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Archive 22 / the-golden-hive
Triggers: Slavery, Violence, Possible death, Injury, Abuse, Possible sexual content, Fantasy Bigotry and maybe generalised horror elements.
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giyuumium 17-Jan-23 06:08 PM
⚠️TW⚠️ Slavery, Violence, Possible death, Injury, Abuse, Possible sexual content, Fantasy Bigotry and maybe generalised horror elements. (edited)
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giyuumium 17-Jan-23 06:34 PM
Describing this divine castle before her had been described as a Golden Hive, and there was no exaggeration about it. The mansion was glorious, filled with ornate decorations and luxurious furniture... Needless to say, Varonwë felt extremely out of place... Fitting in to such a elegant persona was a challenge enough as is, navigating this would feel impossible. Even though the woman's race of elvish kind were considered barbarians amongst her own kind, anybody outside of their race considered them to be beautiful. The claim hasn't faultered yet... If she played this right, it wouldn't be as hard as she thought. So, with one of the assistants helping her with her belongings, she walked inside and took in her surroundings... She felt the dress she searched endlessly to find and steal, which was a grey chiffon dress with thick satin. It was sleeveless, with aluminum arm cuffs with the arm lets attached to it. Finding it to be over the top at first... Now that she found her way inside, and truly absorbed the surroundings of the party, it was certainly worth the time to find it. Now, she stood off to the side, like a shadow amongst the party... The less attention she drew, the better. Besides, she was quiet as is, avoiding conversation was like second nature. Varon took a drink from one of the servants walking around, and examined each person... Some were human, some were halflings, there were dwarves, faries, elves, all different types of races, each distinct from the next. With enough observation, maybe finding a cleric wouldn't be too hard after all... How could she forget his face?
18:35
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 17-Jan-23 06:51 PM
That Baron figure was supposed to be the one to make their speech here, before everyone was able to leave the dance hall in which she was to be taken to. All the escorts and assistants that were supposed to guide her from the carriage trip to her own suite didn't exactly speak too much, a strange feeling considering the reputation that this Blacktooth Society was to have. The Baron was known all too well as the leader of this soiree. A showman, and a very proud man at that. By the sounds of things, he's been around for quite some time. Perhaps longer than most people here, save for some evidently ageless figures. The escorts open the doors to the dance hall, which looks to be temporarily converted into a meeting sort of lounge area. There look to be comfy armchairs and various drinks being given out by people in black tuxedos with golden trim, with their ties in a mixture of different colours. The wallpaper is ebony with a starlit tinge to it and above her, the chandelier glimmers like a galaxy was above her head. Magic brimmed across the walls and floors, making this hall look more of a nebula than a physical room. All manner of guests enter soon after she showed up. She could see a trickster looking figure teleport into one of the comfy chairs on the other side of the room, upside down on said chair and teasing one of the servants; a business lord in a golden-trimmed suit, who gives a small group of people a polite wave as he sits in another chair. You can see a man in a white suit and a grim looking metallic mask who seems quite chipper, gleaming red eyes eyeing up a few other guests. Some sort of plague doctor with a short stature and thin body, whose demeanour felt wrong in some way. There were clerics, but to instantly pin them as monsters would be foolish, especially since it's hard to tell who's who. Holy figures all looked pretty similar.
18:52
Eventually, and with a bit of fanfare, a figure in a white cloak and even brighter white eyes steps forth out a door and onto a nearby podium with some applause. You quickly recognise them as The Baron, and they look to have their best outfit on for the soiree. A few assistants help to get him set up, and The Baron starts, with a grandiose tone of voice.
18:52
"Ah, so good to have you all here once more! To all the new faces, welcome to the Blacktooth Soiree! To the older faces, welcome back! I am Sikthol DeVarinay Blacktooth, the proud owner of a proud society. I see a lot of returning customers out there so I'll keep this speech brief and save the theatrics for my grand performances! So, welcome welcome once more to what I believe to be the three thousand and forty second soiree! Ah, time does fly when you have fun, and we here guarantee it at the Blacktooth Manor! As soon as I finish my dredging on, you'll be escorted to your suites and shown a euphoric experience like no other. We'll keep a map and short descriptions of each room inside your suite, as well as a tidbit of information by yours truly just outside the door itself. Allow me to go on a little about the general goings on of the Blacktooth! Let's see. Almost anything goes here, with only a minor amount of exceptions! Just organise it and we'll make it happen, and I do mean anything! Your breakfast will be at 8:30am, lunch at 12:15pm, afternoon snack at 3:00pm and dinner at 7:30pm! Night hours are at 10pm, but you can of course go outside after just informing a guard of your departure. The rules here are simple! Don't harm any guardsmen, nobility or high ranking officers; servants are exempt as always. Don't harm another guest without officially declaring a duel. Don't smuggle any weaponry into the manor, we'll get your weapons in just a moment now. Don't go into the lower chambers. Don't access other guests suites without permission, try to keep magic levels down if possible, don't enter my wing after 10 without my permission, and don't steal any items when you exit the soiree. Simple enough? But of course! We've written it down as well so don't worry now. Now please! Enjoy your stay and feel free to let loose! Remember, open season on your wildest dreams." (edited)
18:52
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 17-Jan-23 07:17 PM
The young elf hid within plain sight, moving with the crowd into the ballroom. Well, to describe such an environment with simple terms like that would undermine the beauty... In all her years of travel and life, never has she experienced such stunning magic before, with star-like light glimmering in every direction, and so clearly too. How she wished this sight could be captured forever... Unfortunately, as beautiful as the room was, it stripped her guard down, making her jump at the sudden voice of the baron. How annoying that was. Varonwë quickly moved to the side, continuing her drink while she listened. The rules seemed like something she'd expect out of a snooty party like this... Meal schedules, sleeping schedules, no weapons, don't hurt people, basically don't cause havoc... Something like that forced her eyes to roll to the back of her head. Well, she couldn't make any promises. She already had a dagger strapped on her thigh. She couldn't be too careful, especially since she wasn't attending as a real invited guest! Once the endless rambling was finally over, the woman exchanged her empty glass with a full one... If she was going to be lead around like a lost puppy, a drink would make it more bearable. With all these people inside the ballroom anyways, nobody was leaving immediately, from her assumptions. The time she spent here could give her a good read of who to look out for in a condensed area. Luckily, there were clerics indeed, as well as many holy figures, like priests and saints. There were bards striking wonderful melodies on their instruments, and plenty of high elves to make her stick out like a sore thumb. Her copper skin and black definitely made her seem out of place against their pale skin and light hair colors of blonde, brown and red. Blending in needed to be a top priority.
19:18
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 17-Jan-23 07:31 PM
The Baron disappears via a portal alongside some other high value aristocrats - fitting for an uppity showman like he was - and a portion of the crowd disperses as escorts take them all to their own suites and rooms. Some stayed, some left, some wandered. All of them clearly of some higher class than the average person and a few of which seemingly more sinister. Already, one passes by what sounded like a veiled threat to a servantile employee who committed the unforgivable crime of... Delivering the wrong appetisers? Lovely, really. At least the drinks were nice, tasting almost like memories more than flavours. A springtime beachside, a brisk mountaintop, the 9th circle of hell, a sakura field... Wait, how does one remember a memory one's never remembered before? Best not to think about it. This place already feels strange, and a few snooty looking high elf nobles pass a glance as they disperse as well. At least there do seem to be nice people here, like a woman in a red rose dress, or a rather dazed but friendly looking doctor with round glasses. Those clerics don't seem at all interested in parley however, and quickly turn on their heel to leave the dance hall. Figures. Eventually the escorts finally land on her, dressed in black and gold armoring with a strange sun symbol upon it, an eye in the centre. They give a light bow to their guest, and the main one speaks for them all. "Dear guests. If you could hand off any weapons you have on you, so we may escort you to your private suite. Thank you." They haven't seen the dagger, have they? Assumedly not, but the high level of magic here is as unnerving as it is beautiful.
19:32
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 18-Jan-23 02:50 AM
One bard in particular, a tall half-elf, had his eyes set out for the various people amongst the party, especially those that stood out. Clearly determined to get his words in while the escorts took their time with the guests. Even though he was gliding around the entirety of the lyceum, effortlessly talking to the people he so desired, his hands never stopped playing a melody on his lute. Eventually, the man had made it over to Varon, with that upbeat tune still ringing through the ears of all in the hall. Of course, other bards had their harmonies for him, but they stood with themselves to play and laugh. "Afternoon m'lady!" He started, tilting his head down as if he was tipping his hat. "The name's Archie! You definitely look different from the other elves here! Where are you from?" It was painfully clear he was drunk, not only that, but he was raised by humans. All high elves knew who the Kagonesti wood elves are... However, this conversation was sweet, and his name was so simple and childish, it made her curiosity grow. How were these people really? "My name is Varonwë, I'm a wood elf. I come from a village in Dragonlance." She replied in as proper and elegant of a voice as she could create, with a stature to match. So far, she felt this persona she was presenting was going pretty well... Hopefully it was as good as it felt. "That's a long travel from here! You must be one special lady to have gotten your invitation! Although, I guess your beauty should've made that obvious to me." And a smooth talker... She thought to herself, a faint smile growing on her face... As soon as she opened her mouth to speak, an escort arrived, asking for any weapons. Well, if she wanted to keep her dagger, she'd have to give up something smaller... What was something she had that could be considered a weapon? . (edited)
02:54
Her hair! Twisted and secured in her hair was a hair ornament of an ornate sword. Of course, it was small enough to be a letter opener, and extremely dull, but she could play innocent and act like it could be a weapon. So, she reached back and slid it out of her hair, strands of it falling down her side and covering a little more of her wire headpiece crowning her forehead. "Is this considered as such? I'd hate to keep it if it could be labeled as dangerous." She moved a bit of her black hair back over her shoulder, before holding out the little dagger to the escorts in both her hands. One of her best lies yet. The execution was near perfect, playing the roll of a new guest, and a gentle woman. Her soft voice and gentle posture definitely paralleled with the lie. Such a character should buy her out of suspicion... Hopefully, at least. She wanted her dagger on her, just in case something went wrong. (edited)
02:54
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 18-Jan-23 03:32 AM
The escorts looked to eachother as they inspected the little ornamental piece, clearly not convinced of its lethality yet convinced of her innocent nature. She almost saw their hesitation in taking it; would it even pierce the skin if someone tried? Nonetheless they take it, just to be on the safe side. One of the subsidiary escorts give a deep nod and look over the new guest one final time, before confirming the safety for everyone else. "Perhaps we'll keep it with us just in case, thank you madame. We apologise for the inconvenience." Archie switched the melody on the lute for the guards, something more jovial this time. He seemed to be quite skilled despite his drunken demeanour; and his charisma knew no bounds. Well, if you can call naivete charisma. At the very least, he seemed somewhat of an interest amongst the crowds; either for eye candy or just his eccentric mannerisms. After a single escort clears their throat, he snaps out of his endless tune-ladened stupor. "Ah, right! Weapons, eh? Unless you count ol' Betsy here, didn't bring so much as a stick on me!" He was right. As he gestured across himself - and the lute, whose carving seemed almost invisible beforehand, reading the aforementioned 'ol' Betsy' motif - he brought nothing except a vibrant outfit and a prideful smile to this party. It's almost a wonder he didn't get targeted by a cocky mugger or a bandit group looking to score. Or perhaps he did, and just didn't care. His gaze shifted back to Varon, seeming to forget the escorts were even there in the first place. "Pardon my prying, but I don't think I got your name, love. Mind helping me write my next sonnet?" The escort clears his throat again and tries to get back to business, their jaded voice highlighting this may not have been the first time something like this has happeend. Perhaps not even the last. "And uh.. Mayhaps we can escort you to your private suite, madame?"
03:32
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 18-Jan-23 03:57 AM
Thank God I put that on... "Don't apologize, it's a fault of mine I brought such things in the first place. I should have been more careful." She replied to the servants in front of her... As much as she needed to blend in, being disrespectful towards people doing their jobs isn't something she could do. Varon understood what it felt like to be treated as less than human because of the race she happened to be born into. She might've stuck out being gracious like this, and she understood that... Betsy, this man named his lute. He was unlike what she had initially expected from the guests... However, anybody here could put up a good act... Maybe she didn't notice it now, but if he was indeed sly, she wouldn't want to let her guard down because of a first impression. She needed to be smart. Nobody here was her friend. She chirped up pretty fast, looking towards Archie, and of course, giving him a small smile. "My name is Varonwë, I'm glad to have met you." She replied, almost about to answer, before the escorts got a little impatient. "Oh, yes of course, I apologize. I suppose I can help you write your music another day." With that, the woman picked up the servants' pace, trailing behind them to her suite... Once again, she thanked their services, before shutting the door. Finally. Maybe she just wasn't used to such an uppity life, but that was the most uncomfortable she's ever been. Quickly she stripped the dress right off and replaced it with whatever she had, which was a long cotton night gown. Then, she took off all the silly decorations in her hair, flopping right onto the bed.
03:57
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 18-Jan-23 04:42 AM
Archie waved Varon off as she left with the escorts, calling out before she left the dance hall. "Look forward to meeting you at dinner! Save a spot for me!" Archie turned on his heel to swipe another drink, probably two more from a coma. At least the drinks were fruity and pleasant, otherwise she'd have smelt foul rum emanating from his breath. At least he was a good sort though... A good drunk, at the very least. The escorts moved fast, ad eventually upon travelling the massive sprawling gilded halls of the manor, they manage to take Varon to her rooms. This manor feels more like a maze than a damn living area. One could get lost in these hallways, and it was hard to believe that was possible until now. Who even needs all of this excess? The escorts bow once more. "If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to ask either your servants or an official and they shall help you as best they can. Good day. Vicii împlinite, vise susținute." The language wasn't any dialect known commonly, but easily brushed off as a motto. Figures this place would have a pompous motto in a fancy language... Upon entering the suite, Varon was quick to notice it's one of the nicest they've ever been in, if not ever seen. The interior is somehow decorated to her likings and desires down to the letter, your pantry has her favorite foods, and the bedding areas look to be perfect too - passing the flop test. The most accurate test of a bed's quality. Was the place decorated beforehand or was it able to read her? Hard to tell what's the more preferable option there...
