Master Cadence @master-cadence-official - Tumblr Blog

update: I’m alive.

*very relieved sigh* thank the stars. Please do not ever do that again. There can only be so many crises at a time.

I still might resign from foxfire though. At least temporarily.

I miss Kieran so much.

I understand. And so would Leto I’m sure. And if he does I’ll personally verbally abuse him until he does.

what a am I going to do if Kieran never wakes up though?

Don’t talk like that. He will wake up.

kotlc-overheard

Master Cadence and Lady Galvin are secretly dating…but you didn’t hear that from me ;)

Rumor has it . . .

randomfandomwriter

@master-cadence-official

No comment.

auburn-talle

Hi, mom.

Uh, sorry I haven’t been able to say hi. I’ve been busy doing…things. Good things, I swear. Just kind of classified things. I saw you also adopted another kid. He’s around my age, right? That’s cool. I hope he’ll be okay, I think I’d like to meet him.

#cadence reblogs #(they’re so mother/daughter and i’m here for it)

Hi, Auburn.

I’m glad you’re here. I’m not going to ask about the classified things you’re doing, I’m sure you can’t tell me about them. Just be careful. (Though you’re never careful.) And yeah, I did. His name is Kieran. He reminds me a lot of you. (Mostly because he’s also a reckless idiot.)

auburn-talle

Hello. I was finally authorized to run an account on here. I don’t want to, but apparently everything interesting happens on here.

My name is Auburn Talle. Yes, Talle. I’m Cadence Talle’s (semi-estranged) daughter. And I’m a Mesmer. Don’t look so shocked.

l’m a good person…I think. It’s a pretty grey topic, wouldn’t you agree?

(this is @artemisiarising ! i got another blog whoo hoo! mod note: blog!auburn and luminary!auburn are pretty much different people in order to fit into the currently established blogverse so don’t use my luminaryverse posting as a reference for this blog)

@master-cadence-official YOU HAVE A DAUGHTER?????

@tiergan-single-father DID YOU KNOW THIS?

I do. It’s been years since the last time I’ve seen her, and I miss her greatly. I’m glad she’s here now.

Hold on, I can perfectly understand Leto not knowing something like that, but I was unaware of this either?

#cadence reblogs #(jesus i did Not think about how complicated this was gonna get)

I’ve been busy. I haven’t even been in the Cities very long, there certainly hasn’t been time for me to tell you every aspect of my life.

I do think you should meet her, though. I think you’d like her.

auburn-talle

Hello. I was finally authorized to run an account on here. I don’t want to, but apparently everything interesting happens on here.

My name is Auburn Talle. Yes, Talle. I’m Cadence Talle’s (semi-estranged) daughter. And I’m a Mesmer. Don’t look so shocked.

l’m a good person…I think. It’s a pretty grey topic, wouldn’t you agree?

@master-cadence-official YOU HAVE A DAUGHTER?????

@tiergan-single-father DID YOU KNOW THIS?

#cadence reblogs #(mod note: they didn’t have a falling out or anything auburn was just brought to train in the lost cities #while cadence was still with the ogres #their relationship is very healthy)

I do. It’s been years since the last time I’ve seen her, and I miss her greatly. I’m glad she’s here now.

The Trial of Lord Anrai Killian

Hello all. It is with a heavy heart that I call you all to yet another tribunal. Today, Lord Killian stands accused of attempted murder, as well as misuse of his ability - beguiling. Today, we will evaluate whether he is, beyond a reasonable doubt, guilty of these crimes. If he is found guilty, we will also, after a thorough discussion, decide upon a proper sentence.

Our first witness is Elwin Heslege. Doctor Heslege, please stand.

@elwin-heslege-offical

I can tell you that this awful man stabbed MY son, and then came back to blast me, and later Kieran, with a melder. All the while telling him he’s a horrible mistake and saying I’m a bad parent. I can show you the marks if you want. I want him fucking dead.

He's definitely telling the truth.

@anrai-of-house-killian

anrai-of-house-killian

My my, how violent for a doctor of all things, Elwin.

To address my violence towards my, er...son, I will admit that without a doubt, I did so with intent to kill. But it's not like this world hasn't been cruel to Talentless already, correct? I really should have stayed to deal with him before that bitch sister of yours passed him onto you, where obviously your parenting wasn't enough to keep him in line. Perhaps I would've been less extreme had he inherited me or Linnet's abilities, but I suppose it was just destiny that his lack of an ability is just as disgraceful as he is.

I did not intend to melder you, Elwin, but you got in my way. And I don't take kindly to people stepping in for things I can fix myself, nor do I appreciate licensed physicians calling for my death. Honestly, how crude of you - no wonder the boy is how he is.

He is, unfortunately, telling the truth.

@councillor-darek @councillor-velia-guster @councillor-liora-official @councillor-zarina-official @councillor-clarette-official @councillor-bronte-of-the-cities @councillor-noland @councillor-ramira @the-real-councillor-emery @ask-alina @councillor-terik

This trial may go by faster than anticipated. Our next witness is Master Cadence Talle.

