Once he was certain she had properly fallen asleep deep enough, he very carefully slipped out from that of the bed. Taking due care to ensure the princess was tucked in nice and cozy then stoking the fire to be sure that no heat was liable to be lost. With the outside world getting colder, it was moments such as this that it was good that he wasn’t the best sleeper. Taking due care of the hut in the means of the night while being careful as not to do something too loudly in case he spur Araminta to alert.
By the time morning light was peeking just upon the horizon with its fuzzy pinks, he had slipped out of the abode. Quietly, as stealthily as he could, to make an effort of once more brewing some hot water. Though this time wasn’t for the means of cleaning up. Entirely.
He still wanted to clean his clothing and change into the other pair so they were fresh but he recalled something about the young woman that he thought he might try. Going looking just around the hut for a various bit of things that he knew would make a warm brew that would be pleasant rather than bitter. Thinking it would do her well to start off the day with a hot tea instead of just waking in a chilly hut because the nipping early morning frost was cleaning to the remains of the lands.
It took some time but it was the true crack of dawn by the time he had managed to locate enough items to stray back carefully indoors. With a bit of hot water, so he could muddle the fresh and some dried things together to put together a herbal brew of sweetness.
As seemed to be the new normal now, Araminta rose with the first chirping of the morning birds. Blissfully enjoyed how wonderful warm and cozy bed was even for a simple bedroll with extra blankets. Reaching for Theon to find… empty space. She made a soft sort of scoff. She really should have known he wouldn’t stay put in a bed for long, briefly wondering just how long he did manage to stand it before he went sneaking off.
Sitting up with a stretch and yawn, she felt even better now than she had yesterday which was good news all in itself. Smelling something that actually smelled quite lovely and curiously peering around to see just what Theon was up to this time. Deciding it wasn’t worth fussing at him for not sleeping – just this once. He had a good enough reason yesterday to be wary about doing so.
“There’s frost outside!” she remarked instead, seeming to be delighted at the sight of it. Araminta had a hard time choosing her favorite season, as each one had something a little magical about it. With winter coming in, beautiful sparkling frost was going to be everywhere. And while snow wasn’t fun to travel in, it too made this lovely blanket of white across the world.
“It is chilly. It would be good for you to get a heavier cloak.” Her cheer at it being frosty didn’t surprise him. She had told him that she grew up in the mountains after all and that snow was so deep it buried houses. Guessing the bit of frost was likely a bit of a lovely reminder of where she had come from. Leaving himself to be pleased with her reaction as he brought over the strained tea to offer. “Not bitter.” Making sure she wasn’t about to be hesitant about taking what was given.
“There are things that will likely need to be procured as the season is liable to keep getting colder at this point. So in town, we should do well to get these new items even if they were not on the original list. When you are ready of course.”
“So this is what smells so lovely,” she murmured, happily taking the cup, finding it was delightfully warming and smelled even better when she brought it up to her mouth for a sip. As promised, the herbal tea wasn’t at all bitter. Just a nice a pleasant taste that did well to warm her up further. A little honey could’ve made it perfect, so as Theon insisted she needed a warmer cloak, she herself was adding honey onto this todo list.
Knowing there was many things they needed to do today to get themselves back on the road, Araminta didn’t linger too long in her nest of bedding. Having only sat there long enough to finish the cup of tea first before getting up to have a satisfying breakfast of leftovers. To get herself dressed in things that were mindful of the freshly crisp weather. Allowing Theon to prepare what he needed while she set to cleaning up their bedding to be properly tucked away while they’d be out traveling.
Araminta quite liked these simply morning routines and they were doing well for her disposition. It certainly didn’t hurt that she was finally well on her way to a proper physical healing. With a brightness to her countenance and an energy that had always been a tiny bit tempered before.
When she was fully ready, Araminta waited outside, taking a brief moment to crouch down and check on her dormant acorn. There were no signs of growth yet, but the princess was pretty confident that all it needed was a little time to wake up.
It would do him a bit well to find a few things for himself to keep the chill out of his being. While he didn’t really care about the cold, he also wasn’t the largest fan of it either. Actually preferring not to put on any armour currently if they were to go back into the village. Settling for taking the cloak of his own to put over the clothing of tunic and trousers. Pinning into place as he found the discomfort of the leather or plated armour to be biting when it was cool out. It would warm up and it would do him well to at least look into a heavier tunic to keep the unpleasant nipping away from his skin.
There was little to him to do when it came to being prepared outside of making sure the sword belt and utility belt were attached around hip. Coming out to flip up the cowl as eyes moved over the frosty appearance of the world slowly melting away, before tilting attention to look to Araminta presently checking on that of her little seedling. A good hibernation in fresh soil would likely do it well and the mulch she put over top of it the day prior would be sure to keep it incubated with a cozy feed.
Once he was sure she was ready, a slight tilt of head before stepping along to indicate their way forward. “It is doubtful that there may be a fur lined cloak in the village but if there is one for yourself, it would be best to take immediately.”
It seemed Theon decided to be hooded today, which Araminta found rather curious. Perhaps not liking this sudden attention he seemed to be getting in the village now that people knew. So far none had deemed to be rude or cruel to him – which was wise as Araminta wouldn’t have let that go. Instead (and this was entirely just from what she’d seen) the villagers were actually quite open to getting to know more about him, especially in light of recent events.
Even if he found Tillie to be atrocious. Most people found her a pain in the rear, too.
“I didn’t see one while I was at the tailor, but I think I might wait for a new cloak until we’ve made our way to Matilda’s friend. She sends the silk she makes there, so I think he may be a very fine crafter of things. It would be neat to have a cloak spun of cerulean snail silk and lined with fur!” She thought so, anyway. Araminta was also not too sensitive to the bite of cold in most cases. Unless there was some sort of early snow as they traveled, she could easily make do with an extra layer.
As usual it was her immediate instinct to grasp his hand for their short walk through the forest. All the way down to the village where none were the wiser about a wicked imp of a woman and her poor little pig. As much as she’d been problem for she and Theon. Araminta was glad the awful thing hadn’t preyed on one of the villagers here instead. She couldn’t come across any of their little farmsteads of houses and vanished someone away.
It was a short look but one that was full of pondering after the detail that it might be more likely that a cloak of heavier variety may be at the place of interest that Matilda had suggested. Affirming that it may be the next stop on their efforts to gather up materials necessary before moving to the sixth trial. Although he wasn’t personally sure if there would be a cerulean snail silk available. Or it could be, he hadn’t ever given something such a thought before. There was little reason for him to find a snag in her mentioning. Settling for nodding to accept her line of reason as functional and purposeful.
Shortly finding the heat of palm once more intertwining with his own. Making the feeling of warmth run along the pathways of veins to chest, influencing a shy little twinkling heat that left him neatly hushed. Comfortable.
At least till they were back within the growing familiarity that was the little place of various business, people and homes. Finding his gaze making a notable pass around looking in case there might be something or someone he personally wished to avoid this day. Hardly needing a reason to express the why’s. Knowing it would be best to go to the leatherworker sooner than later. To make sure the first bit of gear selected to suit Araminta was checked to assure it would work. If there was anything needed to finalize it and time was required, then it could be given. Suspecting she was already on that line of thought as he knew that she was rather forward thinking.
Araminta was certainly forward thinking – though perhaps not in the ways Theon was imagining!
There was no need to stop for breakfast today as she was well fed and content already, leaving her to plotting out how to best maximize their time so they could set out for their travels at a proper hour. Theon’s speedy steed made things much easier, but that also meant Araminta had to be sure he had an ample amount of resting time after travel so he’d not be exhausted for the inevitable amount of trouble she was sure to get him in next.
There was little sense in them doing separate shopping today, so Araminta keenly kept a hold of his hand as she led him down the dusty street. Happy to greet people with a smile and a wave, keeping a curious watch too for those little signals of body language that might hint something was amiss. With the rate of which gossip spread, the princess knew anyone with a juicy tidbit of news would’ve been at the tavern last evening making sure every listening body got their ear full. Aside from Mary Beth and her brother in Essurn, and the Paladin Order, this was the first place that knew exactly who she and Theon were. As much as she hoped for the best of out comes, there was still a worry that they’d no longer be welcomed.
After all, who would want a hunted princess and the queen’s assassin son bringing danger and doom upon them.
Araminta’s first stop was taking them to the tailor, this time without having to having a delicate and embarrassing conversation with Theon about undergarments. Choosing instead to bring him along with her as there was no need for the privacy. Ester was working the shop front again today, along with a new face Araminta didn’t know. Based on the woman’s gentle features, though, she was able to hazard a quick guess of who the mysterious young woman could be.
“Good morning to ya, Araminta and–” Ester blinked a little taken aback by the hooded male that entered the shop with her. To which Araminta quickly mouthed a Just Theon! “and Theon!” Ester clearly wasn’t sure if such an informal greeting was the way to go for an Imperial Prince, but was far too polite to go trying to make a big deal of it. Instead she gestured at the pretty young woman next to her, who appeared to be all doe-eyed shyness. “If you’ll just give me a moment to pass off some things to Leila, I’ll fetch what you need.”
Araminta nodded, immediately giving into a wide smile to greet this new girl. “It’s nice to finally meet you. We’re on our way to see Brunie next, he’d mentioned giving you a hello on his behalf if we were to run into you. I was so curious to meet the girl he’d said was incomparable.”
This seemed to send the girl into a whole body crimson flush, causing Araminta to softly giggle under her breath and grin all the wider.
“Did- Did he? That’s, well, that is very sweet of him. If you… if you are visiting there next, is it too much trouble to tell him good morning?”
Araminta nodded. “Easily done. I thought I might remind him too about having proper lunches to keep his strength up. He might never leave that shop if someone doesn’t have a fuss at him once in awhile.”
This seemed to pique Leila’s interest. “O-oh…? It’s not good if he’s not eating…” she agreed quietly, a thoughtful contemplative expression falling over her lovely features.
Ester returned shortly with several bundles of fabric in her arms to pass over to Leila, giving the whole lot of them a curious once over before giving the girl instructions on where those bundles should go and shooing her off. Leila gave a quick flushing curtsy to both Araminta and Theon, seeming to be all brightened up with some new idea in her head as she went scurrying off.
