Sanguine Dark [Silver Radiance x Veir]

[Veir]

 

-=+ Avea-la Veir +=-

Welcome to Avea, Outsider.

 

"We say these words that the Outsiders might feel welcome to our homes.

For it is in distrust that darkness breeds, and the Demrys are forever chasers of the Sun."

- Teovin Laehir, 13th "Keram" of Avea Village.

 

---

 

Dramatis Personae:

 

Demrys:

Silhvas Daerhlan - A young Grove Guardian, head of House Daerhlan.

Nasivir Daerhlan - Daerhlan's younger brother.

Faran Liaetu - A hunter, and Daerhlan house squire.

 

Veir:

Claudius

Kell

Selethian

 

NPCs:

Teovin Laehir - Avea-si Keram

 

Pronunciation Guide:

Silhvas – Silva-s. Daerhlan - Day-r-lan

Nasivir - Nasi-veer

Liaetu - Li-Ai-tu

Laehir - Lay-eer

hae - ha-eh

 

Language Guide:

Keram - Elder/Village head

Demrys/Demri - Bloodsun

Ava-cei - Golden child

-hae - works like -san in Japanese

Sal-Yeh: Birth Tree

 

[Another RP continuation thread, logs posted below]

 

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Veir:

 

It was early autumn, the summer nights had just passed, a rusted scent now joining the smell of fading leaves on the evening breeze. Silhvas stared pensively out of the small treetop cabin that was the village's watchtower. Nestled amongst thick oak branches, it afforded the watchers a good view of the surrounding woodland without becoming exposed.

 

Turning his gaze away from the barely discernible trail that led to the village entrance, he watched the girls lingering at the well even as their mothers tried to usher them into the treetops. Veir were not to be trusted. He chuckled and let his green eyes return to their dutiful watch, twirling the thick oak-leaf in his hand absentmindedly, delicate fingers making the still dark-green leaf spin as if blown by wind. A heavy hunting bow lay beside him on the straw-covered floor, the curved wood that formed it worn smooth from use.

 

"Sil, do we have to watch for them? They aren't enemies, are they?" The speaker was seated beside the dutiful leader of House Daerhlan. Though their similarity marked them as brothers, this elf was obviously the younger. Unlike Silhvas, his golden hair was cropped short, standing a good inch or two over his head, like a jagged hedge. A single braid was left long beside his left ear, falling just past his shoulder, ending in a large, blue-glass bead that knocked against his collarbone.

 

"Not long now, Nasivir," said the eldest of the trio of elves in the watchtower. "And a good hunter knows when to wait." The Demrys' tied back hair had a touch of silver already, though he was by no means old by the standards of an elf.

 

Silhvas had often thought it a result of stress, and wondered if he would end up the same. "Listen to Faran," he murmured just as Nasivir opened his mouth to object.

 

The younger elf sat down with a soft 'humph', then shot up like a startled deer as one of Silhvas' spare arrowheads jabbed him in the ass. He glared at his brother, though Silhvas had not laughed. "I'm going down," he added after a moment of baleful glaring. "They're late, probably not coming at all."

 

"No, Nasi, you're just impatient." Silhvas stood up, stretching to work the stiffness from his joints before grabbing his bow and quiver from the straw. Then, with one foot already braced against the bough that led out of the entrance of the hut, he flashed his companions a feral grin. "Last one there does laundry for the week." Before the other two could reply, Silhvas was gone, vanishing like a golden bird.

 

Faran was the first to react. Squinting into the fading light with a hand beside his face to block out the firefly lanterns of the village, he tried to see what Sil had seen, and took a good few seconds to do so. Nasivir had little chance there, but he dashed off after Faran as soon as the squire had spied the visitors.

 

Tilting his head slightly just in time to escape a branch that tried to blind him, Silhvas shot through the darkening forest like a fading ray of sunshine, his footfalls barely shaking the branches he landed on despite his speed. Other Demrys in the village might have been on par as marksmen, but none could quite match his speed. Daerhlan House had an old lineage, some say even back to the Ava-cei - the Children of Gold - who were believed to be the children of Old Gods.

 

Jade green eyes watched their mark as Silhvas travelled, refusing to fail in his duty to the village, though it was just a small procession of Veir, Outsiders, inching their way through the night blind woods towards a village that was hard to find even at high noon. When he drew nearer, Silhvas slowed, focusing instead on remaining completely silent as he now tracked the Veir's progress, emerald gaze never leaving one of the tall figures he had picked out as the most likely threat.

 

Then, just as the village's smoke and lanterns became visible through the criss-crossing trunks and bushes, he heard the telltale rustle of Nasivir making a bad landing behind him. He waited, and moments later was not surprised to see his brother moving three trees ahead of him, finding yet another bad foothold, and this time making the mistake of heading upwards. Silhvas swore under his breath and swung off the branch he was perched on, landing softly on the forest floor just as Nasi came crashing down along with a broken branch some feet away from the Veir.

 

Faran landed beside Silhvas, his fall just a bit heavier than the young Daerhlan. Then again, there was no longer any reason for stealth, the Outsiders would realise they had been followed, and it was up to Silhvas to be diplomatic. Of course, diplomacy was usually just another word for lies, and sadly, the Demrys were notoriously bad at them. The squire held back as Silhvas closed the distance between them and where Nasi lay in a groaning, leaf-coverd heap.

 

"Avea-la Veir," intoned Silhvas, once he was close enough for the village's lantern light to show his features clearly. The greeting over with, he directed his next words at the lavender haired man he had singled out earlier, "you must be the visitors we have been expecting. If this is all of your party, might I and my friends offer you an escort? We were just on our way home when my… brother missed his footing."

 

Shrugging, Faran stepped forward. Silhvas had managed everything without a direct lie, which was good, but he had to reveal them all, which was bad. Even now, Faran couldn't quite help giving marks for everything the young head of the family did. He had watched Silhvas grow up after all, and knew his charge's strengths as well as his weaknesses. The latter, he thought, waving Nasi over, was something Silhvas' brother had too much of.

 

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Silver

 

In a place like paradise welcoming every form of life with such decadent beauty and magnificence, there were three who travelled with the winding fates of darkness rising up from the very earth long since banished to the core, purely to get a glance, a bare hint of the creatures in attractive shape that walked in the world of light bringing nothing but shadow and blackness with them.

 

Three there were, like a canvas of black walking over the land in a careful line, not too close to one another yet not leaving enough distance for anyone to pass between them. It was a well known fact already that they were cold blooded, requiring heat where they could find it without being able to bask in direct sunlight, so their thick clothing reflected that need.

 

The centre male was clearly the tallest, shrouded in a black cloak with the softness of fur that seemed to barely capture the light just lightly on the edges of some of the fine strands seeming to capture the very light trapping in warmth as well as keeping the brightness from its master. Two long trails of lavender silk caressed over the front of the cloak having slid out from under the hood. Barely visible was a haunting masculine jawline, though lips remained sealed even as they stepped over a fallen tree trunk, the very leaves below seeming to welcome the weight of those heavy dark boots as if they recognised his statue. Or was it the darkness beneath them that merely lifted the fallen foliage instead? Either way the male seemed not to be delicate in nature in the least, a strong build obvious even under a cloak and dark gloved hands that offered a firm grasp upon the trunks of the trees if required.

 

To the left, a rather out of place long white leather jacket substituted for a cloak that reached to ankles baring pure white shoes, the hood holding sky blue intricate embroidery of a pattern like snowflakes which was mirrored on each sleeve reaching up to the elbow. As soon as the light became a honey orange colour, a white gloved hand reached up to cast the hood back revealing layered blond tresses reaching the male's shoulders and pure crystal blue eyes like gems sparkling against the fading light. The male was beyond handsome, though more sender than his companion in the centre, the beauty of the elves could arguably be seen in his features though his ears were not nearly as elegant. One of those pale ears even held a puncture, the dangling jewelry a silver snowflake with a pale blue gem in the centre. There was no part of this male that projected any kind of mild desire for stealth, instead it seemed deeply clear he would rather be seen than unseen. The nature in which he chose to deal with the terrain was quite angry like a child beyond bored trying not to say anything and instead kicking branches and leaves to take out childish rage.

 

To the right there was the shortest male, build a lot less impressive than the other two like that of someone much younger with a cloak of grey and brown, deeply modest and practical though seeming not to seek out the most warmth. There was something slightly unusual about this one in particular... Every few steps the male would reach out bare slender fingers to caress over a tree trunk, an unusual blackness would trail over the tree seeping into the bark where markings were evident and slide into them solidifying with a slight flash before rushing back down the tree like a haunting shadow to climb over that slender arm, over a barely visible neck then cheek to gather at his forehead where an obvious rune had been carved into the skin seemingly sucked right into it before a flash of the black text hazed before blood red eyes for but a moment as eyelids descended, starting the task anew.

 

It was unusual to have such creatures out in the daylight and even as the sun was chased away by the vanity of the silver moon the fact that they had been traveling was quite apparent by the twigs and slight dirt gathering on the base of their heavy robes and boots.

 

From the little the Demrys knew of them, it would still be quite apparent that this method of travelling was highly unusual for the dark ones.

 

"Just how long is this going to take? Fuck sake, Selestian."

 

A rather impatient tone left the lips of the male on the left, voice slightly more gruff than expected though still with a hint of honey. Those crystal blue eyes were focused on the male to the right who had stopped yet again to touch that hand to another marked tree for the unusual ritual repeated over and over throughout their journey. Arms crossed over the blond male's chest clearly unimpressed and not hoping to budge on the issue.

