her cheek.
Two days later the group acme to the border between Cre' Est and Veilbrand. They passed a checkpoint easily enough and continued on their way. That evening they pitched camp, but Kyero was on edge the entire evening from sundown until now. As the moon rose high overhead and everyone was beginning to sleep, Kyero was wide awake and scanning the tree line sensing something malevolent in the area.
But was it a person? An animal? Or something else altogether?
Sensing a rise of malevolent intent, Kyero stood up slowly and drew both of his daggers. The moon light overhead shone through the transparent green metal highlighting the solid black core running from the handle to the tip. Kyero's senses tracked a presence through the trees from left to right and back again. He couldn't see or hear anything, but he could sense it.
He felt a low rumbling not in the ground, but the very air itself as he continued to track this presence. And inside Kyero heard a deep, dark voice which he was all too familiar with...
You cannot defeat this presence alone.
Be silent. I don't need your help.
If you do not accept my help, it will kill someone. Perhaps even you.
You won't let your vessel die.
True. And you won't let them die... So what will it be?
If and only if it attacks, I will do whatever I must to stop it. But I refuse to rely on you.
Very well. But if I sense a danger to my vessel, I will help whether you like it or not.
You will try.
The voice in his head went silent, and Kyero's focus tightened. His blades came up defensively, reflecting and directing the moon's light into the tree line trying to illuminate something... But nothing could be seen. Until-
!!!
For the briefest moment, Kyero's eyes caught sight of pitch black fur only illuminated by the subtle flash of light from his dagger. It was large... Very large, whatever it was. Pitch black and stalking so silently even his sharp ears heard nothing. The only thing he could do was sense it. But why? Why could he sense it? No animal had this level of malicious intent that he could literally feel it. So what was...
... No...
Kyero's mind finally caught up with all of the signs as the faintest hint of a red glow emanated from the darkness before disappearing, taking the feeling of this creature with it. Kyero looked at his daggers and saw his hands were shaking. He was actually shaking. Him. The Red-Eyed Demon.
"What was that thing?" He whispered to himself.
Kyero cautiously sheathed his daggers and sat down. Feelings something foreign run down his forehead, he wiped it with a finger and found it to be a drop of sweat. Something Kyero almost never did unless he was overexerting himself. So for him to sweat for this... Kyero looked back to the darkness. Nothing was there, and his senses had relaxed. But still his hand quivered at the thought of whatever that thing was.
"... Is this what it's like to know fear?" He whispered softly to himself.
Meanwhile, his ears picked up something new. He turned his head towards Josephine's tent and heard the faint, slightly muffled whimpers of Josephine in her sleep... She was crying. He could tell. A welling of negative emotions were overtaking her in her dreams. Or, rather, her nightmares.
Kyero dipped his head beneath his hood and closed his eyes, waiting for the morning.
The two days passed by easily and rather quickly, with little to no hassle along the way. But eventually they arrived at their destination, the boarder of Cre' Est. They had set up camp that night, ate dinner, talked around the fire again, and all went to bed at some point. When the morning arose, the sun light of the tents, warming them up and casting it ever bright orange glow everywhere. By this time though, Aetrius was already out of her tent and nowhere to be seen, Kieran slowly awoke from her slumber and looked around, and sensing something was off. She looked to a small hill in the distance, surrounded by trees and saw a figure in the distance, she decided to investigate and slowly made her way there. Eventually she closed in the distance, and saw a red haired woman sitting down, back facing Kieran. Kieran chuckled and walked up, and sat down next to Aetrius, who sat with her knees held to her chest and her chin resting on her knees. They both remained silent as they looked out in the distance, until one of them spoke up softly, "Can I ask you a question...?" her voice came out softly, as if it was almost a whisper.
Aetrius nodded silently, barely moving her head, but Kieran understood her all too well and understood her message. "Why..Why did you come and look for me in Veilbrand? I know it's been a few days now, but since we left you never told me anything...You've remained rather distant...Am I that different to you know? Do you look at me differently because of what I was forced into? I'd understand if you did, but even then..." her voice died down some, as Kieran looked down and couldn't help as tears slowly trickled down her face. Aetrius continued to remained silent for a few moments, not out of anger or resentment, or even disappointment, it was because she was trying to find the words to say, not even the right words, but words to say in general. She sat there for a few more moments in silence, Kieran nodded and slowly began to stand up, taking the silence as a way of telling her to leave Aetrius alone. But as Kieran turned to leave, a soft voice spoke up behind her.
