A short meal had been had, lukewarm in nature, but tasty nonetheless. There had even been a ripe peach resting to the side, saved for last so that she could let it’s sweet juices linger in her mouth.
Taliorinth was still puzzled as to how she got here, but thinking over the events, she grew more concerned as her memory pieced together what happened. It was troubling, and the feeling of guilt grew in her stomach as she went on. She knew she wasn’t home, and she knew she wasn’t in that mans house either. In fact, after a few moments longer, she realized exactly where she was.
Embertree.
She slowly had lifted from the table, moving to the window to figure what time it was exactly. The display of lands were tinted in that amber glow, the show of the late afternoon she’d awaken into. It made her frown a bit, the lack of memory of getting here troubling her greatly.
Taliorinth sat there, silently wondering to herself, ‘Just what happened?’
There was a beautiful laugh that echoed along the table, and abruptly, attention was demanded with the honey voice of the head of the family.
“Now, this is the moment to speak of it in truth! Please!” Vesthiriel’s gaze drifted to Taliorinth and the man beside her, glowing with pride, “It is official then, and that is why I asked you all here. My dear, darling young sister Taliorinth Rosespear, has officially accepted the proposal of Nesrin Thori’thal, and we are having the ceremony in a matter of weeks!”
She clapped, her delighted features guileless. “Normally we would wait, but seeing as the groom waited so long, and the bride herself was without… haste we thought was the kinder gesture.”
Nesrin smiled at that, rubbing his hand along Taliorinth’s shoulder slowly. “Truly, there is nothing we look forward to more.”
The small woman herself kept a neutral expression, holding back something in favor of a look to the man who smiled to her. Automatically, she lifted her lips and offered a reflection of that smile.
The man with the bushy beard, Taeral Everdawn, lifted his glass in kind. “Ah, such wonderful news. My congratulations to the soon to be happy couple.” A polite smile offered to both.
Gabriel’s expression twitched at the mention of the wedding, his grey gaze drifting over to Taliorinth, watching her reaction. A twitch of a frown on the edge of his lips, no words said at all from his side.
Laenetta took the moment to lean forward slowly, looking like a panther ready to pounce. “No congratulations for the happy couple?”
In a moment, the man shook his head, snapping out of thoughts unheard and focusing his gaze instead on Laenetta, “Forgive me, I was merely… overcome with joy for words.” He tried to smile again, but it was clearly forced.
“Well, here’s your chance. Say it.” Lanetta smiled viciously.
Silence fell over the table, drawing on an almost awkward length, yet it was cut through quickly by that sweet voice of Vesthiriel once more.
“Then a toast! To the happy couple.” She swept back behind Taliorinth, placing a hand on her shoulder, raising her glass with the other, “To Taliorinth Thori’thal, future Lady of Hymethalas, and her adoring and patient husband-to-be.” Her eyes were cast along the table, “Please, all of you, raise your glasses! To the Bride!”
One by one, the others at the table rose their glasses, Laenetta quick to offer out, “Cheers! Gabriel should give a toast too!”
There was clear hesitancy, Gabriel not wanting to say something, but eventually he said, “To your continued happiness and everything you deserve.” Yet his eyes did not fall on anyone but Taliorinth.
The small bride-to-be met his gaze, her smile faltering a bit with that look, one that spoke volumes of it’s own paired with the words he said.
Vesthiriel quickly added, “And to the groom!” Which was echoed along the table from the others. As it fell to silence again, she went on easily, looking to each gathered, “We will be celebrating and enjoying the union for those coming days, and you are all invited to join us in our hospitality. We plan on remaining together for this time-- it would be a shame to part the pair after so long, so many years without each other.”
Gabriel took this moment to speak up, “While you have my congratulations, there are many I am sure would delight in this news of her coming… union. Perhaps she could spare some time to share this news with certain others who have been missing her terribly these past few weeks.”
Laenetta rose her brow, “And we have been missing her terribly these past -years-. They can wait.”
Vesthiriel spoke up then, “Ah, but they are welcome here, Lord Shadowdrake! And in our home they are most, most welcome. After all, we are nothing--” A sharp look was given to Laenetta, causing the other woman to wilt, “if not hospitable.”
Her words spent, she leaned in to whisper to Taliorinth, “My peach, you must smile more and speak more kindly of Nesrin. Your silence is unbecoming this time; I know you so love to chatter, why do you not tell us how much you are excited for this chance to make everyone so very happy?”
Taliorinth blinked at her sister’s words right next to her ear, lifting her gaze and looking about at the table. Just as commanded, she put on a bright smile, truly looking happy as she said, "I am really happy here- being able to spend so much time with everyone. I'd hate to waste the opportunity, especially after so long."
She looked to her sisters... especially Vesthiriel, looking for that approval before she went on, "And especially with all the delicious food and places we've gotten to go experience. It feels nice..." She did slowly look to Nesrin, somehow wanting approval from that man as well.