@master-cadence-official

Hello, Councillors. I have witnessed Anrai Killian attempting to murder Kieran Heslege, as well as unlawful use of beguiling in order to manipulate Kieran into risking his life and putting other lives in danger, including my own. Thank you, Councillors.

*curtsies and walks away*

anrai-of-house-killian

With all due respect, Lady Talle, which is none, if you want to talk about attempted murder, you should be on the stand with me.

In fact, I wish to exercise my rights as a Lord and accuse Lady Talle, Councillor Oralie, and Lord Tiergan of attempted murder on me and my son. I refuse to let everyone nod their heads as if I'm the monster here, when arguably, their offense is much greater. The only reason that Kieran put Cadence's life in danger is because she shot directly at him. I didn't order him to attack her. One just can't blame a boy like him to react violently - savage often responds with savage. And I do admit to beguiling him, yes, but only so that I may protect myself from the violent attack these three planned to carry out.

Surely you're not about to allow a Councillor, a Beacon, and a tutor to go unpunished for full intent and plans to murder, no?

#cadence reblogs #(booooom im so proud of this unfortunately a very good point)#(cadence knows what she did and stands by it)#(she’s just like that)#(she refuses to let anyone go down with her though)

First of all, I did not aim at Kieran. I aimed at you. Because you were putting his life in danger to begin with. You stabbed him unprompted, and I responded accordingly. Besides, you didn’t even get hurt. I stand by my actions. And leave Councillor Oralie and Sir Tiergan out of this. It was my idea. Councillors, exile me if you must, but I hope you will see reason and put this monster where he belongs.

The Trial of Lord Anrai Killian

Our first witness is Elwin Heslege. Doctor Heslege, please stand.

@elwin-heslege-offical

He's definitely telling the truth.

@anrai-of-house-killian

anrai-of-house-killian

My my, how violent for a doctor of all things, Elwin.

He is, unfortunately, telling the truth.

This trial may go by faster than anticipated. Our next witness is Master Cadence Talle.

@master-cadence-official

#cadence reblogs #(forgive me if this is horrible i fear im bad at this)

*curtsies and walks away*

Er. . I’m outside. May I be let in? Where’s Kieran? Is he physically stable?

@tiergan-single-father

yes please come in.

Thank you. And- I really do want to apologize for this. I did not intend any kind of harm towards Kieran.

I know… but it was pretty stupid. You do a lot of stupid things, Tiergan. Don’t me started on the stuff you use to turn into a stone. But this was beyond stupid. is he ok? Please tell me he’s ok.

I’ll check; it would be wise to hail Sophie now, though.

*reaching out to Kieran’s mind*

(ooc a lot of this is just going to be me describing what you see in his mind)

*initially, what you see is just a large, thorny thicket - likely his mental barrier, it shouldn't be extraordinarily hard to pass through*

Come on, make this easy on my, Kier. .

*reaching forward, attempting to push the thorns aside*

*they prickle, but after some pushing it's not hard to make progress. They budge after about 3 minutes of pushing*

There we are. Now, where are you?

*pushing all the way through the thicket*

Kieran?

(ooc *cracks knuckles* it's DM Time)

*Past the thicket, you find yourself in an expansive, bustling garden. There are hedges being trimmed and cut everywhere, new plants being put into the ground, greenery and flowers and spider snappers all around. Working through the garden are several Kierans, all with the same uniform - milling about and chattering to themselves or others.*

*Some of the hedges seem to be of people - for example, there's one of Fitz (that maybe looks a little too good to be him - his assigned gardener also will not stop swooning). A lot of the hedges, however, seem to represent his thoughts, and the gardeners tend to those that grab his attention. It's VERY busy and noisy here - he thinks quite a bit.*

*Nevertheless, his mind is...very idyllic, at least at first glance - not anything like how he comes off as in the real world.*

Okay. .

*walking past several gardeners, looking for an exit or change in scenery*

Kieran? Where are you ?

*one of the gardener Kierans walks up to you*

...Hi. Are you...looking for something? We've got a wide selection to look at, if you want to take a stroll through.

*backing away*

I’m not here for any of you. I’m looking for Kieran. Which memories do I need to search?

*raising an eyebrow*

We're all Kieran. You don't need to go anywhere-

*A small child version of Kieran runs through - though with deer faun legs*

The maze, the maze!!

*The gardener Kieran frowns, nudging the child off to go run elsewhere*

Ignore him. The, erm...maze is pretty far out, and none of us go trimming or planting there, so it's pretty gnarly. Dangerous spot, I don't think you should try going through it.

On the contrary. . Er. . Kieran, danger is exactly what I believe I am seeking. In which direction will I find this maze?

