Untitled @rhaenaofmyr - Tumblr Blog

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

The sensation of his seed filling her, combined with his groans of pleasure into her mouth only serve to drive her into another powerful pleasure. Her own sounds of pleasure joining his, muffled by the heated kiss they share.

After several long moments, her hips slow to a stop before she eventually rolls off him onto her back beside him, dark eyes fixed upon the high ceiling of their tower room. Panting with the exertion of her fucking mere moments ago.

Eventually, once she has regained enough of herself, she props herself up slightly, running a hand through her dark hair and smirking over at him.

“I feared I would grow bored of this, you know?” She murmurs. “But I know for certain now that I never shall…”

She leans over to press a kiss to his cheek before rising from the bed, throwing a robe about her bare frame before moving over to pour herself a goblet of wine. However, now that their intimacy has paused for the moment, the darkness of her thoughts begins to creep back in and suddenly, the tower room feels entirely stifling.

Murmuring to Eskel that she needed some air, she grabs both the pitcher and her goblet, making for the balcony. Setting the items down atop the railing and leaning upon it herself. Feeling the tears fill her eyes almost immediately as she gazes out across the moonlit valley below.

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She keeps her movements slow yet passionate, making love to him right there in the heated water. The pleasure of his magical aura as strong as ever, continuing to send her into climaxes every few minutes. She recalled when first they had fucked after her transformation, she had feared the effects would wear off, that she would grow accustomed to the powerful vibrations. And yet now, she knew she never would, each intimacy only seeming to surprise her with the intensity of climax he would bring her too.

And right now, she needed the distraction more than ever.

Breaking their kiss to gaze into his eyes, she finds his hand with hers and slowly guides it down between her parted legs, pressing his fingers to her clit. Cursing in Myrish at the powerful sensation that immediately increased her pleasure tenfold.

“Eskel…fuck…”

wanderingwolfwitcher

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

Before long she is bouncing fiercely stop him, the water from the tub splashing upon the stone floor with the force of her movements. Finding herself now in that place she could only get to with him, enjoying one seemingly endless climax.

She digs her nails into his shoulders and chest as she rides him, crying out in heated pleasure so loudly she fears it is likely the trolls in the mountains Eskel had told her of would startle.

“Fuck…”

Soon enough, however, her position in her knees begins to bring her some discomfort, the hard metal of the tub far from the most comfortable surface. And, far from wanting to separate them, she merely draws a portal about them which deposits them immediately atop the bed near the tub.

Smirking down at him, she pushes him to lie flat, beginning to grind her hips atop him as her dark eyes remain fixed upon his. Longing to see the pleasure build within that viper gaze.

wanderingwolfwitcher

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

The force of her hips only grows as his thrusts up into her intensify, climax after climax raging through her. Her arousal beginning to coat his hips as she straddles him.

As he draws her down to kiss him, she moans loudly into his mouth, though takes the opportunity to grasp both of his wrists, pinning them forcefully above his head. Taking full possession of him in that moment. Mouth remaining close to his, alternating between kissing him feverishly and biting at his lip.

“Fill me,” she hisses against his lip after a time. . “That’s it…claim me as your own…”

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She keeps her movements slow yet passionate, making love to him right there in the heated water. The pleasure of his magical aura as strong as ever, continuing to send her into climaxes every few minutes. She recalled when first they had fucked after her transformation, she had feared the effects would wear off, that she would grow accustomed to the powerful vibrations. And yet now, she knew she never would, each intimacy only seeming to surprise her with the intensity of climax he would bring her too.

And right now, she needed the distraction more than ever.

Breaking their kiss to gaze into his eyes, she finds his hand with hers and slowly guides it down between her parted legs, pressing his fingers to her clit. Cursing in Myrish at the powerful sensation that immediately increased her pleasure tenfold.

“Eskel…fuck…”

wanderingwolfwitcher

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

Before long she is bouncing fiercely stop him, the water from the tub splashing upon the stone floor with the force of her movements. Finding herself now in that place she could only get to with him, enjoying one seemingly endless climax.

She digs her nails into his shoulders and chest as she rides him, crying out in heated pleasure so loudly she fears it is likely the trolls in the mountains Eskel had told her of would startle.

“Fuck…”

Soon enough, however, her position in her knees begins to bring her some discomfort, the hard metal of the tub far from the most comfortable surface. And, far from wanting to separate them, she merely draws a portal about them which deposits them immediately atop the bed near the tub.