Nesrin’s fingers still gently caressed Taliorinth’s arm, he nodded at her look, “And there’s still much to see. We’ll, of course, take some time in my own lands… but afterwards we’ll be coming back here to host the ceremony proper, is that not correct?”
“Perhaps,” Gabriel spoke up again, “I can make the arrangements then if that is what you wish. I am sure they would all love to hear you say such. One in particular comes to mind. They don’t like to get out much, as you remember, but they have told me before I came here of how much they have missed you. Quite. Even so, I am sure they would be delighted to have you tell them in person.”
Taliorinth’s attention focused on Gabriel again, the words garnering something in her. She knew he was talking of Quineven, and immediately there was a pang in her heart. Her eyes spoke of her want to see him. Her want was enough that she dared to open her mouth and say, “Maybe… maybe just for a day I could go visit them?” Like a child asking permission, she looked to her eldest sister.
Vesthiriel looked at her sisters, and the woman clucked maternally. "Oh darling, you would ask that after your escapade at the beach?" Her voice had a shadow of hurt to it. "I thought you were being wiser, like we know you can be, my dear."
Taliorinth’s ears pinned down, the hurt felt like a stab through her heart, silencing away any desire to do what she should have know was forbidden at this time.
Gabriel, however, would not stay silent, quickly saying, “I hardly think a mere day would hurt anything, with all due respect, Lady Rosespear.”
Vesthiriel merely let her face show a moment of emotion, her words dripping with the wound the simple request had caused, “You promised, Taliorinth…”
Laenetta had cast a sharp look to Gabriel, putting a comforting hand on the eldest sisters arm before slowly looking away from Gabriel to Taliorinth instead, “We… only want to spend these times with you. Your promises mean a lot to us, Taliorinth. We love you.”
Before a response could be given, Vesth just shook her head, “It is not to be considered, my dear. You must remain here. It’s only the wise decision.” She reached forward, placing her soft hand against Tali’s cheek, “It is what father would have wanted for you, you know how he loved us to be happy together.”
Taliorinth’s eyes widened a bit, looking worried… and then hurt at her own words. She swallowed down, leaning against the hand slightly before she said, “Ah…” hesitant, yet quick to put on a smile, “I won’t go anywhere… I did promise. I’m sorry I asked. I didn’t mean to offend.”
An approving glance was given to Vesthiriel over Taliorinth’s head, Nesrin’s intense gaze settling instead on Gabriel then, “You’ll have to tell these… friends… that she simply cannot do such. If they miss her so, then surely they can come to her. If not, then perhaps they are not as true to their friendships and commitments to her happiness as they make themselves seem.”
Silence was cast over the table, the moment giving Gabriel the chance to speak, “Very well. If even one day is asking far too much in order to see the other people in her life that love her, a question would have to be raised as to when she might be able to leave to go see them.”
Lanetta scoffed, “We said that they could come here. She can see them just fine that way.”
“After the wedding, of course.” Vesthiriel smiled, as though it was the clearest thing in the world.
Taliorinth’s brows twitched together, “The wedding isn’t… too far off. It’s not too much longer, so…”
Nesrin shifted, “Of course… Such a shame it could not be sooner, hrm?” He brushed his hand through some of Taliorinth’s hair, offer out the idea to the table.
Taeral cleared his throat then, rather loudly so as to drew attention to himself. "I can see this family is nothing if not close and loving. A refreshing thing to witness, in these trying times. If only more families were such." A subtle glance was spared Gabriel, before turning that polite smile to the hostess and her family. "If you might permit me, however, I would like to walk off a bit of this wine and observe your lovely gardens in the process." He set his now empty wineglass upon the table and shifted to stand. "Perhaps this other guest of yours might occupy me? I would very much enjoy the company." He turned then, setting his gaze upon Gabriel with a sharpness.
Gabriel opened his mouth to object to Taliorinth's acceptance of this matter, but his words were silenced once the other man spoke. He looked to Tali pleadingly before swallowing and drawing his attention to the man that now hovered over him. "I am not familiar with these grounds, I am afraid. Perhaps one of the ladies here would be better company to you?"
Vesthiriel just smiled, motioning them on, “Please, Taeral, Gabriel. We’ll join you in the gardens momentarily, but the new family needs a moment together.”
Nesrin’s eyes lidded a bit, watching the two with a secret pleasure. “I would agree. Do not be so very rude to our good friend here, Gabriel.”
Taliorinth could only watch as they all pushed Gabriel away. She wanted to apologize, but no words would rise from her throat… not now.
Taeral Everdawn narrowed his eyes and placed a hand on Gabriel’s shoulder, holding the man in place for the time. “I’m afraid I must insist, Gabriel,” A certain sharpness to his tone, before tightening his grip on the man’s shoulder. “There is a question on my mind, if you would allow us some time, Lady Rosespear. With all due respect.”
