Tannin de La Roche's Story

As they'd left the large room, Tannin had realized that he'd not said anything to Alissa regarding what she'd told him. Honestly, he'd not expected her to open up as she had. His pace was quick as he led the way through the Guild. Normally, he would have taken the hidden passages that he would normally go through but he'd decided against it with Alissa following. She would not have been able to keep up. He slowed his pace, allowing Alissa to walk next to him. He glanced down at her. "You are wrong." He said softly, smiling behind his mask. "You are not a terrible princess. Far from it. You are merely human." He fell silent for a moment as they passed a few members. They bowed in respect to Tannin though he merely continued walking. When they were alone once again, he continued.

"I cannot say that I have ever understood the need for the high born to marry off their daughters to those who would simply marry for the gain of more power. In the end, that is all most in the world care about." He glanced at her as he turned them down another hallway. "I will let you in on a secret, Princessa. The day that my Master died, I took over as the Guild Master. I was far from being ready for such responsibility. Imagine going from being in the background to being thrown into the light. I lost many nights of sleep because I had worried myself so. However, I came to realize that I could simply only do what I was able. No more..no less. There comes a time where we must spread our wings and fly."

Tannin stopped them before a set of old wooden doors. He turned to look down at the woman. "The only advice I can offer you, Princessa, is for you to learn quickly who to trust and who not to. Keep those that are trustworthy close." He then opened one of the doors, allowing Alissa to enter first. He then followed her. He had brought them to what looked to be the infirmary. He then led the way back to the back of the room where another door was. He opened it, allowing the Princess to enter first once again. He followed, this time locking the door behind him.

There was a man sitting at the small desk. Immediately, he rose and made his way over to the pair. He bowed deeply before Tannin before turning his gaze to Alissa. "What can I do for you Master Tannin?" Tannin then proceeded to explain what had happened and who Alissa was. The old man was quickly moving the Master to a chair. "Foolish boy. You should have come here sooner. Let us see the damage that has been done."

Slowly, Tannin began removing layers so that Cassen could see the wound on his shoulder. Tannin merely looked down as his shoulder was unwrapped and looked at. Cassen checked over the stitches before moving to gather a few supplies. "Princess, if I may..your needlework is quite good for someone who has never sewn flesh before. Come here child. I will allow you to see the proper way to deal with such wounds. Had you not helped the Master, he would be dead now. He owes you his life."

Tannin had remained silent as Cassen spoke and began cutting out the stitches from his shoulder. His breathing quickly became strained as pain shot about the healing wound. "It is healing quite well. I believe that you should be able to pick up your training at any point. Just make sure not to over do it. We don't want you making things worse. I'll be trusting you, Miss Alissa, to make sure that he is taking it fairly easy. Swordplay would be fine..nothing else for at least a few more days. No climbing about or do any of that fancy acrobatics that you like to do." Cassen showed Alissa how to stitch and wrap the wound more properly. He also told Alissa that he'd give her supplies to keep the wound clean, as it would need the bandages changed twice a day.

He redressed, covering his face once again before thanking the elder man and then leading Alissa slowly back to the lowest level. He was certain that it was obvious that he was in pain. However, he ignored it. Once they were alone once again, safe from prying eyes, Tannin removed his mask and hood. He made his way over to the desk, sitting down. His gaze suddenly fell to the young woman. "Princessa, I am afraid that I have much work to do. Though, you are welcome to sit with me if you wish." He wanted nothing more than to spend time with her though he still had a job to do. He was quite behind since he'd been gone for so long. Tannin thought that perhaps they could speak while he began going over his backed up paperwork or she could read. He smiled at her, willing her to see that he would be fine with either choice she decided upon.

Tannin took hold of the first sealed letter and opened it. His eyes began reading, going over what was written. He was silent for some time as he went through several different letters and papers, writing up replies for those that called for it. After some time had passed, Tannin glanced to Alissa. "Tell me, Princessa," He started as he placed the quill down, taking a short break. "What would you do if you had nothing tying you down to the capitol. No worries. No one to worry for you there. Where would you be? What would you be doing?" He knew it was a odd question but it was something he was simply curious about. His gaze turned to her, softly resting upon her.

