It took a bit still to make himself conceded to the need of sleep but was disturbed to awakefulness at the sound of door ever so s l o w l y creaking open. Pulling gaze upon and the telling sounds of scurrying feet giving way to knees and hands. Certainly not being the stealthy sneak that she was attempting to be! Especially when she popped up beside and realized she was being watched. Slapping hands over mouth at first whilst eyes crinkled up in amusement of being caught.
Promptly abandoning it to steal close and pat-pat elbow in obvious insistence. “Ghost… Ghost!” Chloe whisper-yelled, “It’s morning… it’s time to get up.”
Theon considered Chloe and stretched somewhat, “Oh… there was a piece of paper too this morning, mummy has it in the kitchen. It’s for Araminta too.”
“Tell the little love I have left to live with the fae,” sleepily murmured the princess Araminta. While she herself had been far too deep inside the realm of dreams to hear a sneaky intruder, one could not sleep through the whispered shout of a giggling child.
Araminta nestled up cozy in her spot, with every intention of seeing how long she could get away with sleeping in. Until Chloe’s words finally processed in her mind. Sending the princess suddenly bolting upright into wakefulness at a record breaking speed even for herself.
“Oh! I bet that is Sir Reeves! I hope that’s from Sir Reeves,” she stammered, practically crawling over Theon to escape the bed with a surprising amount of delicacy to skitter so quick without accidentally stomping or jostling him! Giving Chloe a swift pat on the head once she was properly on her feet.
Lips pressed somewhat at the murmured sleep drawl that was coming from the lump beside him, about having apparently gone off to live with the fae. Not sure if that was supposed to be a dig towards him or a suggestion considering half his blood was apparently of that nature, just that he didn’t think Araminta was conscious enough to be that witty. Spurring Chloe into muffled giggles all the more, “No you’re not!” Not about to be bamboozled into believing that for a second when she was laying right here. Right where all eyes could see her.
Just if Chloe or himself were about to call further bluff on her addled attempt, she was suddenly popping up like an excited prairie dog. Startling him certainly but pulling a gasping squeal form Chloe that seemed to be influenced by this new excitement. With a scurrying zip up and over him without a secondary glance, Chloe took this chance to use the blankets to climb up. Scaling over to come plopping down butt first to where Araminta had been. Folding her hands in lap, “Who’s Sir Reeves?”
Stretching neck slowly, Theon exhaled softly. “A friend I think of hers.” He still didn’t know what to call the Lord Paladin by anyways outside a man who did impressive things. Which might be a bit too broad for Chloe to understand and of course would incite all the more questions that he would also be unable to detail fully. This would have to do.
“Oh. That makes sense why she was so excited!” The girl grinned but seemed to rather enjoy stealing the warm spot like a happy lizard.
Where in the kitchen, other eyes all arose with the appearance of Araminta. Bo blinking with his other two children and Adra holding a piece of paper that seemed like she already knew why the princess had come out in the first place. Making it wave a little for emphasis, “Is good did not bet against me, Bo. I said she’d be up and attum the moment she heard a note. Jasa’s little messenger said that you’ve got friends at the Sable Fawn now. Should we worry that you’ve elicited yourself to a new sultry life, Araminta?”
“Have you all just been in the kitchen deciding which poor sacrifice was going to go in and poke me?” Araminta declared, finding herself the center of attention for far too many eyes at once! The children, of course had no idea she was liable to bite a finger off the next person that attempted to lecture her… but these two parents did! Adra of whom Araminta plucked the waving letter from, and Bo, whom she gave a quick squinting of the eyes at before huffing a small sigh.
“I behaved poorly to you last evening and I am sorry,” she started, genuinely apologetic… for all of three seconds before that sassy fox look returned. “If you’re going to continue parenting ambushes, then at least coordinate your advice beforehand. Else you’re liable to undo what the other had already repaired.”
Araminta lift a finger to point at Bo first, but Adra was not going to get away without the soft wag of her finger either. Both of them properly getting a waggle, of naughty, busy-body parents.
“Twas not so much a decision, we all knew Chloe would willing go inside. It was more the question of whom might be startled by her.” Adra smirked, “You haven’t found true terror till one of your little ones is standing in the middle of the night by your bed, staring at you with eyes all round.”
“I hate that,” Bo dryly commented much to Philip and Sophia’s snorting giggles. Influenced as father gave them each that look expressing they were all culprits of scaring their parents silly simply because they had a nightmare or something. “You’re just lucky it was daylight out.”
Of course if anyone was about to feel shameful for allowing and watching the youngest of the abode go trotting into their room, it showed none. Especially with Araminta looking like a judgmental oyster with all her squinting and momentary pause about an apology. Which turned into waggling fingers and suggestion of them getting their stories straight. Where Adra just put a hand to her husband’s shoulder and other smoothing on the top tussle of hair. Looking ever so innocent, “Do you think our advice was not coordinated? Did it have no effect?” The woman looked proud of herself even as grin spread due to the telling sounds of heavier footsteps that had the man trailing in with the sported little girl on the crook of forearm. “I think our differed advice and annoying worked well, oui!”
Pleased with herself, Theon looked to Araminta. “Do I get a copper piece now?” Chloe asked seeing as she clearly had been bribed!
Well now Araminta had this lovely image of her head of future little ones sneaking into bed, so even as she was eyeing the preening woman with a knowing squint, it was hard to mask that growing desire to smile. Coordinated Araminta’s foot. The pair of them were lucky that she and Theon always stumbled back to each other to actually talk, in one form or another. Had Araminta been an even more foolish and dramatic girl, she could’ve ran away into the night!
Turning on her heel to peer at Theon and the tiny hobbit he carried, finding this wasn’t helping stop thinking about a domestic future at all.
“Sir Reeves and Padma have arrived at the Sable Fawn, we should greet them!” The she paused, those wheels in her head seemingly to turn and ponder on something new. Glancing over her shoulder with a pleading look far too reminiscent of their own children. “… Maybe invite them to dinner? They are good friends to have.”
Bo did try to look shamed after Araminta’s effort to scold them, but the smirk at the corner of his lips kept on pressing up. Making it very difficult to look the part. Add on that Adra couldn’t even be the tiniest bit assed to do so, and they were a pair of scheming parents that didn’t have any issue pushing and insisting even if they got in trouble. So long as it worked out, they seemed quite pleased with their efforts.
Of course only growing more in such a state when their youngest had come out with the redhead man to ask if she still got her bribe after all. Mother nodding much to the other children’s complaint! Had they known mother would actually pay up, they’d likely have joined in.
Personally he had no idea what was going on and he was content to leave it just like that. Instead considering the woman that was promptly looking at him. “Oh. Yes, that would be good.” Theon agreed to the statement of going to check in on the two that had potentially arrived. Before seemingly worrying, “Did you warn them of the Sable Fawn? I would think Padma may be… scandalized.” And somewhat fearing the tongue of the girl going after Madam Jasa only to be turned away.
It actually encouraged him to the idea that they ought to hasten over there. For Araminta to then look to her shoulder back to the couple.