 

Regardless, Selestian continued to focus on the trees and ignored the urgent nature of the arrogant male's anger, seeing no reason to respond with anything but a logical answer in a calm tone, the voice of a teenager coming out rather potently as if spoken by someone ancient and well versed in the ways of the worlds.

 

"I have answered you already Kell. Efficient collection cannot be rushed. Observations are tainted by haste."

 

Without warning the blond male kicked those now dirty white shoes under a hefty stick launching it toward a tree forcing the dead wood to shatter on impact sending the splinters flying out with the strength of the impact. Though it couldn't exactly be classified as dangerous, the unpleasant snapping sound had caught the attention of the man in the centre who had kept the same steady pace all the while, causing him to cease moving forward and turn back to see the flustered blond as Selestian finished his work to step forward quite unaffected by the childish display.

 

"Bullshit old man, I have sluts to fuck."

 

Perhaps the use of such language was not such an intelligent idea, especially when the glare of the man in the centre was upon him before he opened his foolish mouth.

 

Without warning, a sudden tendril of black danced like a ribbon of pure silk darkness wrapping around Kell's face but the moment it drew near those eyes flashes as if light had run over metal and a hand rose up faster than the eye could see holding a clear shard of pure ice between the lips that enjoyed talking so much and the blackness that seemed to want to become a make shift gag. Though he seemed quite childish, the reflexes he possessed were quite fast and accurate.

 

The glare back at the dark one holding that ribbon of blackness was not one of a weak man.

 

"Claudius, don't you fucking dare unless you want this icicle up your ass!"

 

The rage in those eyes was beyond evident, radiating such childish anger but before he could even take a single step in the direction of his opponent, the lavender haired male merely narrowed those haunting deep purple eyes and tugged at the ribbon of darkness so suddenly the force that travelled through the strand made Kell shove that icicle right in that arrogant mouth he had been trying to protect.

 

"I don't have time to deal with your attitude."

 

After those words were spoken by that hauntingly deep, smooth voice, the darkness was called back and Kell spat out the cold ice that threatened to stick to his tongue shaking his head as if it tasted unpleasant but more potent was the disgusting taste of poetic justice. There was the barest hint of amusement upon the lips of the lavender haired male before he turned back to continue walking with Selestian to the next marked tree.

 

Even though Claudius had turned back and continued walking, Kell raised his white gloved hand as if ready to attack and as he started forward he was greeted by the sudden appearance of a falling Demry making the explosive blond stop in his tracks immediately to blink and look down at the slender form before him with spiky blond hair coupled with those desperately needy eyes seeking up at him apologetically with such brilliant jade as if he were an uke who had come without permission and was begging for forgiveness from his eternal master...

 

A grin suddenly played upon those deceptively soft lips as the male tried to get up, Kell immediately reaching down to grab the young one's ass forcing him to stumble against the arrogant beauty's chest. Only slightly taller he still took advantage of his position to stroke those fingers against the shapely, supple rear already aching to plunge into the perspective virgin to stay his boredom while the other two men continued on their mission like good little bastards.

 

"Plans have changed Claudius, it seems I have a date. You'll have to escort yourself."

 

The lavender haired leader had been too busy sighting the other Demry, nodding politely to the offered words of escort to notice that Kell was being... well Kell. Turning to look at the blond the man knew nothing but pure trouble was about to ensue, while Selestian had ignored it all and continued to caress the treetrunks in his continued ritual.

 

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Veir

 

 

With his fall broken only by the ground, and whatever thin leaf litter had gathered since the start of autumn, Nasi didn't exactly welcome the extra pressure on his already bruised ass. This was also the first time he had come so close to an Outsider, and he flailed as the man's grip pulled him forward, landing him unceremoniously against an unfamiliar, white-clad chest.

 

And unlike the Outsiders, Demri preferred fabrics woven of plant fibres, and light armour fashioned of hide and wood. These presented little obstacle to the unashamed touching Nasi received. Turning back to his brother, Nasivir gave his taller kin a helpless, silent plea, his still childishly large green eyes shifting from his captor to his possible saviour, wondering whom to address first.

 

Silence filled the space between them for a moment as Sil considered his options. To the layman, a silent forest at dusk might seem a common thing, but to those who dwelt there, it was as unnatural as a rose in winter. No insect stirred, no roosting bird dared to make a peep. Even the trees themselves had ceased their rustling, as if the wind herself had come to a standstill, waiting for the indrawn breath of anticipation to fade.

 

The Daerhlan were well-connected to the land, and it was said the woodlands they were born in breathed with them. And now that the village lanterns shone ahead of them, the gold-thread embroidery on Silhvas' grey-green tunic could be seen, the twisting knot-work tracing out a pattern of trees arching towards a silver-thread moon. A white stag was etched into a small, silver shield on his quiver. And if the Veir knew their symbolism, they would know him as a Guardian of the Grove. A priest, in other words, of the Old Gods.

 

It was a good opportunity to teach the Veir a lesson, but Silhvas relented, changing the grip on his bow just enough to suggest he could escalate things right here and now if the Veir did anything more to his brother. Sounds filtered out from the leaves, the twittering, chirping song soon turning into the usual night chorus that was at once discordant and beautiful. Turning back to the one the blond had called 'Claudius', the young guardian inclined his head just slightly before speaking.

 

"My name is Silhvas Daerhlan, and the young man your friend is considering dating is my brother, Nasivir. It seems our customs are very different, Claudius-hae. I would appreciate it if your companion could be less intimate with him." That said, he turned his back on the visitors, and strode off towards the village at a measured pace.

 

"I apologise, it is customary for us to turn our backs on strangers as a sign of trust," Faran said, stepping in quickly to explain, and using this opportunity to carefully put himself near the Veir who had a hold on young Nasi.

 

His initial surprising fading, the younger Daerhlan was getting angry. He might not have his brother's uniform yet, but he was already a hunter, and next summer, he would begin his training as a guardian, being manhandled by an Outsider would make him the laughingstock of the village - at least in his view. On the other hand, this was the first time he had been charged with welcoming a Veir, and he had no idea what would offend them.

 

Seeing Silhvas making steady progress away from them, and Faran seemingly happy to just wait and see, Nasi made the decision finally to wriggle away from the rather forward Outsider, tugging his sleeveless tunic back into place when he was standing a foot away. Dusting off his matching slacks, he realised now that he'd lost his bow somewhere during the fall, but now didn't seem the time to look for it.

 

"Thanks," he muttered, not sure what for, but feeling this was an appropriate comment to make to keep the peace. Still, he couldn't help backing away from the strange man that reminded him of the winter. And sure enough, brought him straight into the other Veir, who had rather faded into the background in all the drama. He flinched in surprise, then waved his hands in a flustered manner.

 

"Sorry! Damn it, Teovin's going to yell at me so much…" With that thought spoken out loud, now suddenly did seem like a good time to go find his bow. He turned to his house squire, grinned sheepishly, then backed off into the dark forest even as he spoke. "I'm just… going to find my bow, Faran… tell old man Teo I … uh… got lost or something."

 

"Wait, Nasi-" It was too late, and Faran knew it. This was something Nasivir did often. When things didn't go his way, or he couldn't handle something, he'd run. In some ways, though they were brothers, Nasi and Sil were polar opposites.

 

Throwing his hands up in the air, feeling there was no way he could salvage this welcome now, he turned to the thus far silent Veir with a rueful smile. "Apologies, my name is Faran, the Daerhlan house squire. I am sure you will find the reception better once we arrive at the village."

 

Faran smoothed down his more drab brown tunic, belatedly unrolling his sleeves for a neater effect. He was slightly stockier than his charges, though his hair was almost as long as Silhvas', but only the young Daerhlan chief dared run through a forest with his golden tresses loose, that was just asking to be snagged off a perch by a jutting branch.

 

"Shall we?" He added, worry furrowing his brow just a touch.

 

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Silver

 

This was quite the relief, though Claudius was expecting an all out barage of hostility in which he would quite eagerly hand over Kell kicking and screaming with such great pleasure, it seemed as though the rude gestures were being politely ignored.

 

Perhaps it was because he wasn't that familiar with the Demri as of yet, his appearances had always been from far off merely observing the from a distance until it was clearly safe to go himself. There were things about the dark one that were far too dangerous to even begin to explain, it was in the Demri and even this world's best interest not to piss him off too deeply. With the lack of any major concerns it was safe to continue on, the balance of light and darkness that seemed quite delicate on this world in particular remained undisturbed.

 

However, Selestian didn't feel undisturbed at all, instead he felt somewhat violated as the young blond male suddenly bumped into him as he was trying to complete his ritual on one of the trees, the connection broken had the copied runes instead rushing down to the ground to desperately crawl around seeking out their master before snaking up his boots, thighs, hips, torso, chest, shoulders, neck, cheek before finally reaching his forehead just as before. As those eyes flashed with the symbols like before, they narrowed at the male that had caused the interference before lowering his eyelids as if to prevent the information from escaping from the deadly serious orbs.

 

In the mean time, Kell snuck over eager to capture that cute little Demri in his arms while he ran without looking. Young, innocent and stupid, an easy fuck anyone could see from a mile away and out here Kell would take what he could get. Licking those dry lips lewdly he opened those white gloved hands making no play to even pretend there was anything else on his mind besides nailing that virgin Demri. That devious grin spoke of all the utterly sinful and twisted things he planned to do to that young supple body uncensored and probably unconsensual.