“Well!” announced Ester, now having the two of them alone. “I do have a few of your parcels ready, though the other garments will take some time, naturally. What about you, sweetheart?” she paused looking Theon up and down, examining the cut and condition of his current clothes. Being quick to tell the man himself was over due for some new garments. “Araminta has you working yourself near threadbare, I see!”
Thankfully there didn’t seem to be any imposing old hag sitting nearby ready to be a sodding miserable bat to anyone, leaving him to feel a sense of relief. Apparently noting that he was obviously not a fan of Tillie, which considering he had a witch for a mother; was saying something. Yet with the blissful absence of the woman, he found himself a little more studious to the world around them. Less in the means of tense worry but rather intrigued curiosity. From beneath the hood, he was making notes of some faces. Some people and how easily Araminta naturally fit right in. While she had said countless times she’d likely be married off and sent out to one of the towns to manage, he was getting a good sense that it would have been a very fitting life for her. To intermingle easily and build relationships with those whom she was to be watching over like a mother hawk upon her nest of precious eggs.
Although his attention seemed to gravitate a lot towards a grouping of littles that were playing even in the early morning. An attentive few parents nearby were watching as the youth went about kicking and toddling quickly after a ball that had them heckling and screaming in jovial delight. Making a mental study of their interactions before they were sliding away into a building that had been a bit of contention yesterday seeing as there had been unmentionables to be mentioned for Araminta.
This time with none of that, they were both stepping indoors as he was wisely polite as not to keep his hood up indoors. Yet the moment he heard the woman’s voice greeting Araminta and seemingly looking rather shocked in ways he wasn’t sure were anything good; the woman gave his name a try. Suspecting she had nearly attached the prince part to it. Internally irritating him. How did one lose a title that they clearly didn’t want? Not that he could really blame her but still, it was something he had no association with and it followed him like a noose!
Regardless he was wise to simply settle back and allow his attention to move around the shop towards that of another woman that seemed to have caught Ara’s focus. Which as he listened too, this was the one Bruno Jr had been keen on having Araminta deliver a greeting. Something that still evade him the purpose of. Though she was evidently timid, there was the princess. Making herself chummy so swiftly and laying out the mention of hello in which prompted Leila to suggest that as they went to the leatherworker’s office, another was passed back. Finding this exchange rather pointless. They lived in the same place, how difficult was it?
Yet it seemed that Araminta was up to something. Casually mentioning that Bruno Jr may have a terrible habit of missing periods of lunch with a suggestion of someone fussing at him. Watching this young girls’ features lighten in such an obvious way that even he would have had a hard time missing it. Cluing in that the two’s efforts to use the mountain princess as their messenger was rather because they were smitten with another. But still unsure of how to go about it. Instead dancing around his bush that they could have easily just walked through.
Regardless of what he thought, it seemed Ara was good at playing the cards without it being bluntly in someone’s face. Allowing them to have little tidbits of thought to work at without herself getting rightly involved by dragging them together. Which seemed to be well timed for the other woman had come back to give the girl a armload of articles with details of what was to be done. Promptly causing her to shuffle away with the newest task.
Leaving him to watch where she disappeared and vaguely turning focus around to listen to the suggestion of some items that Araminta had requested the day prior were in states of ready and others in waiting. Momentarily letting his mind run through the idea of coin that would need to be given over, just that before he really started doing any mathematical leaps, he found Ester’s gaze upon him.
Particularly at the sweetheart portion. Looking all bits of confused that she would say something like that. Not sure what it meant and doubtful there was much to read there, he was almost tempted to lean away and sidestep as to be out of the way. Almost suspecting he was about to be in the way of whatever was meant to happen, yet… found the woman making a suggestion that caused him to pause. “No.” The word itself was a rather encompassing sound, “Araminta has done nothing of the sort.” Seemed he wasn’t about to let anything even playfully be said in poor thoughts towards the woman. “She has been gracious and polite with me.”
Theon glanced to her then. A linger then back to Ester. “I do not need anything.” Seemingly not quite getting that. He’d make due with his gear till he was forced to either patch it or that it was finally at its end. But he wouldn’t actively seek out much in that regard as not to waste the means of funds on something that wasn’t required.
“Gracious and polite. I see,” she answered, giving Araminta a subtle bit of wink. “Then she brought you in because she’s worried about you traipsing around the countryside full of holes. You may not need anything today, but how about I quickly sew that up while you think about what you might need in the future.”
Deftly done by any skilled merchant, Ester stepped over to her counter to pick up her simple needle and then over to the wall where spools and spools of different colored threads were waiting. She plucked a couple to hold out near Theon to try and match the color just right, when was preparing her needle and already gently giving a quick examination of the tiny little tear on Theon’s sleeve.
“I do need a cloak if you have something simple laying about,” mentioned Araminta with some amusement. “I intend to get something heftier for the winter elsewhere, but in the meantime I am without something lighter to keep off the rain and chill.”
Ester nodded, pointing off towards one of her racks. “Look over there and see if there might be something broad enough for these shoulders of his too.” She instructed then turning her full attention back to Theon. “Are you a hunter, dear? I prefer payment in coin, but if you bring me nice fur pelts you can have the run of this shop. Most around here keep all that they catch, so it’s not often I get fur to work with.”
The idea that he was sporting holes seemed to warrant a look over himself. As if the idea hadn’t even formed! Glancing downwards to where as Ester suggested promptly that he may not need anything as of right now, but to think about it. While pointing out a hole that had missed his attention prior. Liable to be glared at for even existing though he hardly had been paying attention as he was typically in his full leather armour set that covered such unslightly things from being seen.
Yet, if he was about to decline it seemed Ester was swift and meticulous about doing so. Feeling a bit uncertain about this arrangement of attention. Stealing a look towards Araminta as attempting to determine if she knew what was about to happen and had planned this all out. Although he did doubt that, he found the tailor approaching once more and he was stiffening cautiously. Giving the look of a needle in hand the same sort of consideration one might with a wily snake in the grass. Not yet sure if it was poisonous or not.
Ears figuratively perked at the sound of the familiar voice speaking up about how she wanted to look for something that would protect her from the chilly rainy bits of weather. Something he approved of only that in a matter of seconds that Ara was indicated to a particular racking, he heard the suggestion for him. “I would not need such items.” Mostly as a sort of way that he didn’t think it was useful for him when he was more than accustomed to such things. Unpleasant as they could be, he had more of a concern for Araminta’s welfare over his own.
As if that wasn’t glaringly obvious at this point. Practically looking into the sun sort of obvious!
Still it seemed there was about to be some things happening that he didn’t know what to do it, causing himself to grow somewhat timid himself. Leery as he wasn’t sure what sort of reception he was about to get while being in close proxy to another person. After the old crone, he was cautious. Even as Ester asked and mentioned preference to what she would like for payment but mentioning that of the furs, he was silently thoughtful. Letting it stew with deep contemplation before, “Coin will be given.” Theon replied softly, “If… there is something to hunt. And if Araminta has wanted to return back… the furs can be given freely.” He didn’t see much of a reason otherwise. He was no tailor or a tanner, if Ester could make use of the furs, then so be it.
“Goodness, about as stubborn as my husband, you are!” exclaimed Ester with a soft laugh. Doing quick work of mending up that little hole as if nothing had been there at all. Not seeming to mind his wary suspicions, in fact being keenly aware of them as she did her own bit of motherly testing of boundaries and seeing what he was about.
The man’s feelings were about as plain to see as the hole on his sleeve!
“If you’re intending to be a lady’s guardian you need to look after yourself as much as you look after her. Goodness knows, if I had a silver for every time I needed to remind my husband to change his shirt, I’d be a Baroness by now — Oh not that one dear, he’d not even get his arms through it. You’d have to peel him out.” She paused her sewing long enough to micromanage Araminta’s searching tutting her tongue or shaking her head when Araminta stopped at something too long that she didn’t feel was suitable.
Sewing up the small patch took no time at all, and like a quick and sneaky little minx she’d already had a measuring tape pulled out of her apron and was sizing up Theon.
“What do you like to sleep in, sweetheart?” she asked casually, as if this was a conversation she had with Imperial Princes everyday.
“His armor…” Araminta replied a little too quickly, pausing herself to realize how that sounded and flushing a bit red in the face.
“Young man, you are going to get a crick in your neck,” Ester chided with a waggle of her finger. At least she was done with her measuring, having done so with a quick zip and fwips that it almost could’ve been missed! Shooing Araminta away from the rack to seek out something appropriate by eye faster than the girl could on her own. First passing Araminta simple cloak in a deep sable brown while pulling a humble tunic with long sleeves as well in a similar color to take with herself over to her counter. Plucking up a couple of pre-wrapped bundles to add the tunic to.
“I have the fitted things here ready to go. The others, of course, will be ready upon your next visit. ..I’ll add a nice warm set of long johns as well. A man can’t swing a sword if he’s freezing his cockles off!” she gestured with her hand for Araminta to settle up. “Just what was discussed yesterday will do. We’ll settle the rest next time. Do travel safe, okay?”
So much of this was so strange. So out of his depth that when the woman was tutting at him, there was half a mind to wilt down. Trying to put his mind through mental gymnastics that were trying to see there was nothing in Ester’s commentary that ought to be held in such a tight discomfort. Still, it wasn’t an easy feat, resulting in a clamming up motion that somewhat put a guard up. Not so deep that he was shutting out the world, but being warily shielded. Listening to the words but not sure what half of her commentary was about.
He didn’t consider himself Araminta’s guardian either. That seemed to be above his grade of doing much of anything. Just more that little burr that had gotten stuck on her clothing that she had developed a tolerance for. Allowing his existence to remain but nothing more than that. She was kosher and friendly and he felt far more comfortable with her in new ways that eluded his minds grasp like a slippery fish! But otherwise, he didn’t know what Ester was going on about.
Blinking at her when she asked about what he slept in only for Araminta to point out he was one that kept his armour on. Which seemed to spur the wily woman with her measuring tape to put a finger forth that waggled about in a way he could figure out was actually shaming. Blinking a moment and shuffling that of his current cloak around shoulders as to let it close as best it could whilst looking at the two of them amongst the racking.