Smirking down at him, she pushes him to lie flat, beginning to grind her hips atop him as her dark eyes remain fixed upon his. Longing to see the pleasure build within that viper gaze.

#;;usfw #wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She keeps her movements slow yet passionate, making love to him right there in the heated water. The pleasure of his magical aura as strong as ever, continuing to send her into climaxes every few minutes. She recalled when first they had fucked after her transformation, she had feared the effects would wear off, that she would grow accustomed to the powerful vibrations. And yet now, she knew she never would, each intimacy only seeming to surprise her with the intensity of climax he would bring her too.

And right now, she needed the distraction more than ever.

Breaking their kiss to gaze into his eyes, she finds his hand with hers and slowly guides it down between her parted legs, pressing his fingers to her clit. Cursing in Myrish at the powerful sensation that immediately increased her pleasure tenfold.

“Eskel…fuck…”

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

Though it was less than a second before he responded to her tentative kiss, it felt like a lifetime. Everything in her telling her he was going to push her away. Yet he does the opposite, instead drawing her closer with those rough hands upon her rear and she moans softly at the sensation of his hard cock against her, taking several long moments to grind herself against him. Allowing the strong magical vibrations to pleasure her enough that she grew wetter for him.

After a while, she breaks their kiss, lifting her hips enough and grasping his manhood before guiding him inside her with a heated gasp.

“Fuck…” she moans, dark eyes closing as she feels the vibrations course through her. Bringing her to immediate pleasure within seconds.

Then, keeping her dark gaze fixed upon his, she slowly begins to ride him right there in the heated water.

#;;usfw #wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

Dark eyes close at the comforting sensation his arms and lips bring her. A part of her mind tells her to run, that she does not deserve such comfort after what she has done. Especially comfort from someone she has hurt in the process. But Eskel’s constant reassurances keep her where she is and she finds herself relaxing in his arms even further.

“When you first came back to me after I completed my training, I vowed to you that I would not become like others you have known,” she says quietly after a short silence. “And that is a vow I will never break…”

She repositions herself then to face him, straddling his hips so she could look into his eyes, a hand coming to rest upon his scarred cheek. Thumb soothingly tracing over the marks upon his skin.

“I did not use the power from the magic barriers for ill gains…I used it as I was blinded by desperation to know the fate of my son. My actions are something I will deeply regret for the remainder of my days, knowing they hurt you and knowing the consequences they led to. But…I am grateful that you acknowledge that hurting you was not my intention.”

She leans in to kiss him then, almost hesitantly. Trying to gauge his response, hoping he would allow her to fully make things up to him.

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She scowls at him as he picks up the goat.

“The fact you have not admonished her for trying to harm me is rather telling, Witcher,” she huffs, murmuring to dispel the enchantment as she rises. “Were she my goat, she would be diced up in a pot by now if she were treating my guests so poorly.”

Still, she moves over to him, bringing a hand to scratch the creature between the horns, smirking as the goat studied her curiously.

“Just wait until Eskel leaves the two of us alone…” she smirks at the goat. “He’ll return to a lovely goat stew, I bet…”

She’s teasing, of course. She would never harm the creature, especially given how fond Eskel seemed to be of it.

“Perhaps you ought to put her in the courtyard again,” she says to him. “Then join me upstairs…I feel a bath may help ease some of my tension…”

Then, pressing a kiss to his cheek, she leaves, heading up and murmuring a spell to heat the water in the tub, stripping and relaxing into it.

wanderingwolfwitcher

"Heh. She has seniority on you, I'm afraid. Known and had her around here longer. It counts for something, in my book. Especially considering my age."

Eskel's low, amused voice returned to her with a chuckle under his breath at her words, pleased she was at least in a slightly better mood... or at least it didn't seem to be false. She was trying to affect some of her old manner, despite the shock and trauma she had been through... she didn't have to pretend for his sake, and hopefully she knew that. The dark haired Sorceress moved to scratch the goat between the horns, not receiving any more hostility from the animal in response, but simple curiosity. As Rhaena teased the goat further his own smirk deepened to match hers, a hand rising to rub along 'Lil Bleater's fur coat gradually. When she spoke up again, offering a welcome suggestion for how to spend the evening ahead, how to start it at least, he nodded, speaking up to her again, viper eyes looking between her and the friendly goat.