Watching as they each straightened in such a way that could plainly see that the woman was about to ask something. “Oh, well… take it up with the cook. I have no problem with it.” Adra shrugged pointing at Theon, apparently enlisting him to make the meal once more this night. “Bo?”
“I trust your judgment on this Araminta. Thus far, it hasn’t lead too wildly astray.”
“I… I actually can’t remember if I warned them,” Araminata answered, looking thoughtful for a moment until that bloom into a pink flushing. Although, by the way Sir Reeves often did things, he likely wouldn’t have warned Padma either. Going quickly was a good idea.
Adra passing dinner over into Theon’s hands didn’t surprise Araminta in the slightest, in fact by the mysterious faeish way she smiled, it might’ve been exactly according to how she was hoping it would play out. Grinning still as she reached out to pinch the little Chloe’s cheek while giving Theon’s arm a subtle squeeze.
“It’s good to introduce special family and friends together,” she declared softly. “I will get my boots and be Theon’s assistant for the day.”
With what he knew of Reeves and Padma, it seemed like it was a very very good idea to get over to the brothel before something awry happened. Be it Reeves being his cheery sort of self that may have gotten a bit overboard with something, or Padma having fighting words with the establishment owner about the sort of business was happening at all. While he might be overly theorizing to the horror of it all, it would be put on pause. Momentarily when the mention of dinner was asked and the two home owners didn’t seem bothered one single bit.
“Will likely need to stop and grab things then to do so.” He would have to think about what to make that would be easy for little ones to eat and grab, while still high enough quality to entertain the palettes of adults. Just that as she mentioned being his assistant for the day, Chloe pouted immediately. “We will be back.”
“Fiiine.” Crossing her arms in a loud harrumph as he indicated that he would be ready the moment Araminta was ready to go, bringing the little sprite over to that of her mother’s awaiting hands.
Oh, it was going to break a lot of hearts when they had to leave to the next trial. And yet… Araminta now had a very warmed feeling that this was a place they could return to frequently. Not simply for the goods commissioned from Bogart and his wife, but as a wonderful place to spend time and heal the soul. Something just as valuable to heal as their bodies.
Returning quickly to her room, Araminta brushed through her hair to braid in a quick plait and pin up out of her way so she wouldn’t look like a bedraggled wild thing. Snatching up her cloak in hand returning to the open house to meet Theon. Hopefully without a little one or three attached to his legs – not that she’d mind having them along with. Araminta just suspected there was going to be a lot of very serious, very adult conversations that were not meant for innocent ears.
“I am prepared — oh a basket, for shopping!” she remembered! Might as well be a good assistant, Araminta thought! Hopping into the kitchen to fetch the one she’d used yesterday.
There was mild complaints about the fact that suddenly his means to watch over the three children, wasn’t in the cards currently. At least at this specific moment. Where at first Chloe was the only annoyed one, it became three. Realizing they were going to have to be the patient little ducklings that waddled after their mother to her shop. Instead of getting that chance further to frequent the world around them within the limits of the town. Of course there was a few calm words offered by Bo to indicate that it would only be for now and that they had to be good little ones to ensure that by the time they were all back in the house, that Ghost wouldn’t be disappointed by them.
It was about as effective as one might have guessed. Additional pouts while he was internally smirking. Pleased he wasn’t doing outwardly less they feel as though he were finding their childlike complaints too amusing.
He’d take a few moments at least to ready himself. Cloak, boots and carefully making a list in his mind that would be the selected items for preparing this evening. Hoping that it would be suitable as admittedly, he hadn’t actually cooked for so many and may have a bit of a concern about it now.
Adra seemed to chuckle as she aided with grabbing the basket that had been tucked aside to offer to Araminta, “Be safe you two.” Bo beckoned after a moment and he was the one that sought to open the door once the mountain princess was ready to depart. Looking a lot better this day than she had prior.
Waiting for her before offering his hand over once they had stepped out of the house, in a gesture that wasn’t making her go searching for it this time. Feeling the cool nip of the morning and the faint smell of chilly winter upon the air.
“I am still mad at everyone except for the little three angels!” declared Araminta loudly, with the sort of bright cheery grin that suggested even if it were true, she’d already forgiven every slight she might have perceived. That cheeky teasing dropped in an instant at the sight of Theon’s hand, reaching to grasp it tight with a far softer smile offer up in his direction.
The air actually smelled different today, with that crisp frosty scent that often came right before a season’s first snow. How fitting for a morning to feel the coming of a new season, just as they were starting something new themselves.
“It will be a nice challenge to cook, yes? Not so difficult either when you have already cooked for the family before. It’s only an extra two. Though if it isn’t good, you’ll have Adra, Reeves and Padma all telling you with full candor,” she teased, mimicking the favorite catch phrase of the Lord Paladin.
There would likely be a question about her yelling back into the house about being mad at Bo and Adra whilst excusing the children, if he wasn’t sure she was simply playing a jesting joke on them. Due to the way her lips had formed into a wide grin that dimmed into something even he could acknowledge was sweeter. Promptly meshing fingers into another as he felt the due chill of the day.
While he may have travelled often, he found winter not to be one of his preferred seasons. Unclear if he just had a general displeasure towards the cold or if it was something stronger about it, but it was certainly smelling like that broach of a new turn. Anywhere else and snow would have been abundant on the ground already. Rather than bare tips of noticeable frost. Honestly, it was proving to be a good reason to be not minding after the children today; as he doubted his tolerance for prolonged exposure to the element would have done him any wonders.
Brows slightly lifted and he was quietly humming at the question. Thinking about it carefully, “I’ve never cooked this much for anyone before. With the family, it was already unusual but Adra seems to enjoy it. But to expand upon it, it’s… unusual.” He wouldn’t say it was worth the effort of potentially hating it. Rather it was just something so new that he had to wonder if he ought to be cooking at all. He had only taught himself and watched others because of his need to feed himself for the safety of not being poisoned. Hardly would the thought of it all coming together to make others outside him and Araminta meals, be a thing. “I do not think Padma would be quoting full of candour.” He replied gingerly before sort of realizing they ought to hasten their steps again.
“Though perhaps we should not dawdle. I fear that Jasa and Padma could be two opposing forces.”
There was truly no predicting what they might find upon reaching The Sable Fawn. The brisk walk thankfully not being dreadfully far, just long enough to be sure Araminta was brightly wide awake.
Mornings at the Inn and Bathhouse were often quiet, with most patrons not wishing to roll out of bed to early after a night of salacious fun. Very few would be in the lobby area which made the two paladins in their full regalia stand out like shiny statues in the middle of a garden. Sir Reeves spotted them immediately throwing arms wide as he strode forward.
“Ahoy, if it is not the Ghost and the Bard!” he bellowed, stepping an arm’s length away to thump his fist over his heart and give the pair the deepest of bows.
“Bard?” questioned Araminta with amusement. Grateful that Reeves boisterous way of speaking didn’t make him forget that Araminta and Theon were meant to be incognito.