Feeling as though he had just been through a whirlwind.
Blinking dumbly and not sure what the hell long john’s were. Apparently something that was somehow referenced to cockles? He wasn’t sure his heart had to be considered in this matter but made the effort of pulling the cowl back up and merely waiting a for Araminta. No sooner making the motion that he would be the packmule with no complaint. Though he knew there should have been more of a payment made, he mentally arranged it in his thoughts that the means of hunting best be done well and with a few pelts that would oblige this over allowance for things that were highly unnecessary. They had come here for Araminta, and he was sure as hell not sure how to accept anything for himself.
Looking more than puzzled and clearly out of his depth. Preferring all the more to just keep to himself while she held the control.
Araminta made not a peep about her opinions on this exchange, passing what coin she had to Ester with her usual friendly smile, a thank you, and well wishes to her family. Pulling that new cloak around her shoulders quickly to clip into place with her faerie-gifted pin. At first not intending to have Theon carry her wrapped parcel, but he had that lost look about his face that prompted her to hand him the light wrapping so that he could have his physical shield.
Once they’d stepped back outside into the bright morning, she was giving him a quick look over. Not yet making commentary, but there was that soft amused smile. That little fox look that always meant she had something pleasing going on in that brain of hers, that was likely to be either delightful or vexing – maybe even a mix of both.
“When we meet Matilda’s friend, I’d enjoy finding good winter wear for the both of us. I think she said his name was Bo? We could choose complimentary colors for each other, the way the old clans did. Or the paladins.”
Once he was carrying something to feel more like he was doing something, rather than being that glaring eyesore that seemed to gravitate people at him to fuss or shake a figurative stick at, he felt minutely better. Starting to gather than he really didn’t much care for human interactions. Unsure if it was because he had become so very accustomed to the lapse of it over his thirty years or if he really just disliked the idea of being around people. Making that a new little thing to prod at in his thoughts. Being able to miss the grin that came to rest on Araminta’s pretty face.
Probably a good thing too otherwise he might start to truly melt away into something properly embarrassed.
Granted it seemed he may not be spared that. Listening to her when she spoke up about finding something to wear for the both of them with suggestion of complimentary colours. Earning that contemplative look that burst into a sort of internal struggle. “I will make due with what I have.” Theon’s ability to take much of anything was like a stonewalled clam. Not so easily opened even by gentle hands that he found comforting. Probably shy in some aspects and fiercely uneasy with the idea of being considered worth even basic’s. Grateful for what had already been likely too much. “It would be best to have you well adorned with such things, for the trials have proven to take much of your things each time.”
Theon had certainly already proven many times he had a terrible of habit of putting her before himself, to a saintly fault it seemed! Even when people made perfectly reasonable offers of trade and sale, he was trying his best to cast it over in her direction. He didn’t believe he deserved it, Araminta figured. Still trapped in the idea that he couldn’t even have things as simple as soft beds and extra shirts to wear.
At least he was making progress and learning though… Araminta too was learning as well, in how best to explain things to him and when it was best to show him. Prompting her to lean forward to catch his eye and beam that grin.
“I think I told you before that I like to be prepared for each trial?” she asked more than stated, curious if he even remembered. “Being prepared also includes preparing for you now. You’re likely going to end up just as scuffed and scratched… though I hope you are more lucky with your weapons than I have been with my staff.”
Linking her hands behind her back as she walked, deviating just enough to bump her shoulder against his arm, Araminta continued.
“After a trial we’ll be too tired to think about fetching things. Best to have them ready before we go. And that’s just the logical reason. The actual reason is that I care about you and I want life to be easier for you where it can be, and I think the idea of us sharing colors like the old knight guards is cute.”
Easily he nodded to her question. She had stated she liked to be prepared beforehand which was a good behaviour to adopt. It certainly allowed her to be ready for whatever may have come in ways that had not been expected. However, he didn’t know really how it included him. Thankfully not about to start finding new ways to argue with her. Likely because he knew any argument that could have been had would have been snuffed out efficiently with her logic.
Though he lamented a bit privately at the mention of her staff. Wondering if there was something he could do to fix that even if she didn’t need it for walking as much now. It seemed as though it had been a missed piece on his part that would likely need to be rectified if it were to give him a sense of peace.
“I am no knight.” He stated quietly for her to hear, “The means of… having anything is uncomfortable.” They did say they needed to communicate things so it seemed important to him to voice why he was struggling with any of this. Receiving anything outside of what he owned appeared to be a mental block. Likely because what he had had been gathered by his own hand and anything more was liable to be labelled as greedy. He was or had previously made due with the barest of the bare because that was expected. Changing that thought process was a arduous task that was no easy thing to do. Much with everything else about himself. “It feels…. Incorrect.”
Araminta would likely never truly understand what it was like to feel so undeserving. But at least she had the experience to know what it felt like to have nothing at all and keep putting other priorities first. It wasn’t exactly the same, but it was close enough at least for her to try. Tilting her head in a quiet thoughtfulness on how she could help him get a few step closer to comfortable and away from incorrect.
“You have me… that is at least comfortable?” she asked, still thinking it over. “…would you like to be my knight?”
That wasn’t exactly a question she meant to ponder out loud, but now that it was there she found herself curiously watching him to see just what he thought. Araminta had been concerned in the beginning that he’d blindly follow one wicked queen to a lost wicked princess just for the safest easiest option and a fear of thinking for himself. But now he’d had the chance to separate from her – more than once! – she was confident he’d make a choice on his own.
… only now she was afraid he was going to say no because he didn’t believe himself worthy of being her knight.
“Since we’ve been braver in conversation, I know you’ve been uncertain of your role with me as I take the trials. You’re no longer an assassin or witness, and I suppose calling you my partner is vague. You could be my knight? Though I’m not sure the etiquette for it here… I’m certainly not going to ask the Queen’s permission, so you may as well consider yourself stolen from the crown.”
“You are my comfort.” Theon stated then and there with a stronger means of strength because he felt that to the very ounce of his being. It no longer was sheltered or considered something to shame his mind over. Araminta was something vital and so important to him that he was confident now after her voucher in stating what he felt was love, that he didn’t need to think twice about it. Maybe how it all came together but not its entire construction. Just she spoke a little further to mention whether or not he would like to be her knight.
And he did consider her.
Just that she was very on par for knowing that what he thought was being entirely unworthy of such a title. “I would not sully you with such a stain.” The man spoke gingerly with a level of conviction that expressed he was not looking to be hushed or soothed but rather just telling her his thoughts without hiding behind some wall.
Tilting head then a moment to her but shifted away after a moment when he once more was taking in the sights of people that were around. “Being a knight is noble work and the amount of blood that has been set upon my hands would devalue that means. I do not think it is something obtainable at this point. On par to dress up a pig in lipstick and call it a woman sort of feel.” The man shrugged indifferently. “I would just enjoy being Theon. No prince. No assassin or knight. No one’s child or son. Nothing beyond just as is. Nothing truly.” Eyes peeked to her, “I am content as just being Theon. If possible.”
Theon made it incredibly hard for them to have a serious conversation when he blurted out things so seriously that tended to make her stomach do flips and twists. One day he was going to realize he could befuddle her with a few sweet words and then she’d never win an argument again!
Not that this was an argument… a disagreement, because as expected Theon had her on a pedestal she didn’t belong on – and if she belonged there, he most certainly belonged to be right there with her. Araminta paused there right in the middle of the dusty road they walked, with that twist of her mouth and very much the appearance of a woman taking in a deep breath ready to tell him exactly how and why he was wrong.
Only that she paused. Letting out that breath in a slow acceptance and a tilt of her head.
“You’re always going to be Theon with me. But not just Theon. Araminta’s friend Theon. Araminta’s favorite person Theon. Hopefully to be more Theons with me in the future. A complicated Theon of many wonderful somethings who also once told me I am not just Araminta.”
“..also, I have eaten bugs!” she added on as an after thought. Anything to help shake his perception of her back down to earth. “So I am not flawless or perfect or such nonsense. I am perfectly vile and very gross. Truly being the knight of a bug eating princess is no lofty role. You’d be ridiculed for centuries.”
With the abrupt stopping in the road, frame went somewhat stiff. Seemingly starting to pick up on her visual cues when he may have been too open or expressive that had started putting those wheels of thoughts into forward motion. Liable to be next person to waggle a finger at him with a tutting sort of here’s why you are wrong means. Knowing well enough that when Araminta got that look, she was about to explain in her own detailed way that his way of thinking was still borked, broken and didn’t fit into what was to be normal. Urging himself down from a mental high place that didn’t want to be spooked off its perch because he was about to be educated.
Observing such things did make him wonder what sort of power she would have had in the right moment to talk down those who were making perfect rumps out of themselves.
Although he wasn’t too sure what she was suggesting about how he was apparently to become this complicated being either. Liable to disagree with that for there wasn’t that much with him to become as such. Wondering if it was one of those things that was expected. He’d have to sit on this most likely and just let it melt into his being before bringing up or speaking up against or with a such a topic again.
Even as she added the means of crunching on some buggy variety, he listened acutely. Having almost a want to point out the only reason he knew that she had done so was because of the very dangerous situation she had been in. With a quiet thought telling him that to say something in reply to that was probably exactly what Araminta didn’t want to hear. Even if her tailing statement was a little already on the nose. He was already ridiculed, was he not? That was familiar to a heartbeat but he knew when it was best not to keep beating on a subject that was liable to irk her into giving him a strong earful.
Settling to accepting swiftly what was said without a inkling to provoke any more. Tilting expression towards her then with a sort of clarity that he would be smart in the efforts of keeping mouth sealed. Instead giving that nod to show he heard, understood and waited for the means of her to start walking once more so they might continue the means of collecting what remained.
Maybe she was too astute for her own good. Knowing he was trying to avoid having a conflict with her, wishing that she could somehow say the perfect thing that could help him understand he wasn’t this worthless lump of nothing that his mother had convinced him to be. Frustrated that she knew too that trying to force him to be kinder to himself wasn’t going to help either. Araminta had patience to last a lifetime, but it didn’t make her any less angry that he’d been treat so poorly to be in this state in the first place.