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highkinglemlem 18-Jan-23 04:58 AM
----------- Edwin always found these soirees to be quite daunting. No- scratch that. Terrifying. The staff are on edge, the guards even more so, and the guests are... Just scary sometimes. The last group that he took care of had taken his leftmost eye out. Edwin still shudders to this day about what happened. All that fuss over a broken plate? But still... The guest was always right. He needed to remember that for the times to come. This time it would go well. He had cleaned everything twice, and made sure everything was as neat as possible. He cooked little pastries for the coffee table, some of his favorite books for the shelves, and overstocked the bathroom with assorted cleaning products. This would be enough, right? He was doing okay, right? Yet still, it nagged at him. As though something still might be wrong. Did he look okay? Was he presentable? Besides from the obvious fact that... Well... Nobody likes having a half-insect as a servant. Last time he researched, around 15% of the population has arachnophobia. That's already 15% of people who'd rather see him beaten into a wall rather than scampering around with a platter in hand. Maybe the thing that's wrong is just me?
04:58
The door opened, and the silent panic shot through Edwin like a poison. Were they nice? Are they mad already? Will I be able to keep my other 5 eyes, at least? To Edwin's surprise though, the guest simply... Beelined for the bed and collapsed. Oh dear. A long day, perhaps? Edwin quickly but quietly scampered into the room to check up, trying very carefully not to wake their guest. The guest in question looked very elegant and graceful, even without her original dress and even when she's collapsed onto a bed. She looked very tired though, and she didn't get herself a blanket. Would it hurt to give her one? Just in case, maybe. Edwin grabbed a nearby blanket, light and fluffy, and carefully put it over the guest's body, hoping they're comfortable. He quickly steps back, not wanting to be overbearing. Was he too overbearing now? Maybe he should leave? Or is it better to stay in case she asks for something? With a lot of hesitation back and forth, Edwin plants himself into place and prays to any deity he remembers that she's happy with his actions. I'm going to die, he thought.
04:58
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 18-Jan-23 05:33 AM
The poor girl was definitely fatigued, a long few days of journeying, learning proper etiquette and keeping up a persona that was unfamiliar to her. Regardless of how tired she was, she was a light sleeper. Her ears twitched and moved with even the most subtle of sounds that were near her, even when her hair tried to restrict movement. However, even though small sounds didn't wake her up, some small feelings did. The moment she felt her entire body covered with something, she immediately shot up. Varonwë's ears were all the way back, and her dagger in hand... What stopped her from doing anything else, was what was on her body in the first place. Slowly, she slid the dagger back into the case on her thigh, and examined the blanket. Wool, treated to perfection, a flawless white, light and unbelievably soft. It wasn't something to harm her, but it begged the question, who put it on? Her eyes scanned her left, where she wasn't facing in her sleep, then her right. There was the cause... He looked terrified. Her ears went back into place, then folded forward to hear him better. He was a strange creature, something she'd never seen before, however, he showed her kindness. The least she could do was show her appreciation. "Thank you," Varon started, giving him a soft smile, and her ears relaxing, "I was too tired to remember to do it myself."
05:33
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 18-Jan-23 05:49 AM
The moment Edwin put the blanket on and stepped back, the guest shot up. Even without confirming the dagger in hand, Edwin was assured this was it. This was either how he dies, or how he gets another eye taken as recompense for disturbing her. You idiot, he thought silently, feet planted with fear and dread, You just had to be overbearing, didn't you? As the dagger actually entered his sight and mind, Edwin shut his eyes tightly like a child afraid of the dark. He just prayed she was fast, or that she wasn't... Creative with her methods. A soft voice is all that escapes him. "P-Please..." One eye opened. One of 6, granted, but enough to get a view of what was taking so long. She didn't have other weapons, right? Or... Or equipment for this? Something even more surprising, actually. The dagger was gone, placed somewhere Edwin didn't notice, and her ears in a more studious and less alerted state. Was... Was this a trick? Or was she studying him, waiting for his reaction? Her thanks was not something Edwin had at all prepared to receive. He... Did the right thing? Or just did an okay thing and isn't getting punished? Was he alright to move? Just in case, he didn't move from his position. She might still be mad. But she was smiling, at least. That's a step down from the dagger. Or at least, Edwin hoped. He bowed as deep as possible, accepting full responsibility. "I-I-I'm sorry, m-miss... I-I-I didn't mean to d-disturb your rest..." He didn't raise from the bow. He was trained not to do so upon first contact with a guest, and this first contact was his worst yet. He could kick himself. Or even stab himself with his pincer-like arms on his waist. Everyone already likes to break them, anyway... I need to make up for this. Somehow.
05:50
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 18-Jan-23 06:16 AM
Her ears twitched back the moment he bowed. Why? Was her statement of thanks unclear? Did her life as a traveler really keep her this out of touch with the world? That should be the exact opposite. Although she lived her life in relative poverty, paid by her services to others, she was able to come in contact with many different kinds of people with various skills. Humans, dwarves, halflings, mages, rogues, wizards. So many experiences made her accustomed to so much cultural diversity. This? This wasn't cultural, it just felt like abuse. Varon should be fitting this damn rich persona she worked so hard to mold, she should be acting like everyone else for the sole purpose of her investigation. Unconsciously, it just disappeared. She almost instantly crawled off the bed, knelt down to sit on her feet, and leaned her head down to the side to try and see him. "Why are you bowing? Everything is forgiven." There was a long pause if silence after that. Admittingly, now she was studying him. One ear faced wherever his face was, and another was slightly more focused on surrounding noise. It was natural instinct, expressing what she felt and what she was obviously focused on. "I'm sorry for scaring you..." She finally said to break the silence, placing a hand on his back. Perhaps some reassurance through physical contact could help calm this creature down. Although, she could see that going terribly wrong too.
06:16
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 18-Jan-23 06:46 AM
Edwin was hesitant to raise from his bow, but he did so anyway, assuming that the guest's statement meant he was supposed to stop. He was forgiven? So soon? It felt strange after what had just occurred, but Edwin tried to swallow his anxiety and accept it, which proved more difficult than he thought. He tried to make some form of eye contact with his guest, to acknowledge he's listening and not too scared to speak. Well, he is a bit scared to speak, but he doesn't want her to know that. It was stranger still to see her from his height, a fair-faced elf with a very nice smile. She didn't move her face to the centre, but Edwin's face was also instinctively craned away. Not in a survivalist's instinct, but a trained one. Looking nobility in the eyes as a servant is a two-sided coin. On one end, he knew that looking them in the eyes proved they were attentive. On the other, he knew some people consider that a form of challenging authority. Edwin learnt the hard way with that, so it was always safer for him to look away. This time was no different. All 6 of his eyes shifted down worriedly, then back up, then down again. "C-Customs dictate that your personal s-s-servant bow to you at each meeting, m-miss." Was she new here? A lot of people know that as gospel, some even getting offended when other servantile personnel don't bow. Either that, or she's still on edge from the incident. Edwin hoped she was being honest, and not stowing her anger away for later in the night.
06:46
The hand on his back caused him to flinch drastically, his spiderlike abdomen at the back of his waist lowered. Nobody ever touches him unless it's for a bad reason, but... She hasn't hurt him yet. Was she waiting to strike? Planning something? Still, she was nice enough to say she forgave him. Would it be bad to at least follow her pose? Edwin kneeled down in a similar fashion to the guest, head still craned down out of respect. "It's m-my fault, miss. I-I-I disturbed you from your r-rest. F-Forgive me..." You idiot. She already forgave him. Edwin bit his tongue, mandibles twitching drastically and eyes away in shame. The fact that she's even acknowledging you is a miracle in itself.
06:46
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 18-Jan-23 07:00 AM
Don't be a fool, you studied the etiquette, remember at least something you learned. The woman nodded, shaking her head a bit at her foolish slip-up. "Right, seems I'm more tired than I thought." A faint chuckle escaped her. Play it off as an accident, and there wouldn't be any suspicion Before she could even continuea conversation, she jerked her hand back out of surprise, and straightened her entire sitting posture, including her head position. That was exactly what she thought might happen. He was still too on edge to even relax the smallest bit. Touching him wouldn't make it any better. "All is well. I'll be able to fall asleep again." It didn't take long for Voronwë's posture to relax once more, her hands staying in her lap this time. Her eyes were practically glued on the servant. He was such a curious looking creature, something she had never seen before, at least off the top of her head. Although he was jumpy and definitely suffered some abuse trauma, he seemed nice enough. "What's your name? Perhaps we can get to know each other."
07:00
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 18-Jan-23 07:18 AM
Edwin nodded a little, still trying not to look directly at the guest. Of course she knew, why wouldn't she? She was nobility, after all. She had to be. She was dressed like one and acted just as graceful. Edwin felt stupid just by questioning her, even if it was internal. He flinched again at the sudden straightening of her posture. Usually that meant someone was at a revelation, or was about to do something they wouldn't regret, but he'd regret being there for. He tried to distract himself, and very slowly and carefully got up, folding the blanket back up and gently placing it at the foot of her bed. She'll pick it up when she's ready. Or does she still want it at all? Is that presumptuous? Stop asking questions, just stand up straight and be what you were trained for. Though he tried to avoid eye contact, Edwin couldn't help but look over at the guest every now and then. Just to make sure she was okay. She did say she was... But it never hurts to triple check. Or quadruple check. She was quite calm and collected, and nobody would ever know she had a knife waiting somewhere on her. The thought of that unnerved Edwin. How many other weapons does she have on her? A flintlock, or worse. A guthook. Edwin shuddered at the thought, but kept the shuddering internal. Was she asking his name? Most just called him servant, or sometimes Blanche. Does one give their full name? Or perhaps just the last one? Shut up and give your name! She's waiting. Edwin bowed once more, instinctively. "E-E-Edwin Blanche. A-At your service, miss. I-Is there anything... E-Else I can get y-y-you?"
07:18
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 18-Jan-23 09:30 AM
Eventually, she did stand up from where she had been sitting, straightening her nightgown out of any wrinkles, twists or crevasses. Then, she put her hair back in order. Although long hair looked beautiful, especially on elves, it became easy to get dirty and tangle. Because of that, she had to unpack her brush from her bag and begin to brush through whatever small knots she had at the very bottom... This was one way to end the day, that's for sure. It definitely felt weird not to be looked at in the eye, nor to have to speak to someone that stuttered so bad out of pure fear of her. Another reason why she just had so much distrust for anybody that wasn't of her race, especially those with wealth. Their ways of life could be down right cruel and heartless, preying on the innocent for extra money, it was infuriating. Though, to waste her opportunity remaining hidden as a guest within the mansion just because of her ideals was to waste her only opening for a possible revenge. So, she kept her mouth shut. Once she was finished, Varon set her brush on the vanity table, and turned around to face the man once more. "Edwin... Yes, there is. Do you mind fetching me some water? And, if there's anything you want to eat or drink, go ahead. I'll make sure you don't get in trouble when questioned." What on earth is wrong with me? What does it matter? She was questioning her own actions furiously within her mind. Why she cared so much about this man's well being, it's not like she was there to make friends, she was trying to murder somebody, or several people if she could. But, as much as she questioned her actions, she didn't stop showing care, even if it felt so unnecessarily pointless.
09:30
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 18-Jan-23 04:59 PM
The guest got up, and so he tried to make as much space for her as possible, trying not to get in the way of any other furniture she might need to go to. The last thing he wanted to be right now was an inconvenience. Inconveniences are never taken well in the Blacktooth; they were always done away with efficiently. He doesn't want to know what lies in the fabled 'red room.' Still... He didn't want to be an inconvenience at all. Especially not for her. She showed him forgiveness, something rare in this society. Edwin would die of guilt if he squandered her gift. The addition of the bag was an interesting sight to him. Edwin knew that most returning guests just relied on the Blacktooth to provide them with everything. Sometimes they'd even only bring one outfit and peruse through their closet for anything else. More questions raised within his mind, as the other side of his mind tried to reel him in. Focus. You don't need to know. His ears and pincers perked up, almost instinctually, at the request; his first request by his guest, no less. Edwin knew that first requests were just as important as first impressions, and even though he soured the first impression, he would still prove himself a useful tool around the place. But... She's allowing him to eat? Admittedly the thought sent Edwin into a daydream for half a second. Food... It's been about 3 days since he last ate, and he barely remembered what was actually in it.
16:59
"O-Of course, miss! C-Coming right up!" Edwin whisked away, reaching the kitchen are where he finally was able to breathe out. He was holding in his breath for some time, something that not even he noticed he was doing. Panic response, perhaps? It didn't matter. A request was given, he had to fill it out. Fetching the prettiest glass that was in the cabinets, he filled the glass up, passing by the pantry. His eyes couldn't help but turn towards it. Anything you want to eat or drink... Edwin wasn't a savage, and he wasn't even one to eat a lot. But... Perhaps just a few bites? Ignoring his nerves, Edwin pocketed the most basic foodstuffs he could see. An apple, some crackers, bits of dried meat, dried raisins... He wouldn't dare touch the luxury items. He knew better, and he wouldn't want to dissuade her kindness. Already she was kinder than most, and to squander it would be a grave error. He scampered back, gently placing the water on the vanity while his guest brushed her hair. It was lovely hair, much more sleek and silky than his messy, poofy amalgam. He always tried to work with his hair, but it was stubborn as an ox. Hers was lovely though, glimmering slightly amidst the crystalline chandelier above them. He'd compliment it, but he thought better. Who wants a spider-thing saying their hair looks nice? He's read books, and all that stuff sounded creepy on paper. "I-I hope that's e-enough. I-I-I only took a few things, m-miss." If he had to empty his pockets, he didn't mind. He was fairly sure what he took wouldn't be missed. Or at least, he hoped not. Wait, does she like apples? Should he have left it? Damn! He should have asked!