*looking after the child, already turning around*

Look, I really don't think you should be going back there - none of us go back there - it hasn't been cut in ages, it's not been tamed, and-

*Bambi Kieran grabs your wrist and grins*

I'll guide you!

*the child starts dragging you past the gardens, towards some fields where a maze seems to be. The Gardener Kieran stands there for a moment, mildly stressed, and then goes back to work cultivating thoughts.*

I- hold on- Ah, let’s go then. Lead the way!

*running after Bambi*

*At the maze - it's configured somewhat similarly to the thicket of Kieran's mind barrier. Tall, winding hedges infested with gnarled stumps and thorny vines, with just the occasional rustle; otherwise, it's dead silent. Definitely less inviting than the colorful, idyllic, busy gardens from earlier.*

*Bambi Kieran giggled and grinned, running off into the maze - but he rounded a turn and suddenly he wasn't there anymore.*

*Presumably, the "real" Kieran - the root of his consciousness - is at the center. So...time to start walking.*

Jeez. . Alright. If Prentice were here. . . No. I can do this myself. I’m coming, Kieran.

*walks into the maze, turning in the same direction as the child* *taking random turns, trying to get a sense of direction*

*As it turns out, each dead end leads to a different memory. They started off not too bad - just a few vines wrapped around a painting frame, with a still from some recollection showing.*

*Some were just talks with Elwin about safety or concern. Dead end. You go deeper. A sting of failure from lessons with Oralie. As the hedges around him got darker, so did the memories. Body image was a prevalent topic. One could tell that Kieran definitely cared about his physique, but not...not to this extent. No, whatever these frames were showing him wasn't healthy. You wouldn't have even been able to tell...*

*Deeper and deeper, the vines got thornier. More dead ends. More about Kieran's increasingly obvious self loathing, about how apparently, Kieran kept a lot of his hurt private, as he did with everything else. Shame practically radiated off of some of these memories. The maze made it clear: He didn't want anyone seeing this side of him.*

Stars, Kier. . .

*reaching out towards the frames*

Don’t you know we care for you?

*turning, going further into the maze*

I’m going to find you, Kieran. You’re going to be okay.

*Then, expectedly, the frames started to showcase more...violent periods in Kieran's life - these frames' wreaths were encased in tree stumps, now. Gnarled, and...looking almost like Wanderling wood. These memories...these were his darkest.*

*The original instant when he'd beaten Fitz to a pulp three years ago; Kieran still remembers crystal clear how livid Alden had been, how terrifying the court sentence had been. The Vacker tribunal, with the overdose. Countless breakdowns in the bathroom over pain from telekinetic training, disgust, the sheer hopelessness of being Talentless. Snapping Darek's nose and throwing him against the wall; punching the mirror afterwards and laughing quietly at the shards in his fist. That memory, of feeling that thrill of power at the scarlet...still haunted him.*

*After a bit more aimless wandering, there came Anrai's wreaths. The vines were still twisting, alive - you were close. The shame and guilt at having Elwin and Fitz be targeted by Anrai was fresh. The stabbing and near death with Nalitheine..being blasted close-range with a melder from his own father, the horrible things he was told...*

*Stars, he believed them. He'd believed it. You could hear small whispers in the hedges now, echoing back what he'd heard. Not just from Anrai, but throwaway comments from Elwin. From Cadence, from Oralie, from Della, from Fitz, from...well, everyone, really. He remembered all of it and added it to this depressing chorus in the back of his mind.*

*You could start seeing a path with a bit more light after passing by the last wreath - this one was blackened and writhing slowly. The attempt on Anrai. Being beguiled. Being shot at by Cadence - that was recent. Just hours earlier - he'd be just around the bend, now.*

KIERAN!

*running now, taking a sharp turn*

Kieran! I am here! We’re all here! Can you hear me? Kieran?

Come back! Elwin is worried about you! I’m worried about you! Cadence, Fitz, Oralie, all of them! We need you to come back! Can you hear me? Come back to me!

*Turning the bend, you see...* *Kieran, actually. The one you'd been looking for, in a small clearing. There's vines twisting all around, curling at his ankles. In the very center stands a hedge - just like the ones in the gardens, but of Kieran.*

*It's wilting. Badly - this Kieran, hands red and raw from presumably gripping the thorns too many times or something similar, is sitting by it, hugging his knees. The clippers he'd be using to tend to the hedge lay at his feet, abandoned.*

*standing speechless for a moment, turning around to see the frames behind me*

*turning back towards Kieran*

Kieran- I. .

*stepping forward, kneeling down and placing a hand on Kieran’s back, trying to see his face*

Kieran, you can’t stay here. This place. .

*shivering, trying to keep composed*

This mindset is hurting you. I want to help, Kieran.

*looking up*

Wh-...T-Tiergan...?

What are you...what are you doing here...?

*Gettting to my feet shakily*

It's not safe here anymore. Can't you see that it's wilting? There's nothing to save. I failed. E-everything I touch, everyone I touch, gets hurt. You saw.

