allura-bardtothebone-blog

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

His hand encased hers and it was a welcomed suprise. Rough and warm, her fingers barely wrapped around him, but his clasped almost it's entirety. Despite the sad truths he had shared with her, there was hope in this action, and it filled her with joy.

Beside him she paced in quiet contemplation. Allura had met many types over the years, but never any as studios and bewildering. Arin seemed equal parts pain and pleasure. Evil and good. Calluse and soft. His biting at her questions stood separate from his kind smile and soft teases like oil on water. She saw herself in him more so than she normally did in a person. Each new thought took her another step deeper into her mind like the spiral staircase from her room in the Feywild, and before she knew it twilight had bloomed all around them and her breath lit up before her in swirling clouds.

'Oh..' she gasped, demistifying her eyes from inner thoughts. 'No I don't mind at all, in fact' with her free hand she twirled and sent forth little lanterns of light chasing ahead but not too far.

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

The question. The dreaded question that he knew would be asked. Arin was now in a standoff between his head and his heart. His mind urged him to hide away and not disclose that which could be used against him should allura leave him. His heart longed for a companion to find peace and enable it to heal. Arin settled on giving her consice answers as he could hear the wobble in her voice from just posing the question yet he did not want to gibe her nothing for fear that she thought he distrusted her. “I thank you for noting my skill. I am an advanced student but one that lacks experience, maybe that is why I fear magic but I believe that it is due to the fact that where there is good there is deadly evil. It is natural to fear the evil that resides in sine who practice magic. I look at you in awe because you have a grasp on sorcery so elegant that it is mesmerising. That is all. I so not want to go into detail about my time as prisoner but I did see some brutal things. 8 could take the beatings and the spells used against me almost as a great gest for I knew that if the ended my life I would be at peace. It was the suffering of others I could not stand. Have you ever seen seen someone strung up by their thumbs and whipped when the guards heard the crack of the joints dislocating? That was a normal occurance. Anyway I do not want to waste time on the brutality of that place. Focus on the goal at hand is our main priority. ” Arin stopped his small monologue there hoping that he had given her enough for now. His mind flashed to the horrors he had witnessed and his hands began to twitch erratically. Stopping by a tree with a harsh grey bark he looked wistfully into the distance, hoping that one day he could save those still trapped in the murky, dank hellhole that was once his dungeon home.

Originally posted by xrosheen

She kept stoic when taking in his response. Honestly, Allura found it hard to keep her expression passive. His confession resonated with her on a level she did not expect, it seemed they had been cut with the same cloth.

Again silence settled as he rested himself by a tree. Sometimes explaining horrors too a physical toll so she couldn’t blame him for wanting to find decorum. She let him breathe for a moment before speaking. Age flowed back into her body, shedding the excited child she was but a mere moment before and strode backward through time.  

‘I understand all too well, Arin.’ Her voice had thickened and felt treacle-like as it flowed from her mouth. ‘Humans do not have a monopoly on pain and torture. Imagine what you could do to beings who are immortal, truly immortal.’ Sharply she closed her eyes, desperate to shake the memories of centuries past. With brow furrowed she spoke again. ‘I know the horrors of which you speak, and I am sorry for you to carry that burden.’

A small hesitant step closed the distance between them. She looked long and hard at his face and thought about the pain etched into his bones. The fright that turned stone-hard to rage. The desperate need to avenge himself and those he saw killed. The bloodlust all of their own making. She could feel it roll off him, the stench of her father's influences. But underneath beat his heart, how from the boiling, bubbling bloodlust was the white light of redemption, of heroics. How pure and pleading he was to protect those around him.

Swiftly, she took his hand and kissed his rough knuckles before releasing it back to his side. The kiss tingled upon her lips, reminding her of his entrance.

‘I will not ask you anymore, I shall wait until you feel ready to bestow me with the depth of your situation.’ A soft nod more to herself than to him occurred before her feet ventured forwards. Despite the slight shift in atmosphere, she was glad she asked.

Originally posted by jurassic-park-girl

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

Arin did as he was asked and rushed off to find some travelling clothes for he knew that they had an arduous journey ahead and being cold was something that he had hoped to avoid. Feeling a tinge of uneasiness as he sped back to the bedroom he faced the dilemma of not wanting to disobey Allura by coming back not dressed in something less ragidy but not feeling able to touch or water any of her fine cloths as he knew he was but a pitiful and loathsome being. He settled on not changing completely but donning what seemed to be an old, mothbitten yet still surprisingly warm riding cloak as that seemed the most appropriate item for a scrawny elf like him.

He returned to the kitchen to await his companion. Allura strode in but moments later wearing an exquisite cloak that framed her face beautifully as the dark fabric helped helped her rosy skin to shine bright. Arin was stunned, luckily not enough to miss the instruction to follow her. Upon racing down he met with an enchanting song that seemed to have taken over Alluras very being. He watched in astonished silence as the buildings above shattered and shrunk down, drifting towards the pair as Allura was shrouded by a dazzling light.

After she had calmly ended her trance and shoved the house away she asked him to gibe his thoughts on this marvel. “I have read about such enchantments but never before seen it… You perform with such grace that it leaves me speechless.” Arin finished there and looked down at her amused smile.

“Have you got the map?” Arin knew that she must but couldn’t help but check. Before receiving her answer he strode off at a quick pace, praying she would not think him a rude elf but one that had to reach his end goal before an angry mob of soldiers entrapped him. Using his right hand to trace a compass on his wrist he watched as the fingered lines grew darker and spun around insessently as if trying to calibrate themselves. He muttered the word east and the lines shifted to point him in that direction. Hearing Alluras pattering footsteps behind him he set off.

Originally posted by michaelssw0rd

She opened her mouth to speak, but his feet were already in flight. Allura didn’t mind. It was natural for a man in his position to wish for speed and safety on a journey of such high stakes. She removed the map from the pocket of her dress and opened it as she caught up to him.

The trek east wouldn’t be too bad, she noted several places along the way that would be useful to lie low should a problem arose. Not that she imagined one, her woods were so rarely disturbed by anything more than foreigners and travelers.

But as she put the map away it, Arin’s movements directed her thoughts. He wasn’t usual, so perhaps there would be more tricks ahead than expected. It excited her and scared her all at once. Of course, she wished against anything dramatic to eas this passage, but this was new territory (or possibly new). A chance to use her powers. A chance for true adventure.

The thought of all this newness glistened in her eyes. Like a kid on winter solstice morning, there was a pep to her step. A beat of time went by.

Aly paid attention to the melody of their steps. His heavy heartbeat thumps followed by her quicker footfalls tinkling out a harmony.

Tree after tree passed by with nothing but breaths passed between them. Though it was not early, the moss of her forest kept the chill a little longer than most would appreciate. A little tighter she nestled into her coat but began to appreciate the speed of his stride. It kept her heartbeat thrumming, and warmth was soon pooling into her hands.

‘Arin, may I...’ She hesitated. Aly was all too aware of how taboo this question would be, but if they were to be partners, she felt compelled to ask. It was a gentle touch necessary, that’s all. ‘You don’t have to answer. One word and I shall hush on the subject for as long as you wish, but I have to ask. What has happened to you for you to react so to magic? You are so highly skilled, but you seem to fear it and stand in awe all at once.’