“You don’t have to accept my fussing. You could tell me to shush when you need me to, you know.” she let him know softly, seeking to take his arm again to carry on their walking. Still a little frustrated, but it wasn’t at Theon as it most certainly wasn’t his fault.
He didn’t even flinch about the bugs though, leaving her giving him more than one suspicious looking, wondering how he was possibly trying to excuse that little morsel without turning his own stomach. If only he put all of that effort into allowing himself forgiveness and grace instead of her!
Just as easily he was shaking his head at the idea of telling her to shush. Even the concept of it felt slightly gross to do. Even if he might not agree or understand every point she made, he knew she did so out of concern or knowing better. There was no reason for him to get all thorny to the point that he would bid her to silence. Disliking the idea of even doing so, feeling as if to even bring himself to such a point would be rude. And heartless. Seeing as he found intrigue often when she said just about anything. As thus far, she was full of all sorts of wonderments he never would have considered even in vague passing.
Plus, he did believe she was likely right about most of the topics that came about to figuratively indicate he was being foolish in some way.
Guessing she wasn’t too upset with him for she was sliding in close enough to bid their movement with grasp twining around that of arm. Giving that silent sense of freedom to once more look about to digest this village and its going-on without having to be watchful like a invading hawk. They moved and eventually he was once more tugged to taking in the sights that were people merely existing. Not even realizing that steps had come to slow as he was just witnessing the life of the place. Conversations that were being had even from afar, to those of family matters that were parents and children alike. The sounds, the interactions. Friends, companions, closer. Feeling alien but intriguing to watch.
Till he realized he had come to a pause and gave a shy sort of hum that was probably an apology and a light movement of arm that suggested he would be better about keeping pace so they could continue.
As she had a message to give to the son of Bruno after all from Leila. It seemed wasteful that they would linger too long.
At least in shaking his head at her Araminta knew that eventually he might take those few steps in the future. Allowing her the chance to stew for a few quiet minutes in her own frustrations. Nowhere to go with them or direct them, only at least giving herself a chance to feel them. Knowing that she cared so deeply about someone that this was so important to her in itself was something to linger over.
The princess hadn’t even noticed that she’d been letting him set the pace. So used to him being direct to the next target when he knew which way they were headed. Only having just realized they came to a pause when he motioned to start them moving again, which had her looking up and around to see what might have even caught his attention in the first place.
Only the usual villagers out doing the morning errands as far as she could see. A couple trying to wrangle their children from running off to be wild with other children. Someone loading up a cart to go make a delivery likely to another nearby village. Thinking that surely he’d had to have seen so many villages like this before but… knowing Theon and his singular focus, perhaps he rarely took the time to actually look around.
Something that might’ve kicked her back into being frustrated all over again, yet finding herself softening instead as at least now she was getting to show him all of the things the world could be.
“I could tell you about them if you were curious…” she offered, now continued their walk down to Brunie’s shop. “As much as they all gossip about each other, they’re likely to be thrilled someone is telling all their tawdry tales.”
Certainly he had observed people before. Though the reasoning for it was for work related purposes rather than just acknowledging how people interacted. Lived. Spoke and functioned as a whole. Outside what he would be doing previously in the means of whatever dirty work that of the Imperial Queen deemed was worth putting him towards. To stop and listen was something else. With no rush or expectation that he was meant to find something untoward that put another in great danger or taking their lives at his own grasp.
While he might not feel particularly inclined to be part of the society itself, he was intrigued by the people watching. Reminding him a bit of those very few times when he was that of a teen. New to the outside world that he did stop and sort of just take in everything.
He’d always been intrigued in particular by that of similar aged people at the time. Other children and how they intermingled a lot differently than he had. Though he had never engaged seeing as he had to often watch his back or work to keep just his head above water long enough to survive. Right now was akin to all of that and he felt shortly embarrassed when it was clear he was delaying the means of their tasks now.
Though he might have grown more quietly bashful because he felt her watching him. Only guessing what sort of thoughts she was putting together. Passing the rings of gray over when she seemed to invite him to wonderment. Suggesting she could tell him about things if he was curious. Which he was just he wasn’t sure he ought to be so nosy either. While thus far people didn’t seem overtly ready to raise pitchforks and torches at his mere existence, it almost felt invading to have him even listen to any sort of tale about a person or another. As though it might come back to bite them if he knew remotely anything. Even if Araminta was making it sound far more zesty than it probably was.
“I wouldn’t know what to do with such information.” The man answered her honestly, “Nor do I find comfort in the thought that they would do well with their tales being told to one in particular.” He was trying to be careful of how he said he was probably the most unlikely source of stories to be told. “I would just prefer to observe.” Theon raised his chin some to her, “Being this present is enough right now, it’s more than I’ve had previously. It should be alright as is.” Trying hard as not to seem nosy while being respectful and keeping a arms distance at the same time. It was quite the juggling act.
“I like being nosy,” she admitted shamelessly with a whisper and a sudden broadening grin. “When I was younger, before I was allowed to come to events I would sneak in under tables just to listen to conversations. I’d get in heaps of trouble as little ladies are not meant to be crawling under tables stealing snacks and eavesdrop on adults.”
“But you can’t hide under tables and spy as grown princess,” she gave a world weary sigh as if this was thing she missed the most! “Though now I suppose it is easier to strike up any conversation I wish. …still, there is something nice about getting to sit still somewhere and just watch and listen. To only be present, as you say.”
In Araminta’s opinion, Theon didn’t need to be chattery and full of charismatic sunshine and comfortable in every single social situation. She had more than enough of that for the both of them. As long as he was getting connection to others… to no longer feel as if he were some sort of plague upon them, that he could actually be liked and respected. Theon could be as silent as a ghost and Araminta would still be there right beside him, deflecting attention away from him when it was too much. Or whispering quiet support as a ghost herself when he simply needed a little bit of extra help.
To hear through small tale of her being a rather sneaky child wasn’t at all surprising. Nor was it to think of this glittering jewel of a woman toddling down to hands and feet with every intention of crawling beneath a table cloth. Making use of her covert hideaway whilst eavesdropping on conversations that were meant for the adult sort. Likely helping herself to snacks in-between those gossipy tidbits with all the wild decorum that he figured was a flared expression to her controlled adulthood of now. Mentally picturing a little Ara doing all of this with a bare fraction of her impish grin.
Something in his belly fluttered at this imaginative arrangement even as she suggested such things now were unfit for an adult. Heeding her depth of breath paired either the clear notion that such efforts weren’t needed when one could merely ask and partake now. To be an engaged bit of the audience while trading truths and tales easily.
He personally didn’t know. If he had participated in any means of royal affair, it was simply to be seen. Pronounced as a target as a child and a perfect pawn as an adult. Able to clearly count on one hand the times he had just a simple conversation that hadn’t been more than face value. And the count wasn’t even more than a finger.
Being able to watch was far more his preference. This also gave freedom to those nearby to wander away without guilt of having to find some excuse. To be insanely awkward till they gave up to walk away.
There was a private denial however to why he watched instead of engaged. Being no more than the Queens little murderous bustard had certainly made things difficult. And in that privacy, he didn’t wish to be vulnerable to show that his own want of inclusion had been bullied to its existence now. Truthfully and secretly his own, fear of others kept him from expanding. Right now being immensely grateful that Ara was a living embodiment of feisty care and forwardness and he knew by others looks that he wasn’t likely to find any other that tolerated him as she had. Or would care either, be it as that crippled pet or that weird addition that tagged along.
Normalcy wasn’t in his deck of cards and he wasn’t about to reveal these inadequacies either. Stealing a subdued peek at the person he had on a lofty pedestal.
It shouldn’t take a genius to fathom why he had her so high and so valued. She’d been the only person who had giving one single bit of a care to him. And that alone made her a practical god in his own mind.
Appreciating when she mentioned even small things from her childhood such as she had. It at least gave him insight to what a normal child was like whilst adding color to his mute watching of this village.
“Bruno Jr, I’d potentially waiting. Should not kero him from receiving his greeting from the twitterpated seamstress.”
“You noticed too,” she declared with a delighted giggle and a squeeze to his arm. “They’re both adorably bashful.”
As much as Araminta would’ve enjoyed expanding on her observations they came upon Bruno and Bruno Jr’s workshop home, where the burly, young man was diligently working away. Before Araminta could even get out her cheerful greeting of Good morning! he was already out of his chair and bustling about to collect the pieces he’d finished adjusting to the princess’ slight frame.
“I had the opportunity to run into Leila this morning,” announced Araminta as Brunie strode over to first show his work to Theon for approval – he nearly dropped them. That generally stoic countenance underneath all that wild beard going a bright pink.
“Is she- is she well?” he asked about as casually as a man could who was swallowing his own tongue.
“She is and asked for me to send you a Good Morning direct from her when I expressed we would be paying you a visit.”
If it were possible for a man to get any redder, Brunie sure did. Araminta nearly giggled out loud, somehow managing to keep it to herself. Watching as the man stood a little straighter upon clearing his throat, and had a small air of lightness to him now as he explained his work to Theon, though did make sure to also give Araminta a fair view.
“I took it in here so it won’t shift about as long as she wears the right padding and winter wear. We need to gear her up fully now to see if the fit is correct and needs no more adjustments, so I can be sure it will sustain her until the custom set is finished.”
“I’d have to be blind not to notice.” Deaf too. Keeping that little addition to himself seeing as he had enough observational skills to at least generally pick up the most obtuse of behaviours. The two of them were like rustling children attempting to play hide and seek without anything to hide behind! Out in broad daylight in an open field. It was hard not to notice though it would appear Araminta found their antics adorable.
Not sure he agreed with it.
Although that may have come from the glaring missing information of such internal behaviours that allowed him to just find it exasperating instead of adorably bashful. “You enjoy such things?” he dared to ask just before they were migrating into the workshop of the very male half of the equation. Which seemed to be on the means of bustling the moment they had been noticed.
And in turn, he was given a moment to do that people watching as Araminta broadcasting seeing the young woman that caused Bruno Jr to look like he might topple over. His features becoming flushed and a stumbling effort on his lips that only affirmed the knowledge that was known already. Just for all of them, he was suitably directing his attention to the items brought forward. To be inspected, mentally noting the conversation paired with reactions before giving Araminta a slight bit of a look that almost seemed exasperated with her influence.