"I'm not mad at you, Kie...I never have been. You're my sister, and my best friend. You're the only family and friend that I have left from my old life. You've always been the one person I could count on to survive. You were always by my side. For years we had each others back. Always looking out for each other, even when I was an outcast among our clan, you always had my back...Even when...Even when I was marked you were the one who believed in me. You left Saharan because you knew I didn't have a place there anymore. You left because of me, and because of me you eventually got sold and wrapped up into something that resulted in me having to go and find you, after who knows what you've been through..." her voice dying down as her long, breathless ramble and mess of words were expelled from her lips. She remained silent as she softly caught her breath, and after a few deep breaths she spoke up again, "I blame myself, Kieran. For what happened to you. It was my fault you got put into that situation. You should hate me by now..I do. I've hated myself for years because of what happened back there. because I couldn't help you..." she said softly and looked down, her own tears finding their way down her face. Kieran slowly walked infront of Aetrius, and crouched down, gently lifting her currently tear stained chin to look at her.
"You are my sister. Just as Saharans, family means everything to us, regardless as to what had happened. Just as you say, you're all that I have as well. We share the same blood, what runs through me, runs through you. I will always be there for you, just as you had always been there for me. Regardless to what happened all those years ago, regardless of what you've become since our departing...There is one thing you will always be to me." she said softly, as she sat down with Aetrius, hands covered by her own soft and smooth hands. Aetrius looked at Kieran with a raised eyebrown, "You will always be my little sister." she said as she wrapped her arms around Aetrius, and gave her a tight hug, resulting in Aetrius to fully break down into a heartbreaking wail as she wrapped her own arms around Kieran tightly, and continued shaking all the while she cried.
For so long did she blame herself for losing Kieran, and for even losing a part of who she was in Kieran. Knowing that she finally had her sister back again, and that Kieran didn't blame her for anything, or hold any resentment towards her, she couldn't help but finally let all of her emotions out, all of the self doubt and hate, sadness and anger, anxiety and stress, all came out as she cried into her sisters arms until she had nothing left to cry out. And so that sat, on that small hill in the distance, as Kieran hummed Aetrius a soft tune their mother used to always sing to them in their times of sadness, one that always helped calm down a sad Aetrius, but this time it only caused her to cry more, and silently they sat there until it was time for them to leave camp.
Aetrius nodded silently, barely moving her head, but Kieran understood her all too well and understood her message. "Why..Why did you come and look for me in Veilbrand? I know it's been a few days now, but since we left you never told me anything...You've remained rather distant...Am I that different to you know? Do you look at me differently because of what I was forced into? I'd understand if you did, but even then..." her voice died down some, as Kieran looked down and couldn't help as tears slowly trickled down her face. Aetrius continued to remained silent for a few moments, not out of anger or resentment, or even disappointment, it was because she was trying to find the words to say, not even the right words, but words to say in general. She sat there for a few more moments in silence, Kieran nodded and slowly began to stand up, taking the silence as a way of telling her to leave Aetrius alone. But as Kieran turned to leave, a soft voice spoke up behind her.
"I'm not mad at you, Kie...I never have been. You're my sister, and my best friend. You're the only family and friend that I have left from my old life. You've always been the one person I could count on to survive. You were always by my side. For years we had each others back. Always looking out for each other, even when I was an outcast among our clan, you always had my back...Even when...Even when I was marked you were the one who believed in me. You left Saharan because you knew I didn't have a place there anymore. You left because of me, and because of me you eventually got sold and wrapped up into something that resulted in me having to go and find you, after who knows what you've been through..." her voice dying down as her long, breathless ramble and mess of words were expelled from her lips. She remained silent as she softly caught her breath, and after a few deep breaths she spoke up again, "I blame myself, Kieran. For what happened to you. It was my fault you got put into that situation. You should hate me by now..I do. I've hated myself for years because of what happened back there. because I couldn't help you..." she said softly and looked down, her own tears finding their way down her face. Kieran slowly walked infront of Aetrius, and crouched down, gently lifting her currently tear stained chin to look at her.