 

"Come to Daddy."

 

Slowly, Selestian's eyes began to open until they were but a third of the way before suddenly slamming open, a hand coming up to grasp onto Nasi's shoulder as he tried to run past to 'seek out his bow'. The grip was strong enough to stop the male from continuing to move, yet not enough to cause any pain. It was far too soon, there was not enough time yet to gain everything he had wanted from the trees and if anything didn't go to plan the chance would slip through his fingers to complete the information archive he had been so looking forward to completing for this planet. The expression he bore was fairly determined, looking straight toward Claudius who had moved forward to keep up with the leader of the Demri escort, making a clear request.

 

"May I ensure the safe return of this Demri boy while continuing to gather more information?"

 

Kell blinked as his quick and easy forrest fuck was so easily detained from running right into his despicable arms.. Did Selestian even realise what he had just done? There was a rather unimpressed look on his face soon followed by a smile and a light chuckle as he stepped over to them both placing his white gloved hand on the young male's older shoulder, his grip barely there before suddenly quite tight.

 

"That's really not necessary Selly, you see... I was here FIRST."

 

The blond ice user's eyes burned like dry ice threatening to steal all of the heat out of Selestian's body in a mere instant if he dared to speak back to him. Regardless of his position or value to the bastards back on the ship sipping wine and ass fucking whores at their leisure, Selestian was of absolutely no use to Kell save as a frozen doorstop to avoid anyone disturbing his daily fuck fest.

 

Regardless, to Selestian, Kell was nothing but a very potent annoyance that threatened to break his concentration and rush his deeply important process. There were few individuals that the crimson eyed male placed below Kell... Come to think of it, there weren't any.

 

"Kell, that's enough. You agreed to escort me all the way there and back and if you want your payment you will do as you have pledged. Selestian, please do ensure that the young Demri returns safely before the moon has risen to half."

 

Claudius felt quite unfortunate to have such an individual at his side when first encountering the Demri, but there was not much he could do about the matter. There had been problems in acquiring willing escorts for several reasons, most of which related to the lavender haired male himself. But those things were not to be spoken here, not ever.

 

Still, a black gloved hand raised, removing the hood from the head of the leader, revealing that hauntingly beautiful masculine face to the Demri in a sign of equality. The fact that Silhvas was not facing him made the gesture difficult to be seen so carefully the dark male captured the male's slender wrist for but a moment merely to get him to look back and see the sincerity on his unhidden face as they continued walking.

 

"Please excuse my rude escort, he was not recruited for his intelligence I assure you."

 

There was nothing more the furious blond wanted to do right now than take that hot assed virgin by force and drag him into the woods while the rest of them struggled with their heels encased in ice, but a familiar feeling caused Kell to grit his teeth.. The darkness was building around him, that thick black curtain threatening to bind every limb with but a moments notice. Even now, those dirty white shoes were being shrouded in the thickness of the dark, tendrils winding up over his ankles, licking eagerly and tugging insistently making it impossible for their presence to be ignored.

 

"Cheh. Whatever."

 

Kell shook off the blackness from the leather shoes and walked toward the others. It had been hard to ignore that the eldest had tried to talk to Selestian and been ignored due to his daze in trying to process information and symbols in addition to being interupted so suddenly by the younger Demri. Though the blond seemed uninterested in admitting his own rude behaviour, he seemed to take great delight in bashing others for theirs.

 

"Don't even bother, that old fuck can't hear a thing when he's copying shit. Who gives a fuck. Tell me more about that young bastard, has he known the taste of a guys dick yet? I bet those lips as aching to suck cock."

 

Though the blond seemed powerful, he also seemed to project an arrogance reserved for someone who was invincible, speaking however he saw fit while walking beside Faran. One hand lifted up as he was speaking, caressing white gloved fingers over those barely pink soft lips as if pretending they belonged to that young Silhvas, aching to touch them.. To feel them wrapped around certain appendages regardless of how forbidden anyone else may have deemed it.

 

"I bet if I pushed that little thing up against that tree and shoved my cock in deep, his ass would squeeze it so tight I'd blow my load right then and there.. But you know something?"

 

Though there was no time left for a response, Kell wasted no time in completely stepping over the line and invading Faran's personal space, that white leather clad arm dragging the older male in closer to speak with a hint of lust against that impressive ear. A moist tongue sweeping over those lips yet again before he spoke quite entertained by the conversation. Still, Kell kept the words low enough so that he was sure Claudius wouldn't be paying close attention, after all, there was no point in getting introuble just yet before he found sufficient entertainment.

 

"I'd keep fucking that little bitch because there's nothing he could do to stop me."

 

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Veir

 

 

Nasi had expected his usual stealthy ways to work, so was somewhat surprised when he was grabbed by the shoulder, the grip hardening at the first sign of struggle, and if his past experience being nabbed by tutors was anything to go by, this one wasn't going to lose him. He sighed and resigned himself to being 'escorted' back to safety - and Teovin's lecture.

 

Kicking his bamboo-weave sandals against the ground ineffectually, Nasi didn't exactly provide a tranquil accompaniment to whatever this 'Selestian' was doing. He did watch in morbid fascination as wriggling text tried to crawl up the stranger's skin like worms - and worry that the writing worms would try to crawl on him, but they did not. Nasi was having a frightening evening, and it was only going to get worse with Teovin's lecture, but he had to admit he was secretly having a lot of fun.

 

Silhvas could hear the commotion behind him, and he knew his brother was probably enjoying every minute of it. Although the village had never been as closeted as some of the cave-dwelling tribes, the distrust of Veir ran deep, and Outsiders were few and far between. And the Demrys had another secret, one they had once shared with Outsiders freely, and had almost bled them dry.

 

Though he couldn't see what Claudius was doing, the young Daerhlan heard the soft intake of breath from Faran, and the momentary silence from Nasi - which was all the sign of surprise anyone needed. So the uniformed elf turned slightly just as a gloved hand closed around his wrist.

 

There was again a strange moment, as if the forest held its breath, but this one did not last long, fading as soon as the hand had left his arm, and might have just been a trick of the mind. Silhvas faced the Veir, staring candidly into the attractive, almost elven face, trying to read the sincerity and danger in the deep gaze.

 

"It is of no issue, and I should assure you that he will find his match in my brother. …A match in brains that is." That said, the blond elf slowed his steps so that they matched the Veir who obviously led their expedition, now moving at Claudius' chosen pace.

 

Silhvas was no stranger to beauty, Avea has plenty of it. Yet even he was not immune to the stranger's allure. It went beyond the physical, that was something everyone had, but this man was… charismatic? No, something deeper, more dangerous, like a beautiful, carnivorous flower.

 

Unconsciously, Silhvas tightened his grip on his bow. And perhaps just as well for what his ears picked up soon after.

 

Faran had not really seemed offended by the apparent snubbing. He was a mere squire, a side-dish to all the festivities being served up to their guests. So he was a little surprised when the decidedly insane one stepped in close to explain for his friend, like he had done earlier for Sil. Only… where the squire had been courteous, the man called Kell was bordering on raping everyone's ears with his choice of vocabulary.

 

"Nasivir is young, Veir, I doubt he would understand what you're talking about," Faran replied, his tone somewhat more clipped than before. He hoped, fervently, that Nasi indeed had no idea what the man was talking about.

 

Faran however, had ever idea. And as Kell spoke, he could not quite help the images that arose in his mind. As much as he willed them to fade, they would not, and the squire had to turn away briefly to hide his expression. And it was in that moment, that Kell stepped close, the proximity not helping Faran's thoughts even as the creak of leather sounded loudly in his ear. He sighed, and was about to excuse himself when he felt hot breath against his ear.

 

That was too much. And as Kell's next words fell, there was a sudden rustle from ahead of them as well as a strangely metallic 'snick' from right beside the Veir's ribs. Faran had trained an obsidian dagger against the man's side, not pressing in yet, but a definite threat none the less. And some paces nearer to the village, Sil had spun and drawn his bow to full-draw with no hint of effort - and indeed very little time. A silver-tipped arrow was notched and at the ready, and his green eyes had turned hard, darkening in anger and anticipation of a fight.

 

"Please call off your companion, Claudius-hae. Or I cannot guarantee his safety in these woods." And as if to emphasise his words, the roots around them began to rip clear of the dirt, coiling and whipping at their feet, not yet touching anyone but Kell, whom they harried with some impatience.

 

None of this was even conscious, Faran knew. Where most people grew stronger as they grew older, the Daerhlan learned their control as they aged, so they were in fact more dangerous while young. As the square, Faran's duty to protect was not only to his young charges, but the village they resided in.

 

"Please try to listen to Silhvas Daerhlan," Faran said, a second dagger sliding into his hand apparently out of nowhere, this one was thinner than the first, merely a metal spike that shone with cold light and a hint of something liquid. Poisons were readily available in a forest of this size after all.

 

Nasi, meanwhile, had for once chosen the intelligent option of not saying anything at all.

[Veir]

Silver

 

 

There was clear tension in the air as thick as fog with its icy grasp toying with each of the Demri as if plucking invisible strings to force them taunt like instruments awaiting their debut performance.

 

The sheer arrogance was hard to overlook. It seemed as though Kell was just itching for trouble, but then again, he always was. Though the blond male was a right pain in the ass he was also quite useful and especially for the particular mission, Claudius needed Kell alive for certain success as much as it pained him to admit.