Whatever it all was, the leatherworker didn’t appear so bothered that he was in a tizzy. If anything, the opposite may have been happening. “Then, it would be best to do so now. It would not be difficult to return after the gathering of padding and winter gear for Araminta if it needs to be adjusted but best to go through the motions here and now.” Theon looked expectantly to the woman, “Yes?” Bidding her final counsel on the matter.
It certainly didn’t take any leaps of guessing to tell that Araminta did indeed enjoy such things. Filled to the brim with her own inner delight to have a chance to witness those starting blooms of a village love story, and having to keep all of her joy and mirthful commentary all to herself as to not somehow ruffle or embarrass a pair of shy might-be lovebirds.
The princess was born to meddle.
“Agreed,” Araminta confirmed to Theon, unable to hide that wily fox smile of hers. Taking the moment to unclasp her cloak to set aside, as well to adjust the leather pin in her hair to pile it all up and out of the way to give Brunie free reign to truss her up as he needed to.
Brunie was far less shy today about dealing with Araminta directly, though it might’ve been from him riding that sweet passed on message that was giving him the perfect distraction from his nerves. She found him very similar to Theon in that he was quite confident when he was in his element and knew exactly what he was doing. In this case he’d brought a fitted padded vest and wasn’t hesitating to tap her elbow or move her arm to help her get into it.
“Making sure everything is tied and cinched correctly is important, you might find it difficult to do on your own. Ask him for assistance when you need it and don’t try to be stubborn about it. If you get struck with something here–” he demonstrated with a soft chopping motion with his hand to her side. It surely didn’t hurt but it did surprise her and make her jump. “– and the armor slides or shifts, it could be a fatal injury.”
Araminta nodded her understanding quickly. After the padding came the actual chest piece itself and he wasn’t kidding about the tying and cinching. Not so much being rough, but clearly unafraid to jostle her about to be sure it was fitted tight in all of the right places but also had that flexible bending she was going to need.
“The sizing is good,” Brunie declared, being pretty pleased that he’d gotten those adjustments correct without having to make a second go of it. Brushing off Araminta’s shoulders, he pointed to the bits of embellishments along the hemline. Stamped and carved into the leather was a very simple motif of autumn leaves and acorns. “Is this what you were looking for? It’s not… my best. The custom pieces I’ll have time to work with to get them just right.”
As far as Araminta was concerned, this was already beautiful and adorable! brushing her fingers over the imprints and then beaming a smile at Theon, more than a little pleased that this armor she had to wear for practicality’s sake was also going to be something sweet.
“If this is a hint of what you can do, I know it’s going to be your very best work yet!” Then Araminta paused, that bright little light in her expression popping in as she tapped her fingers thoughtfully to her chin. “I have ordered some things from Ester, it’d be so nice to have these same pretty things embroidered in my clothes to match. Would it be too much trouble if I asked you to show some of these designs to Leila? Theon and I need to leave for our next trip tonight, I don’t think I will have the time myself.”
That flush of red came back to the man’s cheeks again and at first he seemed to be unsure by the idea. Until slowly, bit by bit he seemed to ponder it over and come to a conclusion, that in Araminta’s opinion, made him appear the most excited that she’d ever seen him.
“I can… I can do that, yes.” he affirmed. Finding himself a bit mute now, pondering what his plan would be as he helped Araminta into a proper spaulder and guards for her wrists. With every single final piece in place where it was meant to be, he turned Araminta over to Theon to give final approval. Knowing the young woman wasn’t going to have a clue what needed to be inspected.
Araminta was practically beaming by now. Practically preening. Grinning at Theon with an expression that foretold that she had so many things to say but was holding it all in.
Admittedly for a little bit of the efforts of putting Araminta into her newly acquired gear, he was simply watching. Letting most of their back and forth become muffled noise as he was doing his own thing by seeing how things were fitting together. Where a cinch was, where a strap went. The means of articulation that was cultivated to mesh well together without hindering protection for style or vice versa. Looking to be a good blend of each in tandem that he suspected that the man would have done well in a city. Where guards of the Imperial Palace would enjoy the idea of being fitted with due care rather than just having it in a sort of assembly line.
Not that those of the material crafting were poor in the large city, they just did not have the same dedication that Bruno Jr obviously had.
It took him a few minutes after they were going about their means when he found Araminta brightening and of course mentioning that she had items selected from the tailor. Wanting to have them all together in the means of matching. Finding her suggestion a bit frivolous but catching on her meaning of implication was putting a reason for the two blushing sorts to get closer to another. Using work as a suggestion when in actuality, it hardly would need it. Acting the part of bridging gap to help them.
The man for all intents and purposes seemed to linger long before warming noticeably. Causing a bit of a prolonged stare on his own features till he was baring witness to the princess looking as if she was about to pop with all the means of whatever was budding up inside her.
Once more he gave more of an inspection but this time sidling up to actually give it a physical motions. Reaching and feeling along the cuts, curves and folds of where items fit into another. How they moved with each and laid rather than bunching or threatening to cause issues because it was getting caught. Making a slow vulturing motion around the princess till he came back to the starting position and nodded. A curt thing but approving. Directing the argent stare upon the fellow whilst pulling the means of coin from its leather pouch. Taking some out but ultimately holding the coins to Araminta. Only when taken, did he give the pouch to Bruno Jr. “Should be sufficient.” Declaring that his payment was given and that there was little room to barter.
If there needed to be one.
He already knew that he would need to hunt a bit for more furs and bones and things that would sell well. So this didn’t even register as anything questionable.
Anyone else might’ve withered under Theon’s studious inspection. Even Brunie was standing to the side looking unsure and hesitant while Theon went about his touching, prodding, and circling, likely fretting that some part of the work was going to turn up to be subpar. Yet Araminta? She was having a private moment of delight in Theon’s serious expression. He was always very handsome, but there was something special when a man was confident in what he was doing. Those moments of Theon’s confidence were so rare!
She took the coins in hand curiously, watching as Theon passed over the entire pouch to Brunie. The leatherworker looking at the coin remaining inside and having a quick startle. It was clearly more than what was necessary right now, which came as no surprise to Araminta considered he’d just offered to give all his furs for nothing over to Ester.
It set her own thoughts to pondering when and where she was going to take on some jobs to help continuing funding their endeavors. Deciding that after they paid a visit to the paladins, she’d be plenty rested enough to do a few jobs during their visit of Matilda’s tailor friend.
“Wear it as much as possible, it will grow more comfortable,” Brunie finally said, giving his final instructions. “And.. and if you take a fall, make sure to go limp and roll. Try to land on the stronger leg, else you might shatter a bone.”
Araminta conceded that she would heed this advice well. Giving him the best of wishes for himself and his father before gathering her cloak up to drape over her arm and reclaiming her favorite spot at Theon’s side. Leaving the place with almost a bounce to her step. Even if this new set of leather armor still felt a little stiff and was going to take some getting used to.
“Is there anything else to pick up before we take these things home and prepare to leave?” she asked first, just to be sure of their next directions.
He knew the value of the work Bruno Jr had put in. The original receipt was beneath the effort of putting together not just one set of armour, but two. Where the other was still in creation, if it met half the mettle of this one then it was foolish for the youth not to charge correctly. Small village or not, his worth was more than stated. And in his best knowledge, he was not about to hum and haw about such things. Armour itself was meant to be life saving in most situations, that was also not something he felt deserved a minimal price tag, especially when it came to the singular person that had managed to sit in the cold cavity of his emotions.
Almost ready for a sort of refusal, Theon was grateful when the other man didn’t. Somewhat softening shoulders to express that he wasn’t about to change his mind but was proving that he appreciated knowing when and where to battle. Even in a verbal sense.
Gathering back the other bits of items that had been temporary put aside so Araminta and him could wander. Bidding the leatherworker a proper nod once the dark crowned daughter of the mountain kingdom had found her space beside him once more. Looking more like an adventurer now than she had when he first had to be her witness. Certainly a stark difference though he didn’t think her confidence had changed much, perhaps grew but it was already quite the large aura already. It only complimented her and he knew it was best when she was showing such expressions. She wasn’t terribly worried about anything meaning things were likely going in the correct direction as per her planning.
It would take her a bit to get accustomed to the armour. Its weight, its feel and working it to be a movable part of her frame as well. Though as they departed the place and she asked him a question, he shook his head. “No.” He could not think of anything that might have been im…por—Theon stopped and then corrected himself. “Yes.”
His frame shifted and he looked back towards the businesses before addressing her with his gaze. “There is a bakery here. It will be hard for the next while.” The man quirked his head a little, “You stated before you like sweet things… you should purchase something of that style and reward yourself for the diligence of all that has been done.”
Araminta was expecting that perhaps there was a small means of supplies they might want to get.. not a suggestion that she get herself a sweet treat as a reward! A reward for what exactly? Doing proper preparations as was her duty… or for her bit of romantic meddling in the affairs of innocent villagers? Or – what Araminta knew was the most likely reason – to keep her ridiculously spoiled for no reason other than Theon being silly.
“I suppose it would be nice to have a few pastries in the pack,” she admitted slowly. Still giving him that examining eye even as she tilted to gently shift their direction towards the waiting bakery. “One for now, some for later. Something nice to warm for breakfast.”
Well, Araminta couldn’t complain about the suggestion when it was starting to sound so good now.
“…maybe an entire tin of sugar cookies, those could last the entire week if I don’t eat them all in a day.”
It really wasn’t anything more than something he recalled them talking about in Essurn. And more recently such as yesterday with her commentary about eating pies in front of Bruno Jr due to her slight frame. Knowing she had been rather involved and animated about talking about sweet things in such a way that he had made a mental note about it. Although when she seemed to give him a bit of a look, he wondered if he may have done something wrong by keeping such a thing she had liked, in his thoughts.
Almost ready to apologize if that was meant to be something private and not for him to mention at all.
Still he grew somewhat uncomfortable when she began to speak under the look that appeared to be searching for something that he wasn’t sure was there at all. Formulating that apology all the faster till it seemed she was contemplating more so on the idea in which eventually turned from a treat into an idea of sugar cookies. A tin of them. Whatever the hell that was.
