#valefor-kying-journey

[wilsons-journey]

Alright, I played through the Story. Time to adapt the story to my OCs.

Spoiler für Janthir Wilds under the cut! Also warning for long text.

The Tyrian Alliance:

It is Vale again who gets invited to the Meeting. But since her retirement, she refuses the invitation. Instead its Deus who gets called there - her Husband and actual former Commander. (Reminder: Vale might be the second Commander to Deus, but she was primarily the Champion of Aurene in my Story)

Due to Fuma visiting her father during this time, she gets dragged along and taking Wilson and Mishra with them.

With Deus still too busy with all the Charr stuff (but also still stressed about the situation with his wife) he decides to send his daughter to this mission. With the help of Wilson and Mishra, he is certain she will do a great job. And because Malice and Caithe joining them, he is not worried about their safety.

Janthir:

Wilson, Fuma and Mishra will have a blast getting to know the lowland Kodan - also join in all the activities and culture. Its easy for them to connect with the Kodan. Fuma will learn to wield the Spear, while Mishra is nose deep in all the Kodan Loren. And who is taking care of some Journeykin? Wilson of course, just like she did with the Skyscale back then. She befriends the Warclaw, that attacked them at the beginning. A black furred Warclaw with emerald eyes.

Later they will further explore the Wilds and crash into Greer. The fight is a mess. And a reminder that there not only there to have some "fun" and gather information. There is danger, that Deus ignored in all his stress. (He will feel very guilty about that)

In this fight they get surprising help from a stranger - a Charr that looks very familiar. Happy to see a know face Wilson shouts out "Valefor", but it's not him. This Charr is known by the Name "Neeve", but hearing the Name "Valefor" makes her eager to stick to these people. She is adamant to join them, without telling them why.

Due to Wilson friendliness, Neeve is accepted to join and protect them in their further task. Later, Stoic Alder also notices how similar Neeve looks to a known ally. Confirming there is something to this similarity of their friend Valefor. But since the Events of SotO nothing was heard of him or Kying - they wished for some privacy and peace to recover from the events. Neeve catches this - still stays silent about her true motives.

Sidenote: For several month she tried to track down her twin brother Valefor. She wants to reconnect with her only family. (More about Neeve can be found here) That's why she ends up in Janthir - and with several people noticing how similar she looks to a certain other Charr, she can feel she is very close in finding her.

Stoic Adler offers them to bring them to this Ally, but they don't tell Neeve about that. (But again she catches it and follows them in secret) And surprise its indeed Valefor and Kying. In a House, very close to the lowland Kodan, they never told anyone about. Valefor is not really happy about the sudden visit. But he can't bring himself being angry about it - so he welcomes Wilson and Co into his home. There he learns about their visit and Mission. Before they can further deepen the conversation, Neeve reveals herself and with her appearance a huge argument breaks out between her and Valefor. Confirming that these two are related. Before the argument envolved into a real fight, Kying intervenes and separates the siblings. Valefor heads into the wild to get off some steam, while Kying offers Wilson, Fuma and Mishra a room to stay. Neeve is also allowed to stay, she moves into the old Workshop.

Later Valefor confronts Neeve again - this time a little calmer - asking why she is here. They talk a little - but don't end on a good note. Valefor refuses to accept her into his life and wants her to leave the next morning. Neeve will follow this request, for now. But she will continue helping Wilson and her friends on their Mission. Valefor also offers Wilson to help them, should they need his help. Knowing he is still recovering from the Events with the Kryptis, they reject his offer.

But they come back to the offer when they learn there is not one, but two titans. He will not help in the investigation - but later in the confrontation of Greer and Decima.

During the Investigation Neeve further befriends Wilson, Fuma and Mishra. At first she only wanted to stick with them to stay close to her brother, but with the time she starts to really like them. (No one can resist Wilsons - she collects dangerous people like pretty flowers,....) Neeve also learns a little more about her brother. And she adopts the Warclaw from the beginning. She will name the Warclaw Eos.

Now to the last bit, The fight with Greer and Decima.

Valefor and Kying will help them - but due to the differences between Valefor and Neeve the fight will be messy. (Two Siblings fighting and arguing - thought it would be a funny parallel)

Valefor will fuck up in his rage against his Sister (and their past). Neeve will have a breakdown - caused by the head injury Valefor once caused her in the past. This will result in Neeve getting badly hurt during the fight. Luckily they still manage to keep the upper hand, before they are forced to retrieve, with the appearance of yet another titan.

With that Moment and a huge amount of guilt, Valefor takes Neeve into his home again. Aiding her back to health. He is still not happy to have her back - but now he is willing to open up a little. Neeve will permanetly move into the old Workshop and make this her new home. While Valefor is still distant to her - Kying is very open to her. Giving her another friend to talk to. Kying will also try to mediate between the two.

Lets see what else the Story of Janthir brings, can't wait for it. I really like the vibe so far. Janthir Wilds will also be the story for Neeve and Valefor reconnecting.

Some sidenotes / random thoughts and rambeling:

Wilson, Fuma and Mishra will continue gathering information in Janthir

Valefor, Kying and Neeve will take over the dangerous missions, that also involves battles.

With the help of Waiting Sorrow, Wilson might get back her magic. She lost it during the final Battle of the Jade sea

Valefor btw. got the respect of the Kodan via his own knowledge of wielding a spear. But he and Kying probably also helped the Kodan at some point - granting them the permission to have a house in their lands.

Deus will get a huge scolding from Vale, after she learns about the Events in Janthir. So much for "I send our Daughter to a safe Information retrieving mission only",... in a dangerous area. It wasn't his brightest moment.

MAYBE,... just maybe Vale will visit them. She could do a vacation there. At least the lowland Kodan also love to fish. Thats the thing Vale would do - fish in the area. Yeah I like the idea - Orez, Phrike Jr. Elden and Desmond might tag along. (one person have to look after the kids)

So Janthir also becomes a little Family vacation. Just a little bit. For a week or two. During the calm time at least or just very close to the Kodan village.