Vesthiriel merely smiled indulgently, “Please, go on.”
Gabriel’s brows furrowed, and he looked back to Taliorinth… only to lower his eyes in defeat soon after, “Very well, Lord Everdawn… if that is what you wish. I will comply.”
She stared out of the window still, her eyes glazed over in thought as she pieced together her memory of things again. It was like an itch that she was finally getting to scratch, yet the more she went at it, the more she felt pangs of pain.
Like something was wrong.
Gabriel being there.
Everyone leaving.
Her being here.
Something had happened, and as she remembered more and more of it, Taliorinth was realizing just how much was truly wrong. Just how much trouble she’d be in.
It scared her, a bit, making her wring her hands in the loose gentle skirts of her dress.
What was she going to do?
They were alone.
Gabriel. Taeral. Her sisters.
All left her with her husband-to-be.
Taliorinth wanted to get up, and truth be told, there'd be a little shift in her position to try and do so.... ahhhh but that would not happen. Not with Nesrin there, holding her shoulders close. When Vesthiriel and Laenetta wandered off, she felt that dread well up inside of her again, knowing that left her to whatever Nesrin wished.... but was it really all that bad? She had to stop thinking the worst of it. Having Gabe here.... reminding her of all those things... it just made it all the worst.
She had those doubts swirling about her mind again that troubled her so, torn between wanting to comply to her sister’s wishes, to Nesrin’s wishes... to be offered everything, or to go with Gabe... to argue against what the sisters offered and go back to the ship, the grungy life that she'd grown to love and care for and all the people that came with it.... People like Quineven, that Gabriel so wished her to remember in times such as this. Truthfully, she felt immense guilt for such, but what could she honestly do? What could anyone do in this position?
Nesrin, to his credit, was well and patient as the pairs all too their turns wandering off. Slowly, he glanced about to the empty chairs, his fingers teasing through the curls of the blonde that he still had a possessive hold over. Eventually, without turning his gaze to her, he stated, "So this is the man that you were so adamant about abandoning us for."
Taliorinth blinked, looking to Nesrin, and then to the side with a guilty look. She didn't know what to say to that…
"I can honestly say i'm disappointed in it. The way he speaks of us, he is clearly a bad influence in your life, Taliorinth... Much like that man that stole you away from us all those years ago. I had thought you to be smarter than to fall for such lies from the man? Do you honestly think he cares about you? Do you not realize how valuable you are?" Nesrin stated in a calm and even tone.
Taliorinth's ears wilted further at the words, feeling the stinging of each syllable. Swallowing down, she muttered, "He is just worried, Nesrin."
He snorted, showing a break of that neutral expression, "Worried? Do you really believe that? Honestly, Taliorinth, listen to us.... listen to those that you've known all your life to be true, to be wise. He is not good for you. He is merely using you for something more..."
Nesrin frowned, looking down to her and shifting his hand, moving to grab hold of her face 'gently' and force her to look up at him, "I care about you, Taliorinth.... and I will not allow you to be lost to some man that thinks himself smart enough to pull the wool over all our eyes. He is bad for you, do you understand?"
Taliorinth didn't resist the hand that pulled up her chin, looking to Nesrin right in that intense gaze of his, frowning as she did so. His words made sense... too much sense. She cursed herself, curled her hands into fists... She was so conflicted, but she knew.... she knew she couldn't trust herself with it. "Nesrin..." She started, failing to finish.
Nesrin's fingers twitched, tightening ever so slightly on her, "Taliorinth. Trust me. You know I would not do anything to hurt you, yes? I have taken care of you all this time... just let me take care of you again." There was a genuine tone there in his voice, watching her closely.
Taliorinth wanted to pull her gaze away, yet she couldn't as was so often the case. She just watched into those sharp eyes of his, seeing that honesty, that commitment. She reminded herself that he was a good man. That he did mean well, and that her discomfort was perhaps just was an overreaction. Slowly, her hands uncurled from the fists and she nodded her head, "I know you wouldn't do anything to hurt me. I know you care. I do trust you, Nesrin."
Nesrin Thori'thal stayed silent for a few moments, letting the words she spoke hang in the air for a few long moments.
"Tell me you understand, Taliorinth." He'd finally say, commanding her such.
Taliorinth took in a slow breath, and without hesitation she said, "I understand, Nesrin."
Nesrin waited a few moments after as well, once again letting the weight of her words settle. Eventually, his grip on her chin would loosen, his knuckles brushing along her cheek, "That's my good girl. That's all you have to do, yes?"
She nodded her head, still feeling uneasy. Yet soon after, he leaned down to press a kiss to her lips, heavy and wanting. Trapping her there for an endless time against him in some form of romance and affection.
Suddenly there was a voice, “Sorry to interrupt…”
The voice pulled her from her thoughts, pulled her from the memory of the chilling touches she felt like she could never escape, leaving her only with the sight of what was in front of her. What was outside of the window she still sat in front of.