“Are you not? The Madam has high praises for the young woman who plucks the strings of harps and hearts alike!”
“Araminta, did you know this was a brothel?” Piped in Padma having come up from the side where she’d been speaking to a pair of giggling girls. Squinting her eyes at the girl before she was giving Theon a stern look, figuring he at least should have known better!
Araminta flushed a bit. “Not at first. It is a good place to stay, though! Madam Jasa is an extraordinary woman.”
“That she is!” chimed in Reeves, giving Theon a good thump on the back. “You look like you’ve seen better days, friend. The illustrious Madam of this fine established has granted us a suite-” Padma gave a heavy sigh, – “so we might conduct our work in private. Afterwards we might partake of this bathhouse, yes? Bless the waters with a little of our Lady’s Light.”
Araminta thought Reeves meant literally blessing the waters, until she caught the way Padma cringed and gave a weary ugh, that’s not funny under her breath. The princess didn’t know if she should laugh or be embarrassed!
Their entry to the place that was becoming rather ingrained into one’s memory of familiarity, Jasa was roosted elbows first upon that of her clerk counter. Holding her chin aloft in palms looking all bits of perfectly amused. Merely missing the visual sparkling around her face to add on that she was already purely in favour for Reeves bouncy and inviting personality. If not potentially trying to think of ways to bring the lord paladin to that of her more auspicious girls for a night or few of grand tales. Personally he didn’t know if Paladin’s took oaths of celibacy the same way the priests would in the temple. And didn’t really have any desire to find out either.
Just as they were granted allowance inside the quiet business, Reeves was the first to greet them. Broadly with his charismatic appeal whilst claiming Araminta was that of a bard. Pulling confusion in which after a second of reveal, it was Madam Jasa that had certainly laid the groundwork. “We’ve have a few regulars asking where the dark haired harp player has been.” Her eyes were glittering behind lenses and Theon may have felt a sting of annoyance at that. It might have been obvious, “For music of course.” Jasa tagged on while vision tilted to watch the ward trot up after she had escaped the giggling duo of young women. To point out the blunt obvious in which had not been Araminta or fairly his first bit of awareness of coming into such a place.
Feeling Padma’s look no sooner and he sort of just gave an impression of a shrug. He hadn’t known, it wasn’t like he made it a part of his personality to go around noting every potential place in the massive lands of the Imperial plains to know what and what wasn’t a brothel. Plus this place was run well and kempt in a very clean state. Seeing how Jasa was giving Padma a bit more of a watchful eye in the sort of realm of I’ll break down your conservative walls yet.
He might have been a bit worried about such a look if it wasn’t for the fact that Reeves had approached and was patting him hard upon the back that he had to brace his foot carefully to avoid being toppled. Listening to the man rattle quickly. And finding that Reeves just might be more heavily influenced into partaking a few things here that Padma was very much not approving of. “Why don’t you four go on up, Lola can take you to the suite.” One of the said giggling girls perked up. Ready to start the day with her means of flirting as he gave Araminta a look that was somewhere between relieved they hadn’t stumbled into anything terrible but also maybe a bit worried that she had just given Reeves the adult version of a kid in a candy store.
“If you would follow me right this way, that would be fantastic.” Lola giggled as she was non too subtle about pulling down the ruffle top to produce more cleavage. “And remember me, I’m Lola.” Adding on a wink that might as well have been as loud as a church bell, Theon mentally sighed.
Well, they did get paid one way or another.
“Lady Lola, what a sorrowful name for one that blooms as bright as a summer dandelion,” exclaimed Sir Reeves, with the sort of charm that belied his love of giving compliments with every opportunity. With an added bounce to his step too, for it seemed unlike his weary ward, Reeves had found this meeting location genuinely entertaining on a multitude of levels. Likely as bad as Araminta in finding the good of everywhere he went.
Padma took up following in the rear behind them, pretty clearly not wanting anything to do with the nonsense of flirting or socializing. Taking everything a little too seriously, yet at least not one to be rude to any of those that worked there. She was more keenly watching Theon and Araminta themselves, putting together some assessments of her own since the last time they’d met.
“Did they dress you up in lingerie before they sent you on stage?” Padma asked, sounded less judgmental and more just curious. “I don’t believe for a second that patrons come here for the music.”
“Music is part of the experience, Padma” exclaimed Reeves jovially. “Music, dining, hot steamy bath… a perfect cocktail for an evening of libations and frivolities, isn’t that correct, Lady Lola?”
Tinkling giggles and a soft wave through the air with a staged oh you, was made and he swore half of the women here could truly be actresses. Making their way through grand troupes that went from place to place while entertaining the masses without having to be so personal in the means of sharing themselves. Outside when they wanted too. But he was giving Reeves a slight look that seemed to be trying to decide if the paladin was the sort that would happily overindulge as well here. Which was his own priority once could suspect but surely after they had spoken.
The man was as infectious as Araminta could be. Just it seemed to him that Reeves was more innocent in his tones that the princess could be and he suspected it to be a farce that was well practiced too.
Of course, Padma spoke up. Asking Araminta question that had even him giving the ward a look that was well… not too enthused at the question. From all the woman at his side said, she was never dolled to the point of being some lacy sex icon on the stage. Not sure that the one named Edgar would have been any happier about that and well, he had seen the one dress she wore and it was hardly fitting to call it skimpy.
Her master spoke up in his delightful ring spurring Lola to comment. “A man of culture I see,” She lead them along the familiar halls though had gone to the right rather than left compared to when they had stayed here. “We are an experience that is for all sorts of artistic senses. So yes, people do come here for the music. Araminta was a highlight and she’ll be conducting her own private little concert hopefully in the next day from what Madam Jasa has been preparing.” Lola looked upon Reeves with batting lashes, “Perhaps you’ll save me a seat, Sir Reeves.”
She giggled before pausing at a door to open it into a grand suite. Certainly larger than the room they had occupied but it was housing a couple of beds inside. Without the copper tub within, it did have a small sitting area that this suggested the room was likely more of a hostel style. Multiple guests coming in a group but not staying in the same place outside sleeping and talking.
Indicating for them to step inside before Lola paused Araminta. “Come talk to Madam Jasa after. She wants to go through the schedule for your last performance.” Offering and then looking indoors to the room. “If you need anything;” The spiel about the chord and how it could be used to beckon one of them employees for all the variety of needs, Lola had sealed the door shut promptly to assure their small gathering had been safely collected.
This was truly a new experience that he was wondering if was the best for inviting the paladin and his charge here.
As soon as the door was closed and they were all safely within private walls, Sir Reeves immediately shifted his demeanor and tone to that of the Master in Charge, reaching up to remove his cloak while gesturing for Padma to take one of the chairs to the clearer part of the room and pulling out the other for Araminta.
“Please have a seat, Princess, I can speak while Padma works on our Imperial Prince,” he gestured then at the other two. “Everything up top comes off, if you would, sir.”
Padma sighed, leaning to cast a glare at Reeves mid removal of her own cloak. “I can heal him like this just fine,” she protested.