She sought his eyes through the walking. ‘What did they do to you?’ Her voice was unsteady, quivering and broken. A toss of her hair tried to shake the worry from her body, she just hoped it would succeed.

Originally posted by models-in-motion-gifs

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

Arin could sense her longing and annoyance even through the thick mask of politeness that she was portraying. It was the right thing to lean away but sensing her sorrow at the bitterness of rejection he couldn’t help but feel as dirty and numb as the goblins they were going off to slay.

“Right well I thought we could stay in the forest, veering off towards the east towards the mountains of Ezaroth as that is near to the path that hides the end of out quest,” Arin began, in a thoughtful, yet determined manner. “ I thought if we went on this course it would keep us sheltered due to the forests beautiful leafy foliage and could provide practical hiding spots should we need them. ”

Feeling confident with his plan arin traced the route with his long, calloused finger. His face lit up with glee as a small sliver line followed his every move as if it was approving his moves. He studied the glittering trail and decided it would look more covert as a hazel line, that to an unobservant gaze would just seem like part of the picture. With the jerj of his thumb the deed was done and gone was the silver line, turned to the rich brown of the Hazelnut.

“Alluras of the thousand charms, you know this land better than I. What is your opinion?” Upon delivering this question Arin waited for Alluras response.

Originally posted by darya-the-bookworm

'My my, you are quite the charmer when you wish' her laughter danced with the mornings breeze. An easy smile rested on her lips, as she stood and brushed herself off.

'Well, my dear, there is no time like the present, Go and make you goodbyes with the house. I'm sure one of the bedrooms has clothes to fit you. Return here when you are finished.' She herself flew to her bedroom and doned the nicest travelling dress she owned. Another moment more and she returned to the kitchen and saw him.

'come with me.' She lead him downstairs, out from the tree into the main courtyard. 'I assume you have all your possessions? Good, let me dazzle you with a little something'

Standing tall she pulled in a deep breath, and gave life to a melody. It was slow at first, as if it were drawing life from her own. Soft and sweet, but soon picking up speed and tempo. All around her colours glowed and glitter shown. With a wildly beating heart, Allura watched the home she had build collapse stripped section by section and bound by fabric of indescribable beauty. Like a foldaway, the world she had created shrunk down and shifted, till resting softly on the ground was a tent.

With quick strides, Aly twirled a finger and collapsed the tent, before catching it within a bag of holding.

'What do you make of that, Arin of the soon-to-be adventure?'

Originally posted by nyx4

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

Arin stared into her eyes and realised he had to act quickly. Should he ruin his quest with the tomfoolery of a kiss with this beautiful temptress or keep his distance? He could see her inching forward, her aura burning brighter than the sun and with great pain he wrenched himself away, the logical side of his nature screaming that he could not yet trust her.

Arin bowed his head, flushed and dizzy from Alluras intoxicating scent of sweet oak and the berries she had just savoured for her breakfast. He knew he had done right to stay cautious, but at what cost to his already confused mind?!

“errm.. I guess we should really start planning our route,” Arin stuttered. “I mean if we are to start this great mission with you as my moat wonderful protector then we should at least have a goal in mind for today.” he knew that he could distract her with practical missions and hoped that it would give him time to stop the throb of desire that had become a dark crimson flush painted on his cheeks.

Originally posted by youngwarlock

The question of the kiss hung heavy in the air, just as her body did after his retreated. It had been a long while since Aly had sensed rejections sting, and while the subversion was interesting, it bit at her insides unhelpfully.

'Yes, of course.' Returning to her seat, she breathed in a sigh behind closed eyes in a desperate attempt to claim decorum. When she opened them, merely a second later, they were just as light as they had been before. Allura was always desperate to keep her presence pleasant no matter her emotions, she had all the time to nurse her wounds, he didn't.

With a curling finger, she called the map and with another toss of her hand, sent their food and plates gracefully away.

Catching the map, she unfurled it, weighing the corners with candles.

'Arin of the Fleet Feet, where would you like to start'

Originally posted by nyx4

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

Arin watched Allura feast on the berries before them and was happy to see her joy spread across her face as her tongue explored the flavours of each and every one of them. He grabbed more and shoved them down his own throat, hoping that would quell the hunger inside his still growling belly.

“I believe that we should focus on travel as we have a vast and potentially treacherous amount of land to cover and I was hoping to do so in a quick fashion so as to not get caught by the many armies who by now are hoping to have my head in a basket.” Arin thought travel would be the best option for the pair and hoped that the charming Allura would agree with this decision. “What with the charming and intricate map you have created it would be a shame to leave it to collect dust.” He thought about the beautiful emerald colour on the map and couldn’t bear to leave it sitting in Allura’s room for too much longer. he could have even sworn on Oghama’s very core that he had seen wanderers on the aforementioned map.

Arin reached out and poured them a drink of sweet tea. “I hope that we can toast this idea and start to plan what I hope will be a noble quest.” Arin raised his glass, watching the honey flecks in her eyes dance around as he anticipated her next move. Would she want to continue into the wider world with him? After all he was but a mere scruffy, runaway elf.

Originally posted by sweetsugarhoneyfics

Heartily, Allura accepted the cup and raised it to meet his. ‘To new beginnings and bright adventures!’ She toasted. Knocking it back smoothly, Aly grinned sending a gentle prayer to the Gods in thanks. This was her chance, her birthright, her destiny. She was made for this adventure. She just hoped she didn’t fuck it up along the way.

‘I am fairly sure that I can weasle us out of some tricky spots, so I don’t foresee travel being all too difficult. Naturally I am a little underestimating your predicament, but with my limited knowledge, well, you can hardly blame me’ Allura let her eyes deepen though her smile remained. ‘Teases aside, your safety will be paramount. I will do all I can to conceal and protect you from danger, this I vow.’ Reaching across the table, she gently placed her two fall hands over his. Allura’s softness resonated with sincerity. Vows are important, just like him. He was her charge and it was not to be taken lightly.

His hands were rough in her own. It caught her mildly off guard, distracted her from a path of action. Childlike wonder flickered in her eyes brighter than the stars as she raised herself slightly to be closer to him. Gentle marble touch revealed at his furnace heat, studding his nimble but workmans fingers. He warmed her to the core, coaxing a small purr of satisfaction from her lips.

Lips. Aly’s eyes shot to his. Pale, peachy, perfect. Subconsciously she slowly leaned further still, trying to angle their faces in a perfect collision course. Golden eyes flickered again, this time to his, reading his expression. She paused there, waiting for his decision.

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

Arin stopped for a moment to watch her fly off until he realised that he wasn’t quite sure where she was running to. he sped after her in hopes that he would catch up with her spritely form. Even though Arin was a tall fellow, his centuries of confinement had made him quite unfit and so her wispy figure, though short in stature, was a lot speedier than his bumbling and lanky frame.