"Probably best if I put her away in the stables, in that case. Much as she'd almost certainly like to join us, you might turn up the heat with magic, turn that bath into a stewing pot the moment she stepped in. I'll be right up pretty lady, in that case."

The Witcher smiled fondly when she pressed a kiss to his scarred cheek, and he watched her depart for the stairwell up to their room in the tower, before turning and making his way for the main doors of the great hall, carrying the goat back outside into the fresh Winter air, breathing it in as the flakes descended upon them. He carried the goat down to the lower courtyard stables, where Scorpion was set up and looking comfortable. Though after setting down the goat, he made sure to top up the hay, oats and melt the ice that had formed on his water with a light Igni Sign. He took the time to pat the war horse and goat alike, and once assured they were settled in, he made his way back up to the keep and up the tower's stairs, joining her in the quarters again, closing the door behind him. He began to remove his clothing at once as he looked over to the beauty awaiting him in the bath already, the alluring view beckoning to him. Once he was stripped down to only his medallion, he went to the sizable, heated pool and climbed into it with her, uttering a low, contented breath of relief as the water rose up over him... his deep voice murmuring to her again as he opened his eyes to look back across at her perfect visage.

"Ahh... much better. I might be better with the cold of winters than most, used to it, but I ain't immune to the lure of a hot bath. Especially not with the right company."

@rhaenaofmyr

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She watches on with a hint of a smile as he undresses and settles into the water opposite her. Then, she grab a nearby washcloth and a chunk of soap she had magically summoned, beginning to cleanse herself with it. Gradually feeling some of the tension melting away.

“When we’re on the path together, I can have this waiting for you each and every night you return to me,” she murmurs fondly. “Though perhaps I won’t join you in the water as often…I’d rather not be soaking in blood and monster guts. I’d prefer to simply admire the view.”

After a time, she sets the cloth and soap down before repositioning to settle herself between his legs, leaning back against his chest with a contented sigh. She remains silent for a long while, simply enjoying the pleasant magical vibrations he was sending through her. Then, eventually, she speaks.

“Thank you for not sending me away…”

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She scowls at him as he picks up the goat.

“The fact you have not admonished her for trying to harm me is rather telling, Witcher,” she huffs, murmuring to dispel the enchantment as she rises. “Were she my goat, she would be diced up in a pot by now if she were treating my guests so poorly.”

Still, she moves over to him, bringing a hand to scratch the creature between the horns, smirking as the goat studied her curiously.

“Just wait until Eskel leaves the two of us alone…” she smirks at the goat. “He’ll return to a lovely goat stew, I bet…”

She’s teasing, of course. She would never harm the creature, especially given how fond Eskel seemed to be of it.

“Perhaps you ought to put her in the courtyard again,” she says to him. “Then join me upstairs…I feel a bath may help ease some of my tension…”

Then, pressing a kiss to his cheek, she leaves, heading up and murmuring a spell to heat the water in the tub, stripping and relaxing into it.

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She’s simultaneously disappointed and grateful that he does not try to take things further. Disappointed because it would have distracted her if only for a little while. Grateful because she doubts her head would remain clear enough to focus entirely on him.

And so, she allows him to lead her back over to the fireplace, settling in his arms as they recline beside it upon the furs. Cuddling into his broad chest and listening to his steady heartbeat as she watches the flickering flames. And it must have been enough to relax her for before long, she has drifted off to sleep.

A few hours later, she wakes up to the feeling of eyes upon her in the darkness now that the flames had died down. After rubbing her eyes and taking a swift glance around the hall, she spies the disturbance. Quickly muttering an enchantment to draw an invisible shield about herself as the goat charges at her. Swiftly bouncing off the shield the moment it hits.

“Eskel…” she nudges him before gesturing to the goat. “Would you mind?”

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She stiffens as his arms wrap about her but within moments, she entirely collapses into them, her frame wracked with sobs as the grief finally fully crashes over her. Trembling hands clawing desperately at the back of his shirt as she clings to him.

Eventually, she slowly calms down, still clinging to him and yet the sobs have ceased, although the tears had not.

Lifting her head from his chest, she meets his gaze.

