Open Chronicles Athbhliain

[Favashi]

On the birth
Travel to the Heart
Turn left at the Fang's tip
Ride until dawnbreak
To the town of kāˌäs
​

It was a cryptic message that had appeared written on the thin membranes of autumn leaves, embossed into the fragile tendons of snowflakes, whispered by the stars, and seared into dying embers. There was little doubt in any fae's mind what court had sent the invitation, but not many fae knew a word of what it meant. It caused arguments, created rifts between family and friends as they debated its deeper meaning, until High Lords and even Kings had to get involved to settle the matter. Of course even with that resolved it did little more than tell the people of the fae realms that there would be a party held within the territories owned by Dawn at the break of Athbhliain. There was, naturally, a fair amount of unease around that. Law makers attempted to probe and royals sent spies in an attempt to get some foresight on the matter, but all their reports said the same: there was nothing but sand where the invitation said to come.

It was only on the evening of Athbhliain that the desert trembled.

And from it, rose the Lost City of Kāˌäs.

The mortals who inhabited it woke with yawns as though only a day had passed when really it had been years, or was it months? Favashi lost track of how often she called this little town back into the waking world. The people rose and went about their daily duties, sweeping sand from the streets and stringing lights, excited to pay homage to the strange creatures who protected them from the world. For them the night was a religious one where they were given the great honour to service and entertain their immortal visitors. For the fae, it was a chance to play with mortals without technically disrupting any of the grumpy Erlking's 'Laws of Balance'.

It was Favashi's favourite playground.

The night drew in quickly in the desert which only meant the celebration could start earlier. Music played, wine flowed, and there was steady stream of stunned fae arrivals from early dusk. As she strolled down the street to the bows and kisses from the mortals, her fingers touched columns and houses causing large shrooms to grow or oddly shaped flowers that at seemingly random intervals spat glitter into the skies and coated all those below in fae dust, an intoxicating substance to even the high fae the more one consumed. The fae of War intended on enjoying herself tonight, and she couldn't wait for the main entertainment to arrive.

Spoiler: OOC Information

This thread is open to all and is set geographically in the West, not far from the Seret Mountains.

The town of Kāˌäs has many mortal legends surrounding it, some which claim it is cursed by demons and others which call it a paradise that appears to the most deserving. The town does not appear at any pattern that mortals or immortals can garner. The city is not full of riches in terms of gold but is home to ancient and unusual items.

The invitation appeared in the mortal realms as well as the fae realms in the oddest of places.

Fae are bound by the laws of hospitality upon entering meaning all Court allegiances and prejudices must be left 'at the gate' making the site a truly neutral territory for all fae-kind.

No killing, but mischief is certain encouraged...

 

[Elaine Laure'Nar]

Curious, if wary golden eyes watched the passing of the War fae from a safe distance. It had been a number of moons since Elaine had escaped the Night Court, and her slender figure still showed subtle signs of her captivity with her anxious movements. Yet, it seemed some aspects had begun to heal- the first of which her curiosity and desire to learn.

Slipping behind and around the pillars again, Elaine tucked her cloak a little more securely around herself. It was well made; light and comfortable like the rest of her garb. The cloak itself was made from a velvety mahogany-colored fabric that wicked away moisture and was trimmed with weighted gold about the hems in a decorative and equally useful fashion to keep it from flapping around in a stray breeze.

She had come here with a goal, to be certain. One that enamored her enough to risk stressing poor Delun out, and to even risk herself. But Elaine had left a note for him so at the least he would know what she was up to. Learning, understanding, and recording what happened here would be advantageous for him. Especially after all the racket back in the Autumn Court.

Elaine paused however as she rounded a corner and nearly bumped into a human, mumbling a hasty apology at the same moment they did and slipping away; the pleasantly confused stare of the mortal burning into her back.

She had to remember she knew painfully little of the complex dance of social ettiquite among the fae courts just yet. Elaine couldn't come to harm here in the moment, but that lent her no safety after the fact. Even from her own court.

 

[Nairth San'Seya]

Even in the midst of great turmoil, there always lies time for revelry. To forgo all happiness and merriment is to ask for sorrow to rule until you draw your last breath. A great many trials lay ahead of the Spring's ruler, Nairth San' Seya, but it had been long since an invitation of this sort had been presented to him. A chance to mend his weary mind could only benefit those who depended on him for leadership and guidance through an age of impending hardships.

The King arrived upon a pale horse; pearl skin unblemished by the sand and earth that battered and beat all that dared trek through its relentless maw. Its sides were covered, though, by the long, flowing robe that donned Nairth himself, its hem dragging across the streets of the legendary city as he made his presence known.