"You are my sister. Just as Saharans, family means everything to us, regardless as to what had happened. Just as you say, you're all that I have as well. We share the same blood, what runs through me, runs through you. I will always be there for you, just as you had always been there for me. Regardless to what happened all those years ago, regardless of what you've become since our departing...There is one thing you will always be to me." she said softly, as she sat down with Aetrius, hands covered by her own soft and smooth hands. Aetrius looked at Kieran with a raised eyebrown, "You will always be my little sister." she said as she wrapped her arms around Aetrius, and gave her a tight hug, resulting in Aetrius to fully break down into a heartbreaking wail as she wrapped her own arms around Kieran tightly, and continued shaking all the while she cried.
For so long did she blame herself for losing Kieran, and for even losing a part of who she was in Kieran. Knowing that she finally had her sister back again, and that Kieran didn't blame her for anything, or hold any resentment towards her, she couldn't help but finally let all of her emotions out, all of the self doubt and hate, sadness and anger, anxiety and stress, all came out as she cried into her sisters arms until she had nothing left to cry out. And so that sat, on that small hill in the distance, as Kieran hummed Aetrius a soft tune their mother used to always sing to them in their times of sadness, one that always helped calm down a sad Aetrius, but this time it only caused her to cry more, and silently they sat there until it was time for them to leave camp.
Linde awoke late and wandered out of the tent in a night gown hanging halfway off her left shoulder nearly showing something from her left breast. Kyero, being the nearest to her, fixed it for her which made her smile sleepily at him and pat his shoulder in a friendly manner.
"MmmmthanksKyero." She slurred as she yawned.
Josephine emerged from her tent just afterwards dressed fully in her armor and prepared for the day whilst also already taking down her tent and folding it up to attach it to her saddle bags.
Kyero was ready to move as well, taking up his place at the middle of the pack with his pack and cloak up as he walked along the path. Josephine was second from the front behind Aetrius who had since pulled Linde up to sit behind her after the latter had woken up and gotten properly dressed. Meanwhile, Lonan was close behind her riding on Hawk.
And together they all took off further into Cre' Est. The junction where Josephine would part ways from them was fast approaching, and Linde had sort of started to like her as a member of the group even if she was largely silent unless asked something first. She'd miss her.
"MmmmthanksKyero." She slurred as she yawned.
Josephine emerged from her tent just afterwards dressed fully in her armor and prepared for the day whilst also already taking down her tent and folding it up to attach it to her saddle bags.
Kyero was ready to move as well, taking up his place at the middle of the pack with his pack and cloak up as he walked along the path. Josephine was second from the front behind Aetrius who had since pulled Linde up to sit behind her after the latter had woken up and gotten properly dressed. Meanwhile, Lonan was close behind her riding on Hawk.
And together they all took off further into Cre' Est. The junction where Josephine would part ways from them was fast approaching, and Linde had sort of started to like her as a member of the group even if she was largely silent unless asked something first. She'd miss her.
Aetrius and Kieran rejoined with the others down the hill when they heard the others were awake and starting to pack up, they helped prepare everything for their travels and eventual departure with Joesephine. Once they were all ready, Aetrius helped Linde up onto Bree, and Kieran helped Rose onto their horse, unknown to them, once soon they got to Cre' Est, they would be saying goodbye to two people, not just one.
Aetrius had to admit to herself though, even with the one girl's distance and solitude, and unintentionally rude appearing manners, she would miss her somewhat. And perhaps, if she did leave, may Heresta bless her and perhaps she would meet up with them again one day.
Aetrius had to admit to herself though, even with the one girl's distance and solitude, and unintentionally rude appearing manners, she would miss her somewhat. And perhaps, if she did leave, may Heresta bless her and perhaps she would meet up with them again one day.