Taliorinth glanced over her shoulder, turning her gaze back to the doorway that had recently opened and allowed in a visitor she’d not heard from in so long. A tall man, clothes hanging off of his frame in a lazy fashion that made him always look more a traveler than anything. One stark blue eye contrasting against his tanned skin and his blonde locks.
She knew him like she knew no other, and to see him there, she felt some wash of emotions run over her. Like so many times, she tried to hide it away for a time. To hold back just how much just seeing him affected her… so much within her that she could say, yet her tongue failed to allow escape, her lips shut defiant against her mind.
“Quineven…” she finally uttered, turning herself about to fully face him.
Taeral had come back, his hand on Gabriel’s shoulder and an apologetic smile on his face. “We did not mean to intrude on your moment.”
Taliorinth immediately felt shame for having been caught, her cheeks turning red and her eyes dropping down.
Nesrin had pulled back from Taliorinth as soon as the others returned. Straightening up, he adjusted in his seat and looked forward to Taeral and Gabriel. "It is fine. Absolutely fine." He waved his hand. "There are more moments to be had. Many more, in fact, in the future."
Taeral looked between the pair, but still carried that smile. "As I am sure, considering your fast approaching engagement."
He looked around a moment, seemingly looking for the pair of women that were absent. "I had wished to show my appreciation for the fine dinner this evening before departing." His eyes gave a side glance to the man he held onto. "It appears there are dire matters that require my immediate attention, if you would forgive me."
Gabriel’s voice rose up with a bitter tone, “It would appear… I cannot stay long as well.”
Immediately, Taliorinth found her voice to weakly say, “No.” at the mention of him leaving. She didn’t want him gone… she didn’t want to be alone again. Not yet.
Nesrin nodded his head to Taeral, "Ah of course... of course." He hesitated at the sound of her Taliorinth, frowning, "There is no reason for you to stay any longer. I'll be sure to pass on the appreciation to the Rosespears myself."
Taeral blinked a moment, but without missing a beat, he nodded. "My thanks, Lord Thon'dil, and soon to be Lady." He bowed his head before turning to the man at his side. "Come along then. It is a long journey." That grip never faltering.
Gabriel perked his ears as Tali spoke up, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. He spoke up quickly, "If I may request you show us out, Tali?" He watched her hopefully. "I am not certain when next I may return, as it may not be before the wedding." His eyes only drifted momentarily to the man whom gripped Tali, before fixating on the woman herself again with that plead. "I would like... one last moment, if I may?"
"I'm afraid that won't be an option," Nesrin shot back without a moment’s hesitation.
Taeral made a low sound of disappointment. Even still. "Unfortunate, but I am sure you both would like to continue your privacy. I can respect that."
"We would, yes," the man said, his arm still around Taliorinth as he watched the pair.
The air was tense, and it seemed as if it would pass with the departure that would surely follow… but instead, Gabriel’s expression changed. He narrowed his eyes, and in a gruff tone he said, “I won’t.”
Within a heartbeat, he darted forward as Taeral released him from the grip. The man vaulted the table, pushing aside finery and foods all across them, his hand slipping into a hidden pocket and pulling out a small stone.
“NO!” Taliorinth tried to stop him; tried desperately to avoid this collision that was going to happen… to stop before something was truly ruined in this delicate balance.
There was a buzz of magic rose up, both from Nesrin himself and the stone that was held between Gabriel’s fingers. It was a quick moment that felt like an eternity, watching in a slowed manner as the spell activated against the stone and collided directly with the man’s skull. A shock of arcane went through the body, leaving him to slump back uselessly against the chair.
There was a miscast of a half-baked spell to the side, loudly tossing dishes along the floor and chairs, breaking them and leaving a scorch mark across the table’s surface. Deadly and meant for the man that was now standing to Taliorinth’s side.
Taliorinth had moved quickly, trying to check to make sure that Nesrin had not been killed by whatever magic was let loose. She couldn’t tell, pressing her fingers rapidly to his neck to find the pulse or sense he was still breathing.
Yet, true to his name, the shadow was standing there with her, and the last words she heard were from his gruff, familiar voice. One that so often warned her of the dangers of this situation or filled her thoughts with arguments against what she so desperately wanted…
“I’m sorry about this Tali…”
And the world darkened.
That was what was missing, she realized. That was what truly had happened.
That was why she was here…
That’s why Quineven stood before her now.
In a moment, she realized the weight of the actions that had transpired. The amount of troubles had been caused because of her and her decisions.
She had ran away again… just as she promised not to.
Already she felt the disappointment from her sisters.
Her sisters…
Her family…
All that she could do now was look to the man who surely gave that stone to Gabriel. Who surely knew this would all happen. Who surely requested her to be brought back here.
All she could do was ask that simple question that rang through her thoughts.
19th: Your character must write a thank you note. Who is it to, and what is it about?