A brilliantly woven shawl, with an intricately designed depiction of Castle Grovehaven, lay across his shoulders, the colors seeming to bleed off of it and into the white of his robe, long strips of color running down the length of his broad back.

The Dawn spared no expense for their grand display, it seemed. Their colors hung from every wall. Songs of praise belted from those faithful to them, jovial and reverent. It was the kind of thing he much more expected from the Autumn, but... Well, the Autumn was occupied as of late.

Kāˌäs had its reputation, but the sweet scent of wines was enticing enough to make him less wary of being a regent in such a foreign land. After all, hospitality laws for such events would protect him from unwanted attention, for the most part. These Seret vistas were such a rare sight for a forest dweller, and he'd hate to leave any earlier than after a long evening of indulgence.

Wanted attention, now that was the part one had to search for.

 

[Maphesa]

Oh, it was time.

It was almost Athbhliain, and Kāˌäs had become a favoured location to visit. Her search for fun and entertainment had spurred Maphesa to leave the Summer court behind, and she was not about to miss such a party. She hadn't failed to attend one since she'd moved to The Dawn Court, where said search had ultimately led her. There was simply more fun to be had here, and this evening promised to be a fine example of it.

On the day of Athbhliain, the ley lines had led her most of the way to the city, where mortals were busy placing decorations. Maphesa strolled in alone, wearing her finest black dress lined with matching plumage dyes just as black decorating the collar. Music played and mortals showered her with praise and adoration as she strolled past – a favoured part of the festival for her. She received the attention with a smile while returning it with gestures of graceful acknowledgement, turning to all she passed by with deliberate movements and proper decorum. Though she cared little for mortals when they intruded upon her dreams, the attention they gave her upon her visits were thoroughly adored.

Favashi was already present, visible up ahead entertaining the presence of more mortals while sprouting forth fae foliage among the grounds and houses she graced. Maphesa had arrived early (by her standards, anyway), yet Favashi had clearly been busy for some time now. Though she did not stop in her personal solitary parade through the streets, she did keep attention on the ongoing decorations Favashi was busily adding. Best to keep her own path clear of it, she knew that much. Their paths might cross later. – besides, there were more mortals that deserved Maphesa's presence.

Every now and then, she would stop to grace one of the many lights strung throughout the town with her touch, causing what she did to glow in brighter intensity and varied colours. Singular spots shone of blue, yellow, and pink dotted the strings of otherwise duller white lights left in her wake. The mortals made such a big fuss whenever she did, and the resulting commotion was even further entertainment to the Duanann of Desire. Savouring the attention, Maphesa slowly strode forth as further fae arrivals made their way within.

 

[Vasilios]

And the fae was arrayed in black silk robes, and decked with precious gold jewelry, upon his forehead was a golden headpiece with a black obsidian stone in the center. The robe was positioned to display his chest but covered up the rest of his assets so that even a gust of wind couldn't reveal anything important, though he had no issues displaying everything when requested. He had prepared a glamour for this event, specialized for mortals so they would forget his face by next morning to avoid recognition back in the empire in case they showed up. The fae, however, would see him as they always did.

His ride of choice was a dark grey elephant decorated in emerald green cloth and golden tassels. Vasilios lounged in the black and emerald howdah while the driver had the elephant travel through the streets. The howdah was enchanted so that it would be as light as a feather for the elephant, as he didn't want to cause the animal any distress or pain. Vasilios could hear the crowds of mortals gasp and cheer at the sight of the extravagant animal. Lifting his fingers to part the thin curtains, he caught a glimpse of the city.

The allure of the Lost City of Kāˌäs was irresistible. When his invitation to the celebration arrived, he was half tempted to leave it be. He was so glad he came. A lost city and a playground for the fae full of intoxicating music and healthy helpings of wine. After his grand entrance, he jumped off the elephant, telling the driver to find some nice place for the creature to rest. He didn't want to cause too much crowding in the streets. Such a thing would be incredibly rude to their host.

Vasilios began his walk down the streets, eager for the fun to begin.

 

[Shayleigh]

It had come in the dead of night by ways of the changing winds. Had it been luck? Maybe even meant for someone else but got lost along the way? Or was it purely intentional that she would receive an invitation to a place she only knew of by the stories her mother would tell her. An invitation for reasons unknown, at least to her.

But that wasn’t going to stop her from going..