Oh and with Desmond also joining, he will definitely grab himself a Journeykin. He would also love to explore the Wildlife - so I can see him joining Wilson, Fuma and Mishra.

[brightwingedbat]

Valefor flustering his husband with some dapper suit shenanigans, Kying looking rather overwhelmed...

The two lads belong to @wilsons-journey

[valefore-fr]

My dragon Orez Onified - did these with several Char(r) over on my GW2-Blog @wilsons-journey.

You can find these under the cut, if you're interested ;V;

[wilsons-journey]

Confusion

After their last conversation, things seemed to have calmed down. At least something in Valefor started to changed. He not only open up to Kying. He also revealed him a side, he kept buried deep down for years. Their conversations no longer resembled fights. They were now finally just that: Talks, to further deepen the trust. And the yet so stubborn eyes started to look softly at the new given opportunity,… Giving Kying the chance to finally get to know the real man behind this cold facade. A surprisingly caring man.

But the better things went,… other problems seemed to accrue.

It all started with headaches,… that soon turned into pierching headaces. But it was the memory loss, that started to concerne Kying.

Something was off,… but the moment he thought about it,… it was gone again. With it the feeling of dread.

Everything was fine again,... until it happened once more.

- To be continued.

— Follow up of:

"He fucks with your head,…”

[wilsons-journey]

Trust

Story under the cut

"Can you trust him?", a question Valefor had never really asked himself, since he had met Kying. For a very good reason: he couldn't answer it. Something inside him would have answered with a yes. But the memories and scars of the past raised the questions once more: "Can you really trust him?"

Raised by Israfil, the question gnawed at Valefor. So much so, that he got distracted during his mission. Only for for a brief moment, but long enough that it resulted in a nasty gash on his shoulder. In his last breath, his victim had struck back. Nothing that should cost Valefor his life or limit him. It wasn't the first time either,... and it certainly wouldn’t be the last time he came injured out of a mission. Valefor was skillful in battle, without question - dodging attacks with ease. But sometimes he took a hit, just to lay a better one himself. As a result, he returned home injured more often, than one might expect from such a nimble bastard. Most of the injuries, however, were the result of his disobedience to his master,...

Kying became aware of that once more, as he entered the room, in which Valefor was sitting silently. He sighed deeply and approached him. His eyes laid on the injury, which he immediately took care of. Valefor on the other hand didn't move a bit. He watched Kying in silence. The words that were directed at him only passed him unheard.

"I really thought you were untouchable. Too fast to ever get caught. But as often as you come home injured...", Kying addressed in concern. The wound was deep and bleeding profusely. Yet nothing moved in Valefor, as Kying started cleaning and sewing it up. "You need to be more careful," he scolded.

Again, no reaction.

Kying paused and looked Valefor directly in the eyes.  As so often, his gaze seemed cold - impenetrable. And yet it seemed as if he was looking right through him. A glimmer of emptiness was hidden in it. "Did something happen?"

With that question, Valefor's head lifted. An answer, however, came much later. As so often before, he seemed to think about what he was about to answer. All that followed was a dry, “No”.

Kying frowned. For him it was obvious, that this was a lie. But at the same time it had no use talking about it. Especially given the bad mood, that seemed to surround the other that evening. Everything was fine just the night before,... However, Kying had choose that way. So there was no reason to complain. So he remained silent and accepted this lie. Instead, he continued to tend to the injury. No further words were exchanged.

And yet, Kying couldn’t stop himself. It was just too important to him... and Valefore was clearly not doing well. One last hesitation, as he remembered his own words: Don’t have any expectations and live with it, even if this stays one-sided.  And there was the problem -  It wasn't as one-sided as he initially felt. It was just incredibly difficult to get to Valefor... and to see behind that complicated facade.  And that's exactly why he wanted to try it - no matter what reaction he had to reckon with. "You can talk to me,...", he said calmly. Accompanied by a small smile, with a look at the bandage. He slowly getting practice at it. He was happy with his work.

Valefor's expression seemed to darken further. "You can trust me, I-”. Kying wasn’t able to finish his sentence. All of the sudden Valefor jumped and walked away from him. But his sudden escape didn't brought him far. He stopped in the middle of his room. Arms crossed and back turned. From what Kying was able to see of Valefor's face, was shrouded in a mixture of anger and something he couldn't quite point out..

"You should leave now,..." it growled cold from Valefor. Without waiting for a reaction, he retreated to the back room. The door slammed behind him, leaving Kying alone.

Kying blinked in irritation, because this reaction was quite unexpected despite his experience with the other. In the past he would have followed this request. Maybe the past weeks, too. On that evening he decided to seek the confrontation. So, without hesitation, he opened the door and found Valefor at the window of his little bedchamber. There he did, what he often did when he tried to calm his mind - he smokes.

"As I said: You can talk to me about it." Kying continued calmly, as he slowly moved into the room. Meanwhile, Valefor's face twitched tensely. He seemed to be struggling to keep his composure. To not lash out at Kying, like he did usually in the past. In that moment Kying recognized something else, that he had previously not been able to interpret. In their usual arguments, Valefor always showed a steady gaze. Now his eyes darted around frantically. Was he,...afraid,... panicking?

“It’s because of him.”, Kying stated. He tried to be careful, but this question seemed to hit a sensitive nerve. Valefor flinched and gave Kying a warning, almost fatal look. Kying immediately raised his hands in defense. "Yes I know. The less I know blah blah blah... fuck. I just want to help.”, Kying grumbled, still trying to stay calm. With cautious steps, Kying also moved closer to the window. Right by Valefor's side. There he leaned against the windowsill and looked out. He didn't say another word. He was just there and his calm presence seemed to calm Valefor down again.

"He fucks with your head,...", Valefor finally broke in, in a deep sigh. He was still staring out of the window, where he blew out a small cloud of smoke. He had countless things on his lips that he wanted to address. But none of them left him. Instead, his gaze fell. "How long has this been going on? With us." he growled.

Kying glanced sideways, then he looked out the window again, thinking. "Long." he answered. "Probably close to a year," he added shortly after it. Most of it was a constant up and down. The smallest part of it was the time in Lionsarch.