Kieran that isn’t true!

*standing as well, keeping slight distance, waiting for Kieran to take the first step*

We’re not angry with you. No one is. You are worth it Kieran; you are something precious, something worth saving, something the world needs.

Don’t let this mental state control you Kieran. There are people out there, people who love you, who want what is best for you. This isn’t the end of the road, I promise you.

I-

*The vines at my ankles begin crawling up - I don't have a lot of time*

Tiergan, I'm serious. It's not a question about what I want, it's...

*huffing nervously, eyeing the thorns*

...I'm tired. I dont want to hurt anymore...I-I just want to rest a little bit. Just a little...please. Just close my eyes for a few moments, and pretend. Is that so bad?

*reaching out but drawing back quickly, seeing the thorns*

Kieran. .

*straightening up*

I’m going to come back for you, Kier. I’m going to bring Sophie and we will get you out of here. That, I promise you.

*turning, looking for where they came in from*

Elwin’s out there; he’s worried sick about you. What do you want me to tell him, kid?

*Glancing around, feeling the thicket crawl up and tighten. Thorns are starting to press into my skin and drag as they constrict my body - the maze begins to close as the gnarled vines overtake everything around us*

*feeling something cold and empty coil in my gut, like I'm about to drop into an abyss*

U-uhm...tell him that I'm going to rest for a little while, and I'm not sure when I'll be waking up. B-but I want him to wait for me, because when I wake up, I don't want to be alone.

Tell him to feed Preminger, and my other plants...take care of Bullhorn, make sure he doesn't stress out too much over me...

And...and tell him, and Cadence, and Fitz, that I love them. And I'm sorry.

*being dragged down to the ground by the vines - the floor is wriggling with them now, black and dead and thorny*

...Come get me sometime. And please don't forget - I promised I'd wake up.

*telekinetically shoves you out of the maze and out to the exit as everything starts to implode and be swallowed towards the center of the maze*

*quickly withdrawing from Kieran’s mind*

*beathing heavily*

@elwin-heslege-offical, we need to get @sophiefoster-ruewen over here as quickly as time allows. Kieran he-

I think his mind is beginning to break. He kept talking about resting, going to sleep. He wants his plants taken care of? I didn’t even know he kept plants, although it makes sense I suppose. .

What!? Uhhhh @sophiefoster-ruewen @sophiefoster-ruewen

Tiergan I swear this is your fault. If his mind actually breaks I don’t think I could handle it.

*nodding* I. . Understand your anger, Elwin. I cannot apologize enough for what has happened.

He- He wanted me to tell you to wait for him. That he would come back but he wasn’t sure when. He wanted you to know that he loves you and wanted the same to be said to @master-cadence-official and @fitzythegoldenboy/ @fitzroythevacker, and that he’s sorry.

Should- do you want me to go?

If you don’t bring him back I swear you will not like what I will do to you. And you know that isn’t an empty threat.

Duly noted. Though I do hope I’ve made it clear that I want to help him as much as all of you?

You have, but I also hope I’ve made it clear exactly how much I care for Kieran and the lengths I will go to ensure he’s okay?

I trust you, but I just want my son back to normal. Please.

And if you see him again before I do, tell him I love him too, okay?

Of course, Cadence.

*visibly tearing up*

#cadence reblogs #(aughhh she’s so !!)#(she’s probably on some kind of pain medication that’s making her like this)#(but it’s not. fake. she is really this upset she’s just usually terrible at showing it.#(she’ll be back to her threatening self tomorrow)

*lunges at him, throwing her arms around him in a hug*

Thank you.

*starts sobbing*

Fuck, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be the one crying. I just-

I never thought I’d care for a kid the way I do for Kieran. I’m scared and I feel sick to my stomach and I don’t even care that I’m still injured I just want to be sure he’s okay.

Tiergan, I shot at him. Not at him at him but you know what I mean. I could’ve hurt him. I messed up so bad.

Please bring him back. I don’t know if I’d be able to control myself if anything bad happened to him again.

Er. . I’m outside. May I be let in? Where’s Kieran? Is he physically stable?

@tiergan-single-father

yes please come in.

Thank you. And- I really do want to apologize for this. I did not intend any kind of harm towards Kieran.

I’ll check; it would be wise to hail Sophie now, though.

*reaching out to Kieran’s mind*

(ooc a lot of this is just going to be me describing what you see in his mind)

*initially, what you see is just a large, thorny thicket - likely his mental barrier, it shouldn't be extraordinarily hard to pass through*

Come on, make this easy on my, Kier. .

*reaching forward, attempting to push the thorns aside*

*they prickle, but after some pushing it's not hard to make progress. They budge after about 3 minutes of pushing*

There we are. Now, where are you?

*pushing all the way through the thicket*

Kieran?