“No need to impress the man, do it the smart way. Too many wounds and internal injuries to be messing about,” chided Reeves with a tone so reminiscent of Adra and Bo when they’re getting onto the children, that it was almost comical.
Padma scoffed, yet turned back to Theon with that shrug of her shoulder and expression that spoke Well, you heard him.
Araminta had, at the Lord Paladin’s urging, sat in the chair and set her basket aside on the table. Curiously keeping an eye on Padma and Theon, though Sir Reeves seemed to have everything well in hand. Remaining standing while he pulled off his gloves and got to work shimmying out of the armor he traveled in.
“There is an quite a large amount of news to share, much of which you might be curious to hear. First and foremost allow me to say how incredibly relieved I am to see you alive and well, dear princess, as by the Light of Our Lady, after you left on your own and we heard about the spree of the Queen’s mercenary we feared the worst.”
“Practically prophetic the way she dodges the grim reaper,” commented Padma. Truly amazed by it even now!
“It… Theon came to fetch me, I surly did no dodging of my own.” interjected Araminta, not exactly wanting to talk the details of that experience.
The change in Reeves disposition was truly something to mentally marvel at. It was fluid, it was quick and it was done so with such ease that if one hadn’t been paying attention, surely would have missed it. For the man was deepening himself into the efforts of work related talk. Which was removing cloak and instructing that of his ward to be the one to mend, repair and of course done likely because Padma was still training. Not quite the same level as her mentor, even if he was somewhat worried she was about to let her feelings of loathing about him get involved. Tilting a watchful eye to her while she in turn thought it best to tell her master that she was plenty skilled to the point that any undressed was highly unnecessary.
He may have agreed but he also didn’t have the strict training that Padma and Reeves did. So his opinion would be rendered plenty moot. Especially seeing as Reeves was prompt to point out that things could be missed. That did make sense to him. Not about to get all fussed about dressing down, while being sure that Araminta had come to sit to the man’s suggestion.
Allowing himself to begin the task of removing cloak to hang up so it wouldn’t be in any one’s way, as the means of removing the effort of tunic at this point had become somewhat of a circus act. Done, but still a lot of added shimmying because the damn broken hand and clavicle didn’t work in tandem to aid much of anything!
Still he managed well enough till the plain of skin was in plain view. Bandages, scars and a lack of betterment to being bared from the top up, while his attention seemed to navigate curiously to that of Reeves pointing out that they had been immensely relieved that Araminta had not succumb to Gusteau’s violent means of an end. Though he was not blind and noticed her discomfort, “The matter was dealt with and better left as a ugly memory rather than put Araminta through such a reliving. Even accidentally.” Theon stated clearly that he didn’t wish to hear another word about this. Not wanting to make Araminta suffer a second longer.
Lowering himself carefully down to sit. Before he seemed to look at Padma first and, “If possible, the arm would be appreciated to be mended first. It is… troublesome to be one limb down.”
“Then we dare not speak about it a moment further,” agreed Reeves, nodding a serious affirmation to Theon before turning a more gentle sight to the princess. “Only know that the keep has been said to be burned clear down to rubble, naught but iron and stone left behind. The news has reached the Imperial Castle and is now spreading quickly. It seems quite a few prisoners were able to escape and have not kept lips silent.”
Araminta could not help but feel a sense of relief that at least some were able to get out of the dungeon cells and escape the terrible torture castle. The only silver lining to that dastardly place and she hoped it stayed nothing but rubble until the trees and woods took it back over again.
Padma shot Reeves a look with a questioning point at Theon over his request, and to Reeve’s nod she began the subtle art of warming up her hands. Rubbing them together in a surprisingly gentle and graceful motion of swiftness compared to her usually serious and tense features. Drawing them apart as if she were stretching out a wad of dough, only for it to be softly glowing strands of light magic until she felt satisfied with the strength of it. Picking up Theon’s hand to remove it from sling and sandwich between both of hers.
The means of healing bone required pushing that magic in deep, and like in the lesson in the temple, Theon could likely feel where Padma was testing and tugging at his own manna to see how much she could safely draw from his own strength before matching with her own. It was a tingling, tickling sort of thing,… and she seemed way more uncomfortable with the fact he was shirtless and avoiding looking than having to hold his hand.
“What of Neive?” Araminta decided to ask, although this healing display had her attention fairly raptly. “Were you able to do anything for the blighted village?”
“Ah! Now that was an interesting turn of events!” exclaimed Reeves. “We camped and waited to see who might turn up, eventually meeting a band of poorly dressed fiends appeared, with a captive no less. It seems the demonic idle requires ritualistic sacrifice to keep it’s stream of poisons flowing. We put a stop to it promptly and allowed one to escape as we purified the area.”
“So that we might track him to see where he came from,” explained Padma, seeming to fear they were going to get the idea that she and Reeves just allowed cultists free willy-nilly.
“Indeed. With the idol gone the blight should begin to heal.”
“What about the slimes?” piped in Araminta. “Will there still be slimes? There are little cerulean snails that eat it!”
It wasn’t much that caught Reeves by surprised, but this question had him stopping to ponder. Brushing his fingers through bushy black beard.
“I say, that must be why that magnificent old woman threw a rock at my head. She was covered in the things.” To this Reeves erupted into a boisterous laugh. “Aye, those slimes were native to the cave and though numbers will dwindle back down, I imagine they won’t be leaving any time soon.”
Through all of this Padma worked through first mending the bones in his shattered hand… and what a mess it was! Far more intricate work than she’d been expecting, but she was a natural talent at her craft and wasn’t even close to breaking a sweat. When she released Theon’s hand, she showed him with her own how she wanted him to test his fingers to be sure that bone and muscle were all connected as it should.
The news travelled back to the Imperial Palace, then the queen was likely steaming angry. And that was putting it lightly. Her dutiful bastard murderer, slain. His torture den, toppled and light asunder and hopefully with no chance of somehow being revitalized. As that was still a thought in his own mind, still not too swift to believe that his egg donor wasn’t without dark tricks. Gusteau was certainly more than just a man and he had yet to figure out what he was. Not that he could dwell on that while it seemed the paladin’s talent of healing was certainly far more intricate than his own.
Drawing line of sight to watch. To study and when Padma had taken hand, he was well prepared for the sensation of healing tendrils to reach beyond, skin and meat. Though he was vastly intrigued on how they learnt their healing abilities. The lengths they had to go through to master it to a point that it wasn’t pulling their own manna to the point of sickness.
Seemingly not noticing Padma’s discomfort or he was being polite not to draw attention to it. Thankfully Araminta had asked about Neive and his gaze drew over to paladin lord and princess. Now all ears to hear what they had located.
Which apparently was those of unsavoury sorts using fleshy sacrifices to keep the plagued strife in such a place. A thought that lingered in his mind to wonder just how potentially large such a group could be, considering they had allowed one to get away likely to tell its cohorts about the fact they had lost a ritual zone. Of course Padma chimed in, expressing why they did so. “It would be good to see if there is potentially more. A wise choice.” Like chasing a wounded animal that could lead them back to a den of the same dangerous beasts. A culling could be a lot easier if the ritualists weren’t spread out in various areas but cloistered in one particular area. Taking out a lot of them or learning about the mass size of such an organization.