17:00
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giyuumium 19-Jan-23 03:14 AM
Once her room was empty of any presence, Varon couldn't help but huff at herself in the mirror. "Dammit, what's wrong with you? Nobility don't do things like that, they're snobbish, can't you act like that just for this time?" Her soft, gentle voice was gone, replaced with a more natural, slightly rough voice, deeper in tone. She lectured the reflection that stared right back at her, and of course there wasn't a verbal response, but rather a psychological answer. She couldn't act like that, she had always been living by the charity of others when she worked, to act like anybody was below her felt wrong, since she indeed, was at that level. Showing kindness to others meant gaining allies. Fear was effective when your status as royalty or high authority was secured from birth to death, kindness was effective otherwise... The elf did jump a bit when he returned, setting the water down on the vanity, his sight right outside the border of the mirror. Goodness, he was so quiet in entering, missing his sound was an impressive feat. Instead of turning around immediately, she instead, laughed a bit. A natural, hardy laugh. "Of course it is dear, I thought you looked peckish." She replied with that gentle, sing songy voice she had been using since the moment she arrived. Perhaps she wasn't a high elf, with fair skin and light shades of hair, but she was still an elf. When she wasn't painted and wearing comfortable clothing to hunt and fight, she was beautiful. Sure, she wasn't flawless to other members of her race, high or wood, but to others, she indeed was "flawless" to them. It was a trait she exploited when she went undercover, or when she needed some extra charisma, it only backfired when she encountered perverts with the strength advantage... Didn't seem like the servant she was talking to really had that, so using her beauty seemed like a good option. "I'm not hungry at all, so whatever you grabbed, feel free to have it. I told you to get something after all." .
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giyuumium 19-Jan-23 03:23 AM
Varonwë then took the glass with such a soft grip, standing up from the chair and taking a drink. It wasn't alcohol to keep her motivated through this circle of hell, but it was still something. Water could be almost as good. "Unless you have quarters of your own, feel free to sit down and eat... I apologize for the inconvenience if you don't have anywhere to sleep. If you so desire, you can use whatever is in the closet, like spare quilts and blankets, to make something." Dammit, tone it down. Keep acting out of the norm and your cover's going to be blown. She took in a deep breath of self disappointment. Maybe the more narrowed down reason for her behavior, was because of what she saw. Maybe in the time she's been with Edwin, she saw herself, scared of everyone, and without support. He didn't know how to fight, all he knew to do was either take the beating, or run and hide... He looked like her as a kid.
03:23
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highkinglemlem 19-Jan-23 04:50 AM
Edwin liked to hear his guest's laughter. It felt more genuine than the other people who had come in to stay. For some strange reason it was almost comforting, even though it was more rugged. Of course, he didn't let his appreciation be known. That might be considered a lapse of professionalism. Guests don't like it when professionalism is broken. The last time he failed to address someone as 'sir,' he was stripped of food for some time... He couldn't even remember how long that even was. "T-There are pastries on the t-table, if you'd l-l-like them too, m-miss." Does she even need to know that? Does she know that already? Her demeanour made her seem like she knew all there was to know about him, about this place. Her eyes were gentle, yet strangely piercing. Like he was being inspected with every time she looked at him. It wouldn't be surprising. How many of... This thing... Do you find in the wild? No, seriously. Were there others like him out there? Edwin never thought of this before. Perhaps that's why she didn't outwardly seem disgusted? Does she know others? Don't you dare ask her. His eyes glanced away, back at the floor. The natural place his eyes usually shifted to, when it wasn't a book or a little tinkering project. She's got better things to do than answer your petty questions. Oh... Right, she wasn't hungry. Why did you just say there were pastries? He bit his own tongue out of embarrassment. He's already repeating himself like an aging bard, and it's only been an hour. Not even that. He wanted to sink into the floor. Or crawl into a web and die. At least she was nice enough to allow him to eat, something that's been bothering him all day. Usually he was forbidden to eat on the guests tables, so once he was given permission, he tried to figure out where to eat.
04:56
Did she say he could take blankets? Guest blankets? The room plan has a servant's bedroom that he would use. Granted, it was more like a cold web with a pillow to wrap into. Home sweet home, at least for the past year it was. But already... This guest had given off more than any other ever has in his history working here. Food, drink, and now guest-quality bedding... It felt almost surreal. Like he was dreaming. He'd check if he was, but he spent ages trying to iron this lavender suit to perfection. Granted, he was betting three-to-one odds that it was just bound to get bloodied anyway... Edwin's head snapped back to the centre. He almost forgot to give appreciation. More than simple code, that's just simple manners. Something he tried to be as careful as possible with. He gave one more bow, this one lighter, and tried to be as formal as possible. "T-Thank you for your generosity, m-miss." Still stuttered through it. Damn you. He stepped away, both out of shame, and to find a little place in the corner to eat. He would be very careful not to spill anything. Any mess gets made on his watch, and something more than food spills after that. Edwin didn't know where to begin, but eventually, he started on the apple. He ate quickly, and now that it was finished... He realised he probably ate like a savage too. Did he eat the core? The core?! You are a disgrace. In the presence of his guest? She must be disgusted. That was fine, though. That was natural. Bound to happen sooner or later.
04:56
Trying to hide his shame in the closet door, Edwin buried himself in there with a red face, trying to take a few breaths. Blankets, pillows... How was picking for himself so hard? He could pick out 5 different quilts for a guest in 10 seconds flat, but himself? He might as well tear the carpet off and wrap that around him. He awkwardly settled on the same type of blanket he placed over his guest before the... Introduction took place. The material was lovely, at least. Fluffy like what he imagined clouds to feel like. Like in those fantasy stories he read. He always was curious what a cloud felt like. If he could fly, oh the places to go... Closing the closet door with his arms wrapped around the blanket, he just came to a realisation. It was customary to know your guest's name. How did he not pick this up yet? Edwin winced at himself. How are you crashing this bad? "M-May I ask your name, miss? J-Just so I may address you p-p-properly, of course."
04:56
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giyuumium 21-Jan-23 01:04 PM
She's seen worse, way worse. Not to mention she's probably eaten that carelessly before, purely out of hunger and worry she wouldn't see her next meal for a while. She understood, truly. When her village was destroyed, and she had no money, food was scarce. She closed her eyes and smiled, shaking her head a bit at the mere memory, before keeping her hands busy brushing her hair. He could be ashamed all he wanted, but hopefully Edwin knew she didn't feel anything negative. "Thank you." She started, using a spare ribbon to tie her hair back and out of her face. "Get some rest, working tired will be a nightmare for you, and won't make you that sharp in service. Don't cause too much noise, you might get yourself caught. I won't be able to save you then." She replied, with more of a stern voice this time. Kindness was starting to raise suspicions, order the servant around here and there and she'd most likely pass off as a kind noble... Damn, this rich thing wasn't her best act. Well, there was a pastry already available... Might as well sleep on a full stomach, it makes resting better anyways. So, Voron helped herself to his offer, picking it up and munching on it while she sat on the bed. It definitely tasted as good as it looked. It was so moist, and the cherry jelly filling was sweet and smooth. It was definitely a great way to end the day. She then climbed into bed, lying under the covers, just before she could really doze off, Edwin called for her. "Hmm? Oh, my name is Voronwë, my given surname is Shimizu. You may call me whatever you please... If you could, please wake me up when it's time, I'm not a morning person and I'd hate to miss any events." She replied in a soft voice, a little course from her exhaustion. Now, she could finally lay her head down, and fall asleep in peace.
13:04
@highkinglemlem Sorry that took so long!!! //
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highkinglemlem 23-Jan-23 03:58 AM
He tried to shrug off the feeling of shame, as little as he could. His guest seemed... Amused by reaction. It was humorous, he supposed. It certainly wouldn't be every day one would watch a spiderfolk eat an apple in two bites. Still... He was better than that. Manners were one of the few things that Edwin tried to be correct with. Politeness, and linguistic skill. But how well is that going? Edwin looked away for a moment, absent-mindedly licking the juice off from his fingers. 4 languages under your belt, and you still can't say a sentence. The stern voice his guest used put Edwin quickly back into his usual mindset. No matter her origin, or background, or demeanour; she is still a guest. And guests need to be taken care of. He nodded attentively, and quickly started to move to another room to set his bedding. "O-Of course, m-miss! I'll b-be as quiet as I c-can." He moved quieter the moment she gave the order. Disturbing the quiet wasn't just against the rules; it would just be plain rude. Edwin despised the idea of being rude to someone; it just wasn't in his nature. He liked seeing the smiles on guests faces as they went on to do whatever they felt. He just wished he could actually be a part of it, instead of a bystander. At least his guest liked the pastries. He smiled a little at that fact, though he made an effort not to get too excited. It took him around 3 hours to get the correct consistency in the dough to flake just enough, and probably an extra 15 minutes to get the cherry sauce cooked perfectly. All... Actually worth it! He very much wanted to try one, but they were for guests only. It didn't help that cherry was his favourite flavour. He still fondly recalls the slice of cherry pie a guest left in a rush, sitting picturesque amidst the dining floor. It was his first time trying a full serving of guest-quality food; and yet it still made him fantasize about it...
03:58
He almost struck a wall while lost in thought, but stopped and took a small breath. Do NOT make more of a fool out of yourself than you already have. Before Edwin could leave for the servantile quarters, he stopped himself for a moment. The rules state that no guest anemities are allowed in there. But... She offered them to him already. It would be quite rude to not accept her kindness. Besides, how many times is someone going to offer this to him? But yet... He couldn't disobey orders, that would be a death sentence. Slowly, and with much hesitation once more, he decided to sleep in the room he was in. In the closet, of course. A servant sleeping in the same area as a guest is unthinkable. An insult, perhaps. "S-Sleep well, miss Shimizu... T-Thank you." Voronwë Shimizu... It was a lovely name. Something foreign indeed, perhaps a distant noble from another land entirely. The Amarii Province? The Hayenn Dynasty? He knew better than to pry, but still... Her story proved so fascinating to him. Like a little mystery, if all the answers were right on the other side of a single door. Maybe it was just the kindness she showed him. If only he could ask... Edwin shrugged off his curiosity for the timebeing, trying to bring himself back to ground level. It was a little awkward making the bedding area, but... At least the closet was cozy. Warmer than his old sleeping area, with a fluffy little blanket, and another sheet acting as a pillow. As Edwin drifted slowly off to sleep, his mind drifted with him; back up into the clouds. So this is how the clouds feel. (edited)
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highkinglemlem 23-Jan-23 04:14 AM
-------- Naturally, after all his years of service, Edwin was rarely one to sleep a full 8 hours. His spiderlike physicality helped at least; giving him a... Strange affinity for the night. For not sleeping as long. It was a little different this time, however. A little harder to get out of his bedding area. He felt so cozy in these big fluffy cloud- blankets. He meant blankets. He didn't know what crazy world his mind was in, but whatever it was doing, it was certainly making him fuzzy. Is this what people call 'tired brain?' Get up, Edwin. No excuses. The words rang into his head until he actually got up, moving ever so quietly to the kitchen area to begin tidying up a little. Perhaps a little cooking too? She did like his pastries after all. Edwin considered making a full breakfast, but decided against it. The soiree has a full 7 course breakfast every day in the morning, and though Edwin could cook for a week straight without getting even a little bored, he knew no guest would spend ages waiting for something they could get around 200 metres that way. Shimizu wanted to know the events. He knew them quite well; there were 7 main ones; one for each day of the week. Sometimes they alternated, but for the most part they stayed the same. Today? A fashion show! He liked this event the most. He was always so enthralled by their amazing outfits and decor. With an inkwell pen in hand, he intricately laid out the schedule, sparing no detail and expense to make sure she knew all she needed. Edwin was really good with this sort of thing. Memory and notating. Numbers, and the like. It was something that came naturally to him; as natural as his other eyes. It was easy to practice too. All nobility love having a dependable assistant who remembers everything they forget. Goodness... Was that rude?
04:14
With the schedule in hand and a small selection of tarts cooling by a counter, Edwin scampered back into Shimizu's room, trying to be as gentle as possible in waking her up. Touch was... A bad idea before. So maybe just simple sound will work. Swallowing his nerves, Edwin made an attempt, papers still in hand and face wracked with worry. "M-Miss Shimizu? I-I-I hope you slept well. I-I have the schedule y-you wanted..."
04:14
@giyuumium No trouble! Sorry for the wait, myself.
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giyuumium 23-Jan-23 04:33 PM
She slept very well. Her life as a traveler meant sleeping from inn to inn, and whatever quality of bed she got was what she slept in. Sure, some of the beds were wonderful, but this was a totally different level. Hopefully she didn't get used to this type of quality, otherwise readjusting to the life she has was going to be an absolute pain in the ass, not to mention the backbreaking work she'd have to reenter... That wasn't pleasant to think about. Although she always despised the rich, including high elves, the pampered life was just so comfortable. As much as she loved the sleep, she'd have to awaken eventually. So, with the help of her new helper, she was able to wake up without a scare this time. With ears flicking, and her eyes focusing, Voron sat up in bed and took the schedule. It looked so well written, concise and organized, she had mistaken it for an official schedule. "Goodness, thank you. I can't be disorganized now. And I prepped well for today!" She smiled, standing up and folding the paper in her hands. Indeed, she did prep for such a night. Instead of buying a dress, like she did with the first one, she just, stole it. It's not like she could just gather up the money to purchase a dress that looked beautiful TWICE. Once was already bad enough. So, she robbed an Eladrin that was especially rude and dressed yo well, and took some of her clothing, dress, shoes, hair ornaments, everything. Simple! It did the job and it's not like that elf saw her. So, after gathering the dress and excusing herself to the changing room, Voron fixed her hair, did some light makeup work and dolled herself up entirely. . (edited)
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giyuumium 23-Jan-23 04:51 PM
Finally, that took entirely too long... For her hair, she had braided everything into a crown braid and decorated it with the stolen hair ornaments, which was lots of water lilies and ferns. Since the OA is entirely too lazy to describe her SECOND dress idea because she's a damn perfectionist, she will say it's a blue hanfu, with teal ivy patterned, opened toed sandals and hope you go with it. If you need a view, the OA has a picture she found on Pinterest in her desperate search. Moving on, once Voronwë was finished, she stepped out of the changing room, gathered her schedule and took the opportunity to leave down the hall. (edited)
16:52
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highkinglemlem 24-Jan-23 05:10 AM
He was glad there wasn't any more jolts or weapons being pulled out. More glad still that miss Shimizu seemed to sleep well. He always was quite curious how those beds felt; he only ever got to feel the material when making the beds, and even then, it seemed almost like a siren song of pure cotton and feather. Not that Edwin was ever complaining about his current bedding. The closet was actually the comfiest place he's ever slept, come to think on it. Once miss Shimizu got up, Edwin quickly set to work, setting up to make the beds. For once, his wayward thought actually helped him. He didn't know what to say as she left to change though. Did she have a preference how she wanted her bed? Did she need extra bedding? Perhaps... It wasn't something for right now. She seemed in a rush of her own to get ready, and he didn't want to intervene at all. It was happening again, the siren song of the bed. It just... Seemed so comfy and cozy. He wasn't tired, but the temptation to bury himself in the fabric was high. Damn my head, speaking thoughts into existence again. He was worried this might happen. Get a taste of the good anemities, and going back might be tricky. But still... Perhaps he could just sit on it. Why not? It is the soiree, and this could be his one luxury. He awkwardly wiggled up onto the bed; a little tricky considering his height, and these damn pincers. He swore they were more harm than good, but alas they just have to be a part of him... At the very least, he was on; and he almost sunk into the side of the bed just like he thought would happen. A tiny giggle escaped him, one that he quickly silenced. Idiot! Going to get yourself caught from the one irresponsible thing you've done? Well, besides sneaking into the library. he supposed.