“Perhaps I am unworthy of saying this now but…” she shakes her head. “I love you, Eskel…and I am truly sorry for what I did.”

wanderingwolfwitcher

Eskel's broad arms wrapped around the dark haired Sorceress, hands rubbing along her back as she held him tightly, offering what silent soothing that he could. He was hardly an expert on comforting others with their grief, believing grief was better off as a personal and private matter, but he was not yet so old that he had become detached from social matters and others that he was blind to it, or apathetic. He wasn't certain how much longer that would end up lasting, but he was in no hurry for that to become so, to become as cold within as a Vendigo was without. There were enough cold sorts in the world as it were, including himself when out on the Path and focused on survivalism... only here at Kaer Morhen could he really afford to set that aside, for a time. One of his hands rose to gently run through Rhaena's hair, letting her get out the tears that she needed to, some of them, at least, before she rose her watery gaze back up to his calm viper one. At her words, the Witcher's scarred visage smiled faintly but genuinely, and he nodded, pressing a kiss to her cheek and his deep, languid tone murmuring back to her in her ear.

"I love you as well, Rhaena, and I know you are. No need to worry about that, right now. Let's just relax here, eat, drink, then get some rest over by the fire. No hurry. All the time one needs to be found, up here."

@rhaenaofmyr

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

His response brings a soft smile to her lips and she brings a hand up to gently stroke his scarred cheek. She knew Eskel well enough now to know that he meant his words. That his feelings were entirely true and reflected her own. She still felt entirely undeserving, but perhaps he had decided she was not.

Slowly, almost hesitantly, she leans up to kiss him gently, though ending up lingering there. Their kiss growing in heat as she clambers into his lap. Perhaps this would be a good distraction from the past twenty-four hours…

However, after a few moments, she draws back, shaking her head as her cheeks burn.

“Forgive me…” she mutters, running a hand through her dark hair and awkwardly shifting away from him. If there was to be any affection between them, it was not her place now to lead it.

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She stiffens as his arms wrap about her but within moments, she entirely collapses into them, her frame wracked with sobs as the grief finally fully crashes over her. Trembling hands clawing desperately at the back of his shirt as she clings to him.

Eventually, she slowly calms down, still clinging to him and yet the sobs have ceased, although the tears had not.

Lifting her head from his chest, she meets his gaze.

“Perhaps I am unworthy of saying this now but…” she shakes her head. “I love you, Eskel…and I am truly sorry for what I did.”

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

There is a strong temptation to go into his arms then, but she fights against it. Whilst he said he can forgive her for using the power from the magic barriers at the lab, she still feels entirely unworthy of his comfort, no matter how much she craves it. And the knowledge of what she had done in Myr…she doubts she will ever feel worthy of his arms again.

Still, she returns to sit beside him, her own arms wrapping about herself and hugging herself tightly, the tears beginning to fall once more.

“How do you do it, Eskel? All that loss…everything you’ve done that might sit heavy on your conscience…” she looks up at him eventually. Nought but desperate sadness in her dark eyes. “How have you handled it enough to survive for so long?”

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

When he rises, she instinctively takes a step back, fearing for a moment that he might harm her in light of what she had done. But he does not- instead, he offers her gentle reassurance. Almost as though he is urging her not to leave.

“Eskel, I…”

She’s uncertain what it is she wants to say, so instead she elects to remain silent, offering him an almost defeated nod instead. If Eskel was anything, it was honest, and if he was telling her she could stay then he meant it.

Before long, they are in the great hall, Rhaena idly picking at the food Eskel had put in front of her. She had no appetite whatsoever, feeling as though she might vomit. The ale, however, proved no issue and soon, she is onto her third mug of the stuff, the alcohol seemingly lightening how she was feeling somewhat. But barely. However it was certainly enough to loosen her tongue.

“Eskel…” she says eventually, looking up at him. “Can…can you ever forgive me? I shan’t make excuses for what I did but…just know there was no malicious intent behind it. I was just…so fiercely desperate to get to my son, I would have done anything without thinking on the consequences. And what I chose to do has ended up hurting you. And…Eskel, I am so truly sorry.”

wanderingwolfwitcher

Eskel settled in with her for breakfast at the great hall after he had finished preparing it for them, and though he ate as he normally did, she understandably picked at her food, though did turn her attention to the ale. He hoped the food would do her some good, after what she had experienced in the world she had come from... at least enough good to help clear her mind, restore some order. For his part, he didn't prompt her to speak of what she had just been through... the silence wasn't as comfortable as past ones, but it was what she seemed to need for the moment. At least until the dark haired Sorceress found her voice at last, looking to and speaking to him again gradually, breaking the silence that had draped itself over the hall. His viper eyes met Rhaena's own gaze, lowering his fork to his plate as he listened, instead taking a drink of his own. At last, after she had finished speaking and he had mulled it over, he nodded, setting aside his drink, the Witcher's deep, calm voice speaking up to her again. He also reached across the table, taking one of her hands into his atop the surface of it, squeezing it gently, trying to sooth her as best he could.