While it was like a long time for Kying. For Valefor it felt like only a few weeks. He was surprised, that they knew each other for such a long time now.  So an incredulous look went to Kying. A hard-to-interpret, incredulous look. "What?". The ‘You don’t believe me' Kying kept unspoken in his head.

Valefor still seemed to be assessing. From the anger that has surrounded him, was nothing left. Instead he appear tired,... empty.  "I'm surprised... it didn't seem that long."

Kying could only shrug with his shoulders. Valefor meanwhile tilted his head thoughtfully. "Then you're an even bigger idiot than I thought.", Valefor said dryly after a while. However, Kying wasn’t able not protest. Val continued. “Then why are you doing this to yourself,... so so long!? Don't you have anything better to do or do you,...”, he faltered. His face twisted angrily.

“I don’t have anything to do with him. And yes, I’m just an idiot.”, Kying took it from Val to speak out loud, what he was thinking but not to dare to speak out loud. “And desperate, too." Kying laughed cynically. The smile on his lips was sincere though. “I’m just tired to try,... you saw how it went with Corr.”, a small pause that was filled with a deep sigh. “And you seem to like me in your quirky way,... enough that you haven't run away even after all this time."

Now it was Valefor, who only blinked in surprise. He could’ve have said the exact same words to Kying. Apparently two idiots have found each other,... "And then you waste your energy on me.". Valefor just shook his head. He had a hard time understanding that. It was just too good to be true.

“Well,... looks like it’s enough for that. And so far it has been worth it. Even though I wish that...", Kying stopped unexpectedly. His own words, about setting no expectation, suddenly stopped him. A brief burst of uncertainty. Instead, only a sigh left him.

“I open up and talk about this crap?”, Valefor answered unexpectedly.

Kying nodded slowly. “What speaks against it?”. He gazed at the white-haired charr. He was still staring out the window. A glance darted over to Kying. "Trust."

Kying nodded silently, before he sighed and also directed his gaze out of the window again. "I see." It followed quietly. He blocked out the negative thoughts that forced themselves on him. Don't expect anything, it is how it is - he reminded himself instead.

“Well,... I don't want to stretch your patience any further. Just,... let me know if you're feel ready for me again.”, Kying said after a while and started to leave. The silence that fell between them, gave him to understand, that there was nothing more to talk about. They would just carry on as before.

But just as he turned away, he realized something was holding him back. Valefor has grabbed his shirt. There followed an irritated look at the other, who continued to stubbornly stare out of the window. "Wait..." he ground out contritely. Kying then sighed. Visibly desperate and overwhelmed. At the same time patient.

"You have to tell me,... can I trust you?". With that, Valefor finally turned away from the window and looked intently at Kying. Despite the cold look, it was mainly insecurity that was reflected in the eyes. "Can you promise me that?", It followed shortly afterwards.

Kying was initially speechless and visibly surprised. "The question is rather, do you want to trust me?" It left him faster than he could think about it. For a moment he feared something bad, but Valefor's gaze dropped thoughtfully to the ground.

“You had many opportunities to abuse that trust... to harm me. Maybe even kill me.” Valefor was thinking about the countless times he laid in a deep sleep next to Kying. Something he hasn't had in years - a deep sleep. It would have been the perfect moment to harm him, but he did nothing. He was just there. Kying didn't even stick his curious nose into the papers . Valefor had watched him as his gaze lingered curiously on the black Oni's papers. But he never even glanced inside.

"There's no reason for me to do that,..." Kying replied, almost offended. This was also reflected in his eyes. That wasn't the answer Valefor wanted to hear, yet he nodded. "Then I'm willing to trust you. If you promise me! Otherwise,...".

"You will kill me?", Kying interrupted. He was fully aware of the consequences. Their relationship was still a tightrope walk. However, it just seemed about to change.

"...Yes, perhaps. I’m done with this shit. If I wake up with another knife in my chest, then everything can go to hell. Starting with you then, and followed by everything else.”, he blurted out angrily. Kying just realized - he was not the only one, trying to get out something good out of this messed up life, in a last attempt. Kying primarily was trying to escape the loneliness... Valefor seemed desperately looking for someone he could really trust.

“Alright, then I promise you I won’t abuse your trust. Unless you promise me, you won't run away one day. We'll do this shot together now, deal?" This offer drew a small smile from Valefor. Despite the doubts firmly in his heart, he was hopeful. At least, it gave him a reason to keep fighting. Instead of just ending it all. And all because of one overly emotional idiot,... his idiot…

"Deal.", he replied tired and started to pulled Kying back in his direction. And Kying followed without hesitation. What he didn't expect, however, was the head leaning against his chest. "I'm tired... so... damn tired of everything...", it sighed softly from below. Valefor's head buried further in the Guards chest, who at first just looked down, taken aback. It took a moment before he regained his composure and finally wrapped his arms gently around him. It was the first time he had seen Valefor like this, for what he was deep down - tired and broken. But it was also the first time that he trusted him, by openly showing him this side.

- To be continued.

--- Follow up of:

Valefor still has doubts, these won't vanish over night. But he finally opens up for Kying and with him he is able to let his guard down, without any fear and still feel safe. Even the toughest fighter sometimes needs a little rest, love and someone to cuddle,... at least Val does. Fortunately Kying is just as stubborn as he is. Otherwise it would've never worked that way.

*sigh* Them,... ♥

---

I'm taking a little break after that chapter, for ask and stuff. But keep an eye open. I have the feeling, something is brewing in the background...

[wilsons-journey]

The Calling

Story under the cut

Crows. There is no other animal Valefor hates more than crows. They are the eyes and ears of his master. And when they call, he has to follow.

Just like this evening.

The feathered messenger stared down at Valefor, eyes blazing orange. Expectant and impatient. “There is work for you”, it resonated somberly with the crowing.

Valefor didn't move at first. But he knew it was no use in resisting. So he got up, visibly tensed. But before he left the room, he took one last look back to Kying. He was still sleeping,... and the next morning he probably would wake up without him.