In a burned out home lofted high above in the trees of Feralas, there rested very few belongings that managed to escape the flames. Books and papers, most ruined by the flames and ruins, rested in old husks of shelves that collapsed long ago.
Along the ruins, there was a box… broken and cracked by the intense heat, but somehow saving the multitude of items inside of it. Tucked away, near the top of the stack of items, rested an unsent letter. Saved and locked away for who knows how long.
It was addressed to nobody, and no name rested at the bottom. Like a simple note, passed only from the author to the intended recipient, it read:
‘It has been a while since you have first come through my doors, seeking guidance on a subject of which you were tired of asking upon. You paid your price tenfold, and though I had tried my best, I could give you nothing in return that soothed the pain you felt at that time. All that could be done had been, and in favor of a decision I so quickly made, you spent time there with me longer than most who come for what you did prefer to.
When you pleaded with me to give you a place, I had, and the job that you took on was done well. It is hard to find someone so dedicated as you had been, and for all you had asked, you did far more in return. The time you spent protecting me and my collection as you had was a mere blink of an eye, but never the less was memorable in it’s time.
You are the one that changed how things were. You were the one who forced yourself closer out of a need you told me of far later in our time together. You are the one who did so much to change how those simple times had been.
You changed me.
I never had taken the time to thank you for it, to offer true words for you to hear of it. Only my actions had ever spoken of what you deserved. So it is now, in this moment that I write this, that I wish to let you know truthfully what you need to know.
Thank you, Taliorinth, for what you have done. For what you have changed. For the love you have shared with me now.
Thank you for showing me that I do not have to live my life completely alone, as I so desperately wished to convince myself I had to.
Thank you, My Rose, for I love you dearly now and forever more.’
There was still time before the sun rose, and Myro had long roused himself from some already passing dream, taking in the predawn light. He’d taken to walking out on the wide familiar streets, covered in the misty haze that sunk down into Varis. Despite the thickness of the coat he’d worn, a chill settled into his bones. It latched on to his weariness and made him even further discomforted.
The past week had been obnoxiously busy; not just with readjusting to the no longer familiar vistas, but worse, the necessity of duty. There had been an immediate summons to his father’s estate, their explanation of the situation lacking at best and useless at worst. There was a certain disdain in his father’s eyes, and Myro hated it. Made worse now that he actually knew what this was really about.
Murder. Preposterous. Who could he have even murdered?
In the past two or so years, he had traveled widely, never lingering, and never long enough to wish anyone dead. He frowned, tugging his cuffs as he ruminated. He didn’t think he’d even encountered anyone who even mattered enough to kill. At the very least, he knew for a fact that there was no one he’d murdered with his own hands.
Myro’s steps had taken him to one of the overlooks he frequented; one where no street lights interrupted the serene quiet. It was hard enough to get to, but refreshing to a beleaguered mind when he had too much to think about. Ambling towards his perch, he could see a large portion of the Cajhi and the hill leading to the residential district. A bench crumbled stately against one overgrown wall, the air of disuse lingering. Despite it, this felt like his own personal spot in the city.
He settled onto the stone bench, the press of the ivy and tangling vines against his back. For a moment, he stilled in anticipation; as if expecting someone to follow. His eyes alighted over the angles and shadows of the world below, sliding to the small stairs that were the only path in and out.
Only when he was satisfied that he was alone, did he allow himself to relax, the tension flooding out of him. Myro pulled his legs up, crossing his arms to rest on his knees. Folded so neatly, he could lie his cheek on his forearms. Even so tucked up, he made sure he could peek out to the world around.
It was a childish comfort, but a comfort all the same. The lassitude of being out of sight,-- away from judgment, from expectation– was incalculable. He was glad that he had the privacy for it, far away from his family and friends. All of them. For this moment, he was just… alone in his world.
Myro’s thoughts drifted back to the accusation levied against him. Murder. It was true, of course, that someone had been murdered. An old clerk that worked– used to work– at the compendium Myro and his cohorts had frequented, had been found with unknown wounds, an unknown cause for the untimely death. The Anchli had kept it well under wraps, for the good of the city, he assumed. Murder was not a frequent occurance, and it was even more so alarming that no action had been taken up till this point.
He frowned from the cradle of his arms. It didn’t add up. He knew that they were circumstantial connections between his cohort and this crime: the timing, the location, the person themselves. But… he didn’t do it. If he had, he thought sourly, he wouldn’t have been caught. Yet it hung over him, and the question remained: who the hell had?
Myro harrumphed quietly as he racked his brain, eyes narrowing as he thought. The others surely wouldn’t. He would have been able to tell if they had killed someone they weren’t so careful with their secrets and he had learned from the best. That limited the culprits, if he could strike those he had worked with. Had it been a coincidence, really? Was there someone else that had been there that night? He was missing information, which irked him because he hated not knowing everything when it was important, and he couldn’t even find the holes in his knowledge– what was he missing?