 

Lifting a black gloved hand, the more socially intelligent male brushed the back of his knuckles against the body of the arrow, urging it up and away from the direction of his irritating comrad. Surely there was another way and he knew immediately that a show of power was not going to do anything except fuel a fire that ached to burn brighter than anyone could handle.

 

"I share in your irritation. However, this man, regardless of how foul, will be a critical part in the medicinal procedure I have come to perform. Though I am certain it causes you great inconvenience, I ask that you not kill him before he's exhausted his use."

 

Glancing at the golden haired beauty proved to be quite pleasant, easy on the eyes as one would say and yet there was a certain potent drive within Silhvas' jade orbs that had Claudius not wanting to turn his attention just yet. The colour in itsself was quite stunning and yet there was a stubborn innocence behind it that sparked the interest of the dark one. Were all of Demri like this? It made perfect sense for them to settle in such a place if that were the case, the naivety and luminance of these creatures was exactly what they needed.

 

Still, the nature of their exchange, though deeply worthy if the transaction was honored appropriately, was a well hidden secret that could never be spoken of out loud with honest intentions.. It seemed quite depressing to think about and yet it was a complexity that could not be understood. Could those roots soon be reaching for his throat to torment the last breathe from his lips?

 

Would this place be like the last?

 

Still, the past had nothing much to do with the fact Kell was a complete asshole, so taking a direct approach with that issue was more than well advised. Claudius glanced away only for a moment to motion toward Faran who seemed to be dealing with the blond quite well, perhaps it was what he needed in this point after the droves of individuals either ignoring him or fawning all over him, boredom was surely the reason why the beautiful bastard was being so difficult.

 

"Perhaps your kind associate would be able to handle keeping him entertained until we reach the villiage. After all, children need to be supervised, and I would greatly appreciate the favor."

 

A few of those lavender strands lashed over Claudius' smooth cheeks, the unmoving deep purple eyes seeming to seek right through Sil to his very core, clearly asking for a deep favor. Though soon enough that hand that had touched the Demri's bow soon shifted back, the cold leather barely brushing over those trained fingers as he walked on, allowing the same show of 'trust' to the blond male, more interested in getting to the villiage before it was too late rather than entertaining Kell's desperate vie for attention.

 

"Please excuse me, I did not mean to taint your bow with an outsider's touch."

 

The blond ingrate didn't seem the least bit phased by Faran stepping behind him with a rather irritated tone to that regal yet humbled voice, instead an eyebrow raised in clear amusement as he felt something rather menacing digging into that untouched skin to make a very clear threat.

 

How long had it been since anyone had even hoped to raise a hand to Kell without fearing the recoil? Let alone someone who showed some outward attractiveness. Those sparkling icy eyes sought back toward the deep emerald coloured orbs, a few of those sunlight strands stroking over that lightly tanned face as eyes narrowed with interest. There was a beast within this elegant looking bastard and right now it was baring its fangs.

 

"Well now, already rubbing up against me? And here I thought the polite thing to do was to offer me a drink before offering me your dick."

 

Though the obvious threat of those roots was close by and the feeling of them turned Kell's eyes down, soon enough the beautiful bastard's gaze was right back up, turning around a hand rose slowly, reaching up toward his dangling silver earring to stroke against it lightly, toying with the stone against the white leather while those hauntingly cold eyes trained on Faran with an evident dark smirk. There was a hunter that had spotted another hunter in the dark, their eyes meeting, their blood boiling and the inevitable chaos about to ensue thick in the air like a sweet aroma of death proceeding the victor.

 

"Were you hoping to tie me up before taking your pants off? Why not try holding me down with your body instead?"

 

 

 

The smaller of the Veir seemed far less interested on everything that was happening with the other pairs, instead he seemed troubled when he had finished with another tree. For a moment, he merely stared at the bark, those crimson eyes blank for a moment as if he were trying to think. Strong lungs inhaled slowly, releasing a rather long string of breathe in a potent sigh.

 

Turning around the male noticed something nudging at his thin brown fabric shoe like a stray branch but heavy and glanced down to see a quiver half filled with arrows while some others strewn around it unceremoniously and the sight gave the troubled Veir a possible solution to the problem at hand.

 

As the hood came down the dark green tresses revealed were like that of aged leaves still fresh with moisture though lacking the brightness of youth struggling to maintain their colour before the threatening turn to autumn. There were three separate tied sections that were bound once at the top and then again an inch from the bottom, blackened at the tip with dark stains of ink that had sunk into the strands and could never be washed out.

 

The cloak slowly slid from the slender left arm to reveal a kimono sleeve underneath soon after removed also from the right arm and held before the short slender male. Though the fabric of the cloak its self was clearly not incredibly thick, it was clear when it was folded that there were several layers to it, and that always worked heavily to his advantage.

 

A kimono was traditionally quite colourful and vibrant with such grace and beauty and yet this one was a plain looking brownish orange like the colour of parchment rivaling fallen dried leaves waiting for the clutches of winter to crush them into dust. The dark green waist piece offered a little insight to the slender nature of his frame, though it seemed as though the amount of layers to this unusual garb kept going on and on.

 

Crimson eyes inspected the robe for a moment before glancing up at Nasi merely holding that gaze before stepping forward to place the bottom of the robe into those hands and grasp his own slender fingers over each tightly making it clear he wanted Nasi to close them before he stepped away, holding the material taunt.

 

Reaching to the ground Selethian lifted up three sharp arrows holding them between his fingers and crossing them over in his palm so that he could control them as one unit. Starting at the base of the robe he sliced into the hem and then trailed up the arrow heads offering some friction to assist in the cutting, revealing that there were infact at least 3 layers of fabric folded over and when he reached to the top of the stitching he stopped, cutting each section just before it and tugging the control thread so that the layers unravelled into long strips of material spanning three times as long as the original cloak length.

 

After dividing the back and sides like that into 5 pieces still connected to the hood with the sleeves intact, the crimson eyed male moved back over to the quiver and gathered up five arrows, handing three to Nasi and holding that hand tightly as he gazed up at the taller male with quite a serious expression.

 

"Please take each of these, one strip of material per arrow and ensure the material is against the bark then secure it with the head of the arrow before moving onto the next tree. Don't tear the material from the centre, just walk to the closest marked trees and do this for me. Alright?"

 

- - - Updated - - -

 

Veir

 

 

The pressure on the arrow made Sil flinch, and only his long years of training prevented the arrow he had nocked from sailing out towards its intended target. He held the deep lavender gaze as the Outsider spoke, the black wood bow straining in his hands as he waited for the words to convey a peaceful solution.

 

Still, a long minute passed in the ensuing silence. Then, slowly, Silhvas turned his head, shifting his attention deliberately from the Veir to Faran. Something imperceptible to strangers passed between the two, and the young Daerhlan nodded, relaxing his grip just as Claudius' gloved fingers brushed his.

 

Whatever resentment Sil held towards Outsiders faded a notch at the apology that followed. Too few Veir made any sort of attempt to notice the race's cultural taboos, much less apologise once the deed was done. He slung his bow back over one shoulder, the silver end-caps glinting gold in the ruddy glow of firefly lanterns as he hurried his steps enough to fall in beside Claudius.

 

"You will find the village more welcoming," Silhvas murmured, echoing a sentiment Faran had voiced earlier. He did not turn to check on his squire, but his footfalls were quietened more than necessary, allowing his ears to pick up as much as they could beyond the crunching, rustling steps of the Veir.

 

Sil had questions for Claudius, but he had to consider his position in everything. When one asked too many questions, one was then expected to answer more in return. So he kept his silence, his jade-green eyes fixed on the barely discernible 'wall' of the village, watching the familiar palls of smoke rising over the orange-yellow glow of home.

 

It had been two lifetimes for the more short-lived races since his father planted Silhvas' Sal-Yeh. Yet for the Demrys, it was only his nineteenth Blooming. His tree was strong, Teovin had said, and it would likely live the full length of its lifespan. That seemed too much time for a body to want to stay in one place.

 

The blossoms this year had been white. His Old Gods had given him a task-less decade. Or perhaps they were just leaving him free of geas so he might be called upon. Either way, he would be a wandering Guardian, half a soldier, half a loiterer. Not a good look for the head of Daerhlan House. Time enough for the rival Houses to become strong.

 

Silhvas shook his head, golden tresses shimmering like finely spun silk thread as he moved. These were thoughts for another time. Right now, he had a visitor to escort. Three, he corrected himself, realising as he did that for some reason, he had only really focused on the dark-clad male walking apace with him.

 

The forest had whispered to him. It told him things of the darkness, a darkness even the night woods dreaded to see, yet ached to follow. He shivered, remembering again the soft, featherlight touch against his fingers, and kept walking.

 

***

 

Faran was well able to handle himself in most circumstances, and this was not really an exception. Once he was certain his young master was someways ahead and unlikely to hear a mostly mouthed whisper, he smiled cordially. The expression was somehow stony in comparison to the smile he had for Selethian when addressing him earlier, and his tone was as cold as a chilled-stone, kept to a low whisper. "Kell-hae, I think it is polite to at least get to know one's hosts before trying to mount them, no?"

 

While Faran was a ‘true’ Demrys, and therefore bound by the same tenants of purity as the rest of his race, he has had a few more knocks in his life than Sil and Nasi combined. Quite a few more, one could perhaps say a barrel-full more. As a result, he made the perfect squire, able to adapt to new threats as they came. Being one of the few Demri to frequent human towns in search of trade goods, he was also the ideal choice for a Veir welcome party. Teovin had been right in his choice, though Faran would never be so arrogant as to think so.