To avoid his mouth spluttering out that effort of request for forgiveness, he turned to motion with a slight tip of head along the way. “It is a small building. With decorative bunting of blue and gold upon its front.” Theon shifted somewhat from foot to foot, “If… that is what you wish to do.”
Araminta almost shot back that it was a thing she’d do because he wanted it for her, but instead decided a wide smile was enough and that any sort of teasing was going to set him into another tizzy. Besides, now the idea was in her head and she was loving it more and more. Buttery, sugary sweets were not the sort of thing you could whip up on the road in the middle of a forest nor were they commonly offered at the sorts of Inns and Taverns they would land in as they travelled.
“I do wish! You might have regrets, though, Theon! I am going to want treats all of the time now,” she laughed, hugging his arm for a moment before taking the lead. Knowing the building he described, Araminta guided them along in the right direction without missing a beat.
Finding it hard to pay much attention to anything else besides aiming those soft smiles at Theon himself. A whole flock of geese could’ve parading honking down the street and she’d not have noticed.
There was a high chance that within his mind was a small little book that was just labeled Araminta Things. Items in no particular order that he took note of in the ways of things she liked. Talked about. Educated him over and in the end, was making his own grouping of items that he thought would be good to recall for her. Putting the effort of his astute desire to be attentive and present into doing well to remember things that she had liked. Or things he might see that he thought she would like such as the flower from Essurn or the leather hair pin that she wore now. Things that he didn’t really think much of besides something that might be enjoyed by her.
Instead of using his observational and listening skills to tuck away weaknesses or things to do against her.
No less the idea that he could have regrets was promptly given a head shake. And unbeknownst to her, he just might try to find ways to make things on the road for her if she really did want treats all the time. It was the only boon about him being incredibly fussy with foods, was he learnt well how to cook for himself. Knowing what tasted good together and being able to pair things well. Doing things she liked in that manner was not out of the question. He’d just have to learn and take more care into actually putting his mind together for such things.
The building itself wasn’t so outlandishly different that it would have stood out but it was clear to be the bakery alone by the wafting smells of baked bread and sweet treats that made the air around it hint just enough. To where the front door even on a brisk day had been thrown open. Held ajar by some arrangement of a bag that was probably not flour, as the inside was somewhat empty right now. Besides the body that stood behind a counter rolling out a white dough onto a flour dusted tabletop and having to constantly adjust one’s posture because the baker himself was a little more rotund in his midsection. Having to see past it was proving to be a challenge.
He’d take up the rear of course behind Ara once the means of entering had been done. And their presence was promptly noticed by the man doing a double take. His dark chocolate eyes glinting at Araminta in a inviting way and wavering some but doing his best in recognizing that of the murderous prince. “Take a look around, I’ve just got to finish what I’m doing here first!” Joyfully he called and made a gesture to the table in case they were unaware. “Let me know if you need something specific!”
Very few things smelled as wonderful as freshly baked breads. Loafs and rolls and muffins and cookies. All of which had this warm and toasty, yeasty scent that smelled very much of a cozy kitchen. Now that they were there inside the shop and Araminta was scooting over to a little display of ready made treats, she decided that Theon might just be a genius, even if his ideas tended to lean on the side of spoiling her in ways she didn’t really deserve.
Already she was making a little mental list of potential meals, how much room was in her pack, how long certain items could keep and travel, what might be a safe and simple item that Theon could brave a single testing nibble at. Whether or not it was wise to spend so much extra coin on frivolous food items when they could use it for more important things, yet finding it very hard to resist with so many appetizing choices.
“Good morning! I know above all else a tin of sugar cookies will leave with me today, and I meant to maybe have a tart or pastry but now I am not so sure I can narrow down my choices! Is there something you might be particularly proud of today?”
There was a rosiness to the man’s cheeks. Unclear if it was from the wafting heat, the effort of his work or just a general existence that made him seem so jolly; regardless he didn’t seem to linger in the put off state. Likely never believing that his little place might ever be hosting that of a monster in the form close to human. Rather putting more thought into eyeing them casually or rather the young woman that was clearly the one who knew what she was doing here. Leaving him to slink back a bit and quietly observe the efforts of the man’s means of working hands. Set to theorize and play the private game of what everything did, would do and such. Using this as a specific time to learn rather than partake.
Easily the sound of Araminta’s declaration of sugar cookies were rang out. Pulling the man into a deep chuckle that was just as warm and inviting as the very place itself. “A good choice certainly.” Rolling a long wooden dowel back towards himself, the man seemed pleased with the sheet of dough all smoothed out and felt confident enough to pardon away from it for a few moments. Almost saddened that he wouldn’t be able to observe a while longer but did well to take those added steps to be closer to the door as not to impose more than he already was.
Using the apron that had been tied just underneath the heft of belly, wiping hands diligently; the man’s gaze crinkled with bemusement at Araminta’s effortless banter. “You might be asking the wrong question, dear. If not everything in this place to claim my pride, then what business would I have making anything. So you may have to be more specific.”
Which apparently was enough for him, “Crabapple… or blueberry tarts?” Theon asked surprisingly quietly causing the man to look at him and he just stayed there. Looking but clear in what he had said.
“Crabapples aren’t especially common right now but… I may have something of the blueberry variety.” Rubbing a meaty hand over chin with due thought.
Had she told Theon her favorites before? She must have… sometimes Araminta tended to fill silences with endless chatter of saying everything and nothing all at once. Having a fairly good enough memory herself for recalling little details about this or that, but finding herself a little flushed in the cheeks now that Theon remembered such an obscure detail that surely didn’t seem worth filing away in that head of his.
Deeming to shoot a quick, almost shyly embarrassed sort of look over her shoulder at the man before she was quick to put herself back to being the voice of this operation.
“Blueberry is my favorite,” she agreed readily, happy to know there could be a little something of the berry variety. Certain that the late autumn berries should be readily all over the place if someone as lucky enough to have a few bushes or know where to look.
Tapping her fingers at her chin she looked about too for some additional ideas, not about to let this opportunity pass her by.
“A good round loaf of bread too? Something that will fit in my travel pack without much of a fuss?”
“I am sure I have a little something for both the blueberry and the loaf,” The man gave a bit of a lingering look towards the roof like it was about to tell him whether or not it was the truth. Tapping fingers a few more times on jowels before turning about to go wandering a little into the back to look over the various things that may have been on the cooling racks. “Keep looking about, there might be something you may want more.” Evidently the sort that wanted to be sure that his customers were promptly filled to the brim with all sorts of bready things.
Yes, he had remembered. How she told him that crabapple and blueberry tarts were her favourite while also saying she had never disliked a tart yet. It had been another thing he had stored away as important Araminta facts because he liked learning these things at all. While wanting to be supportive enough that she could enjoy the favourites without fault. Just because he didn’t know anything and was plenty a dumb barnacle in this world, he could try his best to assure the one with likes and dislikes was able to enjoy or avoid said things.
It wasn’t long before the fellow was back. Putting down a tin that was empty by its sound and indicated that she was welcome to browse the small racking of cookies with provided tongs to put into the container. Only that he motioned with no sooner as a little parchment piece of paper had a pastry on it. Dark in colour but looking like its top was braided. “Blueberry strudel is the closest thing to blueberry I have currently. So this might suffice that want, dear.” He smiled and then motioned to the left, “There are a few loafs as well. Depending on what you prefer. Some rye bread, sourdough and brown with oats on top. Though the last is a bit sweeter due to having a honey glazing. Most of them will only be good for a day or so before they turn a bit stale, so maybe not the best traveling item. But if you take a loaf, I would say stop by the deli and get some cheese to go with it. Even when it goes stale, the cheese ought to help take any toughness out of it.”
This might have been a mistake after all if Araminta couldn’t stop thinking with her stomach instead of using her brain. A strudel might’ve been even better than a tart, so that bit of pastry was going into her mouth the very second it was appropriate. With a clicky-clack clicky-clack of the tongues, like some sort of ravenous cookie crab, the princess hunted down a nice variety of sugar cookies to add to the tin. Plenty more than she ought to have claimed, knowing full well Theon wouldn’t dare to try more than a bite of them and thus leaving the entire tin to herself.
“Should we get cheese…?” she asked with another turn to peer over her shoulder at Theon. Not minding the suggestion at all, since cheese traveled well enough itself. The question not being whether or not it would be eaten – for Araminta would surely eat it – but more that there was only so much they could carry comfortably.
Regardless, it was the sourdough she ended up pointing to, guessing it would go well with most of the meals Theon prepared. She was fond of the simple soups as much as the longer cooking stews. Even when it was vegetables or a roasted rabbit, it’d go quite nicely with a little buttered bread.
“And the strudel, one…. three? Hmn. Two. Two strudels. One wrapped, the other I will eat as I walk,” she declared, mostly with confidence but still having that side eyeing look as if she were still pondering if two were even enough.
Dumbly he just blinked at the wonderment of cheese. Not entirely sure if it was an actual question or just a rumination that was already decided. Having no reason to actually reply seeing as he was hardly the one to say no anyways. At least not about these such things. Listening to how the baker seemed to chuckle at the whole interaction while looking pleasantly pleased with the decisiveness of the princess. Having no qualms about filling her tin and making sure whatever bread she had selected was suitable for her palate.
No sooner with the mention of the braided pastry, did the man move to oblige her request. By that of bundling one into a parchment pouch and tucking its ends in such a way that it would protect from drying out too quickly as the other was half packaged. Meant for ease of carrying and eating as one walked. “Are you sure two is enough?” The man was noting her side eye and seemingly not about to discourage Ara from taking more if she wanted. This may have been the place that would be Araminta’s grave rather than the trials! “And what would the Imperial Prince, like?”
Theon’s head turned in a snap and he gave a mental sigh at this. Outwardly shaking his head and taking that as more than a cue to slip outside. “O-oh.” The baker blinked and watched as the door was emptied of the man’s stature, looking at Araminta a moment. Seemingly trying to figure out whether or not he had said something rude but unable to find anything with it. Baffled truly. Looking as though he wasn’t sure if an apology was necessary or not, settling on the latter.
