#B'andtherion

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Your character receives an anonymous package. Within it is a seems to be a bag of extremely fine black and gold sand. A small handwritten card within reads: "Pour me out but don't worry, I'll always return to the bag when you're done." (The sand will magically create the image of a person's face or the entirety of their person as a perfect replica of how you remember them. This person though has to be deceased for it to work. Who does your character think of? Why them? Sending this to a bunch of folks for the holidays so they have a surprise IC gift that might also hit them in the feels! Happy Holidays!)

"Delivery!"

The voice carried through the door as Kelz made her way towards the apartment entrance. Upon unlocking the door and opening it, she was offered a small box from the courier. A few gold coins given in exchange as she took the package inside. Upon opening it, she revealed an ornately wrapped gift.

It was small and had some heft to it. And as she regarded the lack of tag, she felt immediate suspicion. For now, though, the present would be scooped up to rest beneath her arm as she made her way to her family's estate for Winter Veil.

With some coordination with the Majordomo, her gifts were already brought into the family room. A few hours of family bonding and gift exchanges were made, while the strange gift sat unopened beside her.

"Who's that from?" Her brother questioned as he peered around her.

"I don't know. It arrived on my doorstep this morning from the courier. Just... not sure if I'm ready to open it. They didn't leave a name."

Adonis's features darkened as he rose from his seat. A hand was outstretched pointedly. "Let me see that."

"W-What? No, it's a gift. It's..."

"Give it to me."

A disappointed sigh was heaved from her as she picked up the small parcel and offered it up in surrender to him. His hand held the gift balanced on a single palm, while his other hand began to glow with the light of the Eternal Sun. Beneath his illuminated hand the gift rattled with animation, causing both Allasticus and Kelz to shift in anticipation.

The paper that had concealed it burned away, allowing a simple silk black bag to take its place.

"Dad, wait what if it's-"

"Quiet." He said as the bag did not appear to be willed away so easily. It was not transparent from what they could tell, and magic would do little to reveal its contents now. A piece of parchment that had not burned floated towards the floor in response to the rough handling. But it didn't escape her brother's notice as he leaned forward to claim the written message and read it aloud for the Patriarch and his sister to hear.

"Let's pour it out, Dad." She suggested after hearing the instructions from her brother.

"No." He said with cold indifference and sought to pull the small thing away to dispose of it. But before he could get far, he would feel the weight of his daughter on his arm and her brother on the other. A hand waved over the place where his fingers clutched her gift.

"Dad, please! It's Winter's Veil!!!"

Haldir, who had been a silent onlooker throughout this exchange cleared his throat gently. But eventually Adonis would surrender his efforts to keep the gift away. The bag was pulled free as Kelz scurried to settle on the floor. The drawstring to the bag was loosened as the contents of gold and black sand spilled onto the surface. Kelz took in a gentle breath as she set a hand over the particles in hopes to create the image of a memory lost.

But the sand did not form a shape. The magic of this gift required something she no longer had.

"...It doesn't work," she declared with her hand slowly receding from the spilled sand. Disbelief etched on her features as her thoughts spiraled into thinking the gift was some hoax or prank.

Allasticus and Adonis both knew exactly who she was trying to bring back in the shifting sands. But her brother knew the torment that often lived in their father and made no move to try to animate the sand with his own hand. His hand curled at his side as he fought against the turmoil of the Matriarch's absence as well.

Tears that had often been shed on numerous accounts by her family threatened to return. But the motion of the Patriarch taking a knee beside her stopped the tears from running down the course of her cheeks. His hand settled on the sand as it began to stir from his contact and his memories. And as it started to take form, he cast his gaze away in response to the magic unfolding beneath his hand.

A startled gasp left Kelz as her hand sought to cover her mouth. The inexplicable tightness in her chest confirming the image that had been lost to her for years. The first of many warm tears rushed down the surface of her face as Adonis couldn't ignore his daughter's sobs.

The authenticity of her likeness seemed like life was expelled into the room for the first time in a long while. And Adonis could not ignore what his eyes saw. He could remember every part of her and held that image so fiercely that the sand seemed to become hardened by his desire to bring her back. Allasticus took a spot near his sister as they looked at the spectacle that now warmed their home once more. All of which were silent in remembrance of her legacy as the Matriarch, a beloved wife, and their mother. ( @dinthoqaf - you kill me with your asks. BUT I LOVE THEM <3 Q_Q

Mentions: @grumpyoldfker - oops. Sorry Dad :x & @allasticus - SOMEONE GET ME A DAMN TISSUE! )

[safrona-shadowsun]

To Lady Safrona, I hope this message finds you well. Few understand the challenges and even dangers that come hand in hand with your profession. There are many other couriers in this realm but most, in my experience, are sloppy or borderline unprofessional - seeking the coin for the delivery above all. I have found small faults in all deliveries save for your own. Thus I write to commend your failsafe methods and pray that others will meet the expectations you have so rightfully set. There will be more requests coming and I pray House B'andtherion can rely on the esteemed Courier in the time to come. Until then. -A. B'andtherion

With its luxury stationary, full house crest in wax, and beautiful lettering, the envelope in itself was something satisfying for the Courier to hold, relinquishing her to a swell of pride as she'd carefully read over the message. It swept away the stress of her professional obligations and hurdles, if only for just a moment.

Perhaps in time, she would earn a distinct respect enough to allow her to walk in Silvermoon again, unmasked.

For now, she showed her gratitude through her closest associate in the city, an Ethereal.