Finally catching up to Allura just as she reached the door to the room that housed her kitchen he flashed her a sile as he desperately tried to appear calm, fit and elven-like in her presence while on the inside his chest was burning and he was struggling to see from this short burst of exercise. He looked down at her properly and marvelled at the fact that she still looked beautiful after that small run. Not a hair out of place, nor a bead of sweat in sight.

“Well it looks like I will have to find a troll to propose to,” Arin laughed as he walked through the door after her. “Lets just hope that they can cook as well as you and your many hands, though I seriously doubt it.”

Moving towards the cupboards Arin glanced at them with a slight determined glint in his eyes and they swung open, letting two plates and a bowl zip out and settle on the table. then he settled his gaze upon the fruit bowl on the counter, smiling when different fruits and berries floated up and glide towards the bowl, arranging themselves in a pretty manner for the pair to enjoy. “ I do hope that im not taking over”, Arin commented to the beauty who he noticed watching his actions intently “I just wanted to be of assistance”.

Arin then took tat as his que to sit down at the worn, yet ornate table. he hoped that his actions were seen as endearing and not exasperating. Picking the fingernail on his finger that for some mortals a ring might reside he waited for her response.

Originally posted by atributetotheclassicmovies

Allura stared at his magic with eyes wider than gold pieces. Her face split into the widest grin as her thoughts were captivated by the abilities he used to freely in front of her. Sure, she had magic, but it was the enchanting ways of others that she desperately wanted to be closer to. To marvel at his skill... it was an honor.

The table was laid, and the richest of her fruits plump and gleaming for the pair. ‘No, of course, you’re not’ She waved her hand to blow away his concerns. ‘You are enchanting, Arin.’ Aly’s voice was a little lower than normal, enriched with a deep sincerity which trickled sap-like from her throat.

She took a seat with bouncing steps and plucked a palm-full of berries, giggling as each one popped beneath her teeth to soak her mouth in bright flavors. The first burst fluttered her eyes closed and elicited a resonating moan from her body, alluring and gospel-like. She popped a few more to savor the feeling before she rested her attention on her guest.

A gentle flick from her opened another cupboard and milk, tea, fresh juices, coffee, all sorts of drinks began to glide to the table accompanying goblets and mugs for their choosing. ‘So, my dear, what’s the plan today? Travel?’

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

A sigh of relief left Arin’s lips when he saw that Allura was not angry at him for prying. he stayed on the floor and watched as she settled back against her headrest, the glossy peach framing her heart shaped face in a halo of innocence.

He watched as her sharp eyes travelled across his body to rest on the palm that was clenching the map. He suddenly felt the sharp folds of the parchment digging into his skin with a burning sensation that matched the burning in his cheeks. she leaned further back and Arin looked down in shame but instead of being told off by his host for snooping she suddenly started to tell the enchanting tale of this map and how it highlighted the generosity that both she and a wandering traveller shared with each other. As much as Arin loved to hear more about her character and homeland, as that was what was on the map, he couldn’t hep but feel a twinge of jealousy as he realised that there had been many people that she had shared her life and heart with before him.

at the end of her tale Arin turned the map over as Allura had mentioned another drawing designed just for them. His eyes were flooded with may different shades of green as he saw the intricate details of the forest laid out before him. He realised that she had also charmed the paper to make the trees sway to the tune of the winds. Arin was entranced for a number of seconds until once again he heard rustling above him and realised that he was not alone.

Standing up he hoped that he looked presentable in front of the charming Allura but before he could inspect himself a clap of thunder was heard throughout the room. Was there a storm brewing? No. Arin was hungry.

“Do the plans for the day include food?”, Arin asked with a sheepish grin plastered on his face.

Originally posted by avengers-of-mirkwood

As he admired her handiwork, Aly had slinked from the sheets to close the distance between them. Short she may be, but poise and grace flowed through her as elegantly as a river's flow. Each gentle pad-pad-pad of barefoot against smooth wood brought her closer to him and allowed the newfound fondness to ignite from resting ember to roaring fire.

Arin stood up beside her, and against better judgment, a swift thought of love and lust rushed across her face. Though slightly shriveled, she found him delectable. From his wild hair to his beautiful ears, from his wicked grin to his (so far) kind heart). She wished nothing more to climb him like a tree. During this lustful and wistful gaze, she had a thought. He was truly so tall, could he carry me? Oddly, for one so small she hadn’t often been manhandled (so to speak). As a god-made royal, those without her blood considered laying a finger on her a holy act so she was rarely touched. And the mortals were often too intimidated by her sheer presence to do something so dominating and, dear she say, carefree. Even the nymphs who taught her barely touched her. She wanted an equal, always had. And with her Amber eyes laid into his, more and more Aly wanted her equal to be his.

A noise snatched her away from wayward thoughts. A noise suspiciously like a rumbling belly. With a terribly hidden giggle, Allura raised a finger to her lips and bent down, straight-backed, comically resting her ear against his stomach. *Rumble, Rumble, RUMBLE!*

Roaring with laughter, Aly straightened with a mischievous gleam to her eye.

‘Come, Arin of the Empty Bellies, let us feed that ravenous beast of yours.’

Ignoring her state of inappropriate night-dress, she flew to the door. ‘Last one there’s to be wedded to a swaaaamp troooooll!’ She ran with haste and climbed as fast as she could. Let’s just hope he joins in too, she thought.

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

the night was awash with thousands of dreams for Arin. spanning from the beautiful to the terrifying. Strangely when the horrors took a hold of his soul instead of being entrapped in the darkness he was able to fly forward towards a honey future, a place to seek comfort before the blackness rolled back towards his subconscious. In one moment he was back enduring the beatings, crying out in hopes of a saviour, and in the next he was curled by a fire, a warm soft hand brushing through his dark locks. It was a long night to say the least for the poor wandering elf.

Arin awoke with a start, shocked at his surroundings and fearing for his safety as he had never seen such luxury and comfort in such a small and cosy setting. he bolted up and surveyed the room looking for answers in his bleary state. Allura. Upon seeing her still figure and golden face the memories of the day before came flooding back to him. The running, the fear, the confusion of his escape coupled with the distrust, the wonder and the comfort of meeting his new companion and being treated to a meal and a place to stay with his delightful host. he then started to observe her pensive looking face, letting his eyes slide across her sleeping features and noting the calm that was painted onto them.

He quietly arose and crept round the room, not wanting to pry but also needing to know more about this charming nymphet. On tiptoes he wandered around the bed hoping to come across something interesting without looking through draws or by doing anything else intrusive. casting his eyes downward  he spotted his golden ticket. the piece of interesting information he did not know what he was looking for. bending down he looked upon his prize. it was a piece of parchment with a small drawing on it. Arin carefully flexed his fingers and the sheet smoothed out instantaneously. a miniscule yet very detailed map had been scribbled onto the paper with quick yet intricate brushes of a quill. Arin wondered where this land could be for it looked strange and distant to his untrained eye.

Suddenly he heard rustling from above him on the bed. He knew he must act fast for fear that he would be questioned by his dear lady on his antics on this bright and breezy morning.

Originally posted by merlin-sindrome

As always Allura awoke exactly 4 hours from whence she closed her eyes. But as she curled and stretched as a lazy cat would, her hands drifted to Arin and felt... nothing.