Of course, Ara was concerned not so much for the slimes but the snails that were Matilda’s. And in turn, Bo with his business since the silk came from the curious creatures.
In a manner of seconds, he was staring at the paladin lord when he was laughing and had mentioned how Matilda had hurled a rock at his head. So unsurprised by the woman’s callous receiving of the paladins, that he ought to have been somewhat horrified that they didn’t think to warn Reeves about Matilda’s prickly personality. “Good. Those snails she has are vital for just herself, but others.” He wouldn’t elaborate too much more than that. Likely because the means of repairing his hand had been carried out and now was being motioned too in how he was to replicate her movements. Watching her a moment and then began the work of making each muscle respond to its mental request. A slow avenue that had him stiffly beginning to work the fingers to her instruction.
Repeating it a few more times before nodding to Padma, “Thank you. This already helps,” He was earnest about that and decided that while he didn’t like having his clavicle cracked apart either, he would leave her to do the rest at her educated knowledge. “What of the walking dead in Neive?”
Reeves made a tapping motion over his own clavicle – a silent signal on what would come next, seeming to put healing bone above everything else. Padma repeating the process of warming her hands before having to place on palm flat over Theon’s broken clavicle and the other on his upper back. She found this to be completely awkward and had her eyes set to the ceiling.
“We laid them to rest,” Padma answered herself. “Without the poison leeching into the river no more should rise. Over time the land will heal itself again. Might have to be renamed to Slime Lake rather than Neive.”
“I’m so glad,” breathed a relieved sigh from Araminta. “People will get to move back into their homes again.”
Sir Reeves seemed to be beaming from these responses, a sort of pride and approval that strangely wasn’t centered at himself. Clasping his hands behind his back and he continued his means of relaying events.
“As his Majesty alluded, potentially more turned out to be correct.” he continued. “We tracked the fiend to a city called Z’raka where deep in the underbellies there seems to be a new church. They are calling themselves The Black Wyvern and appear to have allegiances to one of the demon lords. They were incredibly hard to find and I fear they realized their lair had been discovered. It was gone by the next day.”
Araminta knew a demon idle when she saw one… or felt it. So to have it confirmed that it was not just an idol for a cult, but for one worshipping an actual demon lord, it left this cold dread in the pit of her stomach.
“Most importantly, and I fear this will affect your trials, I do believe Bloody Heirra has ties to this cult.” Reeves revealed rather grimly. His usual cheer being replaced with a grim countenance. “There was not time to investigate properly before they picked up and vanished – but I am certain I recognized some of the armor on their knighted fellows. Rare materials for certain, akin to that of the Mad Mercenary. Our delay here was due to a detour to the Imperial City so that we might look for signs. I can say that things there look quiet. Dangerously so.”
Here Padma had finished with the broken bones and already had shifted down to one knee for placing her hands to that stab wound on Theon’s side. Any awkwardness she had was now gone, replaced by her own bewildered and amazed expression.
“I can’t believe the two of you have survived trials and demons, yet you get your ass kicked by bandits. Did you at least get in a good punch yourself?”
He did consider Padma when she went to the new task of healing and was placing hands upon him, only to look at the ceiling. Which had him replicating the action to see if there was something particularly interesting up there. Besides a roof. Likely not shocking to anyone, was the fact there was absolutely nothing present and he was shortly tilting sight back downwards to be an astute listener to all that came next.
A lot that was highly troublesome and honestly, he wished he could say he was stunned at all. Leaving himself to roll tongue along teeth with gaze following similar suit upon floor. The only difference now in all this was his suspicions of his mother being a potential follower –if not cult leader- to this Black Wyvern- was confirmed. “She has a lower portion of the castle dedicated to all manners of things that would properly bring most to uncomfortable tears.” Theon quietly admitted, “Though I can’t say I know much, to get close to the place is highly difficult.” Feeling like he didn’t need to imply that the Queen would have seen it fit to harm or kill whomever got too close with no care about whom it was.
Just that he could frown at the suggestion about the armour that Gusteau wore and how the castle itself was hushed. Likely meaning the queen was plotting or already in the middle of something.
As she finished and was already moving along to the next portion of himself –feel like he was in fact being mended back together- Padma was well, amusing.
“It is commonly those you suspect less to do the harm and will succeed.” He commented rather dryly, frowning as he thought about those that had assaulted him. “No punching. Contrary to belief, I don’t enjoy harming others. Even if they deserve it.” Theon flexed his hand once more and slowly began moving the shoulder. “A bright light spell worked well enough to cause them to scatter with what they had stolen.” Just that he seemed to pause and think back. “You said demons, as in plural. Then you’ve seen other demons?”
“Hmn, we may have paid a visit to a certain underground mine suggested by your Princess Araminta,” said Reeves, looking as if he’d swallowed a whole lemon.
“…and ran our asses right back out just as fast.” exclaimed Padma with a sudden laugh.
“Sometimes even when one is mentally prepared, you still find yourself shocked. Your suspicions were correct, dear princess. Though we were not quite there long enough to truly explore the ancient city, there were signs of demonic ritual. And well. A hell beast or two feasting on the drowned carcass of another.” Reeves did not have to connect the dots for them, as it was clear now that there was at least two trial locations that were laced with demon influence.
Araminta seemed to have the gears in her head already whirling and wheeling, taping her fingers on her knees as she attempted to put together the puzzle pieces in her head, while still not yet having the full picture. Not all of the trial locations had demon influence. The bog was just a bog. The harpy’s cliff nothing special. It could be that Araminta had simply chosen locations that weren’t near a cultist’s lair. The faerie wood? Well… Araminta already knew the Queen was in bad standing with the fae, although… there was that strange Baphomet.
“…then we should assume that it’s possible to run into these cultist with each trial we take.” Araminta finally stated. “If the idol in Neive needed ritual sacrifice, it may be that trial takers are easy fodder for such rituals. It does not matter to Heirra if one ever brings her their quest items, for their death is already of use.”
“You’re as good as you’re gonna get,” murmured Padma to Theon, climbing back up to her feet and dusting her hands off as if she’d been working all day in a field. Having to just as quickly side-step out of the way, for the second she told Theon his healing was all done, the Princess Araminta was up out of her chair throwing her arms around the Imperial Prince’s neck and squeezing like a desert viper!
The woman looked properly scandalized and Araminta didn’t give a single damn that she’d been in the middle of a serious conversation! She’d not had the chance to hug him in days, so Theon and everyone else was going to have to suffer!
One bit of confirmation and he had an ugly grossed shudder with all too much recollecting of the big black now apparently demonic orb spider that had certainly been too many living nightmares for him to ever feel properly comfortable. Crinkling nose and looking at the two paladins when they were speaking about how Araminta had been right. That the most recent trial they had been too, was also under demonic influence. Promptly pushing the thought of overgrown spiders from his thoughts –wanting to light it on fire for a third time- Theon listened. Trying to fathom the connection outside of the obvious fact that the more trials one completed, the riskier they had become.