"Saraj?" she breathed into her chatterstone, "let's get a complimentary bottle of Thalassian Bloodwine sent to Lord B'andtherion, at his estate. Assure you discreetly take order of anything else he might desire, yes? Let's take care of our kind patron."

{ @grumpyoldfker }

[thehopelessyouth]

How does Selithar find his new place of employment? Does he take his role more or less seriously than he did under the B'andtherion banner? What does he think of his new Commander?

A radiant, prideful smile illuminated the young Duskblade’s face as he gazed at his new home—his sanctuary and place of duty.

“I am beyond delighted,” he murmured, his voice trembling with barely contained elation. “To be near my Lady, to have the honor and privilege of placing her life above my own—this is a sacred calling. I have sworn an oath to protect her, to be her shield, the umbrella that shields her from the storms. She has given me not only purpose but a freedom I have never known.”

He exhaled softly, brushing back his tousled black locks with a slender hand. “This role is more precious to me than anything. My time at the B’andtherion House, though dutifully served, felt... stifling. I longed for something greater, something more fulfilling. Now that I have found it, I will guard it with unwavering devotion.”

At the mention of the Commander, his expression wavered. “He is...” Selithar paused, clicking his tongue as his thoughts strayed to the Lioness and the Commander’s subtle yet undeniable gestures of affection. A flicker of jealousy surged within him, sharp and biting, forcing him to suppress the urge to dismiss the man outright.

“He has my respect,” Selithar admitted begrudgingly. “It is clear he is dear to my Lioness, and for that alone, I will strive to prove myself worthy in his eyes. When his time comes, when age inevitably claims him, I am confident he will entrust the reins to me—as he should.”

He paused, then added with a shrug, “Still, credit where it’s due—he is a fine trainer and a commendable warrior.” @themadamelioness

@kelzthalassunwhisper for family mention

[allasticus]

Death has claimed your mother. A curse has stolen your brother.

Madness is your father. Questioning yet is your sister.

But what will become of your fate? Do you carry all the B'andtherion weight?

Can you muster the challenge ahead? Or will you be like the rest and end up dead?

Death comes and goes; it’s nothing new. Curses linger, and madness too.

What difference does it really make? The world will give, the world will take.

Fate’s just a word; it has no weight. B'andtherion or not, I’ll choose my state.

The challenge waits—so let it stand. I’ve faced enough, I understand.

End up dead? We all will, friend. No need to rush, it’s just the end. @kelzthalassunwhisper

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

If Kelz had to choose between saving Allasticus from death or pulling Lazrael away from death and back to being alive and how she knew him... which path would she choose?

Balance had never achieved such discord like it had that day. And the battle between brothers would become a legend. Each warring blow and strike became a contest between the dead and living. Not one instance could they find reconciliation with the other, for their paths were not ever meant to intersect. Abhorred by each other's willingness to surrender to fate, Kelz'thalas couldn't stand idly by to watch this carry on.

There would be another loss if she didn't intervene. But perhaps that was by design from one who always saw the world laced in red. A light incantation was spoken, though it never reached the ears of the trio when Kelz'thalas arrived. Their weapons became idle, as their sister took their attention.

"You both need to stop this! We're family! DEAD OR ALIVE!"

But it was the lust for more blood that spurred Allasticus to act out first. He took a step forward, but the ground did not support his advance as it forced him to release his weapon and seek purchase with the ledge that was his only means of support.

"ALLASTICUS!"

She discarded her own position to grab Allasticus's arm and try to help pull him up. Though what she saw beneath him was more troubling. This was no ordinary pit, but rather a death's cauldron. Numerous undead stood at attention below. Their arms raising towards their dangling prize with an endless hunger for flesh.

"Hold on, Allasticus!" His weight was certainly something she didn't anticipate trouble with as she pulled.

The footfalls of her other sibling could be heard receding from this place.

"LAZRAEL! PLEASE!"

But he would not be deterred from rejoining the Sanguine Sorceress's side. She reached out with her other arm outstretched toward him despite the distance.

"You are family, Lazrael. Even in death, we love you! Please don't force another choice on us. I was there when we lost mother. But is it fair to make us face it twice while you reap the only benefit? To sever your humanity to adhere to the cycle that never ends...? What is your existence to be if not but tragedy? I'm begging you, Lazrael, as your own blood and flesh... to preserve both. Your brother's life, and your humanity."

A slow turn was made by her younger brother, but there was only apathy in his hooded gaze. Her words could not reach him whereas action might. His heart had fallen into the clutches of death, and thus the importance of survival held no consequences for him.

"Allasticus," she strained between clenched teeth and tried to pull with all her might. But the ground again shifted beneath her foot, making Allasticus sink further away. The sudden shift brought her to a knee, as she looked over her shoulder one last time to the pair that had sought to strip yet another life from her.

If only there was something she could do to save them both... Her heart pounded as if the blood pumping into it might rend it into two pieces.

"Brother, I won't let go." She assured Allasticus as her grip reflexively tightened.

Though in her eyes, she could see Lazrael in her mind, a soul that had needed the light to guide his lost way. It was a faint whisper, much like that of a prayer. A gentle voice, tender to the ears sought to appeal to him once more. To remind him that he had once felt the warmth of a heart and the adoration of one who deserved to be cherished over damned.

A last look was offered to the struggling siblings, but not all stories had a happy ending. In the instance he might have re-considered his path, both his sister and brother fell beneath the surface. Swallowed by the land itself, that memory would forever haunt and twist him. Not all disciples of death could escape the ramifications of upsetting the balance of order.

Their mother would make sure of that... A mother's love will guide you long after it is gone. Even if you can't see her, she will know the sins you have committed.