(ooc *cracks knuckles* it's DM Time)

*Nevertheless, his mind is...very idyllic, at least at first glance - not anything like how he comes off as in the real world.*

Okay. .

*walking past several gardeners, looking for an exit or change in scenery*

Kieran? Where are you ?

*one of the gardener Kierans walks up to you*

...Hi. Are you...looking for something? We've got a wide selection to look at, if you want to take a stroll through.

*backing away*

I’m not here for any of you. I’m looking for Kieran. Which memories do I need to search?

*raising an eyebrow*

We're all Kieran. You don't need to go anywhere-

*A small child version of Kieran runs through - though with deer faun legs*

The maze, the maze!!

*The gardener Kieran frowns, nudging the child off to go run elsewhere*

Ignore him. The, erm...maze is pretty far out, and none of us go trimming or planting there, so it's pretty gnarly. Dangerous spot, I don't think you should try going through it.

On the contrary. . Er. . Kieran, danger is exactly what I believe I am seeking. In which direction will I find this maze?

*looking after the child, already turning around*

Look, I really don't think you should be going back there - none of us go back there - it hasn't been cut in ages, it's not been tamed, and-

*Bambi Kieran grabs your wrist and grins*

I'll guide you!

I- hold on- Ah, let’s go then. Lead the way!

*running after Bambi*

*Bambi Kieran giggled and grinned, running off into the maze - but he rounded a turn and suddenly he wasn't there anymore.*

*Presumably, the "real" Kieran - the root of his consciousness - is at the center. So...time to start walking.*

Jeez. . Alright. If Prentice were here. . . No. I can do this myself. I’m coming, Kieran.

*walks into the maze, turning in the same direction as the child* *taking random turns, trying to get a sense of direction*

*As it turns out, each dead end leads to a different memory. They started off not too bad - just a few vines wrapped around a painting frame, with a still from some recollection showing.*

Stars, Kier. . .

*reaching out towards the frames*

Don’t you know we care for you?

*turning, going further into the maze*

I’m going to find you, Kieran. You’re going to be okay.

KIERAN!

*running now, taking a sharp turn*

Kieran! I am here! We’re all here! Can you hear me? Kieran?

Come back! Elwin is worried about you! I’m worried about you! Cadence, Fitz, Oralie, all of them! We need you to come back! Can you hear me? Come back to me!

*standing speechless for a moment, turning around to see the frames behind me*

*turning back towards Kieran*

Kieran- I. .

*stepping forward, kneeling down and placing a hand on Kieran’s back, trying to see his face*

Kieran, you can’t stay here. This place. .

*shivering, trying to keep composed*

This mindset is hurting you. I want to help, Kieran.

*looking up*

Wh-...T-Tiergan...?

What are you...what are you doing here...?

*Gettting to my feet shakily*

It's not safe here anymore. Can't you see that it's wilting? There's nothing to save. I failed. E-everything I touch, everyone I touch, gets hurt. You saw.

Kieran that isn’t true!

*standing as well, keeping slight distance, waiting for Kieran to take the first step*

We’re not angry with you. No one is. You are worth it Kieran; you are something precious, something worth saving, something the world needs.

Don’t let this mental state control you Kieran. There are people out there, people who love you, who want what is best for you. This isn’t the end of the road, I promise you.

I-

*The vines at my ankles begin crawling up - I don't have a lot of time*

Tiergan, I'm serious. It's not a question about what I want, it's...

*huffing nervously, eyeing the thorns*

...I'm tired. I dont want to hurt anymore...I-I just want to rest a little bit. Just a little...please. Just close my eyes for a few moments, and pretend. Is that so bad?

*reaching out but drawing back quickly, seeing the thorns*

Kieran. .

*straightening up*

I’m going to come back for you, Kier. I’m going to bring Sophie and we will get you out of here. That, I promise you.

*turning, looking for where they came in from*

Elwin’s out there; he’s worried sick about you. What do you want me to tell him, kid?

*feeling something cold and empty coil in my gut, like I'm about to drop into an abyss*

U-uhm...tell him that I'm going to rest for a little while, and I'm not sure when I'll be waking up. B-but I want him to wait for me, because when I wake up, I don't want to be alone.

Tell him to feed Preminger, and my other plants...take care of Bullhorn, make sure he doesn't stress out too much over me...

And...and tell him, and Cadence, and Fitz, that I love them. And I'm sorry.

*being dragged down to the ground by the vines - the floor is wriggling with them now, black and dead and thorny*

...Come get me sometime. And please don't forget - I promised I'd wake up.

*telekinetically shoves you out of the maze and out to the exit as everything starts to implode and be swallowed towards the center of the maze*

*quickly withdrawing from Kieran’s mind*

*beathing heavily*

@elwin-heslege-offical, we need to get @sophiefoster-ruewen over here as quickly as time allows. Kieran he-

I think his mind is beginning to break. He kept talking about resting, going to sleep. He wants his plants taken care of? I didn’t even know he kept plants, although it makes sense I suppose. .