Seemed useless to say anything in that way when the offended party had left to not stand any further indoors. “Well,” A clearing of throat, “We’ll just get you all tallied up, my dear. You’ll have to come back however in the summer when we have plenty of crabapples. Hmm.”
There was a small thoughtful twist of her mouth as Theon made a quick escape to do his waiting outside. It taking no stab in the dark to know what he was shirking away from, as the signs had been there from the start even if he had not told her he wanted to be just Theon. Unfortunately, she could not always give a subtle hint to others of what he preferred.
“He’ll be alright, he’s just uncomfortable with the title. Call him Theon as you call me Araminta and you might be lucky enough to see him scrunch up his brows,” she reassured the baker with ease and a smile.
…and very wickedly holding up one more finger to gesture towards the strudels to add that third. Araminta might regret it later, but it would be a delicious regret. Already counting out the coins in her palms as she did.
There came a bit of an clear discomfort at the idea of addressing the man as anything less than what they all knew him as. Being a prince was likely better than what others may want to say. Although fairly no one was going to know that the man would have preferred to be without the birthborn title when they honestly only knew him through the means of what dark work he had done. At the behest of his mother after all. Still, Walter gave her a lingering eye that wasn’t so convinced of her ease of assurance. Deciding, “I don’t think that is in anyone’s preference to see, my dear.” Or rather his own.
Simply moving to do as she asked to get a third strudel with a similar wrap job. “I’d just merely caution yourself not to get too attached to the prince in the end. Just a old man’s words mind you but always better to be safe than sorry.” Not everyone certainly was going to be sweet and welcoming. He didn’t much care for the man truthfully but so long as there was no disturbances then it wasn’t his place to get all huffy anyways. Merely giving out wise advice that likely came from listening to many tales of the royals of these lands. It would have been better if the third prince had come back from wherever he had gone, at least that one seemed like he had a good head on his shoulders.
“If you head over to the deli, just make sure you let Gretel know Walter sent you over. She might cut you a bit of a deal.” Smiling then gingerly as if it would help take any ill will out of the air, the exchange of coin was taken. “Be safe now, dear.”
While he had personally slipped a bit aside to get out of the immediate way of the front entrance of the shop, Theon hadn’t been entirely lucky at escaping either. Granted his encounter wasn’t terrible either. Having settled down the various items that had been purchased from the tailors, his hands had been taken to hold fluff ball that was more fur than bone. “Her names is Moopsy.” Words pushed from the gap in missing teeth as hair in tuffs of pigtails stuck out, “Dos yous like kitties?” The girl wasn’t more than maybe three with a slightly older girl beside looking more intrigued at the fact that the cat they had been chasing had been caught and wasn’t busy trying to bite its way to freedom.
Just that Theon hummed and nodded. Watching the stubby hand come out to pat-pat the cat’s head. Getting a bit of a side-eye from Moopsy.
“My head and heart have not lead me wrong so far,” she responded with nothing but a lightness in smile. Enough to let him know she was confident in her chosen company, without showing any ire or upset that he might have his own concerns. “I appreciate the caution, though, and I will use it where it’s needed most.”
Araminta would defend Theon with her last breath, but perhaps not in a man’s own shop when he’s only giving wary advice about a man he’d only heard dreadful rumors of so far. Were there time, she might’ve had an entire discussion with him, about Theon, about the state of the kingdom… casual gossip and deeper thoughts. For now, her time was better spent getting on their way to create opportunities for those very opinions to have a chance to change.
“I am for certain going to return for those crabapple tarts, so be ready for me, Walter!” the princess chirped cheerfully, well on her way out the door with her bundle of tasty treasures in her arms.
…only to find Theon standing out there with the biggest, fluffiest mop of a cat and a couple of wide-eyed children as completely bewildered as she herself felt. Araminta quietly inched herself closer without announcing her presence, more than a little curious to see what on earth was going on with this particular exchange!
It would seem Araminta’s arrival was quiet but the elder girl was prompt at putting her gaze to her. Giving that slightly up and down look that was debating whether this was someone she had to be wary of only for features to change enough, “You’re that lady ma had washing the dog a while back.” She stated so bluntly that her little sister only gave half a look. But it pulled him a little more into attention. Glimpsing to the treasures of treats she had gathered only for the cat to shift in grasp to ruffle itself down as if it was highly intending to make him a mobile pillow. Presenting yellow green eyes in a rather bored sort of oh, you effort.
Seemingly more at peace when he was standing and moreso out of reach of the youngest girl that was probably not the gentlest on the animal. Spurring begrudging acceptance when the cat likely didn’t want too. “Moopsy, you cants stay with the mister.”
“I don’t think he wants Moopsy, Dova.” The elder one pointed out in case it was ever a point of contention. “I think Moopsy just wants to get away from you.”
“Nu UH!” How dare the idea even be said! Spurring Dova into pure indignant horror, “She loves me the moistest.” The other girl was clearly stopping herself from rolling her eyes, even as he seemed to purse his lips in a way that may have suggested he was amused even just a little bit. Only for the girl to open her arms with expectant, “Cans I has her now?”
The cat looked down like she was now the queen of this itty bitty kingdom and seemed to be thoughtful. Just that as fingers came into reach, a paw came out. Lightly batting at them fingers that were loudly showing her wants. Not to hurt but certainly to say, no. I shall not. “Moopssssy!”
“That cat hates like everyone…” Sister dearest smirked barely hiding it behind fingers, “I didn’t know you came back to town, miss… is this your husband then?”
His own grasp moved to pet at the soft part between ears, “I don’t think that would be fair to say to Ara. To classify her with a ragamuffin.” Theon quietly stated though his tone was gentle even as Dova complained again, “Here.” Adjusting the cat to hand to the older sister even as the younger made it clear that was not how this was supposed to work. Merely stifled when he gave her a gentle patting to the head. A sort of there, there effort that stopped her from being too vocal. “Be gentle and patient with Moopsy. She’ll come to you next time if you don’t chase her, alright.” Even offering a bare sliver of a smile that was surprisingly kind.
“But I lurves her, why does she wanna runs.” Well probably cause the love that was given was toddler value and it was hardly tender. Still Theon gave another patting before Dova sort of just puffed out her bottom lip.
“Thanks mister… come on Dova. Mom’s guna be looking for us if we don’t get back.” Cradling the fluffy feline, the they stepped back. “You should thank him, Dova.”
Big eyes pouted, “Thank you…” Even if she was not happy about not getting her way, she was good to listen to the elder before the two turn to start toddling off. “I wanna hold her,” was the last thing heard before he was looking to Ara and motioning that he would pick up what he had put down.
Seemingly having nothing else to say in that moment.
Araminta hadn’t said a word, merely giving that soft nod of affirmation when the elder girl correctly guessed her as the town’s dog washer… amongst other chores! Finding herself far too amused with this turn of events to interject herself into it. Quickly sussing out that the younger child was likely being a bit wild and the fluffy cat was seeking tall shelter where ever it could find it.
She could not blame the cat. Araminta would run to Theon too.
The elder child’s question of whether or not Theon was her husband had Araminta instantly grinning, sure to have a quick answer for it had Theon not answered so quickly for her. A ragamuffin! What an absolutely silly thing to call himself. It shouldn’t have been a surprise to find him being so gentle with the feline and with children, yet it still somehow tweaked a warm and fuzzy little part of her heart. Something that was delighted to have her instincts about his tender soft heart confirmed in the form of a faint smile, but also a little bit of sadness in knowing he must’ve thought that all of this was out of his reach.
Terrible, awful people got to have homes and families and everything else. It wasn’t fair that Theon, someone truly deserving of a beautiful life, was being denied it.
Sometimes Araminta wanted to fight the whole world.
“I’ll have you know I like ragamuffins, if those ragamuffins happen to be Theon shaped,” she told him as plain as day. “I’m ready to head back to the hut, though. I have enough treats if I dare try to add cheese to it, I am going to make myself sick. Best for us to get on our way!”
It may have been surprising but he never disliked children or most animals. They were usually really good at being able to tell someone’s true intentions without all the song and dance that adults went through. Plus most were generally innocent in their behaviours. So long as they were taught well and cared for properly, they grew into respectable beings that knew right and wrong in their own upbringings.
He always ended up sort of just watching them the most because he found their ease of play and freedom to just being able to live rather formidable. Of course there were circumstances that always came about to make such livelihoods change but he had never a dislike to them.
However, children tended to say things as well that were a bit blunt without a filter. In the case of asking whether or not he was apparently Araminta’s husband. And idea so laughable and rude that he didn’t think it was worth even finding it humorous! Considering how they could have started, he didn’t even want to engage on such a terrible thing knowing well enough that he would not subject Ara to ever such torture. Plus he knew there was someone out in this world that was best suited for her and he would do his best to be watchful for that dramatic hero that would probably ride in on a white stallion, if he was ever to guess something.
Watching the little’s troddle back with their collected animal, he glanced towards her from that of eye corner. At her nonsense of liking ragamuffins. Knowing he wasn’t about to get into semantics like that but rather turned to indicate they could walk back. Agreeing that it was best they return now, “May need a new pack for everything, you wish to take with.” He decided to focus on that instead.
If Araminta could read his mind… in that moment she was thinking it’d sure make her life easier. Being aware that his wheels were turning, fueled by darker, untrue thoughts that’d been pushed on him his whole life. If only she could read his thoughts and banish unfounded fears away the second they happened.
Of course, if she could read his, it’d only be fair if Theon could read hers. And right that moment her own thoughts were all wrapped up in having this affirmation that he’d be such a lovely husband and father, but suddenly reluctant to consider who the spouse in that scenario would be. Having at one time thought his perfect match would be in the form of a gentle lady, who was soft spoken and sweet. That would need him to take care of her, but could give him all of the affection in world. But now that did not quite feel good enough… the woman would also have to be feisty enough to defend him from catty gossipers, as he’d not defend himself.
Better no mind reading could be done. Araminta knew she meddled too much, best not to make Theon feel like she was trying to take over the control of his life. One day he would meet a girl that he adored and she would have to accept it.
“We might, yes.” she agreed with his statement. “Winter gear will end up taking up more space for certain. I think what we have now will do until we reach Matilda’s friend? That will be a good time to switch everything out.”