05:11
Should he lay his head? That's another trap though. If he placed his head down, he might not make it out. The sleep demon would take him forevermore, whisking him into the land of dreams for all eternity... Gods, I read too much. Is this why none of the other servants spend much time with him? Probably. At least he had the spiders from the garden though. They always had such interesting little tidbits of information and stories. Mostly about various things they got in their web that current day, but... Edwin jolted up in realisation. He got off track again, and he laid his head down while thinking. Damn it! Okay... Just a few minutes, then he needs to make the bed... Damn siren beds. Siren beds? Really?
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highkinglemlem 24-Jan-23 05:19 AM
------- The dress looked lovely, surprisingly fitted quite well despite the different body type that one Eladrin had. Maybe it actually fitted her stature better than that old scowling hag. Either or, she looked pretty, and ready to fight as well; still keeping the dagger by her thigh. The main event hall looks to be preparing the fashion show still, by means of setting up the stage and magic lighting. Those beams looked almost blinding, probably actually blinding if one tried hard enough... The schedule said the event was to take place at 12:30, so there were at least two hours to kill before the time actually came to pose and preen. Still, some of the outfits on some of these people. It was like a flock of peacocks, if they were all hit with three cases of wild magic per person. One person actually DID dress up like a peacock! The things noble people won't do to get attention... Still, at least there were reasonably dressed people, and people that gave her quite genuine compliments on her outfit. One of which came from a distance, upon the other side of the hall. Ah, of course. It had to be that damn bard, Archie. Possibly one of the only people here that chose not to try and stand out, almost making him stand out by comparison. He didn't even dress too showoffy, just in a brighter set of clothes with a sparkly coat of paint for eh... 'Ol' Betsy.' Hard to tell whether he's still drunk, or just always this open-ended.
05:20
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giyuumium 24-Jan-23 06:00 AM
Everyone was extremely... Wow, she didn't even have a word to describe just how dramatic these outfits were. She saw peacocks, mother nature, stereotypical elf attire, dresses dripping with magic, so much shine to rub in the riches they possessed. With some of these women especially, Voron wondered how they were even able to stand with all the decorations on their shoulders and waist... Indeed, she felt out of place, but at least she was comfortable? Man, maybe the beauty all elves were blessed with would give her some advantages... God, just give her something to eat... She immediately turned towards the crowd once she heard a voice familiar to her. She scanned the crowd, ears flicking a bit to try and catch it once again, although it didn't take long for her to finally spot the source. Of course, it was the bard from yesterday... What was his name..? "Good day my friend." Voron said in her sing songy voice, with a little more effort behind it so she could be heard, giving him a small cursty in respect. "You look ravishing, and your lute compliments your look rather well. If only I learned how to play such a beautiful instrument. I play the flute, but I left my dear back at home." Gross, what fancy talk. If she didn't find that damn cleric in four seconds she might just die in here. Talking to one of the guests as if she knew him well would make her less conspicuous. If suspicions went down, her mission could go smoother... Indeed, she could play the flute. More heritage pieces, for ceremonies and celebrations, freestyle was a skill she hadn't quite mastered... At all... However, it's not like she had tried in a while.
06:00
. "I have a question of curiosity. I understand certain bards possess magical abilities, and others don't. Is the reason why I never see you seperate from your fine lute, is because you have these skills?" Please make the fancy wording make the question seem much less pressing than it actually is... She thought in a hidden panic, clasping her hands together in front of her with a soft smile written on her face as usual.
06:00
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 24-Jan-23 06:42 AM
He gave her a wave, much less formal than all the others that postured themselves here. He seemed to be just as out of place, yet in place, as Voron was. He remained cool as a snowcapped breeze, his eyes drfiting idly from the other nobility here to her, and more excited to be looking at her than any others. He stepped forward, and did a rather overexaggerated bow in a half-mocking sense. "And good day to you, my fair lady! What a fine day to be... Among a walking circus tent, eh?" He plucked a feather from that wandering peacock of an outfit - gods, was there even a woman under all of that? - and placed the feather within his hat. "If I was in any of these outfits, I'd be laughed out of my hometown, I would. At least you're here to cheer me up." The instrumental conversation interested Archie greatly, and the mention of the flute even more so. He slaps his forehead in realisation. "Ah- a fool am I. I had a flute back before I travelled here! Should have given it to you as a gift. I'd die to hear what a pretty face like yours can make a song out of." The notes he plucked with his lute almost felt like an addition to the sentence; gods know what that would actually entail. This man seemed as mysterious as they were open. Maybe the openness made them mysterious. He didn't seem to mind the somewhat personal question, tuning his prize while whistling with each note he tested. "Aye, my lady. 'Tis true, I know a few little spells weaved into a few songs from back in the old heartland. Little things here and there, parlor tricks to win tavern bets, nothin' more." Slotting his lute back onto his shoulder, his eyebrow raises in interest. "Wanted a request, did you? If you're from a bardic college, then I'll hear you out with a smile."
06:43
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giyuumium 24-Jan-23 07:19 AM
The bard certainly dragged a giggle out of her. At least it wasn't just her who felt some of these outfits were ridiculous, and especially how strange it felt to be walking around in it. "I certainly would too. As elegant as elves love to dress, such outfits like these would turn me into a laughing stock. Rightfully so, it's not like any of them mean anything, I sense it's all to be looked at." She, the well mannered one within the conversation, took part in some mischief. She was a sneaky woman, since she wasn't great with her wit to try and trick her. When the lady walked by Voron, she reached out ever so subtly, and plucked the jeweled bracelet right off her wrist. Once that was achieved, she giggled, tossing said bracelet into the hands of the bard. She showed one of her cards, she was getting comfortable. "A flute as a gift? I could never, I have plenty, your gift would be going in the wrong direction. I always appreciate your kindness however... I'm much older than I look, I've had plenty of years to learn more than just the flute. The women amongst the elves are encouraged to pursue artistic talents, so, I pursued not just the flute, but how to sing." Once again, she laughed. It wasn't as real or relaxed as the last one, but it was pretty. As pretty as she learned how to make it sound. "Unfortunately I'm not from a bardic college, I was tutored only by the best though! I don't know magic, unfortunately, but I wasn't lying when I said I knew how to play a flute, or sing!" She smiled, lifting her clasped hands up to her collarbone. "And no, I don't have a request even so. I'm just a stubbornly curious person."
07:19
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 24-Jan-23 07:28 PM
He studied the bracelet endlessly, eyes more focused than his initial demeanour let it out to be. Eventually, he pocketed it and eyed up Voron with an interested gaze. His voice grew lower, more cautious. "Ah, a roguish lass it is then. I won't turn you in, don't worry." With a chuckle, he opened his shirt a little more and revealed a silver locket of some form, with an inscription on it. Dormira. It wasn't his. "Always thought this place was a bit too fancy for a fellow like meself, if you catch me." His lute played idly in his hands, almost as if he wasn't even playing; it was just like an extension of his arms. "Well if I can't hear you play the flute, can I play while you sing? Love to hear a soprano voice amidst the strings. I can sing a bit as well, almost a bit of a requirement to be a bard, you know. I wouldn't say no to a duet, either. Anything but these droning melodies from the band these geezers hired..." He gestured to the band, a group of 7 old folks playing fancy sounding tunes for fancy looking people. None of it was to her own taste, and seemingly not to Archie's. "Almost makes you wanna fall asleep, eh? At least it's dragging more fools over." He was right. There were a few people who were watching the band perform, waiting for the show to commence. That strange trickster - at least he looked just as bored as her, - Two twins with opposite coloured outfits, some armored up warlord, and a group of religious figures in white and red, with white broadbrim hats. The bard didn't seem to care or notice the figures too much, mainly just focused on mimicking the song the band is playing. He embellishes it with a few extra notes to make it sound a bit more lively. "Well, if we can't be showstoppers by our looks, care to prove that we're at least more gifted?"
19:28
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giyuumium 25-Jan-23 03:05 AM
"I suppose that's a good way to put it. Two hundred and forty seven years alive, you pick up on skills left and right." The elf teased, straightening out any loss hairs leaving her crown braid. Her perception wasn't quick enough. Although she caught the locket, as well as an inscription, she wasn't fast enough to read the words on the silver. Perhaps it was a family heirloom? A memento to a lost loved one? She had no clue, so her range to guess was wide. Thinking so long on the mere origin of Archie's necklace had made her zone out within the void of her own thoughts. So inevitably, once he spoke up, Voronwë jumped slightly. The ambience of the crowd was broken by a more personal voice, of course it slightly caught her off guard. "I'm not against such a thing. I'm not dressed like an folk tale, music might be the perfect way to impress." She turned her head to align with her shoulder, turning her body slightly as well to gaze at the band... Indeed, their melody was rather bland. It was so repetitive, and the instrumentalists had barely any soul... It was such a drag, just like Archie said. She wondered what Edwin would have to say about the music, if he wasn't afraid to be honest, though. Some of the religious figures gave her a bad gut feeling, almost immediately putting them on her suspect list... Perhaps one of them was that cleric, that awful high elf... "Yes, I agree..." She replied, narrowing her eyes at the small audience. "If I were to choose a style you're good at, would you prefer slow and melodic, or a song you might find in a celebration of some sort?" She asked now with more genuine curiosity, turning back to face her new bard friend. Why she was getting involved, or even showing interest, who knows, but indeed she was.
03:05
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 31-Jan-23 10:29 PM
The bard was a sly one, his eyes focused upon the center stage area where the fashion proceedings were to take place. His eyes darting from the stage, to Voron's eyes, back to the stage. It was almost like a question in of itself, a wordless one that needed no answer - just action. With a couple more strums of the lute, Archie slipped in between a few crowds. Not distancing as if leaving the conversation, rather almost luring her in with the idea of an actually real bit of fun. Something this place was scarce to offer. He gave just enough distance to urge her a few more steps forth, then stepped back a little more; his eyes still occasionally glancing to the stage. "Couple of ol' sing-song showmen like ourselves need a good place to show ourselves, eh?" His gaze switched back to the band; almost lifeless. Even Edwin with his innate fear of speaking against the establishment would find a hard time complimenting their dead melodies. The clerics looked just as dead; eyes fixed to their brothers as if they were having some kind of soundless conversation. Perhaps they were. It was hard to see what they looked like, beneath those gaudy broadbrim hats. Archie leant by the side of the stage, and for once his fingers weren't intertwined with their prize lute. Instead, they gripped the top of the stage, ready to proceed with whatever ungodly plan he had in his head at this moment. "Care to help me make this party into... You know; an actual party? If I have to listen to one more round of haughty laughter, I'll throttle myself with Betsy's strings."
22:29
@giyuumium (Finally got my laptop working, sorry for the wait!)
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highkinglemlem
@giyuumium (Finally got my laptop working, sorry for the wait!)
giyuumium 01-Feb-23 02:24 AM
No worries!! I'm happy to see you!! //
02:25
I've got class, so getting the reply in will be slow! //
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giyuumium 01-Feb-23 04:03 AM
Just as Archie had desired, his movements around the crowd indeed drew her to follow through behind him, listening to every word he said like a sailor stuck on a siren's song. It wasn't out of attraction, in any other circumstance she would've written him off specifically for not being elvish, but more of a desire for entertainment. The puzzle pieces of her confusion started to finally piece themselves together once she was led towards the stage. You crazy bastard... "I agree, the crowd needs a little bit of life... What good will our efforts do if we can't be seen?" She replied quietly, a genuine smile growing on her face as she looked around. Mischief, her expression displayed mischief. She needed a flute, and the only one she saw that looked familiar enough, was on the hip of a high elf cleric. So, she slipped through quietly, masking herself in plain sight, and taking the flute right out of the belt without being noticed. She was close to being caught, but she herself wasn't. Voron then guided herself back towards Archie, waving the flute in between her fingers. It was indeed gorgeous, a polished red wood with patterns of ivy ingraved in it, leaves and flowers included, painted with gold to highlight the patterns. "Found one... It's not like he was using it anyways..." She turned her attention back from the crowd, to the bard, spinning the flute in her hands. THIS was going to be some real fun. "Let's do it. My only request is keep playing the lute, wherever you want in this, and I'll give you some authentic Elvish festival singing." She requested, before jumping onto the stage without a care in the world for manners, and offering her hand to her new music partner.
04:03
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 01-Feb-23 07:44 PM
Archie seemed elated to have another person join him for his scheme; even more excited to see one that wasn't afraid to nab a thing or two to get what she wanted. It was almost a challenge in of itself to not leap onto the stage without her, but the bard held himself steady. The show needed two, not just the one. "Flute's a pretty little thing. Fits you well, lass." Archie twirled around the lute, spinning it in eager hands just waiting for the right moment in between songs to slip through. Archie used the crescendo of the current melody to slip up onto the stage, grabbing his new partner's hand with a nod of solidarity. "Just make it loud and sweet and I'll do the rest for you. Let's have our fun, eh?" Archie started up the tune, a jaunty yet melodic aria that stopped the deadened band in their tracks. They all looked to eachother like a school of fish; all equally confused and wondering silently whether this was another performance or merely someone designed to steal their thunder. Everyone else also took their eyes to behold the duo atop the stage, expressions mixed from confused to delighted to even offended at the mere concept of festive music. The clerics also took a look at this display, and though most seemed intrigued, one didn't appreciate the song as much as they did the other band. Archie, knowing where the flute came from, subtly blocks their view of Voron's newly 'borrowed' flute, winking to her with a smirk. He then gave a brief lapse in music to wave to everyone, especially the other band. He was enjoying this far too much, and Voron got the feeling that even if he was to be caught and punished, he didn't even care. It was as if this was what he was made to do. Or at least, something he's wanted to do for a long time now.