“Kāˌäs” Shay whispered to no one but herself as the lost city finally came into view, leaving her in slight disbelief as to what stood before her. The welcoming sounds of music and the fine aroma of wine found her at the city's entrance, beckoning her into its very streets. A vast difference from the little hideaway in the Ixchel wilds, the only place she’d known for the majority of her life.

Wait… Had that been an elephant?

The bottom hem of the well worn, dark gray wool cloak grazed along the sand while steady steps took her into the streets. It was all too obvious that Shay had never been to a place such as this. Lowering the hood of the cloak, letting loose honey brown curls while the look of awe danced across her face. Taking in everything she passed while in search of wine. If she was going to allow herself to let loose and enjoy the night, she would need some liquid encouragement.

There had been no mention of any certain attire to be worn, even if there had been, chances of her having it were..slim. Unlike most, she owned but a handful of different articles of clothing and tonight’s choice was something simple. Perhaps too simple for a place such as this. Thankfully, all that could be seen at the moment were the many different thin layers of black chiffon that swayed with every step the lead her further down the road.

 

[Baise]

Baise had been a warlock to a notable Lord for more years than he cared to count. He would never regret those years and how they had changed him.

However, returning to an event with fae society was a large step for him. He had been travelling the mortal world and caring for his adopted son for six years now.

He walked through the outskirts of the risen city, lamp held high. He felt a tremor of trepidation as he sensed the ley magic being manipulated. As he approached the music, the laughter and light, he let a smile grow.

It had been too long since he had joined a fae party. The excess, the beauty, the stories old and even older.

 

[Elaine Laure'Nar]

Over and under and around- flicking between pheasant and fae, Elaine quietly tried to get a grasp of the scale of the city. Of the people within it, and what she could choose to write for her patron back in the Autumn Court. There were many vibrantly colored party-goers, some even causing her to stop and stare for a time in wonder before an instinctive shiver passed through her frame and she fled.

Males especially caused this- and if she was unlucky enough to lock eyes, the girl would practically flinch and disappear into the crowds. The mark branded into her flesh under her clothes stung dully, reminding her of the consequences of meeting a Night fae male's gaze directly.

Shaking her head to herself, Elaine tried to focus on the task at hand. A lot of the fae were curious about this place. Maybe she could talk to the ruler and learn more about it? Record the traits selected to best amuse its hosts and what activities and foods could be found here?

...Or maybe she would do better just experiencing it herself, the young fae debated as she paused at the scent of something warm and sweet. Turning, her soft robes brushed against the pavement lightly as she lowered her hood, following the scent to a stall tucked between two buildings. A woman was passing out small, wrapped parcels to passerby that smelled like sugar and cream, and Elaine waited for a moment and a gap in the crowd to retrieve one for herself, quickly slipping away from the mass again to a quieter area and opening the package.

The paper crunched and crinkled delicately between her fingers- and she couldn't help but be fascinated by that for a moment before she took in the sight of the pastry she'd recieved. It was a small golden-colored thing with a honey glaze and some kind of filling almost oozing out of the middle. Her mouth watered just looking at it, and, unable to help herself, she bit into it. The taste of honey, vanilla, and a warm, sweet dough freshly baked to a fluffy consistency filled her senses, and the maiden hummed contentedly, eating the rest in just a few scarce bites. It seemed a lot of the items around here were being parceled out in small doses, but there was plenty to go around- a suitable way to serve a wide variety of tastes and experiences without filling up the patrons too quickly.

Sneaking a nibble at the paper like she was a child to get any remaining crumbs, Elaine wandered again into the streets, this time with a little more focus. Maybe there was a stall around with scrolls and ink she could use...?

 

[Rerreno]

Wonder came easily to the fae. Gorgeous outfits enhanced by glittering glamours. Vibrant flowers and fantastical beasts formed or bent to the will of the immortal beings. Everything about the Fae spoke to the magic that saturated their blood. It made wonder cheap. For the Vitae Lords, it was the cost of wonder that made mortals so amazing. The horse was broken through toil and hard work. Art was practiced through years with no promise for the time to become a master. Their lives were finite and their means mundane. It made every grand thing done by these fleeting beings so much grander.

It was that amazement in the work of humans, elves, and others that had driven the brothers to create their court of stars, and now, Rerreno marveled at the hard work that had led to such a joyous celebration. In response to the cheers and claps at his passing, Rerreno offered a gracious bow, permitting himself the vanity of a swirling wind to billow his shimmering golden cloak. It was an ostentatious outfit, easily worth more than any of these simple peasants would ever imagine in their lives. But the bright colors were precisely what they expected of their immortal guests. Who was he to deny them?