“Struggling to sleep, Myrollan?”
Quineven stood at the stairs, his features unreadable. He had been entirely silent in his approach, a feat considering the state of the stair. He was alone; a blessing, or a curse.
Immediately, Myro scrambled up, his face flush. Quickly, he tried to school himself; it wasn’t as if he was found like some missing child. He was an adult. He was allowed to be here. He covered his discomfort with a respectful bow of his head, before answering, “I didn’t mean to make my absence known. I just wanted some air, Adeir. I can go back now.”
Without waiting for an answer, he began to walk away from his secluded spot. He did not want to be alone under his grandfather's scrutiny, especially since both of them knew about the visit to the island.
He didn’t get far. After only a few steps, his feet slowed as if going through some thick mud that went too deep.
“No. I wanted to speak with you, actually, before today.” Quiniven said and walked past the slowed Myro, settling on the bench the young man had vacated. Weariness seemed to settle over him, and for a moment, he wore every one of his many, many years. “It’s exactly what you think it’s about, and more. You’ll give me the time, won’t you?”
Quineven’s single blue eye focused on Myro, and the weight on his legs dissipated. He frowned at his elder, as though considering his options, but he knew it was the illusion of choice. The questions would be presented and answered; it was merely a choice of doing it now, with Quineven alone, or to admit it in front of the whole council perhaps.
He released a long, slow breath, and tried to ignore the sinking feeling that he was being treated like a child. He hated it… but of course, it was always going to be the case when he was here. Slowly, he turned back and stiffly returned to his seat.
He said nothing, so after a moment, Quineven spoke. “How much of the situation do you know?”
“I know that Cayde was murdered, but I don’t know the details on how it was done. I know that Nirndil, Eldanil, Tusil, and I are all suspects, even though we very clearly haven’t done anything.” His words came out sharp, instinctively defensive in Quineven’s presence, “What I don’t know is why we’re being called back to this years later.”
Quineven appeared unphased by the sharp tone, “I agree that this has gone on for too long, however it was not up to me on the time taken.” He looked away from Myro again, letting out a slow breath, “Cayde’s death was caused by all of his mana being burned out of his body. There were no exterior markings to it, however other examinations showed tampering elsewhere and severe damage as a result within him. It would have been a very painful end. Because of that, the others had made the decision to discreetly deal with the investigation. The close family and the council are all that have known of it for the past two years.”
Myro listened quietly as Quineven continued, “I’ve had to get everything I can on similar instances. Most lead back to demons and the hounds of older times. Some match more closely to what we were wanting. The problem is, however, that there was no motive that could be discerned. It stalled our investigation until we finally found out that you four had been there the night it happened.”
“Well we didn’t do it or know who could have. Couldn’t that just have been asked to us? Why take us all the way here?” Myro sniped back.
“It’s the way of things. Even I can’t change the choices they make, only do what I can to shed more light on the situation. That is the role I have taken, and the role that I keep.” Quineven smoothly returned.
“You could do more.” Myro frowned.
Quineven’s voice remained even. “No, I can’t.”
It was a quick response and offered no room for Myro to argue. He shrank back, torn between defending himself in frustration and the immense respect he had for his grandfather. He swallowed his words, averting his eyes.
After a moment, Quineven continued. “You are young, so you don’t understand why we may do things our ways. Sometimes, you’ll find that it’s better for you to play your part than it is to push yourself beyond. In this case, I am doing what I can to make sure that you are heard and understood, not to point a finger and put senseless blame on you.”
He paused for a moment in consideration, and when he continued his voice had softened very slightly. “I know you didn’t kill Cayde, Myrollan. However, what’s to come must happen. All you need to do is allow them to see what they need. You are not to blame, but you may know things they do not.”
Myro’s brows came together, his lips thinned as he tried to understand and failed.
It seemed Quineven noticed, as soon after, he went on, “They are going to open your mind. It won’t be painful, but your memories will be displayed for all to see. It’s revealing, but if you have nothing to hide, then there is nothing to worry about.”
He glanced at Myro, his gaze weighing. In turn, Myro’s features screwed in discomfort, lips thinning. He did not like the idea of it, and it showed in his face. “But there’s no reason for that- I’m being honest.” His voice was petulant to his own ears, but he had to try.
Any hope he had quickly died. Quineven shook his head. “This is how it’s going to happen, and it doesn’t matter what’s to be said. If you don’t let yourself be open to this, then it will only put more scrutiny on you. Rather than do that, you should focus on doing what is more important. That is, you should focus on what you might have seen, and why it is that this happened while you were there. Don’t be a fool to think that it’s entirely unrelated, Myrollan.”
It was the way the man said his name– Myro immediately looked up at his grandfather, meeting the one eyed gaze that was as intense as it was understanding. That was probably the worst part of it, the understanding. The weight of the words finally sank in. He still was troubled and uncomfortable, but… the point was made.