@allasticus - >:(

@lazraelbandtherion- >:(( @sanguinesorceress - >:(((

@grumpyoldfker - WHERE DA F WERE YOU? >:((((

@kalren-daelish - AND YOU!? >:(((((

At least mom still loves us :'(

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

A Commander. The Commander. Bound by duty upon duty. Duty for the people, duty for your kin, duty for your family, perhaps if ever a time permits a duty for yourself. But ever bound.

One can't always have been bound by such things, tell us, share with us when she wasn't bound in armor. When Kelz'thalas could simply be herself, free from the bonds of duty.

Complicated are the matters of the mind. But there are some who spell weave at changing beliefs, altering perspectives, and ridding memories. A dark art fueled by living shadows to taint and embody malice and malevolence through the whispers of madness. It only took a bit of focus and concentration to guide a phantasmal hand over those unsuspecting or vulnerable. This hand grew from progressive and deviant intention. And as it sought to clutch at the frame of her mind, it moved like an eraser. Scratching and bleeding over memories like the etched trail of ink on parchment. What remained was barren and blank. The devouring plague that had feasted on hundreds of years of life gradually sank away.

What was perceived as dark was now newfound light.

First came a ragged breath, followed by a twist of her frame and a loose survey of her surroundings. The firm foundation of wood rested beneath her, as she noted the plush shape of a red cushion followed by the singing of birds and eternal spring. Eversong greeted her without fault, much like the light shone from the eternal sun. What should have been a place of confusion was familiar, but a blissful touch of forgetfulness did hang like a heavy blanket over the forefront of her mind.

Her body shifted upright at first as her legs found the cobblestone path that led towards the Shepherd's gate. Two large tapestries of red fell from the top of the entryway while a lone statue of the blood prince stood idly at its center.

"Miss Sunwhisper."

The words prompted her head to turn towards her speaker. The man across from her rose as he strode forwards to offer her an outstretched hand. It was Vyrin Evensun.

As if a door had been unlocked, the fabricated knowledge bled into her mind as she offered a smile back. Reflexively, she rose without taking the noble gesture and looked back towards the Shepherd's Gate.

"I'm ready Vyrin. This is the day I'll become a Silvermoon Guard. The Magistry won't know what they were missing all these years!"

Vyrin chuckled lightly as if to mask his symptoms of distress, but his ears did not rise to attention but instead faltered much like his smile fell. He knew something that Kelz'thalas Sunwhisper didn't.

"Well come on Vyrin, we're burning the morning sunlight! I know Ileda is waiting in the Farstrider's Square. I still remember all the important stuff from the recruitment missive! You believe in me, don't you?"

Regardless of the pain it was to divulge the truth, he simply nodded. "Of course, I do Kelz'thalas. You're right though, let us be on our way."

As always, Vyrin couldn't be found without his ornamental armor. It hardened him from shoulder to toe as those plate pieces clanked softly with his advance. Kelz'thalas on the other hand, was in chainmail - something lighter to suit her, to keep her at a disadvantage when it came to defense, and unfamiliar as to keep her new experiences raw and distinct from what was forged in the sub conscience of her mind. Their relationship was bound by lies as they trailed into Silvermoon City on an artificial lifetime quest.

"This is more than I could have ever imagined Silvermoon City to look," she remarked as a hand outstretched towards the inn immediately to the left of them.

"The-"

Both of them paused as one had sought to answer while the other spoke the sign's name.

"Wayfarer's Rest!" Kelz would finish after a moment.

You have been here before. You really don't remember... You don't know who you are... You have forgotten and lost everything.

"Hey Vyrin. What if I get accepted as a guard on the first day?"

"Unlikely," he said with a cold knowingness to his tone. "...It's not something you would be able to do."

It wasn't to be condescending, but it was a fact that would prove to be true. The words were armed as he was instructed to speak to her in this manner. Like he was some sellsword that traveled for hire that just happened to be her friend. But he was much more than that. He was one of the Patriarch's best, an Elite B'andtherion Guard. But now he was conformed to a task as a mere watchdog. A silent protector and spy to the lively daughter who was for all intents and purposes a new commoner woman with specialties and no resources or social upbringing to charm and spoil her every endeavor. A slave to the suffering that brought every heart of Silvermoon down into the proverbial dump.

"You just said you believed in me," she retorted with clear disappointment lacing her words.

How desperately I want to profusely apologize for offending the Lady of House B'andtherion. But the Patriarch's words are my command to follow.

"I do, but just not with that." The first of many lies had paved the foundation of this character and his purpose. "You might have better luck with just getting a hit to make the mark."

"Wow, now that's just rude Vyrin. What kind of friend are you?"

"The type that won't refrain from what needs said."

Her expression soured yet again, making that twist of guilt in my gut knot further. It's suffocating to keep up this farce. But I am his most entrusted. And she is my charge, even if she does not know that to be the case. Why can't I ignore it and see this is what's best for her?

Her mopey steps carried her ahead as Vyrin fell some distance behind. His gaze was cast to the side as he looked to a pair leaning in towards the other in an exchange of passion. Their motions furthered that reminder of what daughter of Patriarch had lost.

Kal'ren. We all had saw the promise the two shared in building a life with one another. But after the Matriarch's sacrifice... Not even Kal'ren's words could lift her heavy heart. It was as if not only her mother had died that day, but so did her spirit. It was no wonder the Patriarch had saw it fit to end things. I can still see Kal'ren's face... The longing to save her and restore her spirits. No man can ignore the sensation of helplessness or weakness. It's like poison that saps at confidence and trust to oneself. It breaks us. And by the Eternal Sun... I ask that it strengthens him instead.