"Yes, I can. Made no shortage of tough decisions in my time... and lack of decisions... both of which have gotten a good many people harmed or killed. Not all of them deserving of it. From the sounds of it, in your case, only someone who got what was coming to them has suffered, here. You have the answers you were looking for, at least... not the ones you wanted, but the cold, hard truth, at least. Now you must learn how to live with it day by day, as I have. Won't lie and tell you it's easy, but it can be done. And you don't have to be alone with it."

@rhaenaofmyr

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She laughs bitterly, shaking her head as she takes another long drink of her ale. Silently wishing for something stronger.

“If anyone ought to have lost their life for what happened to my son, it should be me,” she mutters. “I…father did not find him for three days after I left. I tried to leave him safe, expecting the babe to be found the next morning, but the Gods decided it was not to be.”

There are tears steadily streaming down her cheeks now as she continues.

“Father was innocent in all of this…I see that now. After all, how was he to know? But now he is dead and his blood is on my hands.”

She rises then, stepping closer to the fireplace. Dark gaze watching the orange flames for several moments.

“It is taking everything within me not to cast myself from the highest tower of this keep.”

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

When he rises, she instinctively takes a step back, fearing for a moment that he might harm her in light of what she had done. But he does not- instead, he offers her gentle reassurance. Almost as though he is urging her not to leave.

“Eskel, I…”

She’s uncertain what it is she wants to say, so instead she elects to remain silent, offering him an almost defeated nod instead. If Eskel was anything, it was honest, and if he was telling her she could stay then he meant it.

Before long, they are in the great hall, Rhaena idly picking at the food Eskel had put in front of her. She had no appetite whatsoever, feeling as though she might vomit. The ale, however, proved no issue and soon, she is onto her third mug of the stuff, the alcohol seemingly lightening how she was feeling somewhat. But barely. However it was certainly enough to loosen her tongue.

“Eskel…” she says eventually, looking up at him. “Can…can you ever forgive me? I shan’t make excuses for what I did but…just know there was no malicious intent behind it. I was just…so fiercely desperate to get to my son, I would have done anything without thinking on the consequences. And what I chose to do has ended up hurting you. And…Eskel, I am so truly sorry.”

#wanderingwolfwitcher #;;the continent (v)#;;west of westeros (verse)#;;rhaena x eskel (ship)

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher [as discussed]

She clutches the cloak tighter about her frame, drawing the hood up over her head to at least try to keep the snow out of her eyes.

Rhaena had thought she would grow used to the chills that winters on The Continent brought. It had been near four years since she had fled from Westeros, where she had been condemned to a life of poverty in King’s Landing. She’d had no clue where she would end up when she stole away into the belly of a merchant ship, and it would seem that had the crew- she would later learn that their original destination had been Essos, but wild storms had sent them adrift and now here she was.

She’d traversed her way through this strange new world, eventually settling in a small village close to the mountains of Kaedwen. Of course, without a coin to her name, she had had to find work quickly, but the village’s pleasure house had employed her the moment they had laid eyes upon her. It was not something she particularly enjoyed, but it earned her enough to purchase a small homestead on the outskirts of the village.

The storm had set in as she was returning home and quickly, she had lost her bearings in the blizzard. She’d ended up in the forest that circled the village, entirely blind to the true way home. She paused for a moment, dark eyes casting this way and that to look for something familiar. But so thick was the snow that she could scarcely see her hand in front of her face. And she did not see the creature until it had knocked her to the ground, sharp claws pressing into her chest as it pins her down. All she can see now is teeth, growing ever closer as it leans down to take the death bite-

Suddenly, she hears the swing of the sword through the icy air, the thud of the creatures head as it lands close to hers, and feels the warm spray of blood across her face. Eyes remain shut for several moments before she slowly opens them, gaze falling upon the man in the dark red cloak, who stands above her.