What!? Uhhhh @sophiefoster-ruewen @sophiefoster-ruewen

Tiergan I swear this is your fault. If his mind actually breaks I don’t think I could handle it.

*nodding* I. . Understand your anger, Elwin. I cannot apologize enough for what has happened.

Should- do you want me to go?

If you don’t bring him back I swear you will not like what I will do to you. And you know that isn’t an empty threat.

Duly noted. Though I do hope I’ve made it clear that I want to help him as much as all of you?

#cadence reblogs #(well this got sad)

You have, but I also hope I’ve made it clear exactly how much I care for Kieran and the lengths I will go to ensure he’s okay?

I trust you, but I just want my son back to normal. Please.

And if you see him again before I do, tell him I love him too, okay?

Er. . I’m outside. May I be let in? Where’s Kieran? Is he physically stable?

@tiergan-single-father

yes please come in.

Thank you. And- I really do want to apologize for this. I did not intend any kind of harm towards Kieran.

I’ll check; it would be wise to hail Sophie now, though.

*reaching out to Kieran’s mind*

(ooc a lot of this is just going to be me describing what you see in his mind)

*initially, what you see is just a large, thorny thicket - likely his mental barrier, it shouldn't be extraordinarily hard to pass through*

Come on, make this easy on my, Kier. .

*reaching forward, attempting to push the thorns aside*

*they prickle, but after some pushing it's not hard to make progress. They budge after about 3 minutes of pushing*

There we are. Now, where are you?

*pushing all the way through the thicket*

Kieran?

(ooc *cracks knuckles* it's DM Time)

*Nevertheless, his mind is...very idyllic, at least at first glance - not anything like how he comes off as in the real world.*

Okay. .

*walking past several gardeners, looking for an exit or change in scenery*

Kieran? Where are you ?

*one of the gardener Kierans walks up to you*

...Hi. Are you...looking for something? We've got a wide selection to look at, if you want to take a stroll through.

*backing away*

I’m not here for any of you. I’m looking for Kieran. Which memories do I need to search?

*raising an eyebrow*

We're all Kieran. You don't need to go anywhere-

*A small child version of Kieran runs through - though with deer faun legs*

The maze, the maze!!

*The gardener Kieran frowns, nudging the child off to go run elsewhere*

Ignore him. The, erm...maze is pretty far out, and none of us go trimming or planting there, so it's pretty gnarly. Dangerous spot, I don't think you should try going through it.

On the contrary. . Er. . Kieran, danger is exactly what I believe I am seeking. In which direction will I find this maze?

*looking after the child, already turning around*

Look, I really don't think you should be going back there - none of us go back there - it hasn't been cut in ages, it's not been tamed, and-

*Bambi Kieran grabs your wrist and grins*

I'll guide you!

I- hold on- Ah, let’s go then. Lead the way!

*running after Bambi*

*Bambi Kieran giggled and grinned, running off into the maze - but he rounded a turn and suddenly he wasn't there anymore.*

*Presumably, the "real" Kieran - the root of his consciousness - is at the center. So...time to start walking.*

Jeez. . Alright. If Prentice were here. . . No. I can do this myself. I’m coming, Kieran.

*walks into the maze, turning in the same direction as the child* *taking random turns, trying to get a sense of direction*

*As it turns out, each dead end leads to a different memory. They started off not too bad - just a few vines wrapped around a painting frame, with a still from some recollection showing.*

Stars, Kier. . .

*reaching out towards the frames*

Don’t you know we care for you?

*turning, going further into the maze*

I’m going to find you, Kieran. You’re going to be okay.

KIERAN!

*running now, taking a sharp turn*

Kieran! I am here! We’re all here! Can you hear me? Kieran?

Come back! Elwin is worried about you! I’m worried about you! Cadence, Fitz, Oralie, all of them! We need you to come back! Can you hear me? Come back to me!

*standing speechless for a moment, turning around to see the frames behind me*

*turning back towards Kieran*

Kieran- I. .

*stepping forward, kneeling down and placing a hand on Kieran’s back, trying to see his face*

Kieran, you can’t stay here. This place. .

*shivering, trying to keep composed*

This mindset is hurting you. I want to help, Kieran.

*looking up*

Wh-...T-Tiergan...?

What are you...what are you doing here...?

*Gettting to my feet shakily*

It's not safe here anymore. Can't you see that it's wilting? There's nothing to save. I failed. E-everything I touch, everyone I touch, gets hurt. You saw.

Kieran that isn’t true!

*standing as well, keeping slight distance, waiting for Kieran to take the first step*

We’re not angry with you. No one is. You are worth it Kieran; you are something precious, something worth saving, something the world needs.

Don’t let this mental state control you Kieran. There are people out there, people who love you, who want what is best for you. This isn’t the end of the road, I promise you.

I-

*The vines at my ankles begin crawling up - I don't have a lot of time*

Tiergan, I'm serious. It's not a question about what I want, it's...