 

[Varos]

Wulren had insisted he leave. Said that he needed time to catch up to the spy-master’s work. Insisted that his plans and maps were one of the few things he would enjoy more than a raucous party. And if he needed booze, he’d raid the cellar. Varos, sent out by one brother, and dragged out by another, now found himself on the street of Ka’as. Rerreno had quickly abandoned him to the tide of mortals who clamored for his favor. The attention, while not unfamiliar, was disquieting. The zorrens owed their existence to him. They saw him when one of their own was born with a tail of midnight black. They worshiped him with every good deed done, not in the name of personal glory. Here, he was adored for what he was, not what he had done.

Lacking his brothers to hide behind, the Lord of Secrets found himself an unexpected presence to stand beside. A friend. He hadn’t many of those, a necessary concession given his line of work, but Nairth San'Seya was one of the few that could claim such a title. Or at the very least, a friendly acquaintance.

“I live for the day that we needn’t a holiday to dance with them,” he whispered hopefully, his onyx eyes moving out to the colorful crowd. "Even if the Zorrens know who we are and I and my brothers lose all the power that comes from the mystery, it’d be worth it.” His tail, a long brush of black fur, flicked out behind him. “But I suppose peace within realms must come before peace amongst them.”

 

[Nairth San'Seya]

The pale stallion upon which the King of Spring rode in upon slowed to a stop amongst a crowd of awestruck mortals, and Nairth looked upon them all with an adoring smile. There had been a time when he had lashed out against these people, blaming them for all of his troubles in life and shutting his heart from the love he'd once professed for them. His very name, San' Seya, meant Lover of World. Were not these people part of the world he cared for so dearly? The Duanann seemed to hover off of the ground as he slid from his horse, reaching out to touch the hands extended to him, feeling the warmth within their souls.

A familiar voice drifted in from behind, and he gently ushered the mortals away as he spun gracefully towards Varos, his face alight with perhaps the widest smile he'd worn since being coronated what felt like years ago. "Varos. It's a pleasure to see you here. Have your brothers come as well?" Nairth took a bow towards one-third of the Vitae, a close ally of his people, to be sure. "I daresay you lend too much credence to your own origins. These people care not where you came from, only that you are here. Do not do yourself the disservice of fretting."

The crowd around the figure draped in white dissipated as he walked towards and then past Varos, reaching out towards one of the many stands propped up on the side of the bustling, lively street and retrieving a share of wine from it, bringing it to pursed lips to drink his first spirit of the night. "I plan on enjoying myself without regard to my woes tonight, and I would suggest you do the same. Now come. Have a drink, find a lady of the evening. Be yourself." Nairth raised a glass to a passing Sidhe woman, seemingly astounded by the scene around her, and for good reason. "Miss." He offered as she passed, letting his eyes wander the growing crowd for more of his kin. Favashi, that ravishing fury was sure to be around somewhere, and already he saw Maphesa of the Dawn sliding through crowds and leaving enchanted eyes in her wake.

 

[Baise]

After his grand entrance, he jumped off the elephant, telling the driver to find some nice place for the creature to rest. He didnt want to cause too much crowding in the streets. Such a thing would be incredibly rude to their host.

Baise' brown eyes shifted into pale viridian as he watched the elephant manoeuvre itself around to move to return down the same road. The city streets wound their own lackadaisical path through the buildings. Baise found the twists and turns quite aesthetically pleasing, but they certainly hadn't been laid out to form direct routes into the heart of the city.

His eyes shifted through blues into a vivid shade of purple as he saw the rider continue on his own. Baise might have marked him for a high lord, given his poise and grand entrance, but he could not be certain.

Baise' enchanted lamp followed in his wake as he pushed through the crowd, but its light dimmed as he found the area well lit. He accelerated his pace to catch up to the fae who had ridden on such a magnificent beast.

He turned, offering a respectful bow, not yet knowing how this one ranked among fae society.

"I must say, that was an entrance," Baise said to Vasilios . He didn't even know if the fae would deign to acknowledge him. He had been a part of their world for many years, but it felt like a long time since he had taken up the mantle of warlock and lived among the fae.

 

[Shayleigh]

“You must try this! I promise, you will thoroughly enjoy it. It may also help make your evening one to remember”

Shay sucked in a startled gasp due to the sudden arrival of mortal stopping her dead in her tracks. The young woman held out a clear glass with some sort of beautiful deep blue concoction that, if she was mistaken, seemed to sparkle. The woman took hold of her hand and placed the glass within it and moved on. “Wait! Is this..” Shay trailed off realizing that her words were falling of deaf ears. “Drinkable..” She questioned while holding it up to get a better look at it.