---

Valefor was one of very few who knew or even had access to the Black Oni’s hideout. And that's where he found himself after the call. Visibly annoyed and tensed, he entered the room. "What do you need,...," he grumbled. His gaze laid piercing on Israfil, who in the meanwhile paid no attention to him. His gaze was fixed on the papers on his desk. Although he knew that his soldier was present, he didn't feel like it was necessary to greet him. Or to address other words to him. Instead, his bony fingers slid one of the pieces of paper in Valefor's direction. Only then did he raise his head and return the piercing gaze of the other. An amused smirk stretched across his lips. "Isn't it tiring?"

This question was left unanswered. But Valefor’s stubborn gaze spoke for itself as he took the note. His destination was written on it. Plain guy who seemed to have poked his nose too deeply into their affairs.

“Eliminate him.”, Israfil confirmed what Valefor was already thinking.

"Is there anything I need to watch out for? Do you want to send a message or do you want it to be discreet?” With this question, something moved in Israfil's face that already gave Valefor a bad feeling. It was only a small shift, but he had known this asshole long enough to be able to interpret it. "Discreet. And I'm sure your little lover can help you with that."

Something in Valefor's stomach turned. He felt sick. His whole body tensed, but he didn’t said anything at first. Instead he took a deep breath, to calm his thoughts. It was the first time Israfil directly mentioned Kying. He never did that before,... why now?  "No. I'll do that on my own.", it followed calmly to the outside. But in the inside he was raging.

Israfil seemed to noticed that.

"Is that so?" His head cocked to the side. Again the disgusting grin spread to his lips. “But he works so hard."

A pause, but the situation remained tense.

"He join the Guard, just to provide you with information." Israfil's gaze was fixed on Valefor. But his gaze was returned just as firmly. Even stubborn. Just as he knew it from his soldiers. “He makes sure people look away, when you’re doing your deeds. Very helpful.”

Another pause followed.

"Extremely useful". That was the moment it was too much for Valefor. “Let him out of it.”, he directed menacingly to his master. To emphasize his claim, he rammed his dagger into the table just inches away from him.

Like many times before, Israfil was only amused by the reaction of his soldier. And his only concern was directed to his documents, that got damaged by Valefor’s little outburst. “You know as well as I do,  that it's going nowhere. You're only hurting yourself.” Israfil replied calmly, leaning against Valfor's defiant gaze. "What you want to do? Slit my throat? We already had that.", he snorted in amusement and clearly unfazed by his soldier's hateful gaze.

Though the grip on the dagger tightened, Valefor paused. At least for a short moment. He seemed to be still weighing things up. However, the anger behind his eyes grew with every second. And just as he was about to make a decision, he found himself gasping on the floor.

Above him stood Israfil, looking tired down at him. Black smoke surrounded his hands. Strange shadowy magic that weirdly connected Valefor and the smoke in Israfil’s claws. And the more the tall charr tighten his grip around those shadows, the more Valefor’s chest got crushed. Pain shot through his body, robbing him of any air to breathe. "You are very lucky, that you are too valuable to me, than to make you bleed for this disobedience.". Israfil leaned down to Valefor. “But let me assure you of one thing: The day you lose your worth to me, will be the day I make you pay every single disobeying moment in agony. Slowly and painfully. And if your darling still exists by then... I'll start with him, right in front of you.”. It growled coolly. A clear warning that fell on deaf ears. This warning was met with a scornful laugh.

"Oh what a shame...", Valefor ground out hatefully. "First I'll send you to hell... if it's the last thing I do.".

Israfil then just shook his head and laughed out a dry laugh. “Stubborn as always. Are you sure you want to do that? I remind you of your little darling.” The look he gave Valefor spoke for itself. For what he would do to Kying, if he should not obey.

This reminder at last, seemed to have an effect. At least the cynical laugh stuck in Valefor's throat. Instead, his gaze darkened further. Pure anger and hate blazed in it. "Don't you dare.". Though Israfil tightened his grip on the magic, his soldier seemed unfazed. He was in pain - unbearable pain. He could feel it - see it in his eyes. But his hatred seemed to outweighed it and made him ignore the pain.

It was impressive, but at the same time the tall charr clearly disliked it.

"Lay an hand on,... him. … and your’re rid of your… oh so… valuable property… on one… or.. the other… way…”, he gasped and spitting up blood. His field of vision flickered, he was about to lose consciousness.

"Unfortunately,  you are right." Israfil sighed contritely. His grip was still relentless. A little tighter and he would blow out his little soldier's life lights. Instead, he freed him from his grasp. “At least we both know, that you will still obey me and I’ll let you enjoy your stupid little life of yours.”.  A dilemma that saved both, Valefor and Kying’s, lives. There was nothing Israfil would rather do, than making his soldier bleed for his disobedience. Slowly killing his lover right before his eyes,... Only that would lead to Valefor inevitably turning against him. He would have to kill him. For that he was still too valuable to him. At the same time, through Kying, he had a tighter grip on his soldier.  At least as long as he kept his hands off Kying. A small price to keep his most valuable possession. "Now go. Before I change my mind.".

Valefor was also aware of this dilemma. And as much as he wanted to indulge his hatred, he thought of Kying. He could not. Not yet,... So he rose silently and bowed as a sign of goodwill. Despite everything, his gaze remained adamant, which he threw at Israfil. He would never break him...

Israfil saw it differently, which is why he smiled boredly. "I'm just wonder... is it really worth it?". Valefor just made a face and started to walk. Israfil didn't stop him, but he still had some last warm words ready, for his goodbye. "How do you know you can trust him?" His smile widened as an idea sprouted in his mind. “You don’t want it to end, like with your other little friend.”

With this words he seemed to catch his soldier's attention one last time. A quick look - shock, before it turned to anger again.  Valefor didn't reply, instead he left the hideout without a word. However, the words of Israfil haunted him. As much as he tried not to let it get to him. It gnawed at him,... tore a wound that he stubbornly tried to keep closed.

“Go, just cling to him. It won't change the fact that you're mine...”, Israfil sat down at his desk full confidence. There this small idea, soon became a full-fledged plan for how to take full advantage of his soldier's situation - one way or another.