She flew upright with a swift movement, eyes wide breathing harsh, and whipped her eyesight around the room til she settled on him... at the foot of her bed... holding a map.

With a deep inhale to steady herself, Aly smiled into a sigh. ‘I’m sorry for that frantic scene,’ she joked with a soft chuckle. ‘I was worried you’d left, or worse, been snatched from right under my nose.’ To emphasize her point and sedate her guest, she gave her own a little boop, giggling pleasantly at the childish action.

Settling back against her headrest, she tucked herself in the covers in the most alluring was she knew how and traced his body with her amber eyes. Delicious in dawn-light just as twilight he seemed. She zeroed in on the object in his palm and let her eyes rest down into the bed.

With a small, half-hearted smile, she explained ‘A map of my homeland, as I’m sure you’ve guessed. I made it once for a traveler who had come to my grove many years ago. When I arrived here I searched her out but found her long gone. The kindness her family gave me is one I have tried my best to extend outwards into the world. My traveler had told them all about me, and as a blessing they bestowed my gift back into my possession, claiming my nostalgia to in far greater need than theirs.’ Greeting his face with a sober look, Aly shook her head and brightened her thoughts.

‘It was a long time since, anyway, underneath is a map I made for you of the surrounding areas. I was unsure of how well you knew the terrain, so I thought it best to make one for us.’

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

Arin was surprised to hear that Allura wanted to sing for him but didn’t see any harm in it.

She started soft, and slow. It was a peaceful tune and Arin was ready to close his eyes to try to appreciate it but a sudden change in volume from piano to forte nearly shot his body out of his chair. Arin peered into Allura’s eyes and was shocked to see that they turned black, flaming bright as she lost herself in the rhythm. it scared him slightly but he loved this new energy spinning around the room.

She tried to comfort him mid way through by flashing him a look filled with peace but he didn’t need it. the music was surrounding his soul, enveloping it in a fire he had never felt before. Arin slumped back in his chair, overcome with emotion. Allura’s last note rung out and she glowed golden, lighting the room and filling Arin’s heart. He watched her head drop and wondered for a minute if she was alright. When she bounced back up he breathed out in relief, smiling at her.

“Beautiful,” Arin whispered. “Absolutely beautiful.” He had never heard anything like it and the raw emotion was overwhelming.

Suddenly he felt the weight of sleep overcome him, probably due to the rollercoaster of emotions he had just been through in the last three minutes. Closing is eyes he tried to hum the tune but it escaped him as he fell into the world of dreams, all while picturing the coffee-caramel eyes of his host.

He could hear her talking but he was falling deeper and deeper into the ocean of his subconscious. He smiled to himself, knowing that for the first time in his life that he was safe even if only for the night.

Originally posted by mr-merlin

His voice was rich with emotion. Allura didn’t need to ask what he thought as it was written plain as day across the features she had grown to appreciate. Not that it would stop her later...

As his eyes began to droop, she could have cursed at her forgetfulness. It had been such a very long while since she’d housed a mortal this way. Usually, those she came across were handled in a mere afternoon, so Aly hadn’t needed to remember how much they slept. This, coupled with his busy day, of course, he would be shattered!

Arin softly hummed her song before snuggling deeper into the chair but she kept talking about this and that. It was mortal nature to like noise, apparently, it makes them feel safe knowing that someone has their back. The soft smile he wore settled on her thoughts like a snowfall, erasing all and dusting the world in perfection.

When she was sure of his sleep, Aly summoned her strength to call once more on her mage hands. Aly lifted him effortlessly with their help and began to glide him through the doorway. Step by step, effort by effort she carried him to her bedroom.

It wasn’t often at all she let a mortal sleep in her bedroom. She had learned very early in that you can give your heart away all you’d like, but letting someone invade it in its entirety... It makes the laws of mortality hurt all the more. But Arin of the sleepytime, he was her literal God sent. He would wreak havoc with her heart, regardless of her decisions so she may as well accept it with open arms.

Walking to the canopy bed, she settled him beneath her covers and coaxed the fire a little hotter. The temperature was rarely an issue for her, but she imagined for him it would matter a little more. Aly was beginning to feel restless about this room, she even considered placing him downstairs but one look at him amongst her covers... it was enough. With a settled mind and pacing heart, she took the other side of the bed and began to hum a lullaby for him. She lay still in the dark for almost 5 hours, listening to his breaths in and out, soothing his worried cries with a soothing voice or palm to the forehead.

Figuring she’d timed herself well enough, she settled down for her meditation. Hopefully, when she emerged, Arin would be rousing beside her, and they could take on the dawn together.

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

Aarinbrethilder‌:

A very interesting answer to his question and purer then Arin was expecting. He smiled slightly, content to know that Allura decided on the gods and goddesses of good spirit. Arin couldn’t believe how close her ties were with the great lords of the sky and felt awash with calm as if he was sitting before them all on his day of judgement.

“You are truly unique then”, Arin stated, in awe of her status. “You were born from noble blood. Not only that of the king and queen but of the gods themselves!”

Arin felt humbled in her presence but knew that if he started to act differently that it would change the whole pace of the evening. He took a long drink. It was sad to think that she now had no contact with her family and her own kind but if she was living a life of unhappiness then Allura has made the right decision to depart from her old home. It pulled at his heart to hear the happy nostalgia in her voice though as he already knew she was too strong in nature to ever go back to her family.

He watched her face and smiled as she revealed her true beauty. Nostalgia showing her aged and glowing complexion before suddenly returning to the tight, pale skin that he ha grown used to. Arin loved watching the changes in her appearance that came about with each passing mood. The way her hair changed from dark to light, her eyes that turned from a glimmering brown to a jet black and her hands that went from soft and delicate to taught and hardened.

He didn’t know what to say next. Should he ask another question? Give an opinion on the gods? Or should he just sit in reflective silence?

He settled for a completely different option. Placing his hands on the table, Arin started to tap out a tune and with each tap a different note chimed throughout the room. His fingers danced on the table as he created music out of thin air. Arin hoped that this would lighten the mood and maybe drive the evening to a pleasant close. Looking he saw that Allura had closed her eyes and that a faint smile was etched onto her face. Pleased he continued on, producing great symphonies as his body got involved, rolling to the beat. he candles flickered and moved to the rhythm. Arin had never lost himself quite like this and he hoped that this was a satisfying gift for his gorgeous host. The gift of music.

His awe was not lost on her, though it felt a little jarring when the whole truth was taken into account - not that he was knowledgeable on that. Regardless of bitter realities, his wonderstruck tone and expression made her blush again. The light twinkling in his eyes, and the vibrant excitement sparkling across his features just for her... Aly blushed so deep the highest points on her face turned almost metallic. Regardless of subspecies, Nymph’s blood was not red. But unlike the deep green of oaken Dryads or midnight blue of river Hydrides, as a God descended royal blood, hers was a rich gold.