*huffing nervously, eyeing the thorns*

...I'm tired. I dont want to hurt anymore...I-I just want to rest a little bit. Just a little...please. Just close my eyes for a few moments, and pretend. Is that so bad?

*reaching out but drawing back quickly, seeing the thorns*

Kieran. .

*straightening up*

I’m going to come back for you, Kier. I’m going to bring Sophie and we will get you out of here. That, I promise you.

*turning, looking for where they came in from*

Elwin’s out there; he’s worried sick about you. What do you want me to tell him, kid?

*feeling something cold and empty coil in my gut, like I'm about to drop into an abyss*

U-uhm...tell him that I'm going to rest for a little while, and I'm not sure when I'll be waking up. B-but I want him to wait for me, because when I wake up, I don't want to be alone.

Tell him to feed Preminger, and my other plants...take care of Bullhorn, make sure he doesn't stress out too much over me...

And...and tell him, and Cadence, and Fitz, that I love them. And I'm sorry.

*being dragged down to the ground by the vines - the floor is wriggling with them now, black and dead and thorny*

...Come get me sometime. And please don't forget - I promised I'd wake up.

*telekinetically shoves you out of the maze and out to the exit as everything starts to implode and be swallowed towards the center of the maze*

*quickly withdrawing from Kieran’s mind*

*beathing heavily*

@elwin-heslege-offical, we need to get @sophiefoster-ruewen over here as quickly as time allows. Kieran he-

I think his mind is beginning to break. He kept talking about resting, going to sleep. He wants his plants taken care of? I didn’t even know he kept plants, although it makes sense I suppose. .

What!? Uhhhh @sophiefoster-ruewen @sophiefoster-ruewen

Tiergan I swear this is your fault. If his mind actually breaks I don’t think I could handle it.

*nodding* I. . Understand your anger, Elwin. I cannot apologize enough for what has happened.

Should- do you want me to go?

#cadence reblogs #(she wants her son back)

If you don’t bring him back I swear you will not like what I will do to you. And you know that isn’t an empty threat.

*chilling*

. . . Something just happened to my Beacon.

Sorry about that. Uh…you’re going to have to take over my responsibilities until I’ve recovered. Or forever.

WHAT? WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?? Are you okay?!

I’m not sure how much I’m allowed to say, but…there was a fight. I am fine. Hopefully. I should be at least. And sadly I don’t think I can make it to scrabble this week.

WHA- I- YOU- I DON’T CARE ABOUT SCRABBLE CADENCE! When did this happen? Were you with the ogres this week? STARS this is so bad, I haven’t even had time to make any Get Well Soon Ripplefluffs!

WHERE ARE YOU? Are you at the Healing Center? I’M ON MY WAY RIGHT NOW.

Yesterday, no, it’s fine…though ripplefluffs would be nice.

Yes, I’m in the Healing Center. But you don’t have to come over right now, really. Don’t you have a job to be doing?

FUCK MY JOB, YOU'RE THE BEACON! I NEED TO MAKE SURE YOU'RE OKAY. I'M CANCELING SESSIONS FOR THE NEXT 3 DAYS RIGHT NOW. RIPPLEFLUFFS ARE IN THE OVEN; ONCE THEY'RE DONE I'M LEAPING TO THE HEALING CENTER AND YOU'RE GONNA TELL ME EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED. WHERE'S TIERGAN????

ITS NOT LIKE I DO ANYTHING AS THE BEACON ANYWAYS- *coughs*

*quieter* …but fine. also i have no idea where tiergan is. last time i saw him he was-

OKAY ripplefluffs are done I'm right outside the healing center.

Wait what happened to Tiergan?

CADENCE WHERE IS TIERGAN????

Hi. Come in, Elwin isn’t here right now.

I, uh, I don’t really know how to explain what happened to Tiergan without explaining everything. But he’s not here so he’s probably fine. I do hope he’s okay.

Unbe- fucking - lievable. I was going to ask him to run security on the towers for me before he left Foxfire but I GUESS HE ISN'T THERE ANYWAY.

*sigh* take a ripplfluff Cadence, you look like you need one desperately. You also have quite a lot of explaining to do.

Don’t be mad at Tiergan.

*grabs a ripplefluff*

So.

*insert explanation i don’t feel like typing cause it’s a lot*

*staring out the window* Stars, that is. . . a lot.

Where was Elwin while all this was happening? Actually- Nevermind, he's never informed on anything.

But- for star's sake- he crushed your windpipe? How long will that take to heal?

I…don’t know. But I’ll be okay. It doesn’t even hurt that much anymore. Don’t worry so much.

*chilling*

. . . Something just happened to my Beacon.

Sorry about that. Uh…you’re going to have to take over my responsibilities until I’ve recovered. Or forever.

WHAT? WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?? Are you okay?!