 

He held Kell's challenge as long as the quirky blond did, his own deep emerald gaze unwavering for even a second. And as a pale, too-large moon rose overhead, its silvery light carpeting the scene in mottled dots, there was a cold glint from his black-glass dagger as it slid away into his sleeve again, its kin doing the same.

 

It seems the Veir had mistakenly pinned the whipping roots to him, a misapprehension that Faran was only too happy to allow. Silhvas' powers were unusual, even for the Demrys, and the less people knew of it, the easier Faran's job was in protecting his charge.

 

Louder now, he said: "Kell-hae, I believe it is time we got on with the journey, I am sure neither of our 'masters' would like to see more misbehaviour."

 

Then he fell silent once again, with the same strange smile on his face. He did not turn his back on Kell however, and pebbles surrounding them shook and clattered softly at each step, ready to riddle the stranger with holes and have the threat be removed - something Faran knew he would not do, at least not in the presence of the other Veir, and Silhvas Daerhlan.

 

***

 

The only thing Nasi could work out from the entire exchange was that he was way over his head. When Sil had asked him to go along on the welcome, he had jumped to it, too excited about meeting Veir to think twice. Now he was not so sure.

 

Scratching at his head, the spiky-haired Demrys watched as his own 'escort' seemed to have found fascination in breathing exercises. This at least, he was familiar with. When he was just learning archery, his brother had made him do a load of them, and by the end, Nasivir had almost hyperventilated.

 

He took a deep breath, holding it in for a second before letting it out slowly, and smoothly. Not realising Selethian was doing something else entirely - sighing - he did it again. Then again, and completely failed to see his new 'friend' pick up his arrows. He was so absorbed that only the rustle of fabrics tore him out of his almost meditative state. Then his eyes widened, filling with figurative sparkles as he took in the new outfit.

 

"Where did you get your clothes?" He asked, light-green gaze wandering from one part of the clothes to another. The other two Veir had been interesting, but wore things he had spotted similar designs of around the village when Outsiders came to visit, but Selethian's was a completely different style, one that oddly echoed some of the more traditional garb of the Demrys, but … different.

 

Absorbed now in studying Selethian's clothes, Nasi jumped when his arrow went through the fabric, tearing it up as it Selethian didn't care it was ruining the beauty of his outfit. The younger Daerhlan bit his lip instead of commenting, but was obviously somewhat unhappy about it.

 

Still, he did as he was told, happy at least to hold the strip of fabric, and curious about what Selethian was up to. It seemed to him that the adults got the sharp end of the stick with the visitors. Other than a possible yelling from Teovin, this trip was turning out all right.

 

Nodding to show that he understood, Nasi took the ends of fabric carefully in his fingers, and did exactly as instructed, careful as he did so not to run the inscriptions with the arrowhead, always putting it in where a previous mark existed. Once all five strips had been thus secured, he returned to Selethian's side like an excited, but curious puppy. Though he did stand a good few paces away from the dark-green haired man and the strips of fabric.

 

Shifting his weight nervously from one foot to the other, the young elf watched and waited, trying to keep his comments to himself as Sil had often advised him in the past. For a while, only crickets and the usual night sounds interrupted the solemn silence, but as the smells of cooking wafted out from the village, Nasi's stomach rumbled like distant thunder.

 

He blushed, pressed his hands to his stomach, then scratched his head with an embarrassed giggle choked back into his throat. "I can smell roasted venison," he explained unnecessarily. "And honey bread, and tart-berry rolls… and…" he trailed off, realising now that he must be a terrible distraction.

 

- - - Updated - - -

 

Silver

 

 

And just like that, the blizzard blew over.

 

The torrent of comments and snide remarks came to a close as Kell's eyes narrowed, sure to burn a hot hole into Faran as the Demri seemed to discard him far too easily.

 

At first, Kell didn't move as the realisation came that the comments he had made had aroused an interest in the subject of his topic instead of himself. There was a thickness in the air around him, it grew heavy and white like fog as the moisture in the air started to freeze. Both hands raised, clutching onto either side of his hood to return it back over his head shrouding those icy eyes leaving the soft blond strands barely visible along with those lips that had drawn into a thin line.

 

The sticks beneath those white leather shoes snapped under the pressure as he finally moved, a thick frost appearing on the ground wherever his feet happened to hover or connect with the earth. Fingers tensed in a claw like gesture before tightening into a fist but not a single word left those lips.

 

----------------------------

 

Though Claudius seemed a tad more concerned about the fact Kell was being quiet, the dark male reminded himself that it was something he had wished for regardless and now that they were approaching the villiage it surely couldn't have been a bad thing to have the icy tyrant lost for words, at least for now. It was always easier when he was like this, even though it was not such a positive thing for Kell himself perhaps.

 

Still, the view of something beyond the trees was evident, especially now that the sun was down. The brightness of the lanterns was just enough to light through some of the trees, like starlight cradled by the night sky greedily that couldn't be denied its sparkle.

 

The Veir moved around a lot for a race in general, but they tended to stay on the same planet for quite some time, until they encountered complications and had to leave and in that time they usually introduced thee natives to technologies that would improve their ways of life. So it had been a long while since a basic society had been seen by the eyes of Claudius. It was quite a treat to be able to see things in a more simple light than usual. But then again, life was never really all that simple regardless.

 

There was such raw beauty here, the lavender eyes took everything in as they walked, the blackness that folded its wings over the land whispering into the foreigners ears, unspoken knowledge, desperate pleas.. There was bare lingering chatter about the ill Demri female that concerned Claudius deeply..

 

Though the elders had advised that the traitorous act had only been discovered this morning, the shadows in the woods whispered of elated dancing and intimacies from a week ago. It had taken a few hours to be able to finally tune into the aura of the blackness on this world, but even just as he broke through to hear it seemed like a flood of voices which made it hard to determine anything more specific than that one piece of information.

 

If that was indeed the case, it was most certainly too late for the dark one to hope to act on his own..

 

"I imagine the villiage will be quite accommodating and I apologise in advance for any inconvenience it has caused you to escort us. Though I am certain there is much hospitality to be experienced, may I be quite rude and ask that we first go straight to your ill Demri. I feel the need to pay my respects as soon as possible and try to aid as best I can."

 

---------------------

 

As the fabric was all finally in place, Selethian slid slender arms back into the sleeves and placed the hood over his head to stand in the centre with the long five tails of fabric fixed to the trees in different directions. It almost looked as if the train at the back of his garment was the very woods themselves.

 

Both hands came together with the three last fingers interlaced while the last finger on each hand rested on the runic symbol upon the Veir's forehead while thumbs rested just under those pink lips. The crimson eyes closed slowly, the dark green lashes dusting over pale cheeks as the unusual outsider lowered his head until a few renegade strands slid over soft cheeks.

 

Those lips started moving but not a single sound came out, instead a wriggling blackness leaked from the rune upon his forehead onto those fingers and started to coil around them like snakes made of ink. When both hands seemed full of the squiggly blackness, they lowered down, long strands of that same blackness still connected to fingertips as hands flattened out against the shredded material of the cloak, each finger touching down upon it until the last pink made contact.

 

At that last touch suddenly the blackness flooded over the material, crawling all over and striking far ahead like a serpent racing forward, dividing with five different heads slithering over the arrowheads all the way up the tree to wriggle into the texts carved high up and down low, flashing in unison for but a moment before retreating in reverse, this time cramping up together against the material instead of flooding into the rune like before.

 

The movement slowed over a few moments and soon stopped. Heavy dark eyelashes opened over the twin crimson suns that were clear and calculated as always, both hands now leading the robe off and stepping over to start disconnecting each of the arrow heads from the fabric carefully, wanting to leave each tree just as he had found it.

 

"This should be sufficient for now. It seems as if the information repeats after a while, but I'll request to come back another time regardless to get the rest just in case."

 

- - - Updated - - -

 

Veir

 

 

[OOC: A section of this reads somewhat god-modded, it was retrospectively added in agreement with Halvir. ... Because it's sexier this way.]

 

Faran stood back half a pace when he realised what he had done seemed to have caused greater offence than he had intended. Falling slightly behind Kell now so he could observe the Veir a bit more closely, he gave himself the moment to readjust his assumptions and to carefully analyse everything that had happened. The stones that moved about before now stilled as their master took a new view.

 

Silhvas was someways away now, probably already drawing close to the village. The Daerhlan guardian had obviously decided Faran could handle himself fine, and the squire was not about to prove his young charge wrong. The inevitable progression of time meant later generations would always surpass the older, but Faran was not yet ready to relinquish his position as Sil and Nasi's guardian.

 

Yet… He hastened a little to match his steps again to Kell, watching the now hooded face out of the corner of his eyes. The protector in him that had raised the two brothers as their father since the untimely death of the older Daerhlan now saw another person who needed coddling.

 

Though he hated to make clear assumptions without testing them more, Faran thought Kell reminded him of someone who craved attention, like a child who threw his moods out for all to see, hoping someone would notice him and…. And what? That was where the squire's imagination failed. He did not know anything about these Veir, and much less about Kell in particular. He could not see what this strangely moody creature wanted in truth.

 

Still, the clear, almost achingly loud need that had turned to sullen silence cried out to him. Faran sighed. He always made the same mistake in his life it seemed. Take up some impossible task, devote himself to it, be drawn hopelessly to it, and never be able to take what he wanted. And this was no exception. Kell was a Veir, as much as whatever internal hurt piqued Faran's curiosity.