To where no one beat the nineth one at all.
And this next one was with the lich, which he was still unsure if it was under a demonic presence or just some undead fiend that had been trapped because the woman that bore him, had sold herself down to the inner depths of hell. Which truly, he wouldn’t have been shocked by even remotely.
He tapped his chin with due thought. Trying to crank the wheels of thought and things he had seen or knew about to offer insight, but Padma was climbing up to her feet declaring he was about as good as he was going to get. About to thank her for her due diligence, save there was a spritely dart that had Araminta bound about his neck, squeezing with all the force that wasn’t potentially snuffing him out and he didn’t resist as he typically would have, the measure of returning it. “I’m alright, Padma is a very good healer.” He stated this loudly so the ward could preen or become more uncomfortable with his statement. Squeezing back till he was motioning he still needed to move and well—
“There is potential something else.” Theon broached once he was able to and made a tapping of chest. “I am sure you know that I have mage potential. Nothing as grand as healing such as your own however, curses. Or hex’s? I am not sure what it is.” Truly he didn’t but he knew he ought to bring it up seeing as this had been one of the original things they were to see them about. “Are you… able to tell if there is demonic influence with myself? It would seem every so often that something grips upon that of my heart and… makes it known it can squish it, if they wanted. It is of no health condition before that I know of.”
For a moment it appeared that it might take two entire paladins to pry Araminta away from Theon. Especially as the man actually used his whole arms and hugged her back proper! Not just his shy patpats, or loose holdings, a real actual squeezing hug. Even then she’d only pulled back enough to be half sitting on his lap as he gestured and spoke to Sir Reeves. Bringing up that strange pain in his heart, which was the original reason why they needed to see them in the first place. Only then did Araminta finally remove herself and take a few steps out of the way.
Padma was still reeling from this ridiculous display of affection towards a man whose original reputation was one he didn’t deserve and new reputation was somehow just as frightening. At least from the tilt of Reeves head, she understood her own job for the day was done, leaving the woman to shift and stand at Araminta’s side. Eyeballing the princess as if she could understand why she and her Imperial Prince were so strange.
“To be honest, I have been quite curious to know why you are not a fully realized mage,” admitted Reeves with some pondering. “Even without proper schooling under a master, you have natural talent and should be capable of more than what you are.” Now it seemed to be Sir Reeve’s turn for a healing investigation, rolling his shoulders and sliding his hands together before he tilted a look towards Araminta. Seeming to check with her for the permission to lay his hands on the Imperial Prince much in the same way he’d been oddly checking on Theon before touching Araminta.
When she promptly nodded, the Lord Paladin approached to kneel on one knee. Doing much the same as Padma had, placing one hand over Theon’s heart and the other directly on his back.
“Breathe natural and pay me no mind.”
They could ask him all sorts of questions pertaining to that of his mage-hood, but they’d find very little in the way of answers. Though he was a little distracted by Araminta sliding back and the state of Padma’s features. The girl really did think some obvious things, now didn’t she. He only hoped as she matured and became an even stronger paladin, that her bedside manner might do the same maturing. Or at least learning how to school her features better.
Less he start questioning her need to gawk at them like they were two particularly ugly fish in a bowl, he went about the means of talking of that heart. How it had been times where it feels as though something is literally holding it in the palm of hand with a violent squeezing. Piercing claws into the soft tissue to leave him gasping, trembling and numb. “I’ve never been taught.” Theon affirmed, “Outside of, figure it out or die.” A blunt way of expressing it but no less true.
The Imperial Queen was a artisan mage. Good at her craft and she did pass that down to some of her children. Not to say all of them were gifted, but there were enough to express her ability was great. Add on that he was half nokken, a creature that was able to shapeshift and charm people into a watery grave and well, one would think he had stronger abilities.
Not that he was every mindful about such things prior. Being a good compliant sycophant to the queen was the only part that had mattered then. Now, with him freed in some terms and wishing to aid Araminta to succession and further; the gravity of his lack of knowing his heritage on both sides was rather bleak. Something to be corrected as gingerly as he could.
As an allowance was given, he wasn’t bothered by Reeves approach. Nodding to just leave the man to what it was that he could before looking over to Padma, “The ruins that you were both chased from, is there a plan or a potential of one to aid such a place. A elven city of that magnitude and the fact that Araminta had found the withered tree of the elves below as well… seems vital.” He frowned softly, having suddenly an ugly thought. Gray eyes resting soon to Araminta, “The tree is a network… is it possible to be influenced by the demonic energy or what have you to seep such necrotic sepsis elsewhere?”
“We were not there long enough to know if the demonic influence was recent or as ancient as the buried city itself,” admitted Padma with some regret. “We are only two and… I’ll just say that one requires a lot more than two if one wants to avoid being a spider’s human sized cherry cordial. Not impossible, just difficult.”
“I have some theories,” Reeves added. “I suspect it was more than just a blighted seeping. It is more likely that somehow a portal was opened within that city, pouring beasts into it like a plague. Such trees allow the fae to travel through this realm freely. If they were all to be destroyed the fae would be trapped in their own realm the same as demons are. Had you seen such trees in your own Kingdom, Princess?”
Araminta shook her head but was quick to elaborate. “I’d never seen such a thing before, but there were lots of places that belonged to the fae. Places no one dared wandered into or near.”
“Just a theory then. Come here,” he beckoned with a finger for Araminta to come close taking her by the wrist when she did to place her palm over Theon’s heart. Padma making a squawking what are you doing, weirdo in the background that he promptly ignored. “what do you feel?”
“It- His heart beating. Not so steady, but beating” she stammered, finding this as strange as Padma, when it didn’t come with a warning!
“Nothing demonic? Not a feeling? Not an inkling?” he asked specifically, eyeing her features as he did so.
Araminta clued in then on what Reeves was wanting to know, tapping her fingers there against Theon’s chest, finding that she could feel a burn in her cheeks but… not much else. Bringing those verdant green eyes to meet Theon’s silver with a soften relieved look.
“No. Nothing demon at all.”
With a humming sound, Reeves investigation was finished. Rising up from the floor to leave Araminta there with the Imperial Prince as he paced back and forth across the floor. Rubbing his jaw with a rough hand and looking very nearly stumped.
“The Imperial Prince appears to be heartless,” announced Reeves, clearly not liking this first impression and trying to work it out there right in front of their eyes. “By the gods, it’s as if the damned thing was merely a ghost of a heart in your chest! There beating for certain, yet still somehow empty space! For it not to be demonic is a boon, but I fear it is a black magic just as vile.”
There was a moment in time that even as Padma pointed out clearly that they were only two beings that had attempted to enter the infested area, there was more to it. In which he had asked curiously about leaving Reeves to do what he was doing without being stared awkwardly at. At least from his angle. Shortly finding himself very interested in these theories the lord paladin potentially had. Which was a lot about the fae tree. Just it might not have much connected to the tree persay but that a portal may have been opened there. If that had been it, then he believed even opening a portal would require quite the large amount of magic and of course, sacrifices.