What the hell, she was here for the experience was she not?! Shay lifted the rim of the glass to her lips and took a long drink of the liquid. At first it tasted sweet like that of a pineapple or was it grapes she tasted or perhaps both? It was quickly followed by a smooth burn that warmed her throat and her belly. Chills ran up her spine and trickled throughout her body.. ”What the..”

Shay caught sight of a man, another fae lifting his drink to her. He seemed unphased by all that was going on, which begged her to question if this was something that went on more often than many knew of? Lifting her own glass in response, following it up with a smile..

Wait.. Shay blinked, then blinked again wondering if she was seeing things clearly, was it the drink.. already?.. He looked like.. But he wasn’t.. But he sure in the hell looked familiar.. Even the hair was similar.. Why did he look so much like Tharu?

Shay stood there a while pondering what the hell was in this drink and if she should go introduce herself and get to the bottom of who he was.. Or.. She could.. Shay concentrated on the man, sending those invisible tendrils his way.. If she could get a good connection, she could read his mind and find out without a single word. Though, just as those tendrils tickled at his mind, Shay caught sight of the man he spoke to and cut the ties quickly. Varos, whom might be a bit upset if she used her magic on a friend. Instead, a giggle followed before she hushed it with another sip of whatever was in the glass and started to move off in search of food..

 

[Signe Lusce]

Oh, shame on her for being so late! There was such a thing as fashionably late, and normally Signe was that in the best of ways, but at this moment she felt nothing but mild shame. Mostly because she wasn’t decorated in any sort of finery, nor did she even appear feminine!

Following her brother’s suggestion, she had follow the rest of her sisters to Winter Court. Night Court was stifling, even more so for a female duanann who should’ve been married off by now. Unfortunately, her poor scheming and other politics turned into such a mess that it was far better for her to be away. Unfortunately that meant she had to be far from her brother.

Signe had wanted to stay more than to leave, and every day her thoughts were filled with Saang’s wellbeing.

Perhaps that was why as she entered Lost City of Kāˌäs, Signe had washed her form with the form of a male duanann with an uncanny likeness to Saang Lusce. Her verdant green eyes were redder than rubies, glimmering and sparkling brighter than the jewels themselves could. Crimson hair was straight, thinner than Saang’s luscious sanguine tresses but they were the only telltale sign that it was Signe behind the glamour. For once she didn’t intricately braid her hair to reveal the fairness of her faces.

Her eyebrows were the same shape, her eyes more sly than round. Plenty of her facial features remained, her jaw still delicate and her nose and lips seemed far too feminine. Of course, was it not up to the fae to hold both the masculine and feminine traits of the world and combine it into perfection? Smartly, Signe figured make up wouldn’t be wise, although she couldn’t help to accentuate her eyes in a style that was pleasing to more western styles. Kohl-lined eyes that was smudged with precision. In truth, somehow this minimal look took more time than her more extravagant style.

Gold earrings and gold bangles were her only adornments of luxury, and a loose cotton pants with sandals were the only clothing. In truth, even with a glamour, Signe was bare-chested. But not that the humans or anything lesser than a duanann could tell! Besides, didn’t all men walk around shirtless all the time? She was just sticking to character.

“… Pneria.”

“What?” Signe asked, looking down at a woman who was staring up at her. The woman blinked, and it was only then that Signe realized she had spoken in Iza. Whoopsie daisy! “I’m sorry,” switching to trade— did they speak trade tongue here?— Signe smiled down at the woman. She hadn’t switched her height of well above six feet, even if it would be considered average (or short if Queen Mab was around) for duanann. But right now, she towered well over a foot and more over this mortal woman! “What did you say?”

The woman seemed to understand well enough.

“You remind me of the moon Pneria. Not as bright like Lessat, but still eye-catching despite it’s subtlety...” Signe blinked. Maybe she would like men more if they gave sincere compliments like that.

“I’ll find you later, I hope you enjoy dancing.” Signe said, smiling down at the human woman and removing one of the gold bangles to give to her. “I’ll want this back.” Couldn’t afford to give away gold right now, but even if she were drunk, she’d at least try to make sure to have all her adornments in order. The woman nodded— whether it was in response to liking to dance or understanding Signe wanted her bracelet back didn’t matter. Sauntering off, Signe made sure to keep her eyes wide open for fun.