The Farstrider's Square gradually came into view after their pass through the Royal exchange. It was silent the whole time as the young woman elected to give him the brooding treatment. Still very much the same as she was daughter of the House B'andtherion.

Ileda stood in front of the practice square made available to the Farstrider's and Blood Knights. Nearby several targets and dummies had lined the edges as she noted their arrival. A few other trainees stood at attention, having arrived on time.

"You're late Sunwhisper."

Disbelief found its way over Kelz's expression as she sought to refute the error in her instructor's words. But the truth was, the letter was forged to suggest that was indeed the fact when it was not.

But somehow the young woman held her tongue despite the restraint it took. The intensity of her ambition on full display as nothing would challenge her resolve. A sign the failsafe of her mind's reconstruction had implanted to hold the spell intact; it wove lies into memories and facts, and made a false persona that held true to her nature in so many ways.

I don't want to stay. But no matter how hard the battles I fought were, this is by far the most difficult thing outside of killing I've been asked to do. I'm destroying her heritage, identity, and purpose in life. No different than the damned themselves, do I allow her soul to fade. Matriach forgive me.

Anon, thank you for the ask. I really appreciate this one as it gave me an opportunity to build and construct some of Kelz's backstory more clearly. I really hope you enjoyed the read and sorry it took so long for me to reply.

Tagging: @grumpyoldfker Here's some more to blast from the past >:D

@kalren-daelish - sorry :(

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Write about an event in their youth that involved magic.

"Sungrass, we have special guest coming to our house today!" The Matriarch's words coo'd as she attempted to reorient the stubborn child who didn't want to rise from the marble floor.

"But I don't want to meet anyone else new, Mom! I wanna just play and hang out with my brothers and Kal'ren! We just got the hang of flying from the swing!"

Her mother's patience was everlasting as she set Kelz'thalas on her feet. A strand of blonde hair was wisped back behind her daughter's ear as she smiled faintly.

"I think you will really like this new person more than the rest. They have a really important job like Mommy does. And she agreed to a little request of mine for you and your brothers."

"What about Kal'ren?"

"He won't be coming today, this is just for you and your brothers. Now let's join them in the courtyard?"

As the Matriarch moved forward, she offered a slender hand towards her daughter to take. Which she immediately did so, now that curiosity and potential surprises lie in wait.

"Okay, well what did you ask for! Is it presents?"

"No, not exactly little Sungrass."

One of the servants opened the door upon their arrival to the back part of the estate. Several marble steps were taken before they circled around the fountain at its center. Both of her brothers were already looking at the newcomer curiously while the Patriarch stood idly by with his arms crossed against his chest. This new elf appeared darker in skin tone and her hair looked like an actual fire with the way the colors were nearly perfected to recreate it. Kelz'thalas wondered faintly if it was magically altered and if so, she would have to beg her mother to ask the mages to perform such a makeover!

"El'vyia Sunflame! It's so good you could make it. This is my little girl, Kelz'thalas. Kelz'thalas, this is our Keeper, El'vyia Sunflame."

"The honor is mine, Matriach B'andtherion. Hello there, Kelz'thalas." Instead of offering a hand or even stooping to eye level in greeting, the newcomer instead remained standing and only canting her head to the side in a show of acknowledgement.

"And you said today was your girl's birthday?"

The Matriarch nodded and gently ushered Kelz to stand in front of her as El'vyia nodded and made a point to take several steps back. There was a cursory glance made to her sides as she eyeballed how much space she would need to perform the surprise that was asked in question. It was rather abrupt, but the seizing of her body caused all the children present to become startled. But it seemed that it was intended as the woman fell forward as her hands transformed into large claws encompassed fully in dark crimson scales. Her body rose in size rapidly as her head now rode forward along a slithering neck. All of her body had lost any sign of elven traits as everything that remained was fully draconic in physiology. Wings rose like large tarps as the sinews flexed to spread the skin apart and cast shadows along her sides. A rounded hump of her back hid the length of tail that stretched out behind it until it swung out to the side for the children to see.

Their reactions certainly varied - as her youngest brother shrieked and sought refuge behind their mother's legs. Whereas Allasticus uttered only a soft "whoa!" As for Kelz herself, she was enchanted by the spectacle of Azeroth's Ruby Dragonflight. Embers trickled out of the sky above the dragon as she lowered her head to regard the gathered family.

One of the servants that had accompanied them out was holding a crimson pillow embroidered with golden threads. In its center sat a golden locket that was to act as a keepsake and blessed gift for Kelz'thalas by the Red Dragonflight.

The dragon's eyes followed the motion of the servant as the pillow was set on the ground beneath the dragon's head. A deep intake of air was pulled into the dragon's mouth as the air was superheated within her lungs. The inferno that grew within her scaled hide began to glow until her maw pointed down over the locket and expelled the torrent of flames downward in a flashy display of raw power and wonder.

Allasticus made a point now to scoot by his father's side, causing the Patriarch to uncross his arms and set one hand on the boy's shoulder to reassure him in an unspoken gesture of saying... 'I'm here.'

When the ceremony of the dragon's gift had ended, the pillow that had been enchanted with fire resistance revealed some scorch marks, but not enough to burn it like the grass around it. And the locket now brilliantly glowed with a glowing red-orange aura. No doubt still hot from the process as the dragon shifted to sit on its hind legs while both wings fanned outward. The wing joints shifted so that the wings could curl around either side of her, but enable her to direct her flaps to thrust a force of air over the locket in several swift successions.