It made sense he had to grudgingly admit. He didn’t have anything to hide. He would let the interested parties see into his mind, his memories, and show that he trusted them– that he was free of blame. But that didn’t mean he would remain idle while they trudged through their archaic investigation.
It was true that there was something tying him and his… cohorts to the crime; this could be more than coincidence. This could be an intentional distraction– something to muddy the waters, complicate, waste time– distract from the real killer.
Myro wasn’t going to be pinned for a crime he didn’t commit.
Steeling his resolve quietly, he nodded once before looking back to Quineven. “What do I have to do?” He finally asked.
Quineven smiled, ever so slightly. “For now? Wait. Answer when asked and let them see what they want. You’ve nothing to hide, and if anything, you’ll be given a better chance at figuring out another piece to this puzzle yourself. From that point, though? Who knows. That’s for the future to know…”
“And the present to wonder.” Myro finished, nodding his head and looking away entirely. It made sense, but he couldn’t help but feel inadequate to the task, and worse, he didn’t even want to try. He wanted to go back to his new home, away from this tangle of crime and suspicion, away from the complication. He took a steadying breath. What he wanted was… irrelevant, because this investigation held much more weight than his desires, even if he could make them known.
As if reading his thoughts, Quineven smoothly shifted topics. “You’ve a nice home you’ve built for yourself. The island seems like a good resting place.”
Myro blinked, a very subtle heat rising to his cheeks. “It was an obvious choice. A new port bringing in plenty of ships, and no other informant.”
Quineven nodded, his voice as considering as ever despite the topic. “Yes, it is an obvious choice. The people around do not seem terrible. Such as Dylaine Sharpe. He seems to be very attached to you.”
That surprised Myro, and he let out a small breath. “He’s useful and amusing to talk to.” Myro did not wish to linger over this topic, and he lifted his jaw, mimicking Quineven himself when a conversation was done. He told himself he didn’t have more to say. Whatever else did not need spoken here.
“Amusing enough to set up a commune enchantment?” Quineven raised his brows.
Myro shrugged dismissively. “I have to keep up to date on what’s happening on the island. You do the same.” He paused, then said, “Don’t you?” It was quieter than his other words, and he glanced sidelong to Quineven.
The older man nodded. “Of course. Although I doubt that he sees it that way. You might want to be mindful of that.”
“Oh.” Myro pursed his lips, uncertain. After a moment, he shrugged again. “It won’t cause any problems.” His assurance was broad… though perhaps meant for them both.
He glanced away. Unfortunately, he couldn’t actually promise that it wouldn’t. Even as he turned over the implications, he realized… perhaps it was a mistake to continue to lead Dylaine on. Yet, equally he didn’t want to shut Dylaine out– he genuinely enjoyed talking to his far-too-sincere friend.
A friend whom he was taking advantage of, most certainly.
Quineven made a low, thoughtful sound, then spoke. “Tread carefully with that boy. He holds something unseen and powerful in him that may not be something you wish for.”
Myro’s brows came together, but not in worry. That was not a warning Quineven gave often, and his interest sparked. “What do you mean? What did you sense?”
Despite Myro’s interes, Quineven merely shook his head, slowly pushing to his feet. “I merely mean that you need to watch what you do with that boy. I will not intervene in your actions, but I offer that as my advice to you, Myrollan.”
Myro rose as Quineven did, not wanting to be disrespectful to the man he looked up to so much. “Yes, Adeir. Thank you for your time.”
A warm hand settled on his cheek, and Myro met Quineven’s eye. There was a smile on the elders face again, wider now, more affectionate.
“Go with wisdom in your mind and strength in your body, Myrollan. Trust that we will both take care of this.” As Quineven spoke, he moved his hand and brushed his fingers across Myro’s forehead. The touch was cool, leaving a faint tingle; a simple blessing, customary but from Quineven, made special.
Myro flushed. He may have been a grown adult, but it still made him feel better to receive Quineven’s blessing, and advice. It wasn’t often he got to see him, and while these circumstances were… not the best, it was better than not seeing him at all.
His wisdom given and purpose completed, Quineven stepped away, his footsteps light and slow. He didn’t even make it to the stairs before he seemed to shift, growing more translucent with each step, before he disappeared completely.
Myro was left alone in the space he had so recently called his own– and it felt emptier for it.
Letting out a heavy sigh, he slid back onto the bench. Perching, he cupped his jaw as he rehashed the conversation over in his mind, turning it this way and that as he tried to puzzle out the deeper wisdoms of Quineven’s precise words. After a time, his brows came together. No matter how he shifted the situation…he wasn’t sure that he could do anything other than precisely what Quineven had laid out.
He made a face. The realization was not the one he had wanted. Slowly, Myro curled himself up again, legs pressed to his chest. A pleasant quiet had returned, the emptiness of Quineven’s absence abating to something more serene. Perhaps… it would be fine to spend a bit more time here. Focus on seeing the familiar sights.