There was no escape.

- To be continued.

— Follow up of:

[wilsons-journey]

New Start

Kying felt relieved to leave the Black Citadel and thus his old life behind him. They won’t miss him anyway and it never felt like home there. If this will change with Lionsarch, he didn’t know. Yet he was ready to face that change.

But first he had to pay someone a visit. So his gaze darted to the small note in his hand. The address written there was cryptic. Even with the help of the locals, it took him some time before he found the right allay. And with that a well hidden door. Kying had no idea what was behind it. Maybe Valefor’s apartment? Or his business? Only one way to find out - he knocked.

Nothing happened. So Kying knocked again. This time louder and with that came grumpy noises. “We are closed!”, followed, mixed by some swearing. That was not Valefor’s voice. Kying’s expression shifted to confusion. While his eyes checked the address again, his ears noticed movement behind the door. The person seem to moved something. Then he seemed to climbed on it. Until a pair of angry eyes glared on Kying through a tiny slot. “Who are you? What do ya want?!”, it bummed from the person - an Asura.

In visible confusion Kying looked back and forth between his note and the person. He had expected someone else. Was that still the wrong place? "Uhm... is this that... the oni?"

“Who’s askin’ ?”, the Asura replied promptly.

Kying held out the piece of paper with the address written on it. "I'm looking for someone. I was invited."

The asura narrowed his eyes suspiciously. Then, without warning, he slammed the slot he was looking through. “Wynther! It’s for you!”, he shouted, and with that a short argument rose between the asura and a man, whose voice Kying recognized immediately.

Apparently Valefor wasn’t in the mood to meet anyone. However, he wasn’t aware who was standing before that door. Also he seemed busy with something else.  It was the asura who opened Kying the door. He introduced himself as Juur. “In the back hall. The door on your right."

The moment Kying set foot in the room, the door behind him slammed shut. Juur gave him a warning look. Or maybe he was just in a bad mood. However, Kying moved past the Asura and was surprised what opened up in front of him. It looked like a pawn shop. "Odd,,..." he thought quietly. Then he reached the door. She was slightly open. He hesitated.

"Come in.", it grumbled from the other side of the door. Apparently Valefor wasn't in the best mood. Less surprising for Kying. He sighed deeply and just stepped in the room.

There he was - sitting at a Table and passing through notes that lay scattered on the table. When he raised his head to look at his visitor his moody expression shifted in shock. He wasn’t expecting for Kying to show up. Without a word, the warrior lifted the note - indicating that he just followed the invitation. Valefor nodded in silence, before turning away from Kying, who stood completely lost in the room. "So,...", he started after a while. It was awkward.

Then Kying noticed a chair, that Valefor has shifted from under the table. Kying should take a seat. Moments later, Valefor pulled out a bottle. Meanwhile, Kying noticed something else. Blood dripped from Valefor's face and with that he noticed a big injury. Vale also seemed to notice this and started cursing.

"Never thought it’s possible to hurt to you,...”, Kying remarked dry. Meanwhile the other fumbled a piece of cloth out of the table and tried to stop the bleeding. "Well,... my boss wasn't happy about my doing - without his permission."

Kying blinked in confusion. "What?" Although he often struggled with Valefors behavior, he seemed to understand what the other was implying here. “Then,... why have you done it?”

Silence. Something Kying already knew from Valefor. He seemed to think about, how much he wanted to reveal. That evening his silence pause was unusually short. "Because I couldn't stand him and he was a cowardly rat."

Kying’s head cocked to the side. Then a small, incredulous laugh left him. That was a really odd way of showing that he cared about him.  For a while he looked at Valefor in silence, who was still trying to get control over the bleeding in this face. Half-heartedly at least. He was more concerned with the sake he poured himself and Kying. Kying took a sip, before standing and snatching the cloth from Valefor's hand and tending to the wound himself. "Hey! -" a protest that soon went silent as Kying spoke. "Hold still,... can’t watch that any longer,...” he grumbled. Despite a brief protest, the assassin obeyed.

Kying took the opportunity to bring his request to Valefor. He wasn't looking for a conversation - he came with a demand. “I want to go back to the old time. Before the whole thing with,... Corr." A short pause followed, which Valefor wanted to fill with a comment. Just for Kying to interrupt him again. “Don't worry - I don't expect anything. Or complain if it remains one-sided. Yet, I want to carry on with whatever this was between us. And,...”, with that he looked Valefor straight in the eyes. “If you have a problem with that. Well, then get rid of me. Like you should have done the first day we met.”

Valefor blinked. He was not only surprised by Kying’s demand. It was actually something, he valued about him. His determination. Yet he had to put that determination to a test. He grabbed the knife, he always carried with him and held it against Kying’s throat. “Alright.”, his gaze turned cold. Threatening. It was not clear if this was just for fun or serious. Still Kying stood his ground. Without the slightest hint of fear or doubt in his eyes. “Fine.”, with that Valefor removed his blade. He gave in.

“But I have to say. You have a truly terrible taste in people,... Choosing me,... hrmpf.”. A small smile crossed Valefor's lips. Kying did the same after a sip of sake. “Well, and you still have a terrible taste in alcohol.”, he replied. A small shock still sat in his bones, which he was trying to wash away. For a brief moment he believed, Valefor would rather comply to his second demand, than to return to their… strange relationship. But he would’ve accepted this decision as well.

For a long while they sat in silence. An slightly awkward silence. Kying decided to break it with a question, that still lingered in his mind. “Why now?”. Valefor's sudden change of heart struck him as odd. Especially after he fought against it for so long.

The answer to that question took a long time. But Kying was patient.

"You should know by now, that I mean trouble.". Valefor didn't looked at Kying at first. His gaze rested on his glass, in which he let one last sip dance around. He looked thoughtful. Then he downed the gulp, before he looked at Kying.  "And because of him.". Valefore pointed tobandaged injury in his face. “I won’t -  be he may kill you,... but you don't care."

Kying just shrugged his shoulders. It really didn't matter to him. If this didn't work - no matter in which way. Then everything else made no sense, too. It was a last, desperate attempt to escape the loneliness. "Who is that anyway?" Although Kying knew that Valefor was working for someone, he never spoken about them so directly before.