[Photo cred]

 

[Varos]

How long had it been since he simply, 'enjoyed himself,' Varos wondered. His brothers all had their duties but there was so much needed to keep the court running. What's more, his eyes and ears stretched out to the other courts, always needing to keep watch for change. But Nairth was right.

"The zorrens only speak of my tryst with the moon," he said, following after to the stall to fetch himself a glass of wine. "According to them, being myself often means an avoidance of being in anyone's sight, whether it be at a party or behind closed doors." A sly smile touched his lips as he swirled and observed the red liquid. "Though I've lost count of how many times their spies, who pray to me, have applied their trade beneath sheets and covers." Such was the issue with the brothers' godhood. Perception quite literally became reality. But it could be resisted, and as proven by his mere presence at athbhliain, Varos intended to do just that.

The easy grace with which Nairth greeted their sister in immortality, and the hungry look as he searched the crowd, left Varos chuckling softly from the side of the brighter fae. "You truly were born to be king, Nairth. The public eye suits you." He lifted up his drink, taking his first sip and delighting in the rich flavor. "What's more, you've your share of wisdom. As you say, there's no fretting tonight. Only drink, fun, and a chance of luck."

Nairth San'Seya

 

[Rerreno]

Rerreno danced his way through the crowd, his hands taking the fingers of maidens and the stems of wine glasses as he swirled through the crowd, a golden whirl, of excitement. He didn't discriminate, spinning mortals and fae alike as he passed. For several minutes, he continued on, until a flash of honey brown hair caught his attention. Adjusting his trajectory, he continued his dance until he stood at the side of Shayleigh, his breathing a bit heavier and a glass of sparkling wine in his grip.

"If it isn't my brother's fairer eyes and ears. Good to see he isn't you working too hard," he offered, a genuine and bright smile matching his sparkling white and gold tunic. "I often worry for those who work under him, workaholic as he is."

Following Shayleigh's gaze as he had arrived, the lord of diplomacy, smiled as he caught sight of what had attracted her attention before his entrance. His tail swayed and wagged as he recognized the man beside Varos. "It's good to see that Varos can find someone to talk to outside of the estate. Such is the benefit of having allies."

 

[Shayleigh]

Was it due to the mysterious drink she’d been nursing, the exotic taste in the air that was fever at the tip of her tongue or the music that flowed through her body as if it was a living part of her that had her feeling more alive then she has in the longest time? The urge to join those frolicking through the streets was heavy, which was unlike Shay, a woman who kept mostly to herself. Who kept herself present but unseen. Oh, but how she wanted to just throw caution to the wind and enjoy this night to its fullest.. Whatever that may be.

Course that also meant her senses weren’t as keen as they should be seeing as Rerreno managed to sneak up on her so easily. Jumping at the first sound of his voice, the blue liquid within her cup splashing out and dripping off her hand. “Rerreno! By the gods!” Shay pressed a hand to her chest, laughing.

“Too hard?! Me, working too hard? Is that even such a thing? I’d say not enough but you didn’t hear that from me..” Shay lifted her glass to his with a clink before lifting it to her lips once more. “..and don’t you dare say anything to him.” Another round of laughter joined in.

“No need to worry Rerreno, it does me good to get out there.. here even.. And face my fears.” Gods know she has many.. Shay lifted her gaze back towards Varos “It is good to see, perhaps we should get him out and about more often?! Show him that it’s okay to take time for himself and enjoy it” Brows furrowed as she noticed Rerreno’s drink compared to her own..

Before he could say a thing, his glass was within her other hand as she took a sip of it.. “Do you have any idea what kind of drink this is?!” She held hers up for him and leaned in close so hopefully only he would hear “Do they drug you here!?” Yea, she was feeling it but it wasn’t at all bad..

---

Rerreno

 

[Tharu San'Seya]

Damn it all, he was late!

Tharu had never been in attendance at any Fae gathering in a capacity more than his Father's attendant. To be invited as an individual had been a source of great pride for the young Prince. To be recognized as his own being was a very important goal that had always felt so far away, and yet still he made every stride he could find footholds towards.

Be that as it may, he was still a member of his Father's court, and he was expected to assist in matters of the Crown. The latest assignment he'd been given was to ensure Nairth's trip to Athbhliain went along safely and without any issue. Organizing his escort had been a time-consuming task, considering the threat that continued to loom over their heads like a waiting guillotine, but once he was sure that the King had made it into the city safely, he followed on his own horse, smaller and of considerably less glimmering splendor.