Tannin showed Alissa the way to the infirmary, they walked through the Guild and Alissa kept her distance from Tannin, not too far away but not too close either, still it was obvious that the gap between them was bigger than when they first arrived. She wondered if he would reply about what she had said earlier and secretly hoped he wouldn't, Alissa was still surprised at how close she had gotten with Tannin and the feeling alone made her feel exposed. "You are wrong," Tannin finally said breaking the silence between the two of them, his soft words made her stop instantly. She said nothing and waited for a more throughout explanation, though his words sounded comforting right off the batch Allissa could not hide her nervousness. She wondered if it was because she had grown to care for his opinion, "You are not a terrible princess. Far from it. You are merely human," Tannin said, Alissa said nothing but as soon as Tannin turned around to greet some members of the guild she let out a small smile of satisfaction as if his small response had been enough.

Alissa nodded when Tannin explained how he had confusion of his own when it came to arranged marriages and soon after confided in her with the secret of how he had come to be the Guild Master and his responsibilities, "I came to realize that I could simply only do what I was able. No more..no less. There comes a time where we must spread our wings and fly," he concluded. Alissa gave Tannin a last smile with an approving nod, feeling as if she had needed to hear those words all of her life as opposed to 'do what you have been born to do, be the princess we expect you to be'. Even so, Alissa had always been one to do more than what she could handle, even if sometimes that resulted in ill-being or in getting herself hurt in the process.

Alissa was distracted when Tannin stopped before a pair of hand crafted wooden doors that she almost bumped into him, as soon as Alissa took a step back he spoke again "The only advice I can offer you, Princessa, is for you to learn quickly who to trust and who not to. Keep those that are trustworthy close." and with those words he opened the door. They kept walking through the infirmary but it wasn't until they arrived to the back when he opened another set of doors, after they entered an old man greeted Tannin with deep respect, it wasn't until the old man moved Tannin to a chair to expect him further that he reprimanded him for not visiting the infirmary sooner. Inevitably, Alissa could not help but to feel responsible and guilty of Tannin's wounds but she did not allow for it to stop her from studying every move that the old man made even if it seemed to be something without greater significance.

Alissa starred nervously as the man removed the layers of cloth, she wondered if she had done more damage than she had done good and it wasn't until the old man praised her needlework that she let out a sigh of relief. The man offered to teach her the proper way to deal with wounds and Alissa did not hesitate for a second to learn everything she could, "Had you not helped the Master, he would be dead now. He owes you his life," he added, had things been differently she would have made a witty remark and teased Tannin of such accomplishment, specially after how they had come to know each other but this was not joking matter, the thought of losing Tannin made Alissa feel weakened and at loss. Tannin owed her nothing on her account, if someone were to keep score Tannin had saved her more times than she dared to count.

Alissa asked for the man's name as he began cutting the stitches from tannin's shoulder, and soon enough Cassen spoke again warning Tannin that he should keep rest from his usual activities, "I believe that you should be able to pick up your training at any point. Just make sure not to over do it. We don't want you making things worse. I'll be trusting you, Miss Alissa, to make sure that he is taking it fairly easy. Swordplay would be fine..nothing else for at least a few more days. No climbing about or do any of that fancy acrobatics that you like to do." Alissa could not help herself this time, letting out a small chuckle at seeing how Cassen spoke to his master, it reminded her of how her mother scolded her although Cassen's words hardly sounded like a scold. "Worry not Cassen, I will watch out after Tannin," Alissa said firmly now erasing any sign of playfulness mostly because she meant it.

Alissa thanked Cassen for his advise and for the supplies he handed to keep Tannin's wound clean, she was always glad to make herself useful and even though it was something as small as changing his bandages. As soon as they had finished, Alissa thanked Cassen for the help and they were on their way back to their headquarters at a slower pace. Alissa noticed how much in pain Tannin was but said nothing knowing there was nothing she could do for the moment, she didn't know if she would hurt his pride specially in front of his man who constantly saluted him respectfully as they made their way down, still she offered herself for him to old onto if he needed any support. Finally, after they were back into the room outside Alissa's room Tannin sat down at the main desk, "Princessa, I am afraid that I have much work to do. Though, you are welcome to sit with me if you wish." Alissa let out a small smile and quickly sat down at leather sofa that stood not too far away from the desk. She did not mean to distract him for his job, besides she could finally get to finish the book that Tannin had gifted her while they were at the inn seeing that she was more than half way done with the book.