Valefor shook his head. “The less you know, the better for you.". He paused. "And easier for me to convince him to keep you out of it.”

“So he knew about me,... us?”

“Yes.”, another pause followed. Valefor grimaced angrily for a moment. "But as long as I'm doing my job, it shouldn't be his concern."

Kying's face twisted. It seemed like Valefor does no work for this ominous guy entirely voluntarily. It explained his behavior a bit. But not all. "Still, I don't understand,... why now?"

A deep sigh left Valefor. He had no real answer to that. "Ask me something easier.", he just grumbled.

“For that, you have to stop being such a complicated bastard.”, Kying promptly replied.

"Touché".

Another round of alcohol was poured - again marked by silence.

"Perhaps,..." Valefor slowly began to speak. "...I missed our evenings together.", Valefor said. It was uncommonly direct from him. Even if he didn’t mentioned it,... he felt lonely, too.

And he was tired of keeping Kying on distance. He was not able to get rid of him. Even after the recent events. It was as if this guy was glued to him. But most importantly, he couldn't bring himself to push Kying any further away either,... he already done and said enough shit to him,... He valued Kying to much for that. It was worth a try.

An unexpected move, that took Kying by surprise. Yet he smiled. "I think the answer is enough for me." Valefor replied with a smile as well. Then they toasted their new pact.

A lot is about to change.

- End of Chapter I

---

Bonus

It didn’t fit into the story anymore, but I don't wanted to throw it away - It's after Kying told Valefor about the things that happened, after they split up. ---

"Your old group sounds like a bunch of assholes.". Valefor paused, then a wide grin spread across his face. “I can get rid of them,... especially that Huet Guy.”, Valefor huffed into his third cup of Sake. It was no joke. He would do it. And Kying knew. 

“Val,...”, he sighed. “You can’t solve all problems by eliminate others. And do you want to happen that again?”, he pointed at the injury in Valefor’s face.

Valefor kept silence. Still with a stern look in his face. He still seemed to think about it. That bastard deserved it! It was Valefors weird way of showing, that he cared.

“Val,... please,...”, Kying plead with the other.

Valefor sighed deeply and emptied his glass. “Fine,... but when I see him. I will punch him in the face.”

Kying started indignantly. “Valefor! … You are unbelievable,...”, towards the end he became quieter. He shook his head in disbelief. The smile on his lips didn't leave him.

“Hehe”. Was Val’s only response, accompanied by a small grin.

“Idiot,...”, huffed Kying. It still felt strange,... yet he felt happy.

--- Follow up of:

That whole Chapter took longer than planned. phew.

And: Thank you so, so much for your kind feedback in the tags. I'm glad and so happy you enjoyed it ;//v//; ♥

But don't worry, the story won't end here - this was just Chapter 1. There is still a lot to come. But at least things have settled between these two. They can now slowly discover the things that lay between them. While dealing with more mess that is to come.

Until then, I take a little break from the story and get back to the ask. If you want more thoughts from them, about the events that happened or just have questions in general - feel free to throw some ask in! As always, I answer them with a little doodle. Thank you ♥

[wilsons-journey]

A new Player Person has entered the game.

Deep in thought, Kying didn't notice the newest member of their warband approaching him. With a careful "Excuse me?", he tried to drew the attention of the older Warrior to himself.

"Kying Gloomstalker, am I right?", he added with a warm smile, as the other Charr turned to him. Kying nodded silently, visibly surprised at the unexpected company. But he remembered the other Charr - Corr Gloomblade. Their Boss introduced him earlier that day.

"May I sit down and join you for a drink?"

- To be continued.

--- Meet Corr Gloomblade:

But don't get too attached to him,... he might not last long. But he will make for an interesting time for sure,...

--- Follow up of:

[wilsons-journey]

One door closes, another one opens

With a heavy heart Kying returned back home. Back to the Black Citadel. His head full of questions, why the person he thought was his friend, not cared for him.

His return went unnoticed at first. His squad didn't really cared. It was only casually noted.

Only one of them had a welcoming smile on his face - Corr, their newest Member. For Kying it was a small sign, that despite the bad meeting, something good was still waiting for him.

It gave him a little sense of belonging there. A sense of home.

Huet Gloomripper, their leader, watched this closely.

- To be continued.

— Follow up of:

(Tumblr, that's the wrong preview D:)

Meet Huet Gloomripper, Leader of the Gloom-Warband. Like Kying, Huet was a Former Member of the Whiff-Warband - once led by Deus (The now known Commander).

And little Sidefact: Huet hates Deus. For him he is nothing more than a traitor, that abandoned his old Warband. And that Deus came back, even more successful and was able to become such a high rank, made Huet furious. But in the end he just envys Deus for his success.

Another Sidefact: Kying is the oldest of his Warband. And Huet respects him for his experience. But he doesn't really care for the old Warrior. To be honest. No one does. He is just there and does his job.

Part is their fault - for not believing in Kying. But it's also Kyings fault, for not trying anymore.

[wilsons-journey]

Rats

It was meant to be a relaxing walk in the evening. Because for once, Valefor had a day off. Neither his boss, nor his new job needed his attation that day. And although the urge to look after the old warrior was huge, Valefor decided not to look for him. Their last encounter still gnawed at him.

“It’s better that way.”

Words he kept repeating to himself. He wanted to protect Kying. Because getting involved with Valefor meant trouble - a lot of trouble. It was nothing more than a lie. In the end Valefor was just afraid.  Afraid to let someone get close to him,... afraid to see a past event repeating itself. Afraid to mess things up or get the other hurt,... so he messed it up on purpose and driving the only person away, that seemed genuine in liking him.  But it was just stupid from Kiyng to like someone like him.  Kying deserved someone better in his life, because he was a good man... with a good heart. Nevertheless, the frustration about this whole mess resonated in every statement made by the assassin. And as so often, it went through his head. "It's better this way."

---

“How are things going on your end?”