Lonán had put away his gear and looked at everyone getting ready to go, as he observed several people that’d most likely separate. Rose to give her what she was promised, and Josephine for her journey to Triveila. For the latter, Lonán would truly miss her if she left. The last two days of conversation made him learn unique skills, and insight about his family he obviously needed.
So he decided to fill his curiosity and have at least one last chat, if he failed to convince her to stay, He failed. He hoped to see her again regardless. He approached her and took a breath. ”Morning Miss Dezantro.” He greeted, feeling slightly confident as the past two days taught him to calm his nervous heart around her. He took another breath.
”I wanted to ask you, if it’s not a bother, why must you get to Triveila within a fortnight?” He finally asked, if he knew that, he’d probably find a way to convince her to travel with them for awhile longer, maybe even travel with her to aid her on said business.
So he decided to fill his curiosity and have at least one last chat, if he failed to convince her to stay, He failed. He hoped to see her again regardless. He approached her and took a breath. ”Morning Miss Dezantro.” He greeted, feeling slightly confident as the past two days taught him to calm his nervous heart around her. He took another breath.
”I wanted to ask you, if it’s not a bother, why must you get to Triveila within a fortnight?” He finally asked, if he knew that, he’d probably find a way to convince her to travel with them for awhile longer, maybe even travel with her to aid her on said business.
Josephine looked back to Lonan, giving him a morning greeting in return. And as he asked why she felt she must reach Triveila within the fortnight, she looked ahead and sighed softly.
”I have... Business... Back home.” She said softly.
”I would prefer to leave it at that, Sir Arzura... Why did you wish to know, if I may return a question?”
”I have... Business... Back home.” She said softly.
”I would prefer to leave it at that, Sir Arzura... Why did you wish to know, if I may return a question?”
Lonán sighed, figuring the question would get turned around. ”I’m not going to lie Miss Dezantro. Unless you know the best route, I’m afraid within a fortnight is almost hard to do.” He said. ”When I remember working at a trade caravan hearing of some roads that couriers often take, if by themselves on horseback, that could potentially cut that time in half.”
He recalled this from his two year experience working at a trade caravan that was his best paid job yet. ”Actually, if I remember right, one of my previous employers operates one of the stops of the trade caravan I provided escort for in the Capital of Cre’est. If there’s anyone to ask it’s Him.” Lonán explained, ”What I’m suggesting is, if it’s that important, we can try to visit my old Employer and see if he can help point out a faster route, that’ll give you time also to at least take a breather from traveling on the road, see some civilization for a day or two, and if it works out, it works out. If it doesn’t.. Ye have the right to yell me ear off.” the last sentence he actually recalled his Grandfather saying it to both his grandmother and mother. Usually when he was trying to experiment with a new look for a new sword, or a shield concept. When he worked with him to make his crossbow, he recalled the Old Wolf saying;
”If this doesn’t work, Yer mother has the right to yell my ear off if you shoot your eye out.” Lonán Mentally chuckled at the memory. He made the shot, but scared up hornets. For this, Mother didn’t yell at him. She sent Venom the Fourth on The Old Wolf’s poor self.
He recalled this from his two year experience working at a trade caravan that was his best paid job yet. ”Actually, if I remember right, one of my previous employers operates one of the stops of the trade caravan I provided escort for in the Capital of Cre’est. If there’s anyone to ask it’s Him.” Lonán explained, ”What I’m suggesting is, if it’s that important, we can try to visit my old Employer and see if he can help point out a faster route, that’ll give you time also to at least take a breather from traveling on the road, see some civilization for a day or two, and if it works out, it works out. If it doesn’t.. Ye have the right to yell me ear off.” the last sentence he actually recalled his Grandfather saying it to both his grandmother and mother. Usually when he was trying to experiment with a new look for a new sword, or a shield concept. When he worked with him to make his crossbow, he recalled the Old Wolf saying;
”If this doesn’t work, Yer mother has the right to yell my ear off if you shoot your eye out.” Lonán Mentally chuckled at the memory. He made the shot, but scared up hornets. For this, Mother didn’t yell at him. She sent Venom the Fourth on The Old Wolf’s poor self.