Stirred by their conversation, little by memories of her youth began to surface, but the feeling of being observed snapped her to the present. Making a split-second decision, she attempted to observe him return without being too noticeable. Allura wanted to know what kind of answers was he looking for. Was Arin’s mind cold and calculating as many mortals with extended age are? (She had found that those who lived longer than ‘regular’ mortal lifespans but were not immortal held a cold contempt for many things. It was as if they lived so long beauty was sucked out of their lives, but not long enough to reclaim it.) Was the expression friendly or distant?

Taking a peep, she saw something on his face that she’d secretly hoped for: a likewise softness and swiftly climbing affection. In his eyes sat a look she had craved for so long, true admiration. Her beauty was obvious, but as mentioned before nothing more than defense against hostile mortals. To have someone see her for what she was, both young and old (a transition is rarely seen by those who cross her path) and have him look at her with such... bewilderment... It was the first sip of warmth she’d felt in this long, hibernating winter of hers. Allura would give anything to keep that expression on his face, and the fluttering feeling in her stomach.

Her body clenched as she noticed him - noticing her - noticing him. she let her eyes fall and a small smile tugged at the corner of her lips.

The room lay still for a few minutes - say for the flicker of candlelight. The sun had begun its gentle decent outside, leaving the sky streaked with oranges and soft blues. The ceiling beam was the only object caught by the pure golden sun. By Allura’s know-how, there would still be an hour or two before Twilight took over. She was about to close her eyes ( wanting to appreciate the oxymoron of the peace in the room and her chaotic emotions) when came a soft beat.

Her eyes flashed towards him and saw a reflection of herself from earlier on, when she was trying to catch his eyes. The soft thrumming continued with rhythm, gradually getting louder, and Aly saw his smile widen as their eyes met. Cheeky would be the appropriate term for the gleam across his face. Arin rolled his body and danced with the lights making her giggle brightly. After a moment's pause, she joined him, tapping out a melodic overtone waltzing around his bassline. They danced like that for some time, and Aly couldn’t remember the last instance she was gifted that much fun. Her legs were stomping, her body rolling, her laugh layering up the music with honeysuckle blossoms.

Before long their amusement overtook their mental focus of rhythm and Allura collapsed into deep laughter. It was wonderstruck, she was wonderstruck. As her laughter subsided, a true smile rested on her face while her eyes were filled with warmth.

‘Arin, if I may, I have a song I’d like to sing to you’ She voiced her inspiration, noticing a similar tingle run across her body at the idea as it did when meeting him. Her subconscious noted that this choice of song may have been divinely influenced.  

‘It’s perhaps a little intense, but I have had it written for such a long while after a life-affirming dream. I have a feeling it was meant for meeting you.’

Smiling, Allura straightened her posture and pulled a deep breath to the pit of her stomach. With eyes closed, she began...

(AN: The Voice by Celtic Woman - go spotify it)

‘I hear your voice on the wind’ Her voice alone in the dark was a direct and pure note, shrinking the world to just the two of them. ‘And I hear you call out my name’ 

From somewhere off in the distance, accompanying instruments began to weave their notes in the air, faint at first, but louder with each passing verse.

"Listen, my child," you say to me "I am the voice of your history Be not afraid, come follow me Answer my call, and I'll set you free" Her voice began to be followed by that of a violin, both bowed and plucked.  ‘I am the voice in the wind and the pouring rain I am the voice of your hunger and pain I am the voice that always is calling you I am the voice, I will remain’ ‘I am the voice in the fields when the summer's gone The dance of the leaves when the autumn winds blow Ne'er do I sleep throughout all the cold winter long I am the voice that in springtime will grow’ To match the words, soft versions of the elements swirled between the two on them, punctuating each passing season The violin’s voice danced around the two of them in a bright swirl until a heavy drum beat marched in, rolling all around them.

‘I am the voice of the past that will always be Filled with my sorrow and blood in my fields I am the voice of the future,’ She opened her eyes, revealing them to be voids of pure golden light.

‘bring me your peace’ Her expression softened, showing to him it was still her, and somehow it was he she sung about. ‘Bring me your peace, and my wounds, they will heal’ ‘I am the voice in the wind and the pouring rain I am the voice of your hunger and pain I am the voice that always is calling you I am the voice’ Around them, the candles ignited brighter and brighter with the slowly rising crescendo. ‘I am the voice of the past that will always be I am the voice of your hunger and pain’ Yet again her pupilless eyes stared into his soul, emitting both comfort and recognition. Somehow Allura understood his pain, she felt like his guardian angel all of a sudden. One for his love, and for his protection.

‘I am the voice of the future I am the voice, I am the voice I am the voice,’ As the music swirled a frenzy, her voice began to vibrate the room around them, and from her body shined a light of gold to match her eyes.

‘I am the voice’  Her last note rang out, finishing with a flourish. The candles dimmed, the music hushed, and her head fell forwards punctuating her performance.

When Allura lifted her head, her eyes were no different as they had been before the song. She smiled softly and shyly, fluttering her eyelashes in a fluster. ‘That has happened once or twice, but never so strongly...’ She let out a breath before matching his gaze ‘It appears you ignite me brighter, Arin of the Destined Ones.’

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

It was becoming interesting to hear how Allura was able to transform thousands of years into a few mere words and even more interesting to now know of her ability to gift herself to others. Arin wondered how many people she had been able to help with such a wonderful skill, how many of the blind could now see because of her? how many could hear or speak now due to her generosity? it was truly remarkable to Arin.

Her tinkling laugh punctuated his train of thought as it rang through his head like a delicate windchime repeating over and over the more he tried to push it aside. He had to think professionally once more and he was wracking his brain for a scenario to give her. this time he decided to mix personal with professional.

“What god would you go on a quest for?”, Arin needed to know where her beliefs stood for if their journey dragged on he wanted to make sure they would not quarrel. “what god would you put your life on the line for?”

Feeling (more like hoping) this question might elicit a longer reply he leant back in his seat and shifted slightly so as to get comfortable. He filled his now empty glass with some water using a simple charm and lifted it through he air towards him without so much lifting a finger. Taking a swig of the refreshing liquid he nodded, causing the glass to set itself back down on the sturdy table in front of him. Realising that his host maybe thirsty as well he summoned a glass from the counter and charmed some water into it before setting it down in front of Allura

”Take a minute to think over your answer. I want you to consider all of the great gods attributes!”

Originally posted by mr-merlin

This question, his caution to think it over, and his use of magic brought forth another musical laugh from her lips. ‘I must commend your politeness in offering me a cup.’ With delicate hands she poured herself a cup, choosing to leave the magic to him. In the back of her mind, the part playing a long game of intimacy chess with his anxieties, she recognized her actions as submission to him. Or at least, letting him show off for her. Mortal men in all essence are just like their likewise-gendered peacocks.

She sipped the water, taking in the man rather than her question. This both allowed her to humor his request and gather her thoughts about him. The candlelight between them gave his deep eyes a gentle glimmer but did not prevent the dark iris’ from seemingly being endless voids desperate to ensnare her. Looking down, she clocked his proud nose and noble chin. His cheekbones yet again called to her hands, but she stowed them away as to not succumb to the temptation. His ears stuck out to her too, elvish culture dictated large ears with the sharpest points to be the most envious, so the was a surge of pride and attractiveness from admiring his. Lastly his lips, she’d saved them till last. They were soft but looked worn. She thought perhaps he was a lip biter, and the image flooded her mind and then her body with heat. She had always found a weakness in lip biters.