 

The warring wants set the squire's teeth on edge. He liked intrigue, but he hated complications in his own emotions. So he tried to ignore both. "I apologise if I have insulted you, Kell-hae. I spoke in haste. I'm sure you will find someone in the village more suited to your whims."

 

That said, the squire moved his feet a little faster, effectively running away from the white-clad Outsider, but not fast enough he couldn't argue he was simply leading the way.

 

---

 

Watching with great fascination as Selethian did what he needed to, Nasi had forgotten his nervousness. The Veir seemed the most friendly of the three, and for now, probably the least scary. His beaded braid swinging merrily against the side of his face, Nasi walked in circles around Selethian as he tried to figure out what the man had just done.

 

"You mean you were reading the trees?" Nasivir asked, somewhat curiously. "I can bring you back if you like, or I can sing it to you," he added. "I'm still learning them all, but I'm going to be a guardian like my brother, so I will know them all soon!"

 

There was a note of pride in the young Demrys' voice. He had been impressed by what Selethain had done, and there was a certain wish in him to impress the dark-haired Veir. "And they only repeat if you don't sing them."

 

And with that, he launched into song. Though some syllables repeated, the tune was different, and though Nasi had not mentioned it, his song would be different from Faran's, and Faran's would be different from Sil's. The trees preserved knowledge, not words, and the knowledge was taught to each young elf through song, their own song.

 

Nasi's youthful voice lifted easily into the dark-leafed sky, filtering through the gaps towards the stars above, a clear tone that spoke of youthful excitement, a love of the hunt and the forest, and the ancient knowledge of the Demrys.

 

---

 

Silhvas paused when he heard the song rising behind him, but shook his head with a wistful smile before walking on. To Claudius' question, he did not pause, though he did consider his words carefully. "You have to understand, Claudius-hae, the situation with our village… There was only one place we could contain the sick, the only place that seemed to offer her peace."

 

Before he had finished speaking however, an arrow arced out of the light and smoke ahead of them, landing precisely in front of Silhvas' feet. There was a golden rope attached to it, leading towards the village's proper entrance, hidden by a twisting lane lined by ancient trees that were once the Birth Trees of long-dead ancestors.

 

One day, the village will move, as the Grove follows the water source, and with it, the 'wall' that surrounded the village. The Sal-Yeh that are yet young now will grow tall, and in the wake of the Demrys, once the Avea had died out, would be left a forest more vast and impenetrable than when they arrived.

 

This was the way of the elves, and for everything they take, they give back.

 

Yet, as he contemplated these things, a strong hand reached out and wrapped around him with a soft swish of heavy fabric and delicate fur. An alien scent assaulted him, pleasant, headily masculine, and all unfamiliar. He stood stunned for a second too long, just enough time for the night air to take wing, breeze fluttering past them combing their scent and sending the slightly floral, leathery smell far into the forest. It was something the woods would remember, their bodies so close, as if they were sharing the first dance of courtship.

 

When he could not linger longer without it becoming awkward - and as is already feeling like he had enjoyed the impromptu embrace too much - the Daerhlan guardian moved away from the grasp, nodding in brief thanks at the gesture of protection. The smile made his usually solemn features take on a boyish air, and though it didn't have quite the childishness of Nasi, the expression certainly conveyed his beauty better.

 

Untying the golden rope carefully, he passed the end to Claudius, his fingers lingering against the feel of cool leather as he lifted the Veir's hand to make the gift more memorable. This was a key to the village, for once the knowledge of the path to follow was given, it cannot be taken back. Though the rope would vanish, the trees would never bar the visitors again, until the Demrys should deem them unworthy.

 

"Please follow the rope," Silhvas added, ritual words spoken unnecessarily, so he added his own, personal touch. "House Daerhlan welcomes you to Avea village, Claudius-hae, may your stay be pleasant, and may your wisdom aid us in our dark hour."

 

The words spoken, Sil turned and headed for the entrance ahead of the visitors, wondering as he did so why he was blushing so hard.

 

Beyond them, the Demrys had made ready their welcome. Teovin was standing at the entrance - a gap in the wall that was only visible once the maze of trees had been navigated - his staff of power lay on the ground in front of him, on a bed of drying leaves. He would not take it up again until the visitors had left, a sign of high respect, and one that Sil had wondered about when he realised it would be done.

 

Three cups had been set out in front of it on a low bench, the solid wood glinting with some strange stain that looked eons old. When news of the visitors' arrival reached the gathered ring of Demrys behind Teovin, the Keram had to clear his throat several times for the hubbub to die down.

 

His silver-grey hair glinting in the firefly light, the robed elf looked to his left, where his granddaughter stood. To a common human, Teovin would have looked maybe 20 years her senior, but he was in fact nearing the end of a Demrys' natural lifespan. And now Vilna took over quite a few of his duties.

 

"I fear something must have happened, Vilna," he said, his words a test as always.

 

"Yes, grandfather," she agreed, then grinned when she drew near enough so that most people wouldn't see her. "But you sent out those three knowing something would, you sly old fox."

 

"Ah, you read me too well," Teovin admitted, spreading his lined hands helplessly. His purple robes stood out next to the natural hues that surrounded him, and metal adornments jingled against his chest. Worked horn and fang earrings dangled from his ears, the tips so delicate with age that it was almost translucent.

 

He smiled and ushered Vilna towards the cups before crossing his hands in front of him to wait, his grey-green eyes focused on the dark forest beyond the village entrance.

 

Vilna stepped forward and filled the cups with flower mead, fragrant and light, brewed and diluted with young tea leaves. Behind the gathered Demrys, a tall bonfire burned, the pyre fed by dead branches and bound by a ring of stone. Longhouses are scattered in the clearing, and despite Teovin's warnings, small faces of children and curious ones of men could be seen. High above, barely visible in the edge of the firelight were the treetop huts where the women hid themselves, though now and then a flash of golden hair could still be seen as a curious maiden poked her head out to look.

 

Everywhere flew fireflies, dancing, twirling, twisting up towards a visible night sky, the clearing finally offering a clear view of the moon and her companion stars.

 

- - - Updated - - -

 

Silver

 

It was not unusual for ice to be quite temperamental. With too much heat it melted into formless water and if pushed even further escaped its fate by dissolving into a gas. It was hard to know just where the point was that would tip it over the edge, it wasn't even certain that Kell himself had known at all.

 

Regardless, the blond male noted the hurried pace of the 'host' and the crystal gaze narrowed. This was not how the beautiful bastard had wanted this game to play out. It always seemed as though the blond beauty had the compass to his own fate but no knowledge on how to read it. Everyone else had a clear purpose and yet all that was clear of himself was that he had the power to back up his arrogance and enjoyed the entertainment it brought.

 

"You say that as if I care."

 

The blond increased his pace, the icy path continuing to follow each footstep as he elegantly caught up with the hasty Demri. There was something about this whole situation that really rubbed the outsider the wrong way. At first Kell merely stole a glance at the side of the male's face, as if trying to read his expression and even that seemed to piss him off. Just who did this bastard think he was, walking away from him?

 

Still, the explosive blond couldn't help but notice the soft strands tied at the native's back, dangling with such beauty and softness they just begged to be touched. Reaching out slowly, slender white gloved fingers barely touched them, the barest caress before plunging the digits into the cascade of gold. Suddenly, Kell closed fingers into a strong fist and yanked the strands from just below the native's shoulders until the oh so elegant fucker stumbled back to his satisfaction.

 

"Where do you think you are going? You're supposed to be escorting me, do your fucking job."

 

Even though the message had been far too clearly passed, the irritated ice user continued to hold onto the man's hair as if it were a leash, not seeming deeply interested in the concept of letting go of his own free will.

 

----------------------------------

 

Each arrow was removed from the tree and material before the strips were rolled up one by one and secured carefully against the hood. Each arrow was placed back inside the quiver and just as the green haired male was about to return it to his young escort, he spotted a bow not too far over. It seemed like a simple enough task to merely retrieve it from the ground.

 

The soft singing of the younger male distracted the archiver for a moment and the sound invaded his senses. The usual silence of the archive was nothing like this sound. Selestian took great interest in learning more about how information was passed through the generations as it seemed his methods of copying mere text would prove insufficient to document them.. However... That sound was still one that stirred things inside of the rather plain male that were hollow and dried up for such a long time gone.

 

Lowering down onto each knee, almost ceremoniously, Selethian reached out those slender ink stained fingers to caress against the cool yet smooth centre of the bow, barely wrapping his fingers around it. All at once there was a chill and his fingers passed right through it, the wooden bow seeming to disappear before returning to its place as he pulled the digits back staring at it curiously.

 

"This bow, it has quite the unusual physiology."

 

-------------------------------

 

"Where did she find peace?"

 

Lavender eyes narrowed, the dark eyelashes barely dusting over pale cheeks as the heavy cloak started to flutter with the caress of the breeze, the hood threatening to pull up though not daring to attempt to quite yet. A few lavender strands danced over the cloak, captured by the small strands of fur while the contemplation continued.

 

It was quite a risk to come to a new planet in general and risk not being compatible with the natives. As it was, they were unsure of what the outcome would be until news had spread about one of their kind 'seeding' a Demri successfully, though without permission. It was, in a way, a great leap forward toward their goals, but at the same time it wasn't the way they conducted themselves and the risk of exposure was far too high...

 

If anyone were ever to find out the truth of their race... It would truly be catastrophic.