The wind and air caused the Matriarch's robes and hair to billow out behind her as it also did the same for everyone else's hair presently. But soon the process would cease as the dragon meticulously shifted its wings back over it and lowered onto its foreclaws.

"Do that again!" Kelz's voice suddenly chirped with glee to the red dragon. There was a knowing glance made towards both the Patriarch and the Matriarch for parental approval, which both would give. And once more, their guest would lift the wings up and outward, while also drawing in a sharp breath. Though the combustion of this fiery breath was explosive as the intensity of flame was ten times that which the children experienced on the ground. Her younger sibling cried out, forcing the Matriarch to turn and shield his eyes, where as Allasticus and Kelz'thalas were very much enjoying the show.

@puppet-master-jihye - thank you again for the ask!

@grumpyoldfker @allasticus @lazraelbandtherion (GIVE ME YOUR REAL NAME, AND NOT LARRY! XD)

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Dear future me, & Dear past me,

Precognition was not something the Commander was versed in understanding. But the touch to the Warden Astheo's eyes had triggered one last temporal venture as the world froze yet again. But there was no Juggernaut this time to tower over her. And the raw emotion that had taken hold of her was about to erupt.

But a golden hand outstretched to settle on her shoulder. Warmth emanated from the contact of touch, rendering armor pointless to impede its invasive envelopment of the grief-stricken guardian and heiress. Slowly, her head raised to see her echo of salvation, a mirrored image of herself stood there as a golden gateway swirled behind her. A tethered chain of her true timeline was manifested from the center of this portal as it sank into her future self.

"Dear, Past Me... You are experiencing the most devastating moment in your life. But you were never wrong in believing or showing compassion to the Juggernaut. Your influence is measured by your unwillingness to surrender. And the outcome could still very much change. The two that he had slew, were aware of the possibility of this. And contingencies were their specialty afterall... One a warmage of soul cleaving and the other a master of time weaving. Do not be consumed by grief. You will fall into the Sanguine Sorceress's open hand and submit to the same cruel undoing's that befell her and the Juggernaut. Appeal to your family, Kal'ren and that... Nethermancer. But the path won't be easy. It's a marathon, not a sprint. And stop trying to find answers in a bottle... Because there won't be an answer there that you will like."

Weighed down by these words of wisdom and otherworldly knowledge, the Commander still rested on her bent knee. Her head was still kept upright as she tried to compose herself to understand what was being relayed.

"Future Me?... I can't ignore what happened. I..." The thought of her vow to Mallana again resurfaced like an unruly wave of guilt. It stopped her from challenging her future self and caused her breath to catch in her throat.

"You can do this, Past Me. But you have to either trust or fall. Don't surrender to this side of darkness, it still lives in you even when you don't call upon it."

The golden light in the gateway began to fade as the time had reached its limit. Rattling chains rang out, signaling the retreat of her future self, but the illusion of herself stood adamant despite the breaking of order's sacred law.

"Remember what I told you. You can and will save them."

@sanguinesorceress - thanks for the ask :3 I'm pretty pleased with this and don't regret waiting to answer it now. Bwahahaha! \o/ <3

@allasticus @grumpyoldfker @lazraelbandtherion @kalren-daelish - YOU ARE ALL MENTIONED. YEAH EVEN YOU LAZRAEL - EVEN THOUGH YOU'RE BEING BAD LIKE THE JUGGERNAUT HERE. \o/ @tursidhion-felomelorn / @elibraddock - mentions for Tursidhion, Eurath, and Astheo \o/ @nixalegos - mentions \o/

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

The Loops of Fruit

Her return home didn't quite match the vision, she had in her mind, of riding upon the saddle of an armored hawkstrider. Instead, she was splayed out along the back of a traveling mercenary's wagon and staring skyward with a dazed look in her eyes.

At the helm of its wooden frame, he sat there with his head ducked down in the crevice of his shoulders. From behind, it gave his shadow a bit more of a menacing and unhappy look. But who could really blame him given the excessive beating of wings, loud and egregious cawing, and a large pecker seeking to scoop the matter from his eyes or ears every time it circled him.

"Incessant creature. Stay back now, honestly!" His frustration made that rigid look project in the spitting image of her father and she brought her arm up and swung downward with force. Her hand made contact in a loud smacking sound as his shoulders twitched from the shock and his head whirled around to see the Lady B'andtherion in a more disheveled state. Her hair that had been held back in a loose tail now had lost any sense of collective restraint as it bared down against her shoulders like a screaming banshee.

"You'reeeeee funny when you get mad. It reminds me of my dad. He can get really fired up and look like an ogre who had its toy taken. Sometimes I can see him like a kid more than a father. It's sad that I'm like the mom some days. Can't remember a time that I got to be like a kid. I mean I was at this party talking about not going to parties and having fun at home in sweatpants. I mean are they wrong?"

The armored mercenary shifted with a hurried shove of the reins from his hand and then swung one of his legs over the side of the wooden footing. He strode around the wagon with such speed, I had forgotten we had stopped. A blink and I'm staring at the sky instead of at him. My legs were pulled on and ... oh.

Feet now settled on the ground, the mercenary is under my arm and I laughed. More profuse squawking is made overhead of us as the bird I was gifted from Greatfather Winterveil insists on keeping its eye on me and seems to respond well when I call him Fruit Loops.

"Fruittttt Looopssssssssss!"

The bird squawked again.

"FRUITTTT LOOPS!"

"Lady B'andtherion, would you please cease with this caterwauling wailing. People are trying to sleep, and I only agreed to bring you back to the estate. You insisted you would pay me a hefty sum, and I certainly hope you meant significant."