To clear her head, and her loins, from such wayward thoughts, she chose instead to answer his question. ‘You have asked quite a complicated question, so I shall give you the answers you seek, and then I shall explain the truth. I suppose I would love to dedicate my time and life to Saerenrae, the Ever Light, the goddess of compassion and redemption. Or perhaps the Moonweaver for her autumnal moonlight and protection of lovers. Regardless, I’d lay down my life for a God whose intentions were pure, who wished the best for each individual and the earth they thrive on.’ Contented with the answer, Allura began to look older once more. The sparkle in her eyes deepened to a river of knowledge flowing from eternities past.

‘In truth, I have a relationship with the Gods that is hard to understand. To a mortal, I suppose the title I hold is granddaughter?’ She grinned, pausing slightly for effect. As a bard, it’s her job, nay her duty to tell stories to their maximum entertainment value. ‘I am the only Nymph to be born of parents rather than the earth, and my parents were hand sculpted as the God’s own children to serve a purpose. I know mortals are told they are God's children, and that is true to an extent. Mortal races were hand created, just as my parents were, but they were set free after being born. My parents were hand raised by them as well.’ Her tone was sweet and almost nostalgic, it was as though she were recalling the story as her mother told it for many years of bedtime.

‘Despite being their Granddaughter, I have had very little direct contact with them, but such is the way after the great calamity. The only touch of them I’ve been gifted was being brought here, and I suppose seeing you.’ The deep wisdom retreated and again her youthful glow bubbled to the surface. Allura took another sip of water. ‘I am to be even more special than that, I am told, but all of that is yet to come and as such is not of direct importance.’

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

After responding his question as perfect as he had expected she suddenly looked like she was going to melt. Arin watched as Allura’s eyes glazed over for a minute as her face filled with dreamy excitement. he supposed that this was just a personality quirk. that was until she reached across the table towards him in what seemed like a desperate attempt to caress his pale features.

Arin moved back slightly, confused at this sudden gesture from her. he felt her energy go from serene to excited in less than a micro second, the colour of her aura changing from a calming forest green to a hot, lustful pink in a similar timeframe. Allura commented on his beauty and he wondered if after all this time she really was trying to ensnare him with her charm. He cast a cooling spell over his body to help refresh his mind and rebuild he walls between them. He felt sadness in doing this as he really felt a deep bond with her but things were just moving at such a pace that he wasn’t sure if he could control the situation or himself for that matter.

Snapping out of her trance Allura leaned back, pulling away from him and the bubble of tension around them, to start up the dance she played before with the flames in front of her. In a sharp conflict inside his now frozen self, Arin wished to go back to their previous moment as even with the anxiety that brewed from it he would give anything to see such a pure smile on Allura’s porcelain features again. Feeling his chest rise and fall at a much faster pace than before he tried to think of a question for her. ‘Was it personal or professional?”, Arin thought, having completely lost his train of thought. ‘Ahh, personal’, he managed to remember without too much trouble. Stopping for a second and rubbing his temple he hoped that a question would surface in his mind that would be just perfect for asking.

”How many wanderers have you met in these parts? I’m surely not the first person you have met n all your years of living here,” Arin hoped this question would evoke fond memories of past friends for her whilst genuinely being curious about her past encounters. He suddenly felt jealous of all the people she had probably met and frolicked with. They all probably knew far more about her than he did and it made Arin mad to know that he was probably not the greatest person she had met.

Arin’s stomach started to burn as hot as the sun as he waited for her to respond. he had to know who she had been with before him. Arin had to know this Beauties secrets.

Originally posted by merlin-sindrome

‘Far from it,’ she answered without hesitation. ‘I arrived here before the town existed. Before then it was much like this forest. It was wild and serene all at once, with valleys and mushrooms and a fairy or two keeping things interesting. Back then I became its guardian of sorts, being hospitable to all who traveled through. Eventually a few wished to settle in the quiet and protected. It was nice, for a time, but word spread of both me and the agricultural delights in the surrounding areas, so I became more distant. I watched it grow into the crazy, frankly Bizarre town it now is.’ Yet again condensing her history, she realized it may have not entirely answered his question.

‘I have met many and truly laid with few. While sex is just as intertwined in my nature as anything, beauty has and will always be a defense mechanism. Many find it hard to destroy things of great beauty. Intimacy is a difficult subject because in the eyes of a nymph, sex isn’t entirely intimate.’ She sighed, almost wistful. ‘Nymphs are marvelous because we can grow back any part of ourselves if given freely. I may gift a blind man my eyes, or a deaf mortal my hearing and only temporarily suffer. If taken by force, they cannot be reclaimed. It means we can give our hearts away, too. Each gift we give shows our kindness and care for others, and is a great honor to the receiver.’

‘To us, sex can be just a light as conversation, a past time used to get to know someone. Their likes, dislikes, vices, capabilities, sex can discover these things just as easily as conversing. But to be truly intimate with another, it requires a Nymph’s sacrifice. Don’t feel bad for us, though’ Aly smiled again, shrugging her light shoulders. ‘The sacrifice doesn’t have to be as supposedly huge as a heart, once a nymph knows a person, it doesn’t matter how small the gift, a singular hair will do, so long as it means the most to the intended.’

‘I’ve only been intimate a few times when you count the years of my existence, especially compared to all others of my race. To think, I am a prude to them.’ Another tinkerbell laugh glittered through the air, settling Allura’s body at ease.

‘Professional question next, Arin of the curious bedfellows.’

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

Arin was stunned by the many skills Allura possessed and he knew she would be a very useful companion to him in the next steps of his challenge. He was mildly disturbed to hear of her talk of violence but knew that unfortunately it may be a thing that would have to be used if they came across a pack of particularly volatile orcs or goblins.

He decided to steer towards a lighter skill of hers as he posed his next question as the talk of violence made his stomach turn. Arin felt the raw welts on his back burn as she spoke of causing pain to others and was reminded of the times when the elven dungeon keepers would beat him for their own amusement. He could see them laughing as they brought down their whips onto his back, tearing the skin with a sharp ‘crack!’. Shuddering he posed his question.

‘Mistress Allura, we are exploring the forest and happen across a pack of wolves how would you use your senses of their emotions to navigate around them so that we are not mauled to death? I would not wish to use force on a creature that does not deserve it”, Arin thought that this scenario was slightly harder as it she had not stated that she could speak to these creatures only that she could sense their willingness to be of help to her.

Finally he decided to look up at her, he did not realise but he had been studying his fingers since the mention of violence, and saw her calm yet ever so slightly playful looking face staring straight back at him as if trying to crash through the last wall he was so desperately tying to hold up. Trying to look as strong as her he leaned in closer and flashed her a wide grin, hoping she would realise that he was slowly growing more comfortable with her presence yet was still reserved enough to question her as sternly as a teacher would.

He couldn’t help but be impressed with her abilities and hoped that he would become even more pending the answer she gave for there was only one obvious solution to the issue ha had raised. 