In the mean time, she was already leading the charge back home with one arm full of her pastry treats and her other hand with that half unwrapped blueberry strudel. Any further fussing she might’ve thought up vanished after a first bite and that soft happy sigh of blueberry and sugar.
God’s only knew he didn’t even have a inkling of a thought of such things in his own favour. Content to be as he was now with no desire to seek or find anything beyond what had come already. The fact he was distant from the Imperial Queen was already quite the improvement, so there was be no need to ever go further than that. Knowing that if he ever was fully freed from her, that was the success of his life.
Love and affection was still things he kept to himself generally, not proving outwardly beyond little things –that made him often question if he should be- with Araminta. Only cause she allowed him too but wouldn’t push for anything.
Anything else, was not permitted and unlikely.
“It may be best then to perhaps visit that of Bo first. Rather than pack everything now.” The man suggested, “The travel form is swift enough that the visiting of such places is easy to complete at your behest.” Though he seen that she was already looking a lot happier with her newest little treat. At least that had panned out for her.
“I will prepared my gear upon the return and be ready when you wish to go.”
“Hmn..” A mouthful of blueberry strudel was the only thing saving him from her immediate fussing. Araminta wanted him looked over by the paladins first and foremost, before anything. Even if there was nothing to be found but a confirmation that Theon was cursed by Bloody Heirra. She half suspected he’d find a way to delay such a thing as long as possible, simply to avoid the uncomfortable sensations of being perceived at the holy order!
The trouble was that it was true that they needed their gear to be properly upgraded for the coming season, else they might get caught out of luck if the winter came early and they weren’t prepared. It’d give the paladins that much more time to return from Neive. As well as make it a good last stop to potentially procure holy items before heading to the sixth trial, even if the paladins were not there.
“…it does seem like the better idea to visit Bo first. Though I thought we might try to stay there a day or two so I could do some work to replenish our travel funds.”
The idea that her mouth was full was shortened after a few moments. To where it seemed she had thoughts already coming to mind in the means of thickening a diminished coin pouch. Initially hearing her suggest that she wanted to do some work with a want to point out that she was not expected to do so. However stopping his mouth from doing so as he knew well at this very moment that she enjoyed getting out there. Making trades, bartering services by work for work and the likes. So it wouldn’t do him well to suggest she should not waste the effort. When in reality, it likely would be the more profitable of the things anyways.
And he suspected she may be able to finagled more things in her favour anyways. “I will hunt then.” He added seeing as he was not in line to think her the only one to do so. Plus the effort of whatever he could find in the woods would make well for meat and the various bits of animal products that would become scarce come the blasting of cold weather. Chilling away anyone who may not have been inclined to try their hand in the winter months.
Though one had to be certainly a lot more cautious in those efforts as well seeing as larger and more rare creatures could appear. Particularly ones that were bipedal and he had witnessed a few of them from a safe distance before.
Yeti’s weren’t known for being pleasant. Something smart enough to be sentient but still dumb as a bag of rocks made them a lucrative find if managed.
His thoughts carried on this path of consideration even as they made their way successfully back to the bare woods and the hut. Opening the place with a discerning eye just in case before giving her allowance first to enter while he seemed to pause. Thinking a moment of items that may be best and indicated he would prep a few things outside such as collected water in skins and pulling her dried out clothing from the line now that it was suitably cleansed and ready to be folded. He would check his sword that hadn’t been given the attention it was due but figured after the days of it being plunged in the rain barrel, it was clean enough.
Leaving him to drag away the barrel to pour out safely from the hut to avoid any soil being contaminated. Particularly around that of the faeling acorn. Making plenty of use of his efforts till eventually he would return indoors to dismantle that of cloak so he could begin the means of reapplying armour for the work of travel once more. Pausing only in-between to look where Ester had sewn the hole in his sleeve and gave it a rather lengthy stare.
His other shirt hadn’t been as ruined as this one. It would seem wiser to him to switch back and use the garment that wasn’t ready to give up as quickly under that of armour. Just that his attention deviated a moment to where Araminta was and, “I will return momentarily.” Indicating he was going to switch garments elsewhere to avoid any scandalous behaviours.
Between the two of them, there would never be a want for coin. With Theon’s talent for hunting and ability to fast travel, adding to Araminta’s willingness to do just about anything, they’d always be able to fund a place to sleep and get a good bath, no matter what sort of town they stayed in. One would think a princess chased out of her spoiled, comfortable life would’ve balked at suddenly having nothing to her name and having to do peasants work. Araminta had found it was good for her – not that she didn’t struggle at first as she certainly didn’t know how to do most things. Chores and working gave her a sense of control and accomplishing something, even when solving her bigger problems were out of reach.
While Theon went about his own business Araminta was trying her best NOT to scarf down her blueberry strudel in three short bites. Attempting to at least prolong her enjoyment of it while she worked on organizing everything she’d need for a short trip. Mentally trying to schedule out not just the next few days, but potentially even a year or more in the future. Theon would likely balk, buried in being overwhelmed if he knew just how much of the bigger picture she was always trying to order in that messy brain of hers! That she was already plotting for the seventh and eighth trial, considering events might sidetrack and delay them, what it might take to topple a queen and if somehow it could topple demons at the same time.
…perhaps it was overwhelming for Araminta too on most days. Strangely enough Theon’s presence had both sped up her progress and forward momentum, while also affording her a chance to slow down and not get trampled by her own thoughts. He was the best thing that had ever happened to her.
And now she was blinking at his gesturing with his shirt with a mild confusion before breaking into an almost giggling smile.
“You don’t need to leave just to change your shirt, Theon. We are familiar enough. Although I could close my eyes if you’re bashful?”
There was a silent standoff after it seemed she clued in that he was about to be polite and slip away so he wasn’t standing there scandalizing the young lady. Although he ought to have known by now that Araminta was hardly the sort to be very fazed by much. Leaving them a little longer in that means of lengthy pause that eventually had him sort of just looking to the garment in hand.
“I am not bashful.” He stated rather bluntly, “It was just not appropriate in my thoughts to have you present.” As if there needed to be anything more to that reply. Only for him to eventually shrug, “If it is not, then I will not continue in this manner for some items.”
There was little reason then to go forward with the choice of sliding out of sight. Unbothered more so at the idea of doing any of this. Granted if it required further undressing then yes, he would have departed. Not about to be that forward regardless of familiarity. Settling to moving the means of held garment aside and directing the line of sight to the next bit of attention that was properly retrieving from hemline upwards. Removing the freshly patched garment to be stripped away and giving him a chance to properly give it another look over. If he had missed the one hole, it was likely there were others that would be standing out as well.
Baring easily the first time the canvas of torso since he had been haphazardly stitched together from the fall and stabbing of his side from sword, when they were first in their early stages of interactions. Turned into a newly pinked scar to add to the various others that were broken lines and twists over frame that spoke moreso now that he wasn’t unwell. Unhealthy. Rather expressing loudly that the prince was suitably well fit and acclimated to the lifestyle of dedicated work and swordplay prowess.
Form fit with sharp crisp lines that made a masculine shape of drawn taunt muscularity that was often well hidden beneath generally shapeless tunics and armour that was meant to fit close to keep one protected.
Finding another hole with a poking of finger, he had to make a mental note that this would have to also be sewn. Later. Putting the shortly folded item aside to be replaced with the less –not by a lot- threadbared tealish gray tunic back over torso, Theon considered the placement of garment only momentarily. Before making the means of preparing to gather the rattling chainmail to lay over as the first layer of protection.
Maybe Araminta should’ve closed her eyes. What was she thinking telling a man he could take off his shirt willy-nilly whenever he pleased! Didn’t she have a single ounce of shame or propriety or any sense left? None whatsoever, she thought. It’s not as if she hadn’t seen plenty of men out and about doing their jobs without their shirts or trying to cool off in heated weather. She’d even seen Theon without his shirt at least the once before.
Just then she wasn’t paying any attention the way she was now. Surreptitiously peering between pretending her focus was on the bag she was trying to pack, like a wicked little minx. Araminta remembered her first assumption about him, before she’d ever seen Theon that he’d be some sort of charismatic, terrifyingly beautiful monster. Having expected the famed Imperial Prince to be a lithe and lean beauty with sharp features and long lashes. Too woo and ooze out sickly sweet words and compliments in the same manner as the Queen herself.
…she liked the reality of Theon so much more.
Having her view cut short by a fresh shirt, Araminta resumed what she was actually supposed to be doing. Absently realizing she might have almost as many scars as Theon now. With a high chance they’d both earn many more. If she didn’t start managing her temper and her habitual urge to add extra trouble on top of their already long list of problems, she’d end up being the cause of more than just a single scar on Theon! Araminta would have to be more thoughtful and make choices with intention.
“This should be enough for a day or two in a northern village,” she mumbled to herself. All of her quest items were stored away nicely in the cedar chest, leaving room in her pack for food and minimal supplies. A change of clothes, the few linens from Matilda to give Bo. Thankfully with Theon’s speedy steed and the hut as their home, they could travel light. Otherwise they would have to get their hands on some sort of small wagon and an animal friend to pull it!
The mumble to herself was enough to draw a quick glance in her direction. Noticing that she seemed to be steadily readied for the next bit of adventuring while he made the movement of working in their favour. Putting piece by piece into place with practiced accuracy, till it was properly fitted and formed once more. Tugging over the cloth that was a cloak to be pinned in its asymmetrical motif just so it was easier to take hold of the hilt when needed. Rather than having to throw back the cloak like some grand curtain in a dramatic display to act.
Shortly all in order, he motioned that they were seemingly ready to go. Offering her a hand to rise up from that of her task, “The village from what Matilda stated, is larger than this one.” If he recalled the place she mentioned though had no name pulled from memory, it was a trade village. Meaning it likely had more resources in totality than this little woodsy place that had the hut nearby. “It is potentially more likely to have more information as well to items that you wish to deal with. And gossipy sorts.” His sort of way of saying that they best be careful what they said as well in case it got back to the wrong parties. They were already dealing with a variety of different problems, adding new ones didn’t seem very smart for them to do.
Giving the place a final sweep of gaze, he seemed ready. Moving forward to step outside with the same sort of quick surveying consideration before making that snap of mist to alter forms for that means of quick travel.