Kelz swayed with every step they took. Her arm was held firmly to his side as her head leaned into his shoulder as she began to mumble.

"It mwill be. Just mwask Haldir."

There was a glistening sheen of Kelz's indulgence dangling from the corner of her partially ajar mouth. There was no modesty expensed for this knight in shining armor.

"By the Eternal Sun, woman. You are more animal than lady, that I can assure you!"

"CAW-CAW! SQUAWK!"

"ANYONE PLEASE?! HELP ME WITH THIS!"

At the gates that led into the estate, two elite guards shifted from their station and made their approach towards the pair. Night had long since settled over the landscape. The few magically attuned light posts illuminated the grounds in small patterns of circles. So, the light really only exposed the feet on their pass.

"Mm... Guards, pay the man his dues. Let me walk into the manor unaccompanied. I have a task I must accomplish in this state. Failure to do so will be reported to the Patriarch. Your heiress has spoken!"

Whether or not the guards reciprocated her command was not yet made known. At least not until one guard turned to the mercenary to offer him compensation for his trouble. Errant flapping overhead caused her head to peer up as the small shadow of her new pet grew in size before settling on her plated shoulder.

"Caw-Ca-" The noise was quickly subdued as her left hand rose up to pinch the toucan's beak shut.

"Shh... We need to enter the manor quietly. No nonsense noise."

After speaking to her bird like another understanding individual, she realized her error in her way of thinking and burst into a fit of giggles.

"You don't know what I just said, do you, Fruit Loops? I was suggesting that you had a brain enough to understand me in there. Oh how dumb I have become."

With her sole free hand, she limply reached for the door. But a guard that was on post beside it would assist her in the endeavor, perplexed whether or not to remain posted or follow the heiress into the main foyer.

"I got it," Kelz said as if reading their thoughts and body language. "This bird is in my capable care. And no one must attack it or attempt to detain it. It is now an honorary B'andtherion pet and you will be fired if you do! So you better listen!"

A short laugh leaves her as she stumbles into one of the many corridors that lined their house. Her body was exposed to the wall mounted magical sconces as she hobbled onward in the direction of the wing where her room resided.

"So Fruit Loops, you have to be good while you are here. That means only pooping on staff when they are bugging me when I try to sleep or circling my father's head while he's angry and squawking. We're a team now and I so can't wait to see how you fit in."

"My lady?" A servant had emerged from their room and sought to appease her every need. "Would you like me to escort you to your room?" Her tone was so mousey, almost as if she worried if squeaking any louder would dock her pay. Her eyes narrow as she stares at the servant before becoming resolute in her posture.

"Very well. But we are making a detour to my father's study first. You will not speak a word about it. Do not tell the Patriarch that this was my doing, but rather that of Greatfather Winterveil. And that he has to abide by holiday spirit to let my pet stay. That's the rules and he promised to be nice. I should have asked Greatfather Winterveil if my father was on the nice list. But he's probably on the naughty list for firing that guardsmen Selithar Duskblade. And clobbering Allasticus. And breaking that table... And... being mean to Lady Naralinthe Emberdawn."

Her focus lessened a bit as the blurs in her vision made the lights blend together as they walked. She didn't even hear the servant answer her command. And was perplexed by the sudden silence of her assistant.

"Well don't be quiet now. I'm getting the chills like there's a ghost abound. Please."

It was a near plea, and the servant - was only happy to acquiesce as she nodded vehemently. "Right, my Lady. What is it you want to discuss or talk about?"

"I don't know... Just tell me you will listen to me fully and take care of my wishes. And then talk to me about your Winter Veil holiday?"

"Of course, my Lady. I do hear you fully and will see to it that you arrive to your father's study. Which... we are about to arrive in a few steps. Was there something you wanted to do there?"

"Yes, that's Fruit Loops new home." She said with a finger crookedly soaring through the air towards the ceiling. "I think he will enjoy a high place on one of father's bookshelves. Overlooking the study like a multi-colored phoenix flamboyantly flapping its wings and greeting my father in the morning! I think he will come to appreciate my winged friend."

"My Lady, I-" The servant caught herself as if briefly forgetting her station, then promptly silenced herself from speaking further. Though the sound didn't escape Kelz's notice.

"What now? I assure you it will all be okay. My father wants me happy you know. And he promised he would do better. For all of our sakes. Oh, I could so go for some pancakes."

The servant smiled dutifully and made a mental point to arrange that for the B'andtherion daughter. "My Lady, we have arrived at your father's study."

Though, the servant didn't make an effort to open the doors. Instead, it was Kelz's doing as the wooden gates to her father's sanctum opened wide by the strength of his daughter's ambitious resolve.

"Fruit Loopssss!"

Her voice merrily sang as the toucan tried to speak with its clamped shut beak as wings flapped erratically at Kelz.

"Oh right, I'm sorry." The hand on the bird released as it squawked and bludgeoned its nose against her ear roughly in annoyance. But it was loving too, she reasoned. Again, those wings flapped aggressively as it soared up towards the top of the bookcase just as Kelz had prophesized with the intoxicated workings of her thoughts and visions.

"Sleep tight, Fruit Loops!" She declared before turning on her heel and shutting the doors behind her. The lights fell away in the study as Fruit Loops settled on the bookcase's top ledge. In the hall, Kelz stumbled a few steps to the side of the servant awaiting further direction.

"Fetch me a guard. And request he dress himself as Greatfather Winterveil. Ask him to carry me to my bed and tell me what a good girl I have been this year."

"---M-M-My Lady, are you sure?!" The servant's voice was becoming quite annoying as Kelz irritably replied.