His thoughts drifted, empty and aimless. As he shifted, though, Myro realized that while he had been thinking, one of his hands had moved to his earlobe, his thumb idly pressing against the earring there.
Myro stilled, his fingers stiff over the metal as he considered Quineven’s words. A part of him wondered if he could just ask the young man what that Quineven might have seen. Knowing him, Dylaine probably would tell. And yet… he tapped the metal of the star, lips pulling sideways. Another part of him wondered just why Quineven felt the need to warn him; what exactly had he seen that Myro had not? What secrets was Dylaine keeping– Dylaine, of all people?
Slowly, he pulled his hand away from his ear, burying his face into his arms. His thoughts muddled and slogged just as his feet had in Quineven’s spell, and try as he might he could not make them turn. With a frown, he gripped his legs. He didn’t need to know right now. He wouldn’t bother. It wasn’t important, not with everything else happening.
He certainly wouldn’t admit even to himself that… a part of him was starting to miss Dylaine.
Myro shook his head, the thoughts dissipating. Most certainly not. Not with a murder mucking up his plans, a murderer on the loose while the investigators wasted time with false leads. He would Instead focus on what he needed to do right now. Anything else– any complication– could come later.
Much, much later.
--
Thanks to @stormandozone for the assistance on editing!
The sun was low and the winds blew cool air up from the river in the base of the valley. Warmth fell over his skin as Quineven was resting against the pillar. No matter how long he’d been away from this place, and all the devastation that ruled the lands around it, it felt so very much like his home. His wanderlust has caused him to leave it, morphing into his current profession which forced him to stay away from those he cared for fear of retaliation from unhappy customers.
Ah, but it never was unwelcome to be here, despite what his family would think. Time seemed to pause just for a bit, and problems could easily be forgotten under the warm light of the sun and the soft breeze. Memories of years upon years spent here before it all, filtering into his mind with welcome arms.
His eye was closed, and he just laid there, unaware of what was slowly coming to him through this valley.
Time passed, perhaps he’d fallen asleep? He hadn’t heard the sound of feet, but he felt something near. He wondered briefly if it was his daughter or one of her children. The voice that called his name was not one he expected, though, and it was enough to bring him into an alert state of mind immediately.
Never was it hard to hear Taliori, the excitement and relief clear just in how she spoke out. It had been long enough the two of them hadn’t seen one another, but even so, it seemed she thought it had been too long. She currently was struggling with his Nythandiir, tugging at his hold and obviously wanting to run forward, and he could hardly blame her, considering how he looked currently. She didn’t look all that much, and in an instant, he knew that Nythandiir had gotten himself into a fight with the…. Pair of them? He saw another woman standing next to Nythandiir, not doing anything, but looking far from pleased.
Nythandiir cursed as the small woman gave him a bit of a struggle, scratching at his hand as if that would do anything… but how curious it was that she wasn’t succeeding in getting away from him. Something wasn’t right, though it wouldn’t take long to figure it out, he summarized something must’ve happened in the fight itself to hurt her, and in that case, he’d have to get Anaestiria to help out.
Nythan spoke up first, “These two say that-”
Tali interrupted by turning and shouting at him, “Let me GO! He knows who we are! He knows us! I told ye!” She almost sounded panicked by the fact that Nythandiir had the audacity to keep her back.
Before any arguments surged up between the two, or even the three of them, he spoke in a crisp and clear tone that demanded the attention of the trio. “Let her go, Nythandiir, she will not cause harm. Go and get Anaestiria and tell her what you have done to the two of these.”
There was a moment of pause, and perhaps it would seem an argument would be made against the elders word, but soon Taliori had been released and a look was given to Baelisian… cautious and untrusting, especially of that one whom had gotten more than a few good blows on him. The only response he got was a smirk, a small wink, and a little kiss blown to him. Vile woman.
As soon as the grip was released on the smallest of those present, she bolted for the man resting against the pillar, and perhaps one unaccustomed to such would be fearful of such. In a moment, Quineven spread his arms out and allowed Taliori her place to latch onto him, as was to be expected, her arms tight and burying her face into him as if he was going to off and disappear right there. Slowly, despite the approach of Baelisian, he pulled his arms around the woman, his eye lidding as he felt her body heave at the start of a cry.
Despite the lack of understanding of how or why she was there, he felt relief. A small hint of this shown in a tiny smile that made it’s way onto his face. His hand brushed down her back in a small comforting gesture, and he murmured softly, “You have come a long way, Tal.”
There was a response given, though it was muffled and spoken between what was obviously little sobs. He let out a breath, raising his hand to brush it over the top of her hair, then looking back to Baelisian. The smile slipped away a bit, but he did not show signs that she was unwelcome here.
“I suggest you come sit down. You’ve quite a tale to tell me if you’ve come this far to find me.”
Read the rest of the Following the Hidden Series here