Alissa allowed him to work peacefully while she read her beloved book, as always she was self absorbed into the story navigating into a different world, a world of adventure; not that she needed more adventure than the one she was living in but still. It wasn't until Tannin spoke softly that she was brought back to reality, "Tell me, Princessa, Tannin asked with a hint of curiosity. Alissa changed her position, where she had been lying down comfortably in the sofa, now she shifted to a siting position. Soon enough she placed the book down at a table nearby and listened attentively to what could have made Tannin curious, "What would you do if you had nothing tying you down to the capitol. No worries. No one to worry for you there. Where would you be? What would you be doing? " Alissa waited in silent being caught off guard by his question, even though it was obvious she had fantasized of it countless times the truth she was at loss. Alissa would have never been asked such a question back home, especially when she didn't need such encouragement from anyone.

"I..." she began but she soon enough stopped herself. The question now made her laugh a little "I suppose I would want to live a life full of adventure, living my life on the edge not knowing where I might go next and what kind of things await me, running free with Libertas galloping to wherever we might want to go, visiting foreign lands. I want to set sail and see the ocean at it's most natural form," Alissa could not hide her radiant smile as she spoke of her plans, she waited for a few seconds before she began speaking again. "But what about you Tannin? What would you be doing were not not a Guild Master? Where would you be if you were free to do as you pleased, if you were free of any responsibilities?" Her eyes now scanned his as she waited patiently.

"I suppose I would want to live a life full of adventure, living my life on the edge not knowing where I might go next and what kind of things await me, running free with Libertas galloping to wherever we might want to go and visit foreign lands. I want to set sail and see the ocean at it's most natural form," Tannin noted the young woman's smile. He offered her one of his own,glad to see her so happy about something. He had been about to look back to his paperwork when Alissa spoke once again, posing a question of her own. "But what about you Tannin? What would you be doing were not not a Guild Master? Where would you be if you were free to do as you pleased and free of any responsibilities?"

Tannin did not answer her right away. He simply held her gaze. After having been silent for a moment, the assassin spoke. "I must..admit, it is something that I do not think about often. Though, I imagine I would be living a less adventurous life than what I do now." Tannin hesitated for a moment, trying to decide how much to tell the young woman. He tore his gaze from her, standing from his seat. Slowly, he made his way to Alissa, joining her upon the sofa. They were close, though the young man found that he did not mind. "I imagine I would be far from here since I would no longer have anything keeping me."

The assassin was silent for a long moment, as if thinking. "If I was to do anything, I would most likely just be living life. However, if we are speaking of a different world entirely, I think I should very much like to live upon the sea. I have been there several times and have found it most enjoyable." He fell silent, his gaze turning to Alissa. What he did not tell her was that what he truly wanted..was a family. It was something that he doubted he would ever have. Who would want to be with him? A murderer and a scarred face did not attract many women. He was uncomfortable with where the line of discussion could go. He was quick to change the subject. "However, I will be here until the day I die. There is no leaving the Guild once joined."

He smiled at her, obviously the thought not bothering him too terribly. He sighed softly before rising from the sofa. He turned so that he could see Alissa. He offered her a hand so that he could help her up. "It is late and we have been on the road for a long time. I think it best to get some rest. We will need to be up early." He escorted her to her room, waiting outside of the door. He bowed to her slightly before straightening himself back up. "I bid you a good night, Princessa. I was hoping you would join me for breakfast before the day begins." He waited patiently for her to answer him before he left her for the night.

Tannin made his way to his room and entered. He took all of his weapons off of his person and placed them in their proper place. He then slowly undressed, pulling the layers off of his body. He left on a simple shirt and pants and then got into the large bed. He pulled the blankets up around his body and closed his eyes. Before Litania came looking for him the following morning, he would need to get Alissa to treat and redress his wound. He was glad that she was there and that he wouldn't have to go looking for Cassen every time he needed it done. He would have to find a way to thank her properly later on. He fell asleep rather quickly and there was nothing that would wake him easily. He'd spent the past few weeks barely sleeping, more intent upon making sure that nothing happened to Alissa while they were on the road.