"Yes. And the pancakes, make sure they are there before we arrive!"

"Of course!" She snapped at an octave higher than Kelz had heard it before. With her escort dismissed to fulfill her wishes, Kelz swayed side to side before sliding along the wall into a seated position. Her hands coming to settle on her palms at her sides as she tried to hold herself up from leaning too far to her right. Her head felt so heavy, and she enjoyed closing her eyes and just humming playfully while she waited.

It would be a few moments later, but her head would lift to see a shadowy silhouette galivanting his way towards her. This guard was hard to make out as her eyes squinted to try to see past the shadows on his face. A hand took to raising on its own volition as her pointer finger lifted to point at him.

"Are you Greatfather Winterveil?" She called as she tried to sit up and felt her legs drift further away on the floor.

But there was no answer given to her as she watched the man take to a knee beside her. There was a gentleness she had never seen before on his features as she took note of his beard and face. Recognition was functioning at about half capacity as she knew who she was looking at but couldn't account for the word or name.

Without her asking of it, the man's arms shifted forward. One sliding beneath the base of her knees while his other slid behind the center of her back as she was compressed in against him and herself. She felt so small in his grip while glancing up at his broad shoulders. A hand raised to his chest as a sadness took hold of her unexpectedly.

"You look like the hero our world needs." She spoke lightly as tears christened the edges of her eyes. Her focus became increasingly lost as she felt him begin his progression down the hall towards her room. Idly, she rocked in his arms as he hesitated on any form of reply to her. But eventually, he would find his voice only to have her cut it off again with an impulsive interjection.

"What put me on the nice list, anyway, Greatfather Winterveil?" She would ask, as her tears ran down her cheeks in the curve of her cheek.

Her father shifted his arms so that he drew her closer to him before speaking.

"Just by being you, my child." His head pressed unexpectedly against hers as there was a tightness forming in her throat. "Now let's get you to bed."

More tears slid down her cheeks as an unbearable discomfort grew in her chest. She felt nothing of the sort for having failed so many people and others so often. Why did everything just seem to escape her in this single second? The unsteady tremble in her body began as her weeps carried through the halls of the Estate before fading to silence once more.

The light to her room was on as the servants had already prepared her bed and stood at the ready to help remove her armor as her father carried her in. Gently he eased her down onto the mattress and leaned forward to press a kiss to her forehead. A sign that he was glad that she returned home safe and sound. But his ever-present look of duty returned as he retreated from his daughter's sanctuary to see what other chaos lurked in his home. Despite her insistence that it was to be kept a secret; a little birdy might have let that slide. Or perhaps that was what she wanted to believe as her head sank into the comfort of her pillow. Every second was consciousness drifting in and out as the weight from her body became less and less until the light left the room yet again. And once the darkness took over, soon too did she fall asleep.

@grumpyoldfker - Dad thanks for putting me to bed. :)

@allasticus - Brother, I got a bird!

@themadamelioness - Thank you for inviting me out to a great time! <3

@succulent-tart - thanks for the rp event :D

@thehopelessyouth - you were the reason Dad was on the naughty list!

@kalren-daelish - not sure if you were watching me drunkenly stumbling home, but tagging in case you wanna be!

[thehopelessyouth]

Foul Knave

Dear Dark One, I have seen you, flitting about. Baring pointed teeth as if you are a Lion.. but you are no Lion, I know what a Lion is for I have shared my bed with one. You are an abomination. One who must be cut down, culled, reaped. Thus I make it my solemn vow as protector of my beloved Lioness, my ethereal, golden Kelz'thalas... if you come to them, try harm them in any form.. I shall have my blade at thy throat and you shall see my grin before I cut and you fall at my feet. For I am Selithar Emberdawn Duskblade. Free of House B'andtherion and so my full potential is now at its peak and all dark creatures of this world will tremble at my name. So cower and repent. I shall have a close on you. -SD PS Here is a photograph of myself.

@duraxxor

@kelzthalassunwhisper and @themadamelioness for mention

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

“If her mother were still alive, how would kelzs life be different?”

As the sun rose in the distance, so too did the B'andtherion family. The Third War, which had been a devastating blow to their people, had fortunately not robbed them of each other. There were certainly injuries they had sustained, but nothing life-threatening or damaging. Both of her brothers were taken under the Patriarch's wing to become suitable leaders while she... was dolled up and put through the motions of noble convocations.

"Mom..." She fought against the urge to complain. "I don't like these events. How do you tolerate them?"

"I don't like them either, Sungrass. But you come to learn lots about people and our presence is always required. Absence gives way to exploitation and by being there, we enforce a certain level of decorum and obedience. Naturally, you have to make entertainment for yourself. It helps at times when you can be accompanied by your own, but your father and brothers have other obligations to adhere to."

Several servants flocked around both the Matriarch and Kelz'thalas. Their appearance was groomed from head to foot in luxurious attire and kempt diligence.

"Well... Kal'ren said he would try to show up, but the Daelish family didn't receive an invitation."

"That has never been an issue for the B'andtherions. Haldir, could you see to it that Kal'ren is permitted entry at the event? If you have any issues, be sure they bring it up with me."

"Of course, I will see to it." Haldir gave dutiful bow and strode out of the room. The Matriarch turned then and smiled brightly to Kelz'thalas.

"I hope you do forgive me if I'm scarce during this. There is someone I must speak to in relation to certain affairs. But I'd like for you to navigate these waters on your own. Afterall, there will be many seeking to occupy themselves with us. And we must weed out those that have ulterior motives. The deception always starts with honeyed words."