Words in the distance, that flitted past Vals ears and until they were quickly forgotten again. Until a familiar voice answered.

“Very good. I know where they keep their important documents. And most importantly - weapons. That guy is just to naive.”, accompanied by a scornful laughter. Valefor knew that voice,... he heard it at Kying's side.

“But I'm a little worried about their leader. I think he suspects something. He is pretty tough. Not like this other guy.”

Valefor slowly approached the small group of charr. Close enough to listen to their conversation and get a quick look on the group. It was like he has already suspected -  Kying's supposed new boyfriend was nothing more than a rat,…

“It’s a miracle that he has a place in this squad. He does nothing. Is boring as hell and his team mates hardly have a good word for him. It’s just pathetic. Boss would have already eliminated him.

At least he's useful for our cause - for now.”

Valefor listened to the conversation in silence for a long time. It wasn't just Corr who was a rat - the others by his side had also infiltrated Legion warbands, too. Their statements are downright derogatory, while they saw themselves as infallible.  But at least Valefor caught some interesting pieces of information. Like the name of their Leader - Phrike Duskshard.

But that was irrelevant for the moment.

Just as the group was about to disband, Valefor revealed himself from hiding. After all, he had a score to settle with one of them. The rest was collateral damage.

“Ladies, I’d like to talk.”, he growled.

Within seconds the ground turned red.

- To be continued.

— Follow up of:

Well,... Corr is neither investigating Kying for knowing a certain Assassin. Nor is he Kyings brother. He is just a Pawn of Phrike, trying to infiltrate the Legions. Oh and Phrike was the so called Friend Corr mentioned.

Kying already noticed something was off. But at this point he just gave up,... he just want's someone who likes him. Even if it's only an illusion ... :T

Little Sidenote: This Story direction is true to the original AU - I just tweaked it a little bit to fit into the Tyria AU. And with that Phrike was born. Also some other ideas for later on. So there is still a lot to come.

[wilsons-journey]

Uncomfortable Truths

“Corr? What is going on?”, Kying turned to his beat up friend. Confused. He spoke about an emergency - an assault. But in this place was no trace of something like this. Then Kying noticed something else,... this was the place he always met up with Val. In the past at least,...

“Exactly Corr. Tell him. What is going on”, was suddenly heard from the shadows. Valefor emerged shortly after. And as Corr backed away in fright. Kying took a step forward in irritation.

--- A few moments before

Within moments, Corr's Companion fell lifeless to the ground. They didn't stood a chance against the stranger, that came suddenly out of nowhere. Corr backed away. In his Claws holding a little Knife to protect his life. But he knew, that won’t save him. With a swift move his blade was took away, before he found himself on the ground. It was now his own Weapon, that was hold at his throat. He could feel the blade slowly cutting into his flesh.

“Interested in speaking, in exchange for your life?”. It was an offer Corr was more then willing to take. Without hesitation he started babbling, only to save his own skin.

Coward, promptly went through Valefors head. The contempt for this man grew with every second. Not only that he betrayed Kying and spoke disparagingly about him. He was a spineless rat, too.

“Well, thanks for the information,...”.  Corr gave the red furred Charr a scared smile, before he was attempting to leave. Only to find that he was still being held.

“Can,... I go?”, he stammed. A wicked, wide grin spread across the others face. “You said-”.

Valefor immediately interrupted the Charr. “I know what i said.”, he growled and leaned a little forward. “But there's one small thing, I need you to do for me.” Val’s grip tightened momentarily. Contempt boiled inside him.  He would’ve love to get rid of him right here and now. But it had to wait.

“Bring me Kying.”. Again, there was no hesitation from Corrs side. He nodded eagerly. Valefor frowned, but he kept his anger together. “And don't even think about telling anyone about this. I'll keep an eye on you.”, with that Valefor let go of Corr - with one last instruction. Valefor gave Corr a very designation place, where he should bring Kying. With that the Charr frantically stumbled away. At his heels was Valefor, keeping an eye on him from the shadows - making sure he won’t do something stupid.

Luckily for Valefor, the threat has worked.  Corr obediently complied with his request, without telling anyone. He even made sure, no one saw him and his ugly beat up face.

Nobody, but Kying. With him, he showed up at the agreed place.

---

“What is is?!”, asked Kying tensely.

Valefor ignored the Warrior. Instead, his eyes were on Corr. "Don't ask me. Ask him.".

Now Kying eyes also focused on Corr. The eyes of the supposed friends met and with that it slowly was dawning on Kying.

"What do I have to do with that now? Leave me alone!", Corr scolded, stepping back slowly.

“Corr,... what is the meaning of that?”, Kying intervened. Corr turned silent. His gaze shifted back and forward. With every second that passed without an answer, Kying seemed to break. His gaze filled with sadness, disappointment... pain,...

“Can,... Can I go now? You’ve got what you wanted from me!”.

It didn’t made sense to Kying, yet a bitter fear seemed to be confirmed. It explained the gnawing feeling he had with Corr in the past days. Something was off and now he seemed to know why - Valefor played a fucked up game with him and Corr. But the question was why? His head went spinning,... Confused Kying lashed out at Valefor in anger. He seemed to notice what was going through Kying's mind. Instead of saying anything, Valefor answered Kyings angry glare with a steady gaze, before running towards Corr and ignoring the Warrior once more.

Kying was now boiling with anger. “What the fuck is wrong with you!? You're a sick!" he scolded, while he watched Valefor catch Corr, that was about to flee. He was captured with ease and found his throat resting on a blade again. "Try to escape again and I'll make you bleed like a pig." A warning aimed solely at Corr. A cold whisper in his ear. Then he was pushed back in Kying's direction.

"It hurts me that you think that of me... but I'll ignore it for now." reploed Valefor to Kyings angry face. And it wasn't a lie, it really hurt him. At the same time, he couldn't blame the warrior. The whole situation was fucked up. Valefor felt deeply sorry for the other. Something similar happened to him, too. It ended with a knife in his chest,... A memory and a scar, that has never left him.