Compared to The King, neither his entrance nor the white and green robe he was going to impress anyone, except maybe the woman he was looking forward to seeing most. Indeed, despite his excitement over his invitation, Tharu still might have declined solely due to his discomfort around mortals, especially those who fawned and revered him. His self-confidence was such that he scoffed at the notion of being anything to fawn at.

Once Shayleigh shared that she would be attending though, any awkwardness was worth it.

Having long since hitched his horse and undertaking the task of sifting his way through the bustling crowd that filled the streets of the city, his heart soared high when he finally laid eyes upon the beautiful Vitae woman standing beside his friend in Rerreno. Lips curling into a smile, he pushed through a crowd with renewed strength, breaking clear before reaching out to tap her shoulder lightly.

"Excuse me, Miss. I'm looking for somebody and I think you might be it." He joked.

 

[Rerreno]

To see another of his court enjoyng themselves was enough to bring a blinding smile tot he lord of diplomacy's lips. Behind him, a shimmering gold tail swayed and wagged, somehow managing to flick around and past passersby without swatting their drinks from their hands. "I assure you my dear, I do try. He's a stubborn one, Never leaves for anything but work. Even now, I'd not be surprised if he was wondering what to add to his next round of reports. Keeping his ears and eyes pricked for sordid tales and affairs." Despite his admonishing tone, Rerreno couldn't deny the usefulness of such things.

On more than one occasion, he had been saved by such secrets. A wayward suggestion or a mispoken word had been echoed from his lips at dinner tables to turn them against some of his more clever opponents. The ones who hadn't feared the threat of Wulren's shouts and hammer quaked at the idea of a single whispered word from Varos.

Shayleigh's sudden worry caught Rerreno's complete attention, though his face remained unworried. "It appears to be a rather crisp bubbly. Delicious actually, and I dare say that if its been tampered with, I was likely not the intended target." Personally he was doubtful of such shannenigans, but that didn't stop him from flexing his fingers into an arcane sigil which sent a brief shimmering wave over his chest. "Though it certainly wouldn't be the first time someone tried to poison me or my mind. In fact, there's one rather determined man in the summ-"

He was interrupted by the sudden presence of another, and for a brief moment his temper flared. Rerreno's mouth opened to rebuke the incursion, but all it took was the sight of the speaker and the look in his eyes to shut the master of words' jaw. A displeased frown vanished in favor of a cheerful welcoming smile. "A pleasure to see you Mr. Tharu. More the pleasure that it seems I've no need to introduce you."

Shayleigh Tharu San'Seya

 

[Signe Lusce]

WAS THAT A ELEPHANT?! IT WAS HUGE!!!​

Signe had followed after the large beast, thinking very little for the rider and thinking only how she wanted to touch it’s trunk. Now, Signe had, of course, seen pictures of elephants before. Some had tusks, some didn’t. Some had big ears, some didn’t. But all of them had these trunks! At the end were their nose, shaped almost like a pig’s, but far different! She had to touch a elephant trunk at least once in her life. She was already 1,639 years old!

It wasn’t like she was getting younger.

Besides, the emerald-green cloth and gold tassels just so happened to remind her of, well, her own eyes. Conceited, she knew, but it had piqued her interest.

She was a ways behind Vasilios and Blaise as they spoke to one another, granting her just a moment to reach out a hand and touch the elephant’s trunk. It made a noise, causing Signe to squeal in excitement and fright as she shied away from the large beast. It seemed it didn’t want to be pet by her. Shame. Maybe if it’s owner was around…?

Crimson eyes looked to where both Blaise and Vasilios stood. Vasilios was clearly the rider— and clearly fae. She made her way there, a determined look on her face.

“Excuse me,” her voice was glamoured to sound masculine, although for a woman she had always had a rather deep and raspy voice. She was smart enough to not curtesy in front of the men. “How can I go about petting that elephant? Does it like carrots?”

Vasilios Baise

 

[Baise]

Baise turned as someone joined to ask a question. For a moment, he thought one of the locals must have been asking about the elephant.

One glance was enough to know this was a fae of high standing. They stood tall over Baise, carrying an air of ley magic around with them.

Baise's eyes shifted colours as he took in the new arrival. They started a deep hazel green, slowly swirled into viridian and finnaly settled on a dark shade of Violet.

He hadn't been certain about returning to a gathering of their kind. Baise had a great deal of pain in his past, but the atmosphere around him and being stuck in the middle of a conversation between two such effortlessly ethereal, effeminate and beautiful fae made him think this trip would be worthwhile.

Knowing his place, listening and not talking over fae of such standing, he offered a deep bow. His enchanted latern continued to bob in the air behind him.