Kelz'thalas sighed and stared at her reflection with disinterest. But she had to hand it to her mother - she really understood people. Even if it wasn't the words she had wanted to hear. It was a caution not to trust so easily in the face of niceties others may delude her with. And she never felt comfortable flying solo.

"Come now, we must hurry. There isn't time for delay. And the sooner we handle things, the quicker we can come home and ...do something more enjoyable. If we're lucky, we can add more to the atrium on our way home."

A smile graced Kelz's features as she nodded and rose from her seat. The red gown drifted down the length of her legs as she turned to follow her mother through an open doorway. However, gray particles of sand manifested around her freezing the scene in its entirety and stopping Kelz from proceeding.

"It seems nice, doesn't it," a voice coo'd from behind her. Two leather covered digits strode along the surface of her shoulder before another hand wrapped around to take hold of her chin and turn her to face her speaker.

"I can make this a reality for you and your family. Give back everything you were supposed to have for just one little favor back in return. Afterall... don't you want to forget everything that's happened to you? Don't you want a chance to live your life as it was intended?"

How odd, but even in this past timeline, she could hear her mother's warnings about honeyed words. She knew this was a dangerous deal to take, but temptation pulled at her more as the man holding her waited for that answer to leave her lips.

(( @allasticus thanks for the ask. :3 I know I left it on a cliff-hanger, but who knows what Kelz would say here...~ Mentions: @erazeran my infinite derg who can make dreams come true!))

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Would she sacrifice her father or any of her brothers to bring back her mother?

Never.

Even with the consideration of factors like mind-control where she would have a loss of will and control - she would seek to stop herself from enacting such a grave sin towards her family. They have all had their fair share of loss, and she would give herself to bring back their mother.

In retrospect, I believe that her siblings and father would find some semblance of peace with the return of her mother. But if I know anything about being a B'andtherion, we're all stubborn. So, I don't think the thought of Kelz giving her life would sit well with any of them, let alone her mother if she returned.

Would make for a compelling read, I imagine. :)

Thank you for the *revenge* ask, @allasticus.

[thehopelessyouth]

SaS - We just have to know, what is Selithar's favorite food! We suspect something romantic, like strawberries!

""We" are a curious, inquisitive bunch aren't we?" Selithar mused, hands reaching up to pull back a strange of night-kissed curls. "Strawberries are something that I enjoy, yes! The texture, the feeling of it as it touches your tongue and teases your palate before becoming lost in the void of the digestive system..." he grinned, head tilting upwards and sighing, "but alas, my favourite food is -chocolate-... surprising, yes? A man of my raw physique should not indulge in such temptation but I cannot help myself. Chocolate is a raw delight that I will devour upon a moment's notice. Be it upon a plate, off a woman or whatever whimsical fashion it occurs I will indulge." He tapped his chin, recalling a thought. "There was a time, way back when, when I served the House B'andtherion and the Matriarch held a soiree of sorts that included a chocolate fountain... let us just say I indulged wholeheartedly."

[thehopelessyouth]

Send me a '★' and I will tell you how my character feels about yours (openly and secretly) - Kelz’thalas

Ah yes... the B'andtherion heiress. The Lady I swore to protect until my dying breath. I hope you understand that the oath I took still upholds, despite your Father's wishes. But how do I feel? I feel as if there is a large tome of our lives intertwined that we have only opened the first page upon. I feel as if our souls were destined for more than just idle chit-chat or stolen glances. I care -deeply- for you, my Lady. Perhaps more than I should... but I am a new man. A man who sees caution as but a stepping stone unto true greatness. Were it not for my divine queen, I would have taken your hand and would have shared many moments and memories with you. Perhaps, and oh this is a -silly- thought, I would return to your House with you on my arm and you with my name. Silly isn't it. Also, did you receive my photograph?

@kelzthalassunwhisper

[thehopelessyouth]

I almost forgot!

Dearest Lady B'andtherion, I apologize for writing you again but the paper I had used did not afford enough space for me to say what I needed to say. You. Are. Perfect. I hope you remember that. I cannot forget it. Do you remember when you were wandering the courtyard and accidentally bumped into me whilst I was on patrol? You apologized but I was forbidden to say anything then...so I shall say this now: That moment was one of the happiest moments of my life. To physically connect with such an ethereal being brought a purpose to me at that time. I knew I would protect you and I swear I would continue to do so if you called to me. Again, my invitation stands. If you wish to escape from your home and, say, meet me at the eastern shoreline. We could walk the sandy shores together and talk in a manner beyond soldier and Lady. What say you? -SD PS I've attached another photograph of myself

@kelzthalassunwhisper (why don't you respond to him!?)

[thehopelessyouth]

To the Lady B'andtherion

Dear Kelz'thalas B'andtherion, You may not know me but I served as your family's guardsmen for a few years. I've been dismissed on account of, if I'm honest, following my heart. I will say bluntly that your Father is a cruel, brute of a man. But I praise every diety in this realm that you have not inherited these traits. To be truthful, I have silently watched you from afar. Stealing glances. Timing my patrols so that I knew I would be within your vicinity. You captivate me. You captured my attention the moment I first saw you. You carry yourself with grace and poise whilst harbouring a beauty that only my beloved Lioness could outshine. I would hope... nay pray... that if our footsteps would cross and fate would be so kind... that we may share a word or a laugh... or something more? If you cannot recall my appearance I have attached an 8x10 black and white glossy photograph on myself during one of my 'artistic' excursions... if it sparks something within you then I await your response with bated breath. Until we meet again. -SD

@kelzthalassunwhisper (im not sorry)

@themadamelioness (for the mention)