19:44
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 07-Feb-23 03:55 AM
"Nicer than the one I have, that's for sure." She teased, once again, poking fun at the wealth of all the guests here, even if she herself looked just as relatively wealthy. Loud... Loud and sweet. Just like a festival. If she really wanted to get into such a festive state of mind, Voronwë's mind had to be focused on her gods Silvanus and Mielikki, protecting the untamed forest they dwelled in... That itself gave her the perfect mindset she needed to start. The flute sounded just as beautiful as it looked. The sound was smooth, and easy to control. One, two, three, four. Beats kept flying by like lightning, taking her another four to finally enter. G major, the more sharps the better, in her opinion... Whether everyone was facing the pair, or ignoring them entirely, it didn't matter. She was having fun already with her new music partner. The more she played freely, the more relaxed she became. She reflected and even enhanced the flow Archie created to the best of her abilities, all the years she had to practice became all the more fun when showing off to such a crowd... Maybe they weren't wood elves, but that didn't change much at all. Once he lapsed, she lapsed too, turning to face him now. Such a pause only lasted a few brief moments, before she shouted in a pitch, then began to sing a loud, passionate song in elvish. To say this was nothing like the high elves was an understatement. This was untamed, lawfully wild music. It was full of spirit, but improper to such wealthy men and women was to say the least.
03:55
@highkinglemlem sorry about the wait, I'm still out of it a bit 💔
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highkinglemlem 08-Feb-23 02:47 AM
The tunes and beats echoed and reverberated around the cavernous dance hall, the natural acoustics of the gilded decor providing the perfect balance in the music. The music switched and flipped through octaves and notes like a book. C sharp, D flat, F flat, B natural, and everything else in between. It was almost dizzying to keep up in playing, but somehow the duo continued; and gladly so. Spirits were in a mix. The more dolled up aristocrats with the rods jammed so clearly far up their backsides acted as though this music of actual substance was something akin to a nightmare. They might as well have walked up and told them 'hello, I'm actually a demon in disguise. Welcome to your new hell.' The faces they could see were in shock and horror, and the faces they couldn't spoke all they needed to with body language. Though, there weren't all tone-deaf bores amongst the crowd. Some people seemed to enjoy the jaunty notes and quick rhythm. Unsurprisingly the more foreign ones of the lot being the most interested. A Tabaxi in a dark purple ensemble and a dragonborn in luxurious furs, to name a few. At least someone was enjoying themselves. Unknown to the two - or perhaps actually known, and simply ignored - they instinctively danced with eachother as the music went by, tapping along like a drum beat to match the tempo. Archie spun around Voron, clearly in a state of glee. Though, it was clear that by the Blacktooth guardsmen's posture, they weren't happy. The two couldn't have been breaking any rules, otherwise they'd be seized and taken down without delay. But by the alerted posture and demeanour some had, some seemed to simply be waiting for them to slip up. Whether Archie noticed, or even cared, was a mystery not even god could solve.
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highkinglemlem 08-Feb-23 03:02 AM
------- What was that tune? Edwin peeked open the door just a tiny bit, endlessly curious as to who was playing it. Usually, the music that the Blacktooth requested was more... Tame. Quieter, softer, ambient. More boring, though he would never tell a soul how he felt about it. He always liked music. He wasn't able to really play for himself, rather he listened to fragments of songs from the more bardic clientele that came in and out of this place. He once considered placing a request in to serve a musician this year, but he knew deep in his heart he wouldn't get far with it. That is if he wasn't punished for stepping out of line. It couldn't hurt to check it out, right? The place is cleaned and secured, the bed was made, food was out and covered lightly with a thin cloth so it stays fresh longer... Yes, that was pretty much all! Right? Maybe another check wouldn't hurt? But still, that music sounded so much more lively. Much louder than the other band that was taken this year. Edwin's heightened senses helped to hear it clearer too. Not many people tend to realise how well a spider can hear. Sometimes that's at least... Somewhat helpful for him. With much hesitation, he slipped out of the suite door and scampered over to the source of the noise. Surely Miss Shimizu wouldn't mind, right? She didn't explicitly say to come and help her, but... He was made to help wherever he could. There's not much to do in the suite except for read anyway. And... He already read all the books on the shelves the week before the soiree. Just had to spoil myself...
03:09
Though he knew the lesser travelled areas of the manor, there was always a little... Show to be made whenever he passed by a group of guests that were particularly new. Either that or a band of other personnel who wanted to suck up to the nobility. There were always the base names. 'Freak,' 'Vermin,' and 'Wretch' became just as common as his actual name. And it got worse when they were more drunk... A lot worse. Inhibitions only get lower here... And I'm prime meat. At least the music was lovely, coming from the dance hall itself. Perhaps a dance-themed fashion show? That actually sounds like fun! Even just to watch, at least. Edwin pondered with a little smile how some of the guests would dance in all those ruffles and tights and excess cloth... He would not dare giggle. Very carefully, he opened the door to the dance hall and tried to hide his face behind the platter he carries around. It was a side entrance, so it was tricky to see the actual performers. It certainly wasn't the band, he thought as he watched them start to pack their instruments in a bit of a huff. He almost wanted to apologise, but he was too enthralled by the music. He had to know whose voice that was. It was so powerful yet elegant. So passionate yet ethereal. So... Familiar?
03:09
@giyuumium No trouble! Again, focus on yourself. Take all the time you need.
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giyuumium 08-Feb-23 04:14 AM
"Hlasta! (Listen!)" She shouted in a pitch, over and over again, switching between the flute and her voice. Even just that one word made her first language so obvious. Quenya, a very common language amongst the elves. It was so clear she hadn't celebrated like this in a long time. She hadn't danced so freely, sang so passionately, or even laughed so strong in many years... "Laurië lantar lassi súrinen, yéni únotimë ve ramar aldaron! (Golden leaves fall in the wind, years numberless as the wings of the trees!)" Her voice was finally singing rather than a mix with a shout, spinning and dancing with Archie fluently. Although it wasn't perfect, the different style the both of them moved meshed together in a unique manner. It just made it all the more fun. "Yéni ve lintë… (Long years like swift...)" She paused her melody for a good while, now playing her flute with her companions lute. "Et Eärello Endorenna utúlien! (out of the great sea to Middle Earth I am come!) Sinomë maruvan ar Hildinyar yesse O sinya coiv! (In this place I will abide, and my heirs, unto the beginning of new life!)" Her music was sung with such careless passion, and although her voice was trained to near perfection, she seemed to never hint at an ounce of care for how she sounded. Her hanfu allowed her to dance freely with the joy she felt and the glee Archie felt as well. To think an undercover mission to kill would include a music performance? She never would've believed it. Voron could practically feel the mixed emotions amongst the crowd, and even the antsy guards just waiting for one rule to be broken, but did she care? Well, not enough to stop, not any time soon. She switched her style just subtly with her flute: A lower key, a little faster, sounding slightly more like a march than before. She didn't know just one song, after all, she was almost three hundred years old! She had many songs to sing! (edited)
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giyuumium 08-Feb-23 05:01 AM
"Yénillor mornë tulintë i quettar, Tercáno Nuruva. (Out of the black years comes the words, the Herald of Death)" She started, her dance more structured this time, slightly more planned. "Hlasta! (Listen!) Quetis Ilfirimain! (It speaks to those who were not born to die!) Hlasta! (Listen!) Quetis Ilfirimain: (It speaks to those who were not born to die:)" A song of hope, of a new rule. Perhaps a God, or a king. Although the message was more deep, the melody was still fun. She continued to move orderly, smiling and laughing in the pause when she wasn't playing the flute. "Corma turien te! (One ring to rule them all!) Corma tuvien! (One ring to find them!) Corma tultien te! (One ring to bring them all!) Huinessë nutien. (And in the darkness bind them.) Tercáno Nuruva. (The Herald of Death.) Tuvien Corma tultien te.(To find one Ring, to bring them all.) Huinessë nutien.(And in the darkness bind.) Corma turien te, Corma. (One ring to rule them all, one Ring. )***"
05:02
@highkinglemlem thank you! It'll be a little slow for a bit but hopefully not for long
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highkinglemlem 09-Feb-23 08:27 PM
It could be dismissed as a dream, were it not for such a tense atmosphere in the air. Though the outcasts enjoyed it, and the richer pureblooded guests did not, none were of such a nature to be able to stop the two from dancing into the night. She had the whole world to listen to her; whether they liked it or not. And the harping little melodies played by Archie's lute only complimented her reckless passion for the musical arts. Some more wandering guests came into light; looking to know what the source of this noise was. Most didn't care for it, though there were a few that seemed to be coming around. Quite a few left as soon as they came in. Some of the servantile personnel seemed to be listening avidly, though they would never stop their patrols and duties to make their apprectiation outwardly known. Archie's first language was clearly not Quenya, but he knew enough to be able to sing what he heard from Voron. He played as her backup singer, providing a small harmonic taste to the upbeat tunes themselves. Voron could almost swear that she saw Archie wink at a few of the guests; most likely a way to rile up some more tension as best he could. Though, it seemed as though there wasn't merely nobly boiling blood in the dancer's hall tonight. One figure appeared amidst the sea of faces, cloaked in a white broadbrim hat and robes, with some red accents to their otherwise completely pristine outfit. Though initially dismissed as another cleric, their voice seemed to almost cut through her own singing and words. Strange, seeing as nobody else even recognised his existance except for Voron. However, the voice proved all too familiar; and spoke in Sindarin to rival her Quenya.
20:27
"Etún-vì, hén. Avhui myôvin cirill lammen maer àn reishvērr uth grieré." (Hushed now, child. Already proven thine tongue fit for nothing but lies.) The voice spoke little louder than a mutter under a hushed breath, but her ears picked up everything. And as a pair of all too familiar yellow eyes stared at her for half a second, she had all she needed to know. The figure left as soon as they appeared, and the noise and merriment came back to her as if playing back an old record.
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highkinglemlem 09-Feb-23 08:40 PM
---------- It was amazing. Truly amazing. He had a feeling that his guest was hiding something; and this must have been it. She was secretly performing for everyone! She was a talented secret keeper, Edwin barely would have ever suspected anything. She must have hidden her flute well too, for him to have missed that. Perhaps in a sheath similar to her dagger? You idiot. He tried to focus and move a little closer to the source, still making any attempt he could to not be seen. Flute sheathes? Really? Maybe it was the music that was making him think strange thoughts. It was so bouncy and happy, so forceful. So unlike the Blacktooth as a whole. Perhaps they're experimenting. The person with her was an interesting sort too. Certainly enjoying his time playing and dancing, if a little too carelessly. He worried that the singer would fall off the stage at some points. Good thing I know first aid. The lyrics were the most interesting part of the songs. Edwin always thought that about any song; it gave them new layers and meanings both hidden and unhidden. But these ones, while happy in tone and tempo, were strangely more inlaid with meaning than most. He learned both variants of Elvish; mainly due to being around a large portion of them for a long time. As such, he was able to understand the meanings behind the happy atmosphere. This herald of death unnerved him a little.
20:40
Through all of the merriment the two had on stage though, fewer people showed happy signs of listening. Most of the usual clientele looked as though they had poured poison into their ears. It seemed a touch rude to Edwin. The music was lovely, and there's no reason in his eyes why one should turn down perfectly good music just because it's new. Of course, he would never utter a word of this. He must have been a little dazed, unable to see a man in white which slipped past him and bumped him aside a little. Edwin instinctively muttered his apologies with a stutter, but the man said nothing. Merely kept walking out while tapping a guard on the shoulder. Not my business to interfere with a guest... At least... The rules always said.
20:40
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 10-Feb-23 03:45 AM
Pieces of so many songs just kept piling out, Sindarin, mostly Quenya, whatever fell out in the heat of the moment. Whether she attracted or repelled guests was beyond what her attention stretched to. All she cared about was bringing some real joy into such a flavorless party. The elf sang about her land, her love for its trees, animals, even the drops of dew on each blade of grass. Each animal she took it's life from was not used in vain, their life fueled her to better the world around her. Her song now was just an appreciation for life, and for the Gods that protected it. "Limbe almie! (So much bliss!) " She squealed unconsciously, taking her flute out and playing for a little break in between her songs. Voronwë was just on cloud nine, how unlikely this would've happened to her... For a while, she had forgotten her mission... It made her freeze, right in her tracks, her ears flicked backwards towards the voice just to get a better understanding of it. All the music, the laughing, talking and dancing seemed to slow down, quieting like the world wanted to make sure she understood the reality of her situation. Even after so many decades, she still recognized his hush... him. him. it's him. HIM! She immediately turned around and caught just the slightest glimpse of his eyes, before he started walking away, practically disappearing into thin air... Everything she was enjoying before was forgotten, even when all the noise returned to her. She came here for one thing and it was leaving her sight! The elf dropped her flute, jumped off the stage and immediately ran after him. "Pusta si lúmincë! Lambelë kwēn i sanya! Mahtame! ... MAHTAME!!" (Stop this moment! My tongue speaks to you the truth! Fight me! ... FIGHT ME!!) . (edited)
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giyuumium 10-Feb-23 03:53 AM
He was gone... Disappeared as fast as she saw him... The surrounding guests were silenced to her shouting to at least try and understand what had caused such an outburst, alas, it was a fruitless endeavor on their part... At least the whole ballroom didn't hear her, as most of the audience abrupted in conversation, talking about the performance that had just happened, how much they enjoyed or disliked it. All she could feel was disappointed... "Anero sanomë... Tená sanomë, opo me..." (He was there... Right there, before me...) She mumbled, rubbing her forehead, pleading with her own sanity to the reality of her situation. Please, let it not be real... (edited)
03:55
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 11-Feb-23 03:11 AM
The crowd gave her a wide berth, not at all worried about her sudden shift in mood and more worried about the delays in the current proceedings. He seemed to have simply melded into the crowd, almost impossible to tell from the sea of faces which way he even went. If it was him, did he recognise her? Was it an actual sighting or merely a trick of her mind? Whichever way she could spin it, it seemed as though the other clerics left the dance hall just as fast, without another word. The band was gone, her lead was gone, it all felt so empty, even with all the people in the room. Archie seemed to be concerned for her wellbeing, and leaped to go check up on her; albeit not as urgent as she was. "Blimey, lass! You look like you just saw yourself a ghost!" His face was still smiling, but the look of worry was clear and smeared across his face. The smile was merely a shadow of one. He helped her stand, noticing she was a little lightheaded from what she saw. "Oi, try to breathe slow. Breathe calm and tell me what happened-" It was too late to explain things. The guards swooped in like vultures and encircled the duo, speaking in all manner of tones from authoritative to concerned to downright angry as they separated the two. "Are you alright, madame?" "That was against Blacktooth Code of Conduct." "Can you hear us at all? Can you respond?" "You're lucky we don't exile you from the soiree for that lash out!" "Who in their right mind told you to do this?!" It was admittedly a bit of a blur to comprehend after the scene she saw; and the plated and helmeted faces all seemed to meld into one, alongside the voices. Archie seemed to have their own group asking them questions and looking them over. Though it seemed there was at least one other person who seemed to be trying to cover for Voron, responding specifically to the last question. "Uhm... I-I-I did? I s-suppose?"