 

The 'seeding' was complex, a sexually transmitted dark seed that made the host pregnant with darkness growing in a complex manner. It was like planting the seed of a tree inside of the body of a creature of light, the seed would sprout and grow, the darkness thriving in the rich environment of innocence and luminance that the roots took hold making it impossible to remove.

 

It was the only way... The only way that they could grow darkness rich enough to feed upon and in return they were obligated to the host for their lifespan. Often they would take partners and live with them but if the seed was left unchecked.. It became like a tree with branches spanning far too wide for its confines, threatening to break it apart from the inside with such thick, pure darkness.

 

As long as the dark ones kept feeding on the darkness, there would be no damage to the host's body. That was exactly why Claudius had found himself in such a position, leaving the comforts of the place he knew as home to tred onto the earth in daylight of all things, seeking out the village on foot. One of their kind has seeded one of the Demri, and now that they were in custody... Unless the seed was removed or farmed, the darkness would become impossible to hide and manifest upon the woman's very flesh.

 

Perhaps the Demri would never know it was them, how could they possibly fathom the life of a paracite so advanced, how could they possibly ever come to understand that they were perspective hosts? Still, the honor of his people and himself was in deep question. Even though they were not by any means seen as evil by themselves at least, Claudius was still deeply troubled by the damage he saw every time things got out of hand... Even when he came in time, the concept of having to taint something so beautiful in order to extract sustenance, sickened him.

 

There was so much more to it, but the line of thought that dangled like a dark spider threatening to inject its venom into his mind was cut short by the sudden firing of the arrow.

 

In the blink of an eye Claudius had already slipped an arm around Silhvas, the strong limb fastening like a belt with fingers tightly grasping onto the Demri's shoulder while the rest of the arm pressed firmly against the slender chest, forcing Silhvas back against his strong body. The dark one turning around fast, the darkness looming in close like a vulture aching to taste death, bleeding through the cloak like tendrils of sheer night whipping out as if ready to defend the creature of light in those strong arms, and all before the arrow hit the ground.

 

Though the grasp of the dark one remained fairly strong, the Demri seemed quite calm about the situation and as he left that embrace the lavender haired gentleman didn't try to stop him.

 

It seemed as though his feared barrage of arrows was merely a gesture of clear passage through the labyrinth of trees and the urge to protect the being of light was misplaced. The darkness that hung so eagerly over the backdrop of night slowly receded back as that strong frame turned, seeing the rope offered and raising his hand to accept it.

 

Feeling those warm fingers lingering against the leather the urge to clamp them tightly around that hand grew and yet he dared not to. Instead he savored the warmth that had been offered ad wrapped strong fingers around the rope instead, contemplating how the touch of those dark hands must not ever hold something so bright again.

 

Claudius followed the rope, and kept a close eye upon his escort, the brightness of that golden hair blinding.. The memory of the scent against him but for a moment, something that would haunt him forever.

 

"I will do all I can, to guide you."

 

- - - Updated - - -

 

Veir

 

 

Faran merely shook his head at the response. Of course you cared, he thought, if you didn't, you wouldn't have said what you did, but years of dealing with Nasi and Sil through their younger years had taught the Demrys patience, and certain tact, so he held his silence.

 

Noticing the chill behind him even before Kell had reached out, the squire tensed his shoulders, then relaxed with some perplexity at the gentleness conveyed in the touch. That was certainly not what he expected, though perhaps Kell had taken to heart his earlier statement about 'trust'. He had turned his back on the Veir, perhaps…

 

Then all thought of possible peaceable intentions faded as he felt the grip tighten, and in a moment he was jerked back too far to recover gracefully. There wasn't enough give either from where Kell grabbed his hair for him to spin, so he staggered and bent at the knees to avoid falling, a soft curse spilling from his lips.

 

Anger boiled over inside him, and only his experience in dealing with petulance saved him from the distinct dishonour of trying to cut up a guest of the Avea. Walking somewhat awkwardly for a few paces while he adjusted to the hold on his hair.

 

If he had to be truthful, anger was not the only thing that made his cheeks burn. He liked strength in others, but also liked the exotic, and that made him an almost impossible target for courtship in the village - especially since in Avea, he was expected to be bound to one person, something he could not fathom doing again. It had been a long time since anyone broached the invisible boundaries he had set for himself. Other than Nasi and Sil, whom Faran considered family and therefore morally out of bounds, he kept others at arm's length, and only went to beds he had chosen.

 

Kell was breaking down all of those inhibitions on first meeting, and it made the squire want to punch his haughty, elegant face. What he did however, was to halt suddenly mid-step, allowing Kell to draw closer to him. This gave him the slack he needed to twist in the Veir's grip until they were face to face, so close that he could feel the coldness cascading from the man chilling his bones.

 

So close in fact it would only take a moment's thoughtlessness to press his own lips to the arrogant set before him. It was sure to be cold, and deliciously soft.

 

Instead, he allowed the poisoned shiv to slip between them, the tip resting just under where the Veir's ribs would end, pressing insistently against the leather, marking it carelessly in warning. "I am escorting you, Kell-hae. And I can escort you straight to your grave or my bed when we get to the village, but until then, I have a job to do. And if I must, I shall drag you to the village as a beautiful paralysed statue."

 

---

 

Unaware of what was going on ahead of them due to his own song, Nasi finished his rendition of the first tree and was about to move onto the others when he finally noticed that Selethian had his quiver. He slapped his own forehead as his voice trailed off into silence and was hastily replaced by the hoots and growls of animals going about their night.

 

He noticed his bow about the same time Selethian did, but before he could speak, the Veir had touched it, and the wood shimmered and vanished into currents of air. Nasivir grinned sheepishly and rushed over, picking up the bow happily to sling it back over his shoulder.

 

"Sorry about that," he said, turning back to the Outsider that was now escorting him home instead of the proper way around. "Our bows are kinda special, though the wood may change and the bow may break, what was once the bow of my father is still the bow of my father…"

 

He stopped and looked up at the stars, his big eyes reflecting the shifting shadows of leaves overhead and the twinkling myriad dance that made up the night heavens. "I'm not actually too sure how that last bit is supposed to go, but even if the bow breaks and it's fixed, it's still my bow… so no one else can use it."

 

Nasi laughed again, nervously. "Actually, you should probably ask Faran, or my brother. They'd know more. Oh, and Runei the smith, he knows a lot about this kind of stuff… but his wife's kinda scary, she chases us out of the forge sometimes."

 

Realising suddenly that he was ranting while there was delicious food to be had, Nasivir shut up and pointed ahead of them, where welcoming warmth shimmered between dark tree trunks. "Lets go before the food goes!"

 

---

 

Silhvas did not pause at Claudius' next comment, but he did nod and mutter a soft "thank you". He had kept pace with the Veir, but had hastened slightly to hide his blush, and now did not seem the best time to stop. He had met Outsiders before, his duties as a Grove Guardian gave him more opportunities to do so than most. Those encounters had always been ritualistic, and brief. Sometimes - rarely, violent. This was entirely different, and he was unprepared for it.

 

Perhaps some Veir were more physically comfortable than others. He shook his head. There was no reason to read too much into it, he was embarrassed by a stranger's embrace.

 

Picking his way over the roots and fallen branches without even looking, the Demrys half-led, half-escorted his companion towards the village, only pausing briefly when Teovin's little welcoming crew could be seen between the trees. Then he did turn, golden hair flying behind him like lines of spun gold as he tried to see where the other guests were.

 

While Kell had proven the early danger, the one he was most worried about was in fact Selethian. Nasi had his good points, but Sil knew his brother for what he was - a child - and knew he was easily distracted. Perhaps the smell of food would help.

 

Smiling a little ruefully to the lone Veir he had managed to keep safe, the green-eyed elf bowed slightly. "Avea-la Claudius-hae," he said again, this time with more genuine warmth than mere dutiful formality. Then, because he had now time to think of the right words, he added, "your eagerness to help our village does you credit, Claudius-hae. Keram Teovin will explain everything to you, please accept my apologies for the cryptic behaviour. Some words are best not spoken outside the village."

 

Pausing for just long enough so he could gaze into the attractive features, Silhvas still found it hard to reconcile his first impressions with the man's actions. Claudius was something of a walking contradiction. Everything about him whispered of danger and intrigue, but he carried himself like a House leader, with open honesty and honour, and humbleness and respect for his hosts. Sil had never met an Outsider like him, and it piqued both his curiosity and his wariness.

 

Still, the ill needed help, and perhaps their stay in the village will give opportunities for such questions to be answered.

 

Sil smiled again, covering the too-long moment of silence as he turned for home. A few elves were already coming through the entrance to welcome them, soon paving their way with showers of petals and fragrant leaves, the makeshift 'carpet' cleansing any dirt or scent from their travels before they could enter the village proper.

 

Teovin stepped forward, bowing deeply even as Vilna held onto his elbow in case he should topple - a strange sight considering his still rather youthful appearance. The Keram smiled and waved off his granddaughter with a grateful nod, then stood behind the bench that held the cups.

 

"Welcome to our village," he said happily, apparently unfazed by the fact his guests were not going to arrive together. Indeed, he had somewhat counted on it. "I am Teovin Laehir, and this is my granddaughter Vilna. We are what you might call… caretakers of the village."

 

A lot less formal than Silhvas - his age giving him a lot less to prove, the Keram raised a hand in the gesture known as "shaking". "I think this is customary outside our village? Of course… some Veir prefer my wizened old flesh didn't touch them, but I see you're wearing gloves."