 

[Shayleigh]

“Ah yes but perhaps this is something that needs a woman's touch..” Shay nudged Rerreno’s arm. “Or shove..” She did her best to hold it in but the snicker slipped out. “Sometimes it takes more then family to get someone to see that they need some time away from work, to focus on the enjoyment in life once in a while.” They were all guilty of that, no doubt but Varo’s most of all. “And yes, you can tell by the look in his eyes that he’s doing just that.. It’s not always bad to mix business with pleasure, though some of us are better at hiding it than others.”

Shay took another sip of his drink, still holding hers up for him to examine or taste. There were certain herbs that, when ingested, could cause a variety of effects on the person whom took them. Not entirely bad effects, mind you. “Oh no! I don’t mean tampered with.. Just, you know.. herbs or something? I’m feeling a bit off, a good off though, I think.. and hot” Shay chuckled and had been about to protest against the whole poison comment when she felt a tap on her shoulder, followed by his voice.

There was no hiding the smile that spread realizing that he had actually made it tonight. Turning to face him, trying to look all serious and failing greatly. “Hmm, are you sure I’m it?! I mean, I don’t believe I was expecting anyone to seek me out tonight.” The smile crept back making even her eye’s brighten. “I’m glad you could make it..”

“We met each other awhile back actually.” Said as she gave Rerreno his drink back. “Unexpectedly and eventful” Shay looked up at Tharu with a smirk.. It had also been some of the best moments she’d had in a very long time that lead to something rather amazing, in her opinion. However, Shay wasn’t about to say all that out loud, unsure if Tharu wanted any of that information out and so she’d leave it at that.

---

Rerreno Tharu San'Seya

 

[Favashi]

Was that.... Lusce? Favashi paused in her mindless decorating as she caught the swathe of long red hair bobbing past. Red was an unusual colour even amongst the fae which was what made it so coveted. Few bloodlines amongst them could proudly boast such rich and deep colour even if they were blessed with such a shade but the Lusce's were one. And there was only one male Lusce that she knew of.

The Fae of War clapped her hands in delight. She hadn't seen Saang since... Oh... it must have been the Winter Wars.

"How delightful," she breathed and, forgetting she had been holding a ladder for a Brownie, let go and floated off after her new attention piece.

 

[Vasilios]

Vasilios knew his little friend would draw in attention, but not as much attention as to draw in one or two people. The first one was a cute young man who commented on his entrance. The fae man gave him a warm smile and silently agreed.

"It seemed appropriate for a mystical city in the desert." He said, "And whom might you be?"

Before their conversation could continue much further, another stranger approached. She was extremely eager on the subject of the elephant, asking about whether one could pet it and if the creature would appreciate carrots. The presence of another fae seemed to intimidate the younger one. Before Baise could make a getaway, Vasilios attempted to gently lift his chin with his index finger and to get a better view.

"I'm not done with you quite yet." He said with humor in his eyes before turning back to the beautiful woman, "I'm sure the elephant wouldn't mind being petted. But I would warn against giving her food. She can get excited when surrounded by food and mind end up hitting you with her trunk. One hit from her trunk is enough to knock out a lion. But... if you want to try, don't let that stop you..."

His voice was like silk and he was putting every effort into making an engaging conversation. His attention could be equally split between the two, he had plenty of practice in pleasing multiple people.

Baise Signe Lusce

 

[Signe Lusce]

For a moment the lantern distracted her, and it took Signe a moment to understand that Vasilios was speaking directly to her. She beamed, but her smile faltered as she heard the other fae’s warning. While she could heal far better and faster than the average human, it didn’t mean she was a masochist! If she could avoid feeling her bones breaking, she would. Still, there was a possibility that she wouldn’t get hit by the trunk.

“Maybe if it was a fruit instead of a vegetable?” Signe said, mostly to herself rather than to Vasilios. Briefly she mused over the possibilities and considered the pros and cons— but just as soon as that had happened she was already onto the next thing. “Then I shall just pet her instead!” She declared and her face bloomed with ebullience.

“You have my thanks, Lord…?” Surely this man was a lord! He owned a elephant after all. Signe almost curtsied but instead dipped her head and bowed like her brother would. She had to play the part of a man! It was when she was raising her head back up that she fully took notice of the human and his pecuilar lamp behind him. She grinned in his direction, twiddling her fingers in a languid yet flirty way. Would Saang do something like that? Probably not.

Unlike her brother, Signe remained unassuming and unaware of the challenge that would be soon upon her: Favashi.

Baise Vasilios Favashi