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highkinglemlem 11-Feb-23 03:24 AM
It was that servant from earlier, standing by the outward door with a look of absolute terror stricken across his face. From Voron's context, it was clear he was lying. However, he seemed to be lying to help her to some degree. He obviously wasn't good at it, considering how unsure of it he himself was; but he attempted at the very least. Besides, perhaps the guards might actually believe it. At least, partly. The guests that did eventually notice him were visibly repulsed and mumbled under their breath certain remarks and snide comments. Everything from joking whether or not anyone has a rolled up scroll to use as a bat, to grim remarks that they only deal with pests with fire. The little servant didn't pay much mind; either too scared or too used to it to care right now. As well as lying, standing in interference of the guardsmen was a cardinal sin to all servantile personnel here. It would explain a fair portion of his terror. Edwin must have been breaking a lot of safeguards to make sure nobody gets hurt. At least, nobody except himself. Voron could swear that some of the more confrontative guards chose to believe it just so they had a target to work with. "Is that so? And The Baron was so sure that the Disciplinary would have taught you a good lesson by now. Maybe you just need something a bit more real..." However, a few more of the collected ones in the guard force stopped the others before they could enact their 'lesson.' With one hand on their pommel, and a sideways glance to the servant; they spoke clearly and concisely; a bit too much like a child would be spoken to. It was as if they thought she was in some kind of trance. "Madame. If they forced upon you to act in such a manner, tell us and we'll drop all charges, and provide compensation. Your servant will possibly have to be retrained, however. They'll be back by morning light."
03:24
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 13-Feb-23 02:55 AM
"No!" She immediately grabbed hold of a shoulder, any shoulder of any soldier near her servant. Why was he lying like this?? Some weird ploy to save her ass?? Whatever the reason might've been, she needed an out to ask. So, that's what she did. Voron cleared her throat a bit, before readjusting to her proper stature. "He did force me to do such things, but I'd like to discipline him myself... Take the trouble off the Baron's shoulders." She finally stated. If he was going to lie first, she might as well make a just as believable lie to save their asses... Perhaps she was locked in a trance of disbelief, but her sense of reality didn't just disappear along with it. Well, she didn't exactly wait for an answer. Instead, the copper skinned elf grabbed hold of Edwin's arm and dragged him out of the ballroom. She wasn't disgusted like other guests would be touching him, instead, she was just as kind as when she arrived. Once Voron cleared the crowd and brought him to her room, she shut the door and sighed, hard. "Thank you for getting me out of that situation, but you could've really gotten yourself hurt, dear. I wasn't yelling at you, so why did you lie like that?" She really couldn't understand it, truly. Maybe she was kinder than the real nobility, but risking hours of torture just because some elf guest was nice? That was just absurd to her, she couldn't comprehend it. "I really wasn't yelling at you..." She mumbled, rubbing the bridge of her nose with her thumb and index finger, her eyes clamped shut. "Don't tell a soul, especially any of the high elves you see, but I recognized a cleric there that I've dedicated my life to finding... I won't say what he did, but I will say I'm one of few survivors, and I have an awful feeling he recognized me..."
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giyuumium 13-Feb-23 03:03 AM
Well, even without a significant amount of the details, it was clear what happened. One of the high elvish clerics destroyed her home, and killed a lot of people... Without the details of her outburst, it was a mystery how she didn't just kill him on the spot for what he did. That was, if she was being honest. Voronwë was just tired now, she undid her crown braid, braided it into one long one in the back, and just sat down on the bed. "I'm not going to lay a hand on you, you didn't do anything wrong to deserve that kind of treatment... But tomorrow, if anybody asks, do whatever you'd usually do when someone asks about actual abuse... It'll keep us out of a bigger mess, hopefully." Once all her words she needed to speak were finished, she reached over and patted his shoulder, almost like a football coach reassuring his player (Even though football didn't exist, the OA couldn't think of a better visual LMAO). "Thank you though, I greatly appreciate your selfless gesture to help me."
03:03
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 13-Feb-23 03:41 AM
He wasn't sure what he expected. He certainly expected that his day was going to be filled with pain or hardship. And he certainly expected whoever was behind the whip, or the mace, or the guthook... Was most likely going to enjoy that feeling. He didn't expect immediate defense though. His guest almost leapt to her feet and grasped the sergeant's shoulder, as if it were her about to be taken away for punishment. Why would she be so eager to stop it? Edwin gave her a pretty good excuse; even though he was a little confused why he was doing it. If she had simply nodded, it would have been business as usual, and maybe some hot soup and a blanket for her to wrap herself in. Once she stated her reason, it became all too clear to him. She wants the opportunity herself. It was understandable. He did ruin her show by appearing, and he left without permission. Plus, from the way he looked, it was a miracle she didn't do this already. Most of them end up doing it anyhow. The guards nodded at her request, but noted that the compensation would come at dinner. Usually compensation came in the form of a fairly sized bag of coin. Around 500g or so, depending on the incident. Edwin didn't really know how much that meant in the real world, but he assumed it was fair; as everyone else seemed to think so. He didn't resist being grabbed, but the fear still laid present on his face. He had been through many different kinds of torment before, but the unease and anxiety was enough to send his stomach into his feet. What was she going to do to me? The words rang in his head like a belltower. What punishment did she think was just? Once the door slammed, he instinctively backed into the nearest wall and shut his eyes tight; waiting for something. Anything. A fist, that dagger, some form of hidden tool she might have kept hidden. The milliseconds of anticipation ticked away at his looming sense of dread. But then it... Never came. Instead, her voice came. Not angry, bewildered.
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highkinglemlem 13-Feb-23 04:01 AM
To worry about a servant getting hurt was something entirely new to Edwin. Something as alien as landing on another celestial body. It just didn't make sense to him, and honestly... Neither did she. Was she a returning guest? Nobility? A performer? The curiosity mixed with the dread made him dizzy, and as he opened his eyes to see her stressed face, he felt a sort of relatability to her. Something that made him believe that they were just a tiny bit less separated in persona than initially thought. Nonetheless, she asked a question. And philosophy or not, Edwin was expected to answer. He didn't want to spoil this unfamiliarly good streak he had. But he wasn't really sure how to answer. Why DID I lie like that? It could be that he felt bad about intruding, or that he was scared, or that he was hoping for something in return, but none of the answers really stood out to him at all. So he just went with the first one that... Well, made sense to him. "I-I-I just didn't want you t-to get hurt, m-m-miss Shimizu." He wanted to say more, but there really wasn't much else to say. He was just worried about her. And he was used to taking the fall anyway, so maybe at least he could take the fall in a meaningful way. That sounds stupid, doesn't it? At least Edwin knew he didn't entirely ruin her performance. It wasn't him that made her yell, and he thanked whatever he could inside his head for that. However, the mention of clerical men made him stiffen up a little. The year that he was assigned to clerical men was the year his rightmost eye was taken out. At least there was a way to heal it? Well... Sort of. He couldn't see out of it, but he could at least know it was there. He shivered at the thought, but tried to calm himself to little avail. 5 more on my head, at least... Right? (edited)
04:01
"I-I-I've served clerics of R-R-Reverend Yosuf's Inquisition, if it helps, miss." It was hard to say the leader's name. He was terrifying to Edwin, and the mere thought of him still being in this building sent a small chill down his spine. He tried to look brave for his guest though. She's been through enough already, and from her story, there's no wonder that she acted with such animosity. He'd do the same thing under her circumstance. No I wouldn't. I'm... A coward. I'd hide somewhere. At least she wasn't going to hurt him. To Edwin, that alone is a major win for him. He could go back to his relatively safe duties, until he did something else that might make things hectic. He nodded quickly and bowed to her as deeply as he could go, his little spiderlike abdomen bobbing a little. "O-Of course, miss Shimizu." Her touch was gentle, and it made him smile a little. He might have made a great decision for once. Maybe this year wouldn't be so bad after all. It was already going WAY better than any other. His duties came first and foremost though, so he snapped out of his little trance and tried to get back to attention. After all, his guest looked so drained. He should have gotten her something already. "I-I-I'm happy to help, m-miss, but is there anything e-else I can gather for you? A d-drink, some food, a-a-a massage, perhaps? I'm greatly sorry for the s-s-stress of today."
04:01
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 13-Feb-23 05:19 AM
Didn't want me to get hurt... This definitely made her think, hard. Sure, she was probably nicer than most of these snobs here, but she was still perceived as nobility. Surely he should've had some bitterness towards her. Putting his neck out on the line like that, risking being ruthlessly tormented for the sake of an elf that looked kindly in his direction..? It was just so far beyond her comprehensive abilities... Regardless of whatever deeper meaning she thought had a chance of being there, it happened. The why wasn't as important as what she was going to do now, going forward. She was out of trouble, that's what mattered. "Thank you, that was courageous of you." Names didn't help, it truly didn't. It was so long ago, and the cleric's information was a mystery to her. It's not like she was able to get an entire profile on him, all she remembered was whatever part of his hair and face was showing, and his voice... Voronwë sighed deeply once again, rubbing her forehead with the heel of her palm. "Thank you, but I'm afraid finding him with such specific information like that is a fruitless endeavor... He was anonymous then and he remains anonymous now." What a pain, why couldn't this mission be just a little easier? This felt impossible, like this ass was teasing her. He was right in front of her and still managed to get away from her. She needed to kill him, she had to kill him. Letting him flee so easily made this hunt seem like a mere game of hide and seek... It was so demeaning... "Huh? No, no I'm alright. I'd hate if you ran into a witness on your way there. I don't know if they'll take it easy on you..." She replied, standing now and gathering a night gown from the provided clothing in the closet, quickly heading to change out of all these layers. It felt relieving to be in something thin and simple, like she could breathe again. Finally she left the changing room and sat back down again.
05:19
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highkinglemlem 15-Feb-23 02:58 AM
Though Edwin wasn't exactly sure she was telling the truth, he accepted her response and decided against something like a full pampering session. She was already pretty overwhelmed, he'd imagine. The poor elf seemed so stressed. For a few moments, all that crossed his mind was ways to make her feel better... But she explicitly said she'll be okay. If there's one thing Edwin knew, it's that the final say was never to be followed up. "V-Very well, miss S-Shimizu. I wish there w-was something more I-I could do to help y-you. I... I promise I won't t-tell anyone..." Even with her final say though, he tried his best to think back on the situation earlier; as much as he hated to think on clerics at all. Not only to help his guest, but to try and think back and answer his own questions. It didn't really make too much sense to himself. The man she was looking for must be someone she really didn't like. A cleric for certain, she said it herself. But there were a lot of clerics. Around 13, he believed; though that was more of an estimate rather than a confirmation. It must have been a cleric with a bodycount, right? Someone who had a lot of experience doing... Destructive measures... Someone who was zealous and eager to get hands on, perhaps? Someone... Someone who wasn't afraid to take someone's eye out if they tripped and spilt wine... On his favorite... White... Robe...
02:58
"T-The A-A-Archbishop." Edwin shivered a little as the memories shot back into him like the corkscrew that pierced his retina. The stained robe, the religious words burned into his head, the red irons, and the fated twist that plucked his eye out like a cork from the very bottle he dropped. He was frozen, the only thing snapping him out of it being his platter that he also dropped in his shocked state. The sound seems to have activated Edwin in some strange manner. He scrambled to pick it up, still phased in betwixt his flashback and his reality. It beamed into him every second or so, if only for a flash. From the phantom pain, to the hand clasped across his neck... It was all too real for him to entirely dismiss, even struggling to dismiss that it wasn't already happening. His voice went from his light, timid and concerned tone to a more frantic, fearful voice. "I-I-I'm so s-sorry! P-P-Please forgive m-me, I didn't m-m-mean to! I-I-I promise!" He clutched the platter close to himself as if hiding behind it, already backed into a corner. This time he didn't really have much going through his head besides a battle between two sides. His side holding onto his reality, and the side that can't let go of the incident. (edited)
02:58
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 15-Feb-23 03:35 AM
She nodded with a gentle smile, leaning her chin into her palm, the arm resting on her thigh. The whole time of silence, her mind was right back to her past. All the dead, even their ancestors, attacking the living. Sword, arrows, fire, babies crying, screams of agony, it was a memory she wished so deeply she didn't have to remember... Almost two hundred years on this planet gave her time to cope with these memories without panicking. She might've been somewhat neurotic, but she had a firm grasp on reality. It benefited her in most aspects. However, he spoke, breaking her out of her memory... Archbishop..? The cleric might be an archbishop?? That's a perfect lead! Voronwë stood up in her glee, ready to walk right out and towards a library of the manor, if they had one, but, her servant's cries of fear stopped her before she could even start... She sighed deeply, ears folded back in her concern. She then knelt down and lowered the platter he had as a shield, placing her hands over his. "Edwin, it's okay. You don't have to be afraid of me." She started, giving the spider boy a warm smile. "I, and nobody else, will hurt you as long as I can help it." He was just so jumpy, no matter how many times she proved her motivations. The noirette elf didn't care to harm him, nor did she want to. He was helping her, with her mission and basic needs, why would he ever have a desire to cause him pain? Perhaps the boy was strange to look at, a creature she's never seen before, but he was a part of nature, even if he was a hybrid of it. It was her duty to protect nature and the wood elves... And, unfortunately, everything else. She hated humans and high elves, but she was still called to protect. Well, except the obvious exception.