I’m not sure how much I’m allowed to say, but…there was a fight. I am fine. Hopefully. I should be at least. And sadly I don’t think I can make it to scrabble this week.

WHA- I- YOU- I DON’T CARE ABOUT SCRABBLE CADENCE! When did this happen? Were you with the ogres this week? STARS this is so bad, I haven’t even had time to make any Get Well Soon Ripplefluffs!

WHERE ARE YOU? Are you at the Healing Center? I’M ON MY WAY RIGHT NOW.

Yesterday, no, it’s fine…though ripplefluffs would be nice.

Yes, I’m in the Healing Center. But you don’t have to come over right now, really. Don’t you have a job to be doing?

ITS NOT LIKE I DO ANYTHING AS THE BEACON ANYWAYS- *coughs*

*quieter* …but fine. also i have no idea where tiergan is. last time i saw him he was-

OKAY ripplefluffs are done I'm right outside the healing center.

Wait what happened to Tiergan?

CADENCE WHERE IS TIERGAN????

Hi. Come in, Elwin isn’t here right now.

I, uh, I don’t really know how to explain what happened to Tiergan without explaining everything. But he’s not here so he’s probably fine. I do hope he’s okay.

Unbe- fucking - lievable. I was going to ask him to run security on the towers for me before he left Foxfire but I GUESS HE ISN'T THERE ANYWAY.

*sigh* take a ripplfluff Cadence, you look like you need one desperately. You also have quite a lot of explaining to do.

Don’t be mad at Tiergan.

*grabs a ripplefluff*

So.

*insert explanation i don’t feel like typing cause it’s a lot*

*chilling*

. . . Something just happened to my Beacon.

Sorry about that. Uh…you’re going to have to take over my responsibilities until I’ve recovered. Or forever.

WHAT? WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?? Are you okay?!

I’m not sure how much I’m allowed to say, but…there was a fight. I am fine. Hopefully. I should be at least. And sadly I don’t think I can make it to scrabble this week.

WHA- I- YOU- I DON’T CARE ABOUT SCRABBLE CADENCE! When did this happen? Were you with the ogres this week? STARS this is so bad, I haven’t even had time to make any Get Well Soon Ripplefluffs!

WHERE ARE YOU? Are you at the Healing Center? I’M ON MY WAY RIGHT NOW.

Yesterday, no, it’s fine…though ripplefluffs would be nice.

Yes, I’m in the Healing Center. But you don’t have to come over right now, really. Don’t you have a job to be doing?

ITS NOT LIKE I DO ANYTHING AS THE BEACON ANYWAYS- *coughs*

*quieter* …but fine. also i have no idea where tiergan is. last time i saw him he was-

OKAY ripplefluffs are done I'm right outside the healing center.

Wait what happened to Tiergan?

CADENCE WHERE IS TIERGAN????

#cadence reblogs #(mod note can we pretend explain so i dont have to type everything out im too lazy for allat)

Hi. Come in, Elwin isn’t here right now.

I, uh, I don’t really know how to explain what happened to Tiergan without explaining everything. But he’s not here so he’s probably fine. I do hope he’s okay.

*chilling*

. . . Something just happened to my Beacon.

Sorry about that. Uh…you’re going to have to take over my responsibilities until I’ve recovered. Or forever.

WHAT? WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?? Are you okay?!

I’m not sure how much I’m allowed to say, but…there was a fight. I am fine. Hopefully. I should be at least. And sadly I don’t think I can make it to scrabble this week.

WHA- I- YOU- I DON’T CARE ABOUT SCRABBLE CADENCE! When did this happen? Were you with the ogres this week? STARS this is so bad, I haven’t even had time to make any Get Well Soon Ripplefluffs!

WHERE ARE YOU? Are you at the Healing Center? I’M ON MY WAY RIGHT NOW.

Yesterday, no, it’s fine…though ripplefluffs would be nice.

Yes, I’m in the Healing Center. But you don’t have to come over right now, really. Don’t you have a job to be doing?

#cadence reblogs #(she has no idea how to explain what happened or what tiergan was doing)

ITS NOT LIKE I DO ANYTHING AS THE BEACON ANYWAYS- *coughs*

*quieter* …but fine. also i have no idea where tiergan is. last time i saw him he was-

*chilling*

. . . Something just happened to my Beacon.

Sorry about that. Uh…you’re going to have to take over my responsibilities until I’ve recovered. Or forever.

WHAT? WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?? Are you okay?!

I’m not sure how much I’m allowed to say, but…there was a fight. I am fine. Hopefully. I should be at least. And sadly I don’t think I can make it to scrabble this week.

WHA- I- YOU- I DON’T CARE ABOUT SCRABBLE CADENCE! When did this happen? Were you with the ogres this week? STARS this is so bad, I haven’t even had time to make any Get Well Soon Ripplefluffs!

WHERE ARE YOU? Are you at the Healing Center? I’M ON MY WAY RIGHT NOW.