Letting out a deeper chuckle that complimented her melodic, breathy one she had let out a few minutes before Arin waited again for another solution…

Originally posted by atributetotheclassicmovies

‘Oh my my, you ask such a simple thing, Arin of the insightful eyes. My ability to read animals usually extends both ways, meaning to say they study me also. I am able too... I wouldn’t say charm them, more so encourage friendliness within them. Domestic creatures such as horses have much easier attitudes to persuade, but wild animals are just as susceptible, it just takes a little time.’  There was a little hint of pride in her voice for catching his question so easily. Aly did not mean to seem boastful by any means, merely enjoying winning a round of their cat and mouse game.

‘I likewise do not wish innocent creatures ill, mortal or animal. Pain on one often radiates to those closest regardless of intent, so there is more than enough suffering already making its rounds. It’s our job to bring a little more light into the world, wouldn’t you agree?’ Again Aly toyed with the flames, enjoying the newly emerald heat lick her pale fingers. ‘I do not mean to sound all ... preaching, I am just full of little inspirations,’ Chuckling, she suddenly lifted her face, excitement shimmering across her features.

‘That’s something else I can do, something hailed as ‘bardic inspirations’, I think? Plainly spoken, I can inspire you in whatever way I choose, though short bursts of song are often the easiest, and I install within you a magical boost of sorts, they can be very helpful.’ Allura nodded, looking most precious in her enthusiasm. ‘I can also help you with healing during rests, as well as ... well, I only sleep for 4 hours each night. It’s not so much sleep as it is a deep meditation. This in tune with my darkvision would make me pretty handy for overnight watches.’

Looking dead into his smirk, Allura could feel her body slightly hum with a deep energy. Before she came here, her Nymph sisters often spoke about those few mortals who mattered most. They always mentioned a hum in the body, much like a feline purr, that rippled through them at the sight of specific individual happiness. Aly never questioned much further, as soon the eyes of those who spoke became glossy and distant. There was a sadness in being immortal that hid away alongside even the greatest of memories. Of course, you’re going to be special to me, she thought in both sarcasm and smitteness, you’re my literal miracle.

‘You’re very beautiful, Arn.’ Outstretching a hand, she went to stroke his cheekbones in affection but paused just before touching his skin. Frozen in place, staring deep into his eyes, she smiled a true smile. Something a little imperfect - a little shy, a little sexy, and terribly, terribly honest.

Pulling back, Aly once again tucked away a stray strand of hair and flushed a little more golden than before. ‘A new question, perhaps?’

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

arinbrethilder‌:

Arin flushed a bright red at he answers to his little scenario. both seemed to produce an intimacy that he had never experienced before and he wasn’t sure if he should be impressed with her confidence of disturbed at her ability to ooze sex appeal. her eyes shot him a sultry, seductive look that made his palms suddenly go from cool to clammy in a matter of seconds. He frowned at himself as he wasn’t used to this swirl of emotions. taking a breath, Arin composed himself and returned to his cold, unfeeling state once more as he knew he would be able to answer her if he did not get emotionally tongue tied.

“Well as we both know dwarves, especially those trapped in menial work positions, tend to have a higher sex drive so I think the second answer may prove believable as they are always using their brothels till they are dried up, pardon my vulgarity.” Arin felt that the second option would prove more useful in this given case. he felt slightly flustered as Allura had suddenly thrusted her breasts into view. he turned to focus his sight on a candle that was floating close to his ear. tapping the flame gently he changed the colour to a bright emerald green as he new this colour calmed him.

Sitting back Arin wondered what he should ask her. He felt the bitterness radiate off Allura when she spoke of her past and so did not want to invoke that tense feeling again. “Okay… this question is both personal and of use to our quest”, Arin started “what is the extent of your powers? what can you do with them?”. He hoped that this was personal enough that he could test another scenario on her afterwards and so that he did not have to probe too deeply as he felt like he was peering into her soul. a sight that he wasn’t sure he was ready for yet…

Originally posted by dean-just-kiss-cas-already

Allura was amused by his shy demeanor. It had been long since she’d received a guest with such hidden appetites as this. ‘There’s no shame in vulgarity, Arin, nor in wanting it.’ She dipped her head a little, almost trying to catch his eyes. ‘What is life without a little intimacy, anyway.’ She smiled mainly to herself, there was something awfully raw about him. As if people were a luxury he had not known in some time. While refreshing, it was worrisome to her. The idea of social creatures kept in captivity away from others did not appeal to her better nature.

‘Many things, I can move objects without touching, as you’ve already seen, as well as I can light a room. I can heal you a little, both magically and through the use of plants and herbs.’ Allura gestured to the immense kitchen in front of her. ‘You’d be surprised how easily cooking doubles up as healing when you get down to it.

Through her eyes remained attentive, her face shifted into a more passive expression. ‘In the ways of war, I am also equipped.’ There was an edge to her voice now, something that made her seem as old as she truly were. ‘I have not needed to use them often, thank the gods, but enough to know they’re there.’ with a shake of her head, she cleared her mind of such demons and instead smiled shyly at him.

‘I can speak and hurt the minds of those who hear me. I can use the air and sound to throw others to the floor far away from me. Contrarily I can hold a person frozen in place. I can curse them with misfortune and pain during a fight.’ For a moment, Allura felt something she had not in a long while. She felt the bounds of Unseelie. They did not often plague her, as she tried to live her life as best as she could. But every so often, it reminded her that like it or not, she carried both good and evil within her.

Despite her inner turmoil, she did not let it show. To Arin she remained as serene as ever, this time coly resting back on her chair. ‘I have a few tricks that remain, well, very useful with mortals. I can compel someone to tell the truth, I can read thoughts if I must. I can also... suggest courses of actions to others which they will complete without fail, so long as they are not directed to perform an act of self-harm.’ Aly tucked a twirl of hair behind her ear. ‘There is, of course, advantages to being a Nymph, not just the initial beauty.’

‘I can walk on water with no issue, as well as swim faster than most mortal creatures. I can both blind or stun creatures with my beauty or a glance alone, as always that depends on who they are and how tolerant they are to my charisma. So be warned, my dear Arin, my beauty can blind a man, if you’re not careful’ At first she shot him a look, but then dissolved into giggles as delightful as fairy footstep bells. ‘Bless you, Arin of the stoic faces.’

‘I can also sense the attitudes of animals, reading how likely they are to help me, but this mostly has aided me here in the woods, I can’t really see how this will aid the quest.’ With a wave of her hand, she finished her little speech. To speak plainly Aly was feeling a little light-headed, she felt as though that was the most speaking she had done in 5 centuries.

‘I do hope that helps, Arin of the double questions.’

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

“You suppose you are royalty?”, Arin questioned, knowing that to be a royal meant that she would be bound to the service of her race and so to find her here alone was a sharp turn In events. “ It must have been a truly hateful place to live and I am sorry for that. Although I cannot relate entirely to your struggle I can sympathise with the feeling of despair that you must of held.” Arin then sat back, rather shocked at her revelation and also concerned that she could pass it of as but a small piece in her life.