03:35
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highkinglemlem 15-Feb-23 04:37 PM
The shake in his hands slowed, and his wild eyes slowly but surely grew to focus on his surrounding. The memory faded off with one final shaky breath, and Edwin surveyed his surroundings. Miss Shimizu had her hands over his own; a feeling nearly unfathomable to himself. Why is she so nice to me? It was a feeling almost unthinkable to him. No guest or staff member ever gave him the time of day. The closest he even had to a friend was the librarian, and that wasn't even friendship. They just didn't turn Edwin in for sneaking in to read. But her... She seemed to genuinely care for him, and although it was entirely alien to him, he was grateful. He knew he made a good decision in putting his neck out for her. With a newfound respect not just instilled from the start, but instilled by her actions, he bowed in gratitude. "Thank you, miss Shimizu... I... I am in your debt." That was... The first sentence I haven't stuttered with... Even her presence, her care was enough to make him feel at ease consciously and subconsciously. He made a shoddy attempt to explain himself, not even sure if he was sounding concise. "I-I didn't mean to... To get l-like that. It's just... I... I-I-I remember the Archbishop.... H-H-He was the most punishing guest I faced in my years. F-F-Forgive me, I just thought for a moment that... That..."
16:37
Don't bother. She's not going to understand. How could she understand? That all of a sudden he thought he was back in the suite with the archbishop, being restrained by red hot shackles and getting an eye poked out? You need to stop. You've been enough of a drag as it is, get a hold of yourself. "N-Nevermind, my apologies. Thank you." Edwin tried to focus himself a bit more, looking at his hands while he paced around a little. Eventually, he snapped to a small idea. Something he could do to help! At least a little... "P-P-Perhaps I can tell you about this a-archbishop? I-I-It might help your eventual... Uh... Discussion?" It wasn't going to be a discussion. But Edwin was lying to himself. He didn't want any violence, but deep down he knew someone was going to end up dead. As of right now though, he swallowed his anxiety and continued. "I-I know of his n-n-name and status. I also know they usually go somewhere s-s-specific at these parties. I don't know... I don't know m-much though, forgive me."
16:37
@giyuumium
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fiory 20-Mar-23 06:21 PM
Hi there! @highkinglemlem @giyuumium We noticed this roleplay has been inactive for 30 days or more. Please reply to this message so I am pinged if you would like to keep this roleplay open. In addition, roleplay must begin within 7 days, otherwise this channel will be moved to our archives. All archived roleplays are uploaded onto http://rphq.me/ and can be viewed there. 💜
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giyuumium 21-Mar-23 01:07 AM
"No, you're not." She replied, sitting down in a crossed legs position and removing her hands from her servant. "You're not in my debt for a thing. You serve me already, consider answering my questions paying it back." She continued, adjusting her posture while she spoke to sit comfortably... If she was going to get answers, they'd be here for a while... Might as well get comfy. Punishing, the most punishing. Voron knew that very well, she only met him once, but he was so merciless to her home town, for what? Bringing justice to a crime nobody deserved, perhaps? Maybe it was a racism he felt he needed to morally consolidate in his own heart? It was a question she'd been trying to answer for years, and yet no progress... None... "Wait, Edwin." She called out, reaching for him to stop for just a second, before pulling her hand straight back. "I understand. Truly. I hate him for a reason, just as you fear him. I'll explain everything, only if you tell me everything you know, and swear secrecy on my information... If the host figured me out, if anybody figured me out, my mission goes in flames." Once he offered help, she instantly shuffled closer, nodding to him. "Yes, please! I'll take whatever you have to offer. Any information you have on the archduke would be treasure! I'll take anything I can get my hands on. Please sit down and relax, share everything you know. I need your help." She pleaded, taking one of his hands and trying to calm him down... Seventy two years of searching, FINALLY she was making headway, and with a little spider boy, no less... She liked him, and trusted him. He was innocent and cute in her eyes, why NOT place faith in him? "I need your help, Edwin." @fiory @highkinglemlem I KNEW I FORGOT SOMETHING- I'M SO SORRY
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highkinglemlem 23-Mar-23 04:36 AM
He nodded and began to wander off, trying to keep himself busy as he had usually spent his free time. It was something drilled into him. Always something that needed doing, something that the guests wanted done by this certain time. A massage, a snack, some lavish cocktail of some form. He remembered one time there was a guest who wanted to be carried around everywhere. Edwin still thanks whatever gods there are out there that he didn't drop them... Watching her hand reach out for Edwin, his arm twitched away for a moment as a tiny breath in escaped him. He tried his best to slowly bring it back though, cheeks burning in shame for seeming so uppity. He didn't want to seem like he didn't like Voron. If anything, he valued her above most guests he had. He was just... Innately worried. About what might happen if she got angry somehow. But that wouldn't happen. She's too nice... Right? So why do I keep thinking this way?! "O-Of course, miss Sh-Shimizu! I promise, I-I-I won't tell a soul what I-I say. E-E-Even if they try to threaten t-torture..." His shiver after the word torture was visible, but he made every attempt not to let it distract him. It wasn't her problem what they'd do to him, only what they'd do to her. He didn't know what else to do at this point except for sit down alongside her. He certainly understood that he was needed here, and so he felt a sense of duty swell within him. He could be helpful. Even more helpful than he had already been! The thought of which seemed to fill him with a false sense of confidence. At least he felt safer within the presence of his guest. A guest who seemed so forgving and so understanding. Something of which very few have even feigned to him.
04:36
He froze up when his left hand was in her hands, not really sure how to react at all. His cheeks grew a darker shade, brain stumbling over itself to try and give a dignified response. But this was... Physical affection. Something so simple as trying to help put someone at ease, and yet... He had only read about it in books, or heard from stories. He had always wondered what such a feeling was like, and now he had found it. Something he himself was so curious about... It was the first time he could remember feeling. He barely remembered the initial assistance she gave from his panic attack, so this was still so foreign. It might feel such for some time. Snapping back to the realm of the living, Edwin's eyes grew determined, still quite fidgety from the fluster of a non-hostile touch for the first time he can remember. "I... I'll do my best, m... V-Voronwë, ma'am." He stopped for a moment, split-second thoughts wondering if he was allowed to call her that, before he continued. Not the time. Bigger issues happening now. "T-The archbishop. They uhm... T-They called him Archbishop E-Eldrien. He's uhm... A-Around 728, I believe? H-He's one of the founders of u-uh... Galadah Nohael... Translated to 'Light's Covenant.' It sounds like a very... Dictatorial religion? F-Forgive me, I cannot think of a better term! They... They keep their uhm... Their clerical p-procession nearby, and they frequent the t-third floor viewpoint. I-I-I used to accompany him there, when I served him as a-a guest..." Edwin tried to think on more. He knew there was more. It was just so hazy to him. Locked away behind that damn memory. "I-I can't recollect any more of it! F-Forgive me, miss shimizu..."
04:36
@giyuumium No trouble. For the better anyway, I got busy during that period too.
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giyuumium 23-Mar-23 05:46 AM
Her face slowly blanked out... The elf that destroyed her home was indeed a religious figure, a cleric, and he was certainly old enough to fit the mark... Edwin led her right to him, and what could she make of it other than immense sadness? She wanted to kill him, she was going to kill him, but it'd never bring her family back. "A cult. He runs a cult... You've given me a lot, the third floor is a perfect start for me. If you can recollect anything later in time, I want to know." Her speech became more casual, and her high accent was gone to, how I can best describe it, a mild Georgia southern accent. He gave his word, and told her what he knew, it was time for her end of the deal. Voron took in a deep breath, sighed, then began speaking. "I'm not nobility. I'm not rich, I'm not a hero, I'm nobody important. I snuck in here because I want revenge... I was born in Solace, and grew up in Sad Town with my family. When I was seventy five years old, a cleric attacked our town, destroyed it and massacred everyone he could... I was one of few that was able to escape with my life and the clothes on my back... I ran all the way to Schallsea, where I met an infertile human couple... They raised me all the way until I outlived them, then, I was a nomad. I took the inheritance, and a bag with whatever I could fit, and left. I did assignments in different villages for money. I killed monsters, threw corrupt politicians out, brought peace, and even just killed people others told me to kill. In all that time, I kept asking time and time again who this man might've been. I finally got a suggestion, saying he might be here..." She hung her head low, and once again, sighed heavily. "Please don't tell anyone. I'm so close to avenging Sad Town, and my parents. When he's dead, I'll take my leave, and bring no more trouble. I promise." The wood elf finally finished, her hair moving away from her face when she lifted her head, still avoiding eye contact.
05:46
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 27-Mar-23 06:18 AM
He wasn't really too sure about the differences between a cult and a religion. Not that he didn't know anything about religion, far from it. But he never really knew the differences between the two. When does a cult become a religion? When does a religion become nothing more than a cult? All his thought nearly drowned out his perception, listening carefully to Voron's request. He still tried to remember anything he can, but there was... Nothing else he could even think of. "I-I'll do my best to give any m-more that I can, miss Sh-Shimizu." Edwin still had that passive determination within him, not an active one driving him to do anything like go hunting for himself. That man could kill him outright and nobody would bat a single eye at it. Servants can't do anything here except, well... Serve. But still, he wanted to help this woman. This woman who helped him so. He wished to anything he could help more, but... He couldn't exactly hand her the Archbishop in chains. Her sudden shift in speech, and demeanour... It startled Edwin more than he'd care to admit. He didn't expect people to change in such a way, or at least without it being negative. He half-expected her to threaten him never to speak of this, not that he ever did. And not that he ever... Would think she'd be so rude. It made him ashamed just to think it, even if it was just instinct. She was so nice, and yet he couldn't help but feel worried. All these things she was saying, it was... So surprising. Edwin went from thinking her as a Wood Elf noble, to a secret bard, to a special diplomat, and now she... Just admitted herself as being a nomad. A nomad who had lost so much... To witness such a massacre, to live in such fear... It must be horrifying; and yet... He lives in fear himself. But not like that... Not to the point where everyone I know is just... Gone...
06:18
To kill others for money was not uncommon here. It didn't surprise Edwin, but it still unnerved him. However, the enervation quickly wore off in favour of empathy. Something he felt in droves currently. "I... I'm sorry... To hear such tragedy..." For some reason, he didn't stutter again. It was strange how much he composed himself in her presence. To be so comfortable to speak and be spoken to, in little bits at least. He placed a hand on Voron's shoulder, tentative and apprehensive. He never really gave physical contact unless given permission, but he felt it might help at least a tiny bit. "I-If it helps, I... I won't tell a soul." His head tilted a little, and a faint smile curled up a little bit at the edge of his fangs. "A-And... You're not at all any trouble. Y-You don't need to worry about that with me, m-miss Shimizu. You're ehm... A very nice person, if I-I may say so." Edwin placed his hand off her shoulder for a moment, twiddling his hands a little bit in nervousness. "J-Just be careful, please. I... I don't want to be selfish, but I'd... I'd rather keep you as a guest than anyone else..."
06:18
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 09-Apr-23 02:00 PM
SORRY OMG OMG OMG
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giyuumium 09-Apr-23 02:10 PM
"Please, don't apologize for my past. Wood elves have been viewed as lowly for thousands of years, even by our own. A massacre like that was bound to happen one day." She replied with her soft tone she's maintained the entire conversation, only becoming the slightest bit startled when she felt a hand on her shoulder... How long it had been since she'd been touched, so kind and warm... Even if it was out of pity, it was more than she had felt in a hundred years. It almost made her want to cry. To snap out of her trance, Voron placed a hand over his and smiled. How kind this man was to her from the start. Sure he was timid and jumpy, but his heart was set in the right place. "Thank you, for keeping my secret. I know it's a lot, but I thank you for your integrity." She replied, that same smile only growing because of Edwin's. "If something goes wrong, and I get caught, I'll try to get you out of here. You'll be far happier as a nomad like myself than stuck with these hogs." She meant it, truly. If she were to get caught, the only person she'd care to protect is the man who's been ready to help every step of the way... Maybe Archie, but who knows? Edwin was her focus though
14:11
Sorry it's short idk what to write 😭 @highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 11-Apr-23 12:46 AM
Edwin went a slightly darker shade upon feeling Voron's hand across his own. It was soft and elegant, like a silk sheet but with the warmth of firelight. A good reflection of herself, he supposed. Silken, elegant and composed, but with a fire in her that could burn through gold. Edwin wondered just how long it's been since she's been able to properly rest. He tried to stop his mind from worrying too much on whether or not he's done enough. "P-Perhaps I'm lucky to have been treated the w-way I am," he pondered for a moment, smile fading slightly in favour of a self-reflective look garnering in his eyes, "They c-couldn't really do anything to uhm... F-Force the secret out of me. I-I've been through it all. I'll... I'll know what to expect." Trying to shift from that harrowing thought, Edwin spotted Voron's smile growing, and it lightened him up a bit. The prospect of escape, it... It seemed almost alien. Something he'd only have read about in books or heard in songs. He was quite excited for it, but he'd be lying if he said it didn't terrify him. "I... I'd..." He didn't expect to say what he said, but it just slipped out of him. "I'd love to live like a d-drifter. It sounds quite... Well, fascinating, really!" It was clear his excitement, though internalised, was apparent. His mind flashed with certain ideas and scenarios that a nomad's life would bring. Helping people, travelling around, going through forests and landscapes. It sounded... Just like his favorite book. Just like his favorite character. "P-Promise me one more thing? B-Before you'd try to uhm... Do your hunting..." Edwin wasn't used to asking for things. It never usually ended well normally, but it couldn't hurt to ask his new and favorite guest, right? "Just... P-Promise me you'll protect yourself first, okay? I-I can... I can handle whatever comes to me, just m-make sure they don't get you killed. I couldn't bear it..."