 

"I will also answer any questions you have, though I am sure they will be answered to better satisfaction once you have had some tea." That cryptic remark made, the old elf began to busy himself with pulling various things out of his robe. The first was a silver dagger, which he laid on the bench. Then came a roll of bandages, which he put into Vilna's hand. The third was a leaf-wrapped packet, which he opened and began to munch from quite happily, then put down with a grin. "Sugar," he explained.

 

To one side of Claudius, a few stray petals still fluttering against his hair, Sil put his face in his palm. Sometimes, just sometimes, he wished Teovin would join the Old Gods already and leave Vilna to run things.

 

- - - Updated - - -

 

Silver

 

 

The one deemed with such a name as the 'Beautiful Bastard' was all too intent on conveying very clearly that the title was more than fitting in every sense. More than prepared for Faran to turn around, it was expected that he would deliver a punch or two after such blatant disrespect, common decency when you thought about it.

 

With a light smirk Kell anticipated the movement, utterly enthralled with the prospect of battle, making every muscle tense ready for even the slightest twinge. A wild animal would always be wild regardless of how strong the cage and when you opened the door standing back was heavily advised. After all, to a man so used to violence, it was completely normal for thrown punches to be considered an exchanging of casual pleasantries.

 

As soon as Faran's hand moved Kell's hand guided to intercept, though, in his curiosity to see just what the hauntingly beautiful elven male planned to do, it seemed the strong blond was a moment too late. The feel of the pressure was desirable, for a moment those crystal blue eyes narrowed and took in a long, lingering breathe to taste the Demri's closeness on that ravenously devious tongue.

 

It was intoxicating.. Even that tone that carried holding threat of passion and poison rattled the calculated blond to the core with indescribable lust beckoning him to pursue this dangerous target to the end of this forbidden rope.

 

Only when those white leather fingers captured Faran's hand and started to use impressive force to torment the direction of the blade did Kell glance down, to watch their hands struggling for but a moment when crystal blue eyes were utterly ravaged by a horrific sight.

 

"You.... You..."

 

Suddenly lust filled orbs started to bleed with tremors of rage. There was no stopping it now, it was already far too late. Kell's fingers tensed and squeezed so tightly, delivering bruising force as he made the end of that blade dig in so deep, penetrating the first few layers with sudden pressure and still forcing it to yield deeper.. deeper.

 

"You fucking scratched.. My coat of solidified White Shadows..."

 

Soon the very hilt of the daggar was bracing against the outside, begging for Kell to come to his senses and release the pressure and yet the beast like man refused. Eyes were so potently full of all kinds of pissed off refusing to back down even as he spoke close to the defendant's lips, unable to conjure the impressive ache that had been so evident before.

 

"Do you have ANY idea how impossible White Shadows are to find, you FUCKER?"

 

A rare sight, a few strands of perfect blond slid before the icy gaze though didn't detract from it even an inch.. The forrest held its breathe, as if begging for a psychopath to pass by in peace where there was only absolute certainty of blinding chaos. There was no way the beauty's victim was going to be able to come out of this without an obvious scar.

 

"Do you know how hard it is to work that shit into the visual and sensory form of leather?"

 

A loud crack, it had given way and splinted. There was evidence bleeding down of the obvious intrusion into the organic body and not an ounce of concern was shed by the brutal blond whos hand still forced Faran's to shove tightly as directed, far too certain that this experience would be one he would never forget.

 

"If you value your life, you will not touch this coat again unless its to hang it up before tearing off everything else I am wearing."

 

With that, Kell finally released Faran's surely pale hand, cold with the forced embrace of the ice users touch, even through the fabric it would be impossible to deny the chill. The daggar, had been forcefully lodged into the tree behind Faran, dangerously close to his side, the kiss of the blade so close to the skin the long haired caretaker had to have felt the splinters flicking against it and sap bleeding against that now holey shirt.

 

There was a lesson to be learned here. Never fuck with the queen's jacket.

 

-------------------------------------------------

 

The response about the curious disappearance of the bow was quite interesting indeed.. It seemed as if this culture had much complexities which could barely be fathomed by the logical thinker. In the past, so many things were so easy to learn from documented materials written down in so many different ways yet still physically etched upon something.. It seemed as if this culture had a whole other level of the passing on of information.

 

Fascinating.

 

Lifting the torn cloak that was now merely a lot of rolled up scrolls tied to the sleeves and hood, the green haired outsider stood to wrap the sleeves around his waist tightly to secure the information he had copied in a way that would not hinder travelling.

 

Even though it seemed as though there was little more to ask about the bow after it was explained, Selethian's crimson eyes still wandered over the bow as it was retrieved by its keeper. Just how similar was the magic at work here that was used within the Sanctuary that once held such great power? Was it runic or something much deeper?

 

So many questions needed to be answered and narrowing those hauntingly curious orbs, the outsider followed Nasi close behind toward the torches ahead matching his pace to remain a certain distance behind the blond, contemplating the unusual nature of his culture.

 

Song could neither be documented accurately in written form, or spoken by another the same way. Even if notes held upon paper, it would be played slightly different depending on the instrument. How was it possible to harness such information? Even if he could, how would the archiver decode it?

 

With each crunch of their feet against the forest floorthe archiver continued to think silently, following the blond Demri closely, reading the repeated symbols upon the trees which spoke in so many volumes it was impossible to hear any one strain.

 

Just what are you, Demri? What secrets do your people hold?

 

- - - Updated - - -

 

Veir

 

Even when Kell reacted, Faran's blade remained unmoving against its mark. His green eyes narrowed slightly however, darkening beneath a veil of pale gold hair. Lust was evident in Kell's gaze, but so was the promise of violence, the two seemingly inseparable to the icy Veir.

 

The change in demeanour did surprise him, though the squire's expression did not change. He had seen worse flights of petulance and rage in the past, and faced more incandescent anger than this. Yet nothing had drawn his interest so much. He had to admit that in the time he'd spent in Avea, he had started to feel like a trapped wolf, having thoughts he could only act out in the safety of his dreams.

 

Though he played the perfect squire for now - for a long time in a human's comprehension - Faran had never been tamed. So when Kell turned on him with the rage of a caged beast, it set his own cries for freedom bursting from his heart, and had the Veir not redirected the motion of his blade, he would have done the unacceptable and driven the poisoned tip into somewhere far more damaging than he intended.

 

When his own tunic tore and the wind was knocked from him as he was pinned to a nearby tree, the elf growled with delight, then carefully schooled his expression back to a cordial smile. His fingers were numbed from cold, and he was fairly certain the blade had grazed his side, as the familiar tingling burn of toxins in his system warned him of the poison.

 

He had missed this feeling, this insane feeling of being more alive than living could be. For a moment, he had the insane urge to grab Kell, smash the Veir face-first against the trunk he had just ruined, then drive his obsidian dagger into his ribs, rotating the blade, waiting to feel the crunch of dark glass against wet bone, for the moment when the ground shards would work their way into flesh…

 

Faran shook his head. Then calmly took the still burning-cold hilt in one hand, drawing it away from the trunk with a measured movement, making it look deceptively easy given how far the shiv had been driven in. The greenish bark was left bleeding honey-coloured sap, and he patted it sadly. Silhvas would be able to do something for it, but not he.

 

"Well, perhaps you will consider us even, it is nigh impossible to regain information carved on these trees, and you've bled this one well." Faran smiled, a little nastily. The Veir had made himself enemies early, the other hunters in the village would hear of this, and Kell would not be the first Outsider to eat their ire.

 

Yet, he was also fairly sure Kell could handle himself, perhaps he should introduce him to the duelling bars once they were settled. With that thought in mind, he slid the blade back into its usual home and made for the village, his infuriating smile still in place. Even after weeks of what most would consider torture, Faran had never let go of that smile, and he wanted so very much to smile for real.

 

"And I will make sure the coat is put aside, Kell-hae, before I shred your clothing and enjoy the sight of your body in my bed." This last comment was made at a low whisper, in case Nasi could still pick up on what was said.

 

---

 

Silhvas Pending

 

---

 

Despite his curiosity about the world outside, Nasi was still somewhat eager for the comforts of home - mostly its food, so his grin broadened as he watched his escorted-turned-escort roll up the strips of cloth in preparation for setting out once more.

 

He had a lot of questions of his own, but managed to keep the lid shut on them for now. Silhvas had taught him a lot about being polite to Outsiders, and one of the rules was not asking endless questions of them. Unlike his brother and the Daerhlan house squire however, Nasi had no real wariness of the Veir. They had brought good things into the village, new treats and fabrics, new games and knowledge. He was certain Selethian and his crew would be no different.

 

Although, he reminded himself, for appearances sakes, it was always better to act like he didn't care either way, that way he'd look better when he got to brag to his friends about seeing the Veir. That was something he learned from Faran, though he was sure it worked better for the squire than him.

 

Scratching his head as they came to the maze-like trees, Nasi was secretly glad that the rope had been shot out. Though the trees would guide him, he was never as confident as Sil when moving through the maze, and it would have been embarrassing to lose the visitor he was escorting - and even worse in his view to miss dinner.

 

Nasi hummed to himself as they walked, picking out his path in the dark forest by the flickering lights of the village, barely visible through the thick canopy. Low-growing twigs tried to snag his hair, but Nasi ignored them, the short cropped strands not a problem even in the dense woods.

 

"Say, what's your home like, Selethian?" Nasi suddenly asked, spinning around so he was now walking backwards.

 

And just half a minute later, the younger Daerhlan slipped over a rotten root he would have seen if he was walking the right way forwards, and landed ass first for the second time that evening.