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Tannin had risen that morning before most others. He had quite a bit to do, as had become the norm for him as of late. He had wanted to train Alissa himself though had set Litania upon the task. He'd decided that it was a good idea..it would help the younger girl to get used to the idea of the Princess remaining with them until the threat of Lorn had passed. Tannin spent the entirety of his early morning in a meeting with Kaya and Verrengar. They'd gone over much of what Tannin had missed in his absence. As he'd been healing, Tannin had been forced to keep all of his meetings short. He'd not been able to leave the Guild, being forced to remain hidden away. He couldn't remember the last time he'd been able to even spend time with Alissa.

When he wasn't busy with the day to day duties that he was required to perform, Tannin had spent the time resting, trying to recover. He had to admit that he was glad that his wound was now completely healed. Nothing was holding him back. Currently, Tannin was walking with Kaya and Verrengar through the Guild. The two that knew him best..those that he'd chosen to oversee the Guild beneath him..The two that he trusted above all others, including Litania.

The two that were walking with him, each on one side of him, spoke with him. Tannin was more than happy to continue the conversation. He'd been gone for some time during the time he'd gone after Alissa. The small group made their way through the Guild, heading towards the large training room. As they neared, Tannin could hear Litania's voice. The child was loud, as she tended to be. However, Tannin could easily pick up her words.

"Again! Your enemies will not go so easy on you!" The young girl's voice brought a small smile to Tannin's face. Though, none could see it. The three friends came to a stop at the railing and looked down as Litania and Alissa continued their training. Tannin looked down calmly, noting that neither of the females noticed his arrival. Litania continued at Alissa relentlessly. Tannin was quick to see that the situation was quickly becoming dangerous.

He was unsure what had set the girl off though he knew that he would have to intervene soon before Alissa was hurt. He excused himself from his friends, slowly making his way down to the open floor. By the time he arrived, Litania was getting ready to attack Alissa once again. However, this time, Litania's attack was different. There was rage and anger behind it. If she was to reach Alissa, there was no telling what would happen.

Tannin moved quickly. The young girl's wooden sword was coming down towards the Princess as Tannin came to stand in front of Alissa. It was far too late for Litantia to stop her attack. However, the Guild Master did not seem bothered by it. He lifted a hand as the wooden weapon got too close, stopping its movement.

Litania was suddenly looking up at Tannin in shock and surprise. She seemed at a loss. It was obvious that she'd not expected anyone to interfere. The young girl released her grip on the weapon, taking a step back and then bowing to Tannin. However, regardless of the respect she was showing, Tannin knew that it would only be a moment or two before she did something rash.

He allowed the wooden weapon to fall to the ground just as a shining dagger came flying at his head. He quickly slid a foot backwards, behind one of Alissa's, forcing her to the ground quickly. Almost immediately after he was sure she was out of the way, Tannin bent backwards, the dagger flying just over where they'd been standing.

Tannin rose quickly, his gaze falling to the spot where Litania had just been. The girl had disappeared though Tannin was fairly sure he knew where she would go. He turned quickly, moving. He knew that Alissa would follow him and so he did not wait on her. He took off at a run towards the tables that sat before the wall. He lept upon one of the tables nearest the solid wall and then lept towards the wall that connected with the railing. One of his feet landed and he pushed off, allowing himself to be able to to reach the railing. He quickly pulled himself up. The moment his feet touched the ground, Tannin took off running through the Guild, towards his office.

It took him only a few minutes to reach his destination. As always, the two guards stood watch. He was quick to inform them to allow none save for Alissa to enter until further notice. Litania was standing before his desk, waiting. "I knew that you'd know where to find me." She said. Tannin sighed, lowering his hood and mask. Of course he knew where to find her. "Tell me, what has you so upset."

Litania was silent for a long moment, as if trying to decide what to say. When she did finally speak, her voice was not as loud as it had been earlier. "She doesn't belong here and you know it. She is doing nothing but slowing down my training. She is a burden.."

Tannin was quick to silence the child with a wave of his hand. "You know not what you speak of. Alissa's presence has done nothing to hinder your training. Though she is not one of us, that does not mean that she doesn't belong here. She is in need of our help and until such a time that she is able to return to the capitol, she will remain. I suggest you get over whatever problem you have and move on. We will not be having this discussion again."

He made his way towards the pillars that rose from the deep water, simply gazing at them for a long moment. Litania said nothing, glancing to the door. "It's not polite to spy on people when they're having a conversation." Tannin was certain that Alissa had finally joined them and had no doubt heard at least some of what had been said. He turned towards the door, gazing steadily in the Princess's direction.