00:46
@giyuumium (No trouble. I've been busy for easter anyhow)
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giyuumium 11-Apr-23 03:29 AM
How a man could have a positive outlook on such a terrible circumstance, truly fascinated her. For almost a hundred years, she's had such a negative outlook on her life's valleys, the losses she's faced, the hardships she's endured, for so many years she wished she would've never had to go through it, yet a servant thanked his history... It almost made her feel embarrassed to have been complaining at all. Edwin had it so much worse, yet he was thankful. Why couldn't she? The death of her parents motivated her to get stronger, the loss of her adoptive family pushed her into a nomadic life to be a hero to some villages... She could be thanking God her negatives turned to positives, yet she was glued on the feelings of the past... For that moment, her head hung low and she was silent. He's trying to speak again... Voronwë's gaze returned to her servant, and for the first time this entire party, he looked happy... More than that, overjoyed. His bliss brought a smile to her face. "I'd love to travel with you, anything is better than here, especially when you can be a hero for villages." She replied in confidence, growing appreciation for her nomadic life because of his feelings towards the mere idea. "I'm a wood elf and a nomad, survival is my strongest suit. I'll be able to protect myself, I promise." She said, cupping his cheek in her hand for just a moment, before taking it away. Doing such things could make a jumpy person like him uncomfortable. "I might need your help though, and maybe Archie's... A cleric like him will be more than difficult to kill, especially since he knew who I was, and he knew I was aware of him. My identity isn't exactly hidden to him."
03:29
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 14-Apr-23 01:15 AM
His head tilted ever slightly at her head now hung down ever slightly. He sat a little closer to her, in case she wanted any form of comfort or encouragement. It was rare that guests could make him feel so connected, and yet she was just so... Genuine. She didn't put up a façade of elegance and perfection, she didn't overindulge wherever possible, she was the furthest thing from angry and sadistic... She was a woman who needed help, and although Edwin wasn't exactly the best person to help her in this scenario, he was ever the determined one, and internally vowed that he'd do whatever it takes... But, even he didn't really know what this coming few days would take out of him. Was it going to be easy, or was he doomed to die for this woman?
01:15
Her voice shook his macabre internal monologue, once more filling his wayward head with visions, dreams and goals of being a hero. A vigilante of sorts just like she was. A true adventurer. "I-It sounds so... Dreamy. L-Like something I'd only ever hear about in tales. I'd l-love to hear about any s-stories you'd have sometime... I-I-If you'd be okay with it of course, miss S-Shimizu." His gaze flicked away again, straightening his back just a touch. With all this hope and imagination, he almost didn't realise how rude he must have been to ask. Naturally he wasn't at all impolite, but his training at the Blacktooth Society would tell him otherwise. His breath jumped just a little with Voronwë's hand on his cheek, his face tinged in that darker shade of rose as her hand pulled away. He couldn't bring himself to look back at her, but he took in every word she said. "I-I-I... I don't know how much of a uh... A fighter I am, m-miss Shimizu. If you'd l-like me to, I'll... I'll t-t-try my best. For you and A-Archie." His mind was racing, almost as much as his heart was. He was completely terrified, both of the idea of dying, and the idea of facing the Archbishop once more. Even just the thought of him made Edwin's blood run cold, and his eyes shake just enough to be noticeable. But... He wanted to do something. He wanted to help, to be useful. It's what miss Shimizu wants... It's my duty to help... I can do this. I can do this...
01:15
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 20-Apr-23 06:35 AM
Her smile only grew from his continued fascination of her life and the way it was lived, nodding her head to his request. The elf's life had spanned for many years, and was full of countless stories of loss, love, thrill, adventure, anything she could think of, she probably lived. To say it was nice to have someone ask for her stories, besides a drunk bard, was special. "Of course, I have plenty to share. Whenever we have time, I'll make sure to share... If we have time, that is. Seems like the only time I can ever peel myself away from the ever persisting crowd is when curfew finally begins." She returned with a small giggle, dragging herself out of the self reflective slump she hit as quickly as it got there. It was definitely a relief to speak with someone like her, elf or not. But, her relief morphed into worry the moment Voron heard his breath hitch. After all, her ears could pick up such small sounds. "I don't expect you to fight like I must, in all honesty I didn't expect you to agree to my request." She started, now examining his entire body. "I know this place has made you believe you're a freak of nature, believe me I know the feeling, but I assure you, your qualities are more useful than you think. Your eyesight is significantly better than mine is, I know for sure you can tread areas I couldn't dream of, go upside down and sideways, your perfect for dark camouflage, not to mention you're fast. You don't have to go one on one, fighting in the background is just as important as going in the front lines." She rambled, touching on or around each atribute she complimented. "Archie isn't a fighter, he's a bard. Working with his own skills help him win fights. You'll learn that too." This woman meant every word. She's lived for so many years to learn and understand just a fraction the world's vast wisdom, that others might view as endless knowledge. She spoke with the intention to help him understand too how the world works. Nobody has every talent, or no
06:37
flaws, what seperates the great from the rest of the world is adaptation and a belief in a greater purpose. Edwin hasn't found either yet, no wonder he was so miserable... Aside from the abuse, obviously.
06:37
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 22-Apr-23 01:56 AM
His mind started to run around with thoughts and visions of all different kinds of adventures and stories that he had read about once more, and this time... Voron took the place as the protagonist. Imagining her cutting through jungle brush, or plucking a gemstone from a castle, or even taking on bands of evil clergymen... It brought him a light to his eyes he had rarely ever felt before. The hope twinkled just a flash in his eyes before he shifted back to reality. "D-Don't focus on me of course! You uh... Y-You'd certainly have more important things th-than me. S-Sorry." Edwin started to look at his own hands for a few moments, wondering how on earth he'd actually try to defend himself and others. He wasn't really that tough or powerful, and he certainly had no real combat skills to work with. He started to lose that hope after a few moments, feeling so powerless in a nearly incalculable threat that was to face both himself and Voron. But... Her words began to draw his focus from the bitter hopelessness. He watched as her fingers drifted from place to place, and though his gaze mainly followed the fingers, a couple drifted over to his spiderlike body. It was still quite ugly to him, but... Could it really be useful?
01:56
I could... Bite people? He thought, placing a finger near his subtly exposed mandibles, And... My abdomen could make a web for me to hang from? Maybe... My pincers can even help. The more Voron said, the more his mind started to help himself; looking for possible strengths and talents that could help her. His nervousness was still apparent, but what flourished was a greater sense of desire. A desire to help. From that desire came his studious nature, as he kept idly brainstorming small ideas to help even in the smallest of ways. Then one his him. "I-I can spy for you." Edwin tilted his glasses up a little bit and looked up into Voron's eyes. "I-I already know about the Archbishop's magic. I could s-spy on him. O-Or uh..." He was very hesitant to say the second part of his sentence, temporarily frozen in fear from the consequences that might come from if he gets caught. But after a breath, and trying to remember her words, he finishes with reluctance. "O-Or I-I can... Can try to weaken him from the inside? I-I-I know how to make extremely potent wine, if that would... Help..." He was uncertain, his eyes dusting the floor once more. But his tone was still hopeful, as if crossing his fingers mentally that he was onto something. Maybe.
01:56
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 24-Apr-23 06:27 AM
All the woman could do was chuckle underneath her breath, the quiet atmosphere allowing it to be heard much more clearly than under normal circumstances. Her servant's constant nervous behavior was rather amusing to her at times. She cared about him though, clearly by the way she put her effort into his betterment. "Allowing driftwood to distract the sand could make me lose the treasures underneath." She replied simply, hoping a comparison like that made enough sense to him... It was borderline to her. Once Edwin started looking at himself, seemingly in a new light, her smile grew before he even began speaking to solidify her assumptions. Once he did though, to say she was happy was a total understatement. He was finally starting to place some faith into his own qualities, and perhaps one day, she could hunt down a magical totem of shifting... Shifting between a human physique, and your original. "That's the spirit. I need anything I can get to get a hold of him. Dinner is happening now, and I'll have that compensation for you "forcing" my flute playing. Stay hidden, and do your best to make and sneak that wine to the archbishop. If you can't, don't worry, we'll have more opportunities." She finished, finally standing up, moving behind the privacy wall, and changing once more. A beautiful blue dress of butterflies, and silver strapped up sandals. In her laziness, Voron's hair remained in that long braid with strands of hair hanging out, a little effort and they looked elegant with the braid. Before she left, she pat her servent on the head with a gentle smile. "You've got this, I know it." With that, the wood elf left her room dressed to the nine, and headed through the massive manor to the ballroom, the dining hall just across. So, without looking around for Archie, knowing he'd find her just like he always did, she sat down at the table and awaited the beginning of another extravagant meal.
SPOILER
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06:27
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 24-Apr-23 09:28 PM
He nodded at the analogy that she gave him, noting it down in his head for later. He could've sworn he had heard that before, but he wasn't exactly sure where... It didn't matter now though, there were much bigger things at stake. Edwin remained ever grateful that she was patient with him, even through his internalised belief of glaring flaws. He had hoped that he could repay her sometime... Though what she's done to him didn't feel like it could be so easily repaid through mere service. Her smile inlaid growing feelings of happiness within Edwin, something he hadn't really felt too much ever since he was taken into this place. It was refreshing, invigorating even. Another thing to repay her for... It certainly seemed like Voron had some lasting effect on him. Every word she spoke made him listen as if it was gospel, attentive even for his definition. "I-I-I'll do my best. Even if I get n-noticed, the worst they can do is h-hurt me." He spoke so matter-of-factly, as if such a statement was just bound to happen in time. "I-I'll make the w-wine now!" As she went behind her privacy wall, he moved quickly and grabbed a few things from the cellar, going on his tiptoes to grab a bottle that seemed rather old. 200 years, perhaps.
21:28
He ended up making 7 glasses, calling out while brewing. "O-Only the far left one is the p-potent one. The others should be uhm... I-In case others want a drink." A small smile escaped him when Voron stepped out, the dress flowing elegantly on the ground and her look now more fit for the stage. "Y-You... Uh... You l-look very nice, if I may say so." Edwin looked down, then moved to the door silently, opening it for her, her words giving just a mote of assurance to him. Moving to the dining room, it certainly seemed as though everyone was there, though it seemed Archie came in just a few minutes before everyone else, hair slightly messy and hat tilted just a bit strangely. He looked just a faint bit tired, but nonetheless eager to eat with Voron. "Evening, my dear. Permit me to go off topic a bit, but you really can just SINK into those Blacktooth beds..." Edwin didn't introduce himself, merely scampering across the hall and only stopping when he was either called to hand off one of the 7 drinks, or when he reached his destination.
21:28
@giyuumium
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giyuumium 25-Apr-23 02:47 AM
There he is. As the young elf, well, young in her lifespan, predicted, Archie managed to scout her out right away. Now was her chance to explain everything, IF she wanted all the help she could get. So, in an instant, she grabbed the dazed man's wrist and hurried out of the dining hall, somewhere more private... A storage closet for the maids. Luckily, for the time being, it was unoccupied. "Listen to me carefully, I don't have much time to explain before dinner begins so please give me your undivided attention." Like with Edwin when she came clean, her delicate, smooth and soft way of speaking was gone, rather replaced with that slight southern accent, a bit hoarse and in a get-things-done tone. A voice most adventurers had. "I'm not nobility, I'm not rich, I'm not even a politician, I'm just a nomad that does a few good things here and there. I'm here because sevent-two years ago, my hometown was destroyed by a elvish cleric, and after all these years of hunting, I finally managed to track him down to this location. He massacred my friends, my family. I want revenge but I know I'm not capable enough to take him myself, and I need your help. Desperately need it." She rambled on, growing more and more paranoid the closer time ticked towards the inevitable fight she'd have to face. The Archbishop was strong then, and after all these years, who knows how strong he was now! Voron wasn't even a fighter then, she grew, but to what extent? To a chance of victory, or survival? "You said you could do magic, you're a bard! I'm an archer, and a rogue I suppose. My servant is much better at being a rogue! I'll pay you a good amount, as much as I have. It's not much but it's still something." She went on, fumbling over her words and barely making it through those last few sentences without stuttering.
02:47
@highkinglemlem
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highkinglemlem 28-Apr-23 01:42 AM
Archie's initial thoughts when entering the maid's closet was far more different to when Voron started to speak, as he went from his absent and carefree smile to a more confused, skeptical façade. He wasn't exactly sure what she wanted to say, nor why her face grew to such a serious tone, but he was already in the closet; no backing out now. "Attention's undivided, dear. Couldn't be too bad now, could it-" What was left of his smile faded when Voron's voice changed suddenly. Switching personality almost immediately, from a girl who sounded like she never spent a month out on the road to a girl who might have done fisticuffs with bandits to get by. She sounded stern, fiery and clearly raring to get what was hers. But she didn't speak in pure anger, nor did she try and intimidate Archie into swearing assistance. Rather, she seemed... Lost. Like this was her last effort to get her vengeance. Fighting a cleric with the power to take on a whole town and come out on top seemed quite daunting for Archie. What once just seemed like a playful banter with a mysteriously elegant lass just turned into a theocratic game of cat and mouse, and currently Archie didn't know which animal he'd be playing as. Sure, he'd be playing the hunter, but with a guy like what she's describing, tides can turn pretty quick.
01:42
It took a few seconds for him to respond, a little caught up in his own head to realise that Voron had stopped talking about 4 seconds ago. "Bloody hell, then," he managed to whisper out, brushing under their eyelids with a sardonic smirk, "Conned me somethin' fierce, didn't you? Give me a thousand gold and ten guesses, wouldn't have had a chance..." After his attempts to lighten the mood, his tone went a little more serious, knocking on the wood coating of Ol' Betsy with a nod. "Pleasure's mine to cause a fuss then, innit? Only thing I'll miss about this place is the food and beds, but even then... The servant lad can cook a meal as payment, and we can snag the mattress for carriage lining later, eh?" Archie was clearly half-joking, dusting his hands off and leaning out so he can peek out at the dinner scene nearby. "So, miss nomad, what's the grand plan of operations? Are we doing a hit-and-run on three, or do you have better plans? Hope you do, I ain't the type to run big assassination-y contracts, ya know."
01:42
@giyuumium
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