“Now, tell him what you told your friends so eagerly before.”. Valefor crossed his arms and waited for Corr to talk. Kying on the other hand, grew more and more confused.  And even though Corr came forward with the situation bit by bit, it was as if the words missed Kying. He was shocked and visibly overwhelmed by the situation. It was only when Corr suddenly fell lifeless to the ground, that Kying was torn out of the trance.

“Did you really have to?”, Kying muttered angrily. It was less about Corr, but more about everything else.

"Did you have to destroy that for me, too?" The words almost became a wail. 

“Acting like the biggest asshole. Saying we're nothing more than strangers and now posing as a savior and friend. Just fuck off,... what a fucking joke is that...”, followed bitter.

Why does every relationship has to end in a mess for him? But in the end, it seemed to be his fault again. He knew something was off,... yet he craved for something good so badly, he closed his eyes to all the red flags. But being betrayed like this, was a new low for Kying.

“Better you know it now, than later,... when you get to close.” Valefor looked at Kying with a firm expression. It was not clear, what was going on in his head. But this lack of emotion drove Kying mad.

"What do you know?! … just,... just fuck off,...”, he spat.

Better than you think, Valefor thought to himself, but he didn't dare speak. So he turned to the lifeless body of Corr and picked him up.

"I'm sorry that it had to happen like this.". He looked back one last time, then he disappeared into the shadows as so often.

Without looking back Kying also left the place. His thoughts as heavy as his heart. He felt lost,... betrayed,... empty.

- To be continued.

--- Follow up of:

RIP Corr, your were a spineless waste of space. A pretty waste of space. I really liked your hair. Still I feel a little sorry for him in the last panel. He looks so beat up. But,... he deserved it. He was actually a piece of shit <:T

But Corr's death will have consequences. Maybe not right away, but later.

[wilsons-journey]

Doubts

The meeting with Valefor was now a few days ago. Kying was relieved that the Assassin didn’t make him bleed for his decision. It was a fear with which he went into the conversation. After all, their little game seemed to be the only reason Valefor never killed him. But maybe he never even cared. Whatever it was, the Assassin accepted his decision and was never been seen since.

What initially gnawed at Kying, no longer seemed to bother him. This door has closed, but with Corr a new one opened for him.

A possibly for a Friendship.

At least the younger Charr seemed happy to see Kying and spending time with him. Be genuinely interested in him.

It was a strange feeling. Maybe a little spooky, too... but it flattered the warrior's heart. Maybe this could result in more than just a friendship?

No, that was just to early,...

He wasn't sure if he really felt something for the younger one. Or if he was just desperate for love. He should not repeat the mistake,... Like with Val,...

In the end he was deeply afraid. Afraid Corr would sooner or later leave him. Like all the other before. Maybe it was the nagging feeling that kept coming up on him.

Like this evening, when he and Corr ended their shift over a beer together. Corr suddenly said he had to go. Like some times before. And Kying was left alone again. Alone with this nagging thoughts. He tried to wash them away with a sip of his beer.

'Everything is fine', he told himself.

'Everything is good', he repeated once more.

He wasn’t ready to listen to the doubts and worries that crept into his mind. This time need to be different. It has to be.

And then Corr returned from his sudden departure. The worries were gone. Everything was perfect again.

“Where have you been?”, asked Kying after a while - casually as if he was talking about the weather.

Corr hesitated, then smiled softly. "Just saying hello to a friend."

Another moment of silence fell between them

It was Corr, who broke the silence again. “Unfortunately, he is very busy. But I’d like to introduce him to you, someday. If you like?”

Kying nodded, slowly. “Sounds good.”

- To be continued.

— Follow up of:

[wilsons-journey]

The End?

It was weeks since Kying last saw Valefor.

But still he had the feeling, that the Assassion sometimes follows him around. Keeping an eye on him. But most likely because of this new companion Corr.

They both slowly formed a friendship. Maybe with a chance of more.

And that was the point for Kying, to seek out his old friend. To end this relationship, that already died the night they last saw each other. But at the same time, it was a poor attempt to see, if Valefor really doesn't care. See if his demand to end that all, will evoke a reaction from the other. A small sign.

But there was nothing.

Valefor didn't even flinch on Kying's demand.

- To be continued.

--- Follow up of:

[wilsons-journey]

Story Summary

As promised, there is the Summary. ♥ Please behold of minor SotO Spoilers!

Notable mentions:

Baal After the Events of “End of Dragon”, he returns at Eframs side and helps him to rebuild the Flame Legion. Sometimes he even joints Wilson on her journey - or stays in close contact with her with letters.

He also stays in close contact with his half brother Deus, who like him, also works on rebuilding the Legions.

Bahalt She stays at Phrikes side until his death. After his passing she seeks out the gift he had promised her - his son. Phrike always knew she wanted to be a mother, but was never able to bear children on her own. She will take care of this young boy. Sometimes call Phrike out of the mist to share these moments. Later she will join Vale and Deus in their efforts to protect Tyria - becoming a Member of the Dragons Watch. It’s her way of making up with the damage, her friend has caused.

Later she will move to the Black Citadel and becoming a Primus.

Some time after Vale and Desmonds departing, she will also leave the Black Citadel and join them. There she volunteers as a warrior and protect the village from danger - so that Vale doesn't have to do this and keep her peace.

She keeps having an open relationship with Desmond

Desmond After the Events of EoD, he returns to the wild and continues his life as before. But he occasionally visits his friends.

After Vales breakdown he moves to the Village in which Vale was once born, and stays at her side as friend. He helps her raising Orez, Phrike Jr. and Elden (his Daughter).

With Bahalt also joining them, he keeps having an open relationship with her.

[wilsons-journey]

Watching.

Jealous Idiot not ready to admit his feelings. But still keeps an eye on his guard friend 24/7. And that guard friend definitely noticed that.

Valefor would have killed that guy, if he wouldn't care about the feelings of his friend. But it don't stops him from thinking about it.

If Corr dares to do something stupid to Kying, it might have harsh consequences for him.

But why should Corr? He likes Kying, too. Much to the dismay of Valefor.

- To be continued.

--- Follow up of:

[wilsons-journey]

— Indirect follow up of "Trust"