Eyes wide with fear, she scrambles to her feet. Beneath the hood, she can make out yellow eyes and a large scar that marrs his face. She’s seen him around the village from time to time- she cannot recall his name, but she knows he is one of the elusive Witchers who spend their winters nearby.

“Th-thank you, Ser…” she says with as much bravery as she can muster, words heavily accented. “Forgive me but…I have no coin for you…”

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

The pain in her head is the first thing she notices as she stirs, woken by the movement beside her on the bed. At first she assumes that perhaps she had overindulged on wine the night before…and then she recalls.

The portal…Myr…her son…

Opening her dark eyes then, she sees Eskel lying beside her with his eyes closed. It would seem her spell had worked a little better than anticipated. However, something in his breathing tells her he too is awake.

She finds herself with two options. She could flee, lose herself somewhere in the valleys. Allow herself to succumb to some creature, free herself from the guilt she feels. She knew nothing would ever take away the pain and anger that now flooded her, the deaths of both her son and her father now upon her hands.

Or, she could remain where she was. Feign ignorance that there was anything untoward. Tell him she must have written the letter in her sleep.

Would Eskel still want her around if he found out the truth? She knew his neutrality was something he valued, but surely what she had done would test that.

In the end, she goes with neither option. She owed Eskel that much.

Taking a breath, she shifts onto her side to look at him, tears already pouring down her cheeks. Waiting for him to open his eyes before she speaks, choosing her words carefully.

“Eskel I…” she says quietly, swallowing hard. “Last night…I opened a portal, using power I harnessed from the laboratory barriers. I made it back to Myr.”

Gradually, she tells him the tale. Wandering the palace under a spell of invisibility. Seeing no sign of children anywhere, no memories from those she touched.

“I found my father…searched his memory. He…he did not find my son until two days after I left. The boy was already dead…and my father cast him into the river as though he were nothing. I…”

Then, pausing to choke back a sob.

“I crushed my father’s heart as he slept. But…Gods, Eskel…my son is dead because of me…and now my father too…”

wanderingwolfwitcher

Eskel was silent and still, eyes remaining shut... not needing them open to map her out next to him on the bed, hearing her heartbeats, her quickened breathing as the dark haired Sorceress awoke... and the scent of Rhaena's tears as they began to flow. His viper eyes opened at last when she turned towards him, and he looked to her, sitting up as well and listening as she spoke. At her confession, he remained silent a bit longer, mulling over the unpleasant revelations, her visit to the laboratory despite the fact she knew he had wanted it be left alone, what the place meant to him, and what she had found out on the other side of her portal, in her own world. What she had done there. Patricide... hardly the first time he had heard of such, but he had not expected it of her. He took one of her hands into his, fingers intertwining through hers and pressing a gentle kiss to the back of it, while his other rose to wipe her tears gently... but knowing it wouldn't do much to stem the flow. She needed to let it all out and grieve her loss... and his irritation at her broken promise, abuse of his trust, in using the power in the laboratory could wait, was hardly a priority in light of what she had discovered. His grim sympathy outweighing it. At last his low, quiet voice murmured back to her gently.

"I see. I'm sorry, Rhaena. You have my sympathies, for what that's worth. I know of many sorts of losses... I've seen them all often enough... experienced my share of then... and I've seen that no grief compares to that of a parent who has lost their children. Perhaps that is one of the incidental mercies of my mutations, never having to worry about outliving my own children. I can't say this will ever stop hurting you... you will have to take it a day at a time... and in time, it will diminish and simply become part of you. You would be surprised what a person is capable of enduring... and the people we lose are still with us, even long after they have gone. Make us who we are."

@rhaenaofmyr

rhaenaofmyr

@wanderingwolfwitcher

She listens on as he speaks, though his words scarcely register. No, all she can feel is the palpable anger in him, and she did not need to break into his thoughts to find out why.

What she had done to her father, she knew he would not judge her for. But what she had done to Eskel…gone precisely against what he had asked of her, went to the lab regardless. Disrespected him in his own home, betrayed his trust. Her own desperation for return to Myr had blinded her, but it was still no excuse.

Shifting away from him, she rises from the bed, smoothing out her dress. Forcing herself to look at him.

“I’ll leave. What I have done to you in going to the lab…it is not something I can forgive myself for, and I’m certain you cannot forgive me for either. I had my reasons for doing so, and I swear to you I did not enter the lab…I only used the barrier to enhance the strength of my own power. But it is no excuse. All I can say is…I am truly sorry…”