A city of that size would have had plenty. Even if it wasn’t in its hayday, there had been people evacuating it. Add on the amount of bones they had found and well, it truly could have been the case. Where Araminta had mentioned that her own home had fae pockets but they were often stayed away from. Recalling her stating as such before whilst Reeves invited Araminta closer to play second opinion. Never mind Padma’s squawking horror.
What did she believe was going to happen right now? As much as he could understand her loathing towards him, did she have no faith in her mentor or even Araminta as a girl who had already accomplished very impossible things. Truly, she ought to believe in what it was her master was doing even if it might seem a little peculiar, though likely wasn’t outside the normality of how Reeves typically behaved.
As a secondary hand was placed, he was promptly listening once more. Watching this time as the two of them were trying to determine whether or not there was something locked inside that was causing the pangs of twisted agony, only that they both unified that there wasn’t a vague inkling of anything demonic.
Echoing his own relief at that when those bright jades found him. Noticing how her cheeks were all flushed up and there was a very strong want to just brush a thumb over one. As if she wasn’t aware she was doing it.
As the paladin gathered up, Theon found himself happy that there was nothing so bleak as a demonic influence within him but… but; “What?” He wasn’t expecting to be told he was quite literally heartless! Moving his own touch to the portion where thumping beat ought to be and sort of just lingered on the spot. Feeling what to him was still perfectly normal. As Araminta aid, it was beating but its effort appeared to be not so steady. “This… isn’t?” Theon didn’t bother to finish that sentence about to expose that he still had really no idea of what was normal or not. Apparently even with himself.
Listening to Reeves though there was a crossing of distant defeat paired with belied amusement at the absurdity of this. “Black magic.” He mumbled, “I… ho… how does…” How the hell was he supposed to fix that!? “I didn’t know I was actually a heartless monster.”
“Not heartless,” corrected Araminta immediately, reaching out to squeeze his shoulder. “Anything but heartless.”
“Hmn, the fair lady is correct.” adding Reeves, still pacing back and forth. “It beats like any other, only… elsewhere. It is truly a marvel.”
Araminta wasn’t sure what Sir Reeves was cooking up in his own brain, but there were several things that were obviously apparent to the princess. As she shifted to kneel comfortably next to Theon, there was that thoughtful frown across her features. The Imperial Queen had his heart – no doubts about that. Gusteau’s comments on that regard now made even more sense. That hateful woman could reach out across distances to remind him who had the leash because she literally had his heart in her hands!
How does one even begin to unravel such a grizzly spell!
“He isn’t a mindless minion,” Padma suddenly announced, apparently also participating in this brainstorming. “You, uh, your Imperial Majesty, are fully yourself. A man of compassion and honesty, who successfully chose to break away from the Queen and make his own decisions. That means it is not a spell to control your mind or force you to act, it’s for another purpose.”
Reeves snapped his finger, pointing it at Padma and giving a little waggle as this dawned new thoughts for him.
“Yes. Yes! That is good! Yet problematic for other reasons…If Bloody Heirra holds your heart, then that most certainly means it is for a purpose more than just a jolly bit of torture for her entertainment.”
“What can be done about it? How do we break such an awful curse?” asked Araminta. Aside from storming the Queen’s castle and beat the woman with a stick, as that was what was currently running through Araminta’s mind and she knew that wasn’t the way.
“Regretfully, I am uncertain.” answered Sir Reeves, falling into an uncharacteristic frown. “I’ve never seen such a thing – at minimum his heart must be found, as I do not know what would happen should we attempt to sever the spell without it. The rest… I will need to do research.”
He had been prepared to hear that he had a spell upon him of some greater darkness but he also had believed there would have been something to be done about it. Knowing well that the paladins in this room were some of the greatest fighters and healers alike. Only to find out that apparently in his chest, was absent of the very thing that was supposed to keep him alive! And it was, but… not where it was supposed to be.
It was not at all what he expected to hear and felt a strange ebbing that he couldn’t even be sure was real at this point! It wasn’t there, how the hell could it even do half the things he thought. Not sure he felt the same as Araminta suggesting he wasn’t heartless, or Reeves interest to say it was a marvel. Surely not a marvel that anyone wanted to ever experience.
In the same wagon of thought, he felt the same as the princess. Gusteau’s mocking commentary returning as if the man had returned as a ghost to do so against his ear. Reminding that he had said the Queen had his heart in her hands. Just rather literally.
What else did the Imperial Queen have of his that he didn’t know wasn’t actually with him? How could she have such magic at all! Well if she was signing herself to dark powers, then that already announced itself. Only affirming that she was just someone who truly didn’t care, so long as she ruled. Granted he was a bit more than surprised when Padma spoke up upon the subject. Almost expecting her to have some witty commentary about how he merely was just a fitting pawn for that of the Imperial Queen, save she wasn’t. Apparently pointing out things about him that he was sure her tongue was probably burning for. Wondering if she was just trying to seem like she didn’t absolutely hate him because her master and the kneeling woman beside was not currently holding pitchforks and torches for a good ol’ fashioned lynching.
Moving his hand at least to offer to Araminta as he didn’t much like the idea of her kneeling at all. Laying his attention over to Reeves snapping and then this sort of back and forth that seemed to border on there was a precise reason why the Queen had his heart. It didn’t appear she could control him, or she hadn’t yet. But there was a purpose for what she did and why he wasn’t killed as of yet. Surely believing from all the pain that she caused him, that she surely would. There was no love for a him as her child.
“To claim it back would be certain death. I doubt she would welcome the idea with open arms after all.” Theon frowned, “Where would one even look within the palace.” His mind rolled and all he could think of is wouldn’t it be nice if one of his other siblings were still alive. That they might be willing to work together.
Araminta clasped his hand hoping that the contact would remind him that he was no longer a singular island floating alone. Knowing something was deeply wrong within yourself and having no idea how to fix it was a terrifying thing, Araminta knew this well from her own experience. Theon was the one to get her through it, so there was no doubt in her mind that they could do the same for Theon himself.
“Going to the castle to search would be suicidal,” Padma agreed. “But there’s advantage in knowing and not letting her know that you are aware now.”
Reeves made a soft affirming hum, crossing his arms while he scratched at his chin. “If we were to find it before we know how the spell works to break such a curse, you would then be on the run in a far more dangerous way. For now the actions of your Princess Araminta are drawing her focus in a way that could allow my ward and I time to research dark magics, perhaps discover how deeply her ties to this Black Wyvern run for surely it is connected.”
“…continuing the trials might also aid our research,” added in Padma. “The princess seems to have a sense for things, doesn’t she? Relaying to us where you discover demonic influence as you travel to the trials may give us additional leads. You just have to actually survive these bloody trials.”
Araminta cast a suddenly wide cheeky grin at Theon. “We’ve already promised not to die. We can do it.”