“You believe I am your sign then mistress Allura. Well I hope my presence and my quest live up to your expectations.” Arin finished his sentence whilst watching her pale, spritely fingers dance with the flames that he had conjured. all of a sudden drinks of many varieties came swirling through the air. A mixture of wines, ales and  juices twirled around the pair. Arin watched Allura deliberate for less than a second before choosing a deep, heavily spiced red wine. he pondered for a moment before settling on a green drink that seemed to be a comforting algae and aloe mixture with sweet lemon to compliment. Plucking it from the air above he watched as the other drinks flew across to the counter where with a loud synchronised tap on the wood they lay still. The drink felt a tad warm for his liking so he summoned the coldness from his bones and let it flow into the drink, cooling it to just above freezing. “This is a treat”, he muttered to himself.

Now to business…

“Okay I have asked you about yourself now let me give you a scenario and I would like to hear how you would handle it”, Arin quickly said in a matter-of-fact tone. “We are approaching a small village, mainly inhabited by dwarfs, we get to the gates and are stopped by two dwarfling guards who ask our business in these parts.What would you tell them so we could pass through the gates and pick up supplies without arousing suspicion? After all I am now a wanted elf.” Arin was fairly pleased with his scenario. not too easy but not too hard. a good first test for his new companion. He looked at her with a strong, confident gaze hoping silently that she would do answer well for he was slowly starting to build a bond with this great and mysterious nymph.

Originally posted by look-back-look-back-at-me

‘No, no no, darling,’ She chuckled. ‘I am royalty, I just supposed it was important to tell you.’ Her light laughs brought with it a flurry of warm air. ‘My mistake, sometimes I get so spellbound in how to say things the most seductively that my meaning gets lost in translation’

Allura watched the concern brew over his features. It pulled tight the eyebrows, crinkled the forehead and toyed with his flush pink lips. Concern was a new sentiment to her, though she was not naive enough to believe the concern was entirely about her well being. At least, not entirely... yet. It made him look older than his years, but his face easily folded into the worried look giving her the idea that perhaps he pulled this expression often. It did not sit well with her, how easy he looked in unease. This was something she felt a need to fix, she much preferred his smile.

‘Yes, it was not all bad. There is beauty far greater there than any, but perfection and corruption tended to be great bed partners. No matter, what’s done is done. I am sure to return as soon as destiny and the Gods deem it wise.’ Winking lightly at Arin, Aly let softness seep back into her body. The past was always a sour subject, but one must be open in order to breed trust.

Again, Aly grinned at him, hearing his muttered statement of praise. Compliments are well met by her as well as frequently gifted, but the accidental or unintentional compliments she valued the most. It’s easy to give someone sweetened words so hearing them without being voiced loudly, well, it makes them all the better meant.

His physical transformation between conversation to interviewing was not lost on her. While she’d intentionally caused the constant switches (interviewing to set him at ease, personal conversation for her own peace of soul), it was still mildly jarring to see. It was as if Arin’s soul had slipped behind a pane of glass, leaving her with a cooler, distant version of the man before her. Regardless of this shift, Aly endeavored to be just as easy and charming as always. Do unto others what you’d wish onto yourself, and all those proverbs.

After his words, there was a twinkle in his eye far more personal than the pane of glass his demeanor hid behind. It gave her hope, and more importantly the confidence to answer.

‘Well,’ She considered, ‘That would depend on how much of a low-profile you’d wish to contain.’

‘My first instinct tells me to claim to tell the truth or at least a half-truth. On the one hand, I could tell them that I am a traveling bard requested for a birthday party, you being my husband. Or I could tell them that I was a whore sent from the town over to help this town’s brothel as currently the supply just can’t cover the demand, in this scenario I’d explain you to be the son of my brothel’s owner. I’d say you were here to collect payment from my soon-to-be employer as thanks for lending my services. This way I could offer my services to the guards if they were particulary hard to impress. Regardless, it would make them flustered or horny, either way, mortals do like to think with sex rather than logic when gifted the choice.’

She smiled, rather self-satisfactory at her answer. Whether or not he’d accept it was a different story, but she felt assured in her two answers that if tested in real life, would certainly do the trick.

‘Don;t you think I have the beauty to pull of such a role?’ She pulled a soft pout, fluttering her eyelashes and pushing out her breasts. Laughing, she returned back to normal. ‘Now, another personal!’

[allura-bardtothebone-blog]

‘Hmm, I suppose she could be of use’, Arin thought quietly ‘it may draw less suspicion if I am not alone as well as a lone elf is usually a rogue one.’ He pondered for a few seconds until finally reaching a decision.

“Allura you may be of use to me and I would be pleased if you accompanied me on my journey. with my years of confinement I am not used to interacting with mortals and other creatures on this realm so your charm and grace would be very valuable on this quest.” Arin felt pleased with his decision as he was not sure if he could make this journey alone. It would be perilous and a companion would be vary comforting. He could already see the hoard of  grizzled, grimy goblins he would have to try and vanquish at the shrine and it would be useful to have a partner to help him.

Arin felt uncomfortable prying into the very nature of her being. he had read about nymphs in ancient texts but had never encountered one so he couldn’t help but be filled with the bubbling curiosity of a mortal child. “Very well”, he started, “ how did you come to belong here?” Arin finally asked “from what I have read on your kind you have a pack mentality, often living in family like tribes and luring people in with your collective charm and beauty so it seems strange to find you alone. I was excited to see the flock of homes in this ancient tree but confused to find out that you lived alone.” Arin hoped this wasn’t too personal. He had read of great wars between nymph tribes, heard of quarrels between great kings and queens and hoped that she had not had to experience this herself. But knowing that her race was as old as the universe itself Allura living a peaceful live was unlikely.

Now that his question was out, floating in the air between them he twitched his fingers under the table and moved the candles lower, changing their colour to a fiery orange so as to see his host better.

Arin moved his bowl to the side and emptied its contents with the flicker of his pupils. He whisked their bowls away with ease to the kitchens warm, oaken counter and then prepared for her answer, safe in the knowledge that there were no distractions between them.

Originally posted by luciferdecker

‘That is a very long story, one I shall not bore you with. Concisely put, I had a home, a beautiful home, full of good and bad. Eventually the bad outweighed the good and made me unhappy. The world around me turned cold and unfeeling, and I could feel it threaten to overwhelm me. I begged for someone to take me away, and eventually, someone did. They told me to wait here for a sign, I have waited for thousands of mortal years, and finally, you have arrived.’ Allura gestured towards him, looking almost dazzled by the sheer fact of his presence.

With a sigh, she began to play with the newly brightened flame, unaffected by the heat. ‘Naturally, there are far more details, but that’s the gist.’ Allura smiled brightly,  proud of how minimalistic she made her entire existence. ‘Most importantly of all, I suppose, is that I am royalty. Nymphs are common but my identity is not, such is the way of mortal lore.’

The bowels cleaned themselves orderly as she spoke, leaving her again in wistful gaze of having another beside her. She used one of her mage hands beside his abilities to pull out the drinks, circling them overhead to let him choose.

After drawing out a wine for herself, she tipped back in her chair, welcoming another question.