“Hmn! Yes, with help as well. Our final means of business,” the Lord Paladin gestured for Padma to look through one of their packs, the dusky woman setting out a variety of items on the table. A couple vials of water, a small glass orb lantern that was empty, a few black candles and a shimmery silver coin. “For your trial with the lich. While we cannot join you just yet for the trials themselves, may we at least provide you with supplies.”
Even entering the city itself would be suicidal. The very nest where his mother sat was no more than a viper pit filled with all sorts of dangerous beings. Ready to strike because they knew and could safely act in ways that would surely surrender him into her awaiting claws. They might not be able to kill him as such a task was going to be relegated to that of his mother only, but they could certainly have their fun. He’d be lucky if he didn’t look the same as he just had been.
Still, this was not the thing he had expected to hear. To learn that he was just a puppet in more ways than he originally knew! “It’s not so much an advantage when she feels its time to dole out punishment.” Theon muttered softly, now all the more worried about the fact that at any second she just might pick up his heart and decidedly give it a threatening squish.
It seemed that this had become a rather peculiar riddle for the paladin’s to thumb through. Leaving his mind to be a plenty miserable scape that was doing well to doubt plenty of things. Just turning to retrieve that of shirt, as he didn’t think it was necessary to keep sitting here all chest out. Finding that the decision right now was to keep moving with the trials in hopes that along with Araminta’s success, they would be able to keep the queen’s attention. In turn, perhaps giving Reeves and Padma a chance to investigate further.
Didn’t really have a choice, now did they?
Once the garment was back and being smoothed into place, assuring that fingers were given a few squeezes so appreciate their movement once more, of course Araminta was grins soon enough. Mentioning how they had promised not to keel over due to the trials. No one could have really prepared either of them surely about what additional help the two were offering. Which apparently came out in a variety of items. The water, he could figure was blessed. But the rest, “What is this?” Theon asked curiously.
“The holy water and spirit candles will help repel ill spirits,” explained Reeves. “The coin is copper on the inside and plated with silver, meant to protect you from being possessed so long as you hold it in the palm of your hand. And the last is a grim jar. If you are going into the den of the undead, it is best to seek the protection of a spirit. A grim, a fae, a ghost… a being that can shift into an ethereal form.”
“Theon mentioned that a grim would be a good idea,” mentioned Araminta. Though, the idea that it was a graveyard spirit dog still disturbed her the tiniest bit. If they were on the same page about this suggestion, then it was one Araminta would need to follow through on.
The Lord Paladin nodded finally after such a long and dreary conversation breaking into his wide smile. “One expects nothing less of an avatar for our Lady of Light.”
Padma rolled her eyes and groaned out loud. “Not this religious nonsense again, Reeves, you’re going to give them anxiety! They have enough problems already!”
The man just made a simple pah noise and waved his hand to dismiss his ward’s protests. “Well, then, let us think of troubles no longer this day! A man has been given his freedom of movement once again, perhaps you’d like to spend your first few hours of renewed body in this fine establishment’s bathhouse! While Padma steals away with one of the girls-” The woman gave a sputtered excuse me?! “the three of us could have delightful conversation amongst the steam and the ambience.”
Well that was an interesting haul of things. Having no history really with the undead outside of them sometimes wandering through the lands and needing to be quelled, he knew little outside what he told Araminta already. Particularly knowing about church grims and them being good spirits. The coin was interesting and already knew he’d be sure that Araminta had it stashed on her person. Though the grim jar was highly interesting instrument. And he was momentarily stalled looking at the three of them about how Reeves made a short list. Settling upon Araminta, “I do not know if my fae blood would be enough to help even vaguely with that.” Uncaring at this point any further what Padma and Reeves knew. Surely they’d already figured in some capacity that he was not fully human.
Though he was curious if his equine form could help.
Lightly brushing fingers over that of beard, whilst eyes played their part on resting on whomever was speaking. His head felt heavy. Overburdened with a lot of new, ugly truths but this mention of avatar for our Lady of Light, did earn the lord paladin a raised brow.
Add on that the ward decided that her mentor was being wild in his tongue; of course they were promptly shooed aside.
“I appreciate the healing truly. Thank you both.” He started and then sort of mentally balked at Reeves as well with his statement of the establishment, the bathhouse, Padma stealing a girl –that got a look- and finally the suggestion that Reeves was inviting them to talk amongst the waters. His mouth dropped, closed and then looked at Araminta for that one. As he… wasn’t even sure that was appropriate! Not to mention she wanted to have these two tarry along for a proper meal, or well… as close as one as he could make.
Araminta seemed to be the last one in the room to understand that Sir Reeves had made them a flirtation proposition. Only seeing Padma’s rolling of her eyes and usual exasperation with Reeve’s exuberant personality, then giving a confused blink back at Theon who seemed to have a curious expression of his until–
Oh! Oh no, that couldn’t possibly what everyone was thinking it was. Not from the Lord Paladin! Still, there might be a pink tinge in her cheeks, but Araminta was refusing to believe it anything more than a tease.
“That is… that is an interesting offer, but I would like to spend the day alone with Theon. Though, I would very much like to introduce you to the family that is housing us? To thank you both for your time and help with a dinner!” Seamlessly saving the day with her quickness to words, already shifting up off the floor to add these gifted items into her basket.
“Aaah, the makings of an underground communications network,” responded Reeves, taking no offense in the slightest. “Truly, your majesty, you have aligned yourself with a woman of merit. You are not to remain heartless for long.”
There was a lingering sort of wonderment about Reeves and just what offering he was making at all. Knowing what was implied just not at all expecting it to come from the paladin! Practically feeling as though it had come out of left field considering, that couldn’t have been in the top ten of things that would have ever crossed his mind about the paladin. Although his personality, it may have made sense. Though he wouldn’t have said no if it was something Araminta wanted though he’d likely be uncomfortable about it.
Mutely relieved when Araminta clicked in and realized what was being offered here. Sure they could certainly pick at Reeves thoughts for a good long while, doing so in a steamy bath where the means of nudity was rather rampant, did not seem like the best environment.
A whole other way of saying that one had nothing to hide by baring their bare butt!
“Theon.” He stated then rather quickly having heard both people address him in such a formal way and starting to get annoyed with it. “I think it’s abundantly clear to say that the Imperial Queen has never intended a title to me, but a noose. I’d rather it ended here.” Lungs pulled and released before nodding. “She is the reason we’ve stayed alive this long, saying Ara is a woman of merit is merely the start of praising her properly. But yes, you are right.” Yet he frowned before making a rather bleak twist at himself, “Well can’t miss what I likely never had, now can I.”
But his focus turned and he went to collect the basket for Araminta once he was properly standing, “We’ll have to go and get the ingredients but I am sure you can find your way to the abode if need be. It seems Madam Jasa has her messengers aware of the location. Unless you require an escort?”
Reeves seemed to have something on his mind at Theon’s mentioned of not wishing to be titled, yet he nodded his acceptance to speak the name the Imperial Prince wished.
“Theon, as it will be.” he said, patted Theon warmly on the back to escort them out. “Nay, nay, we’ll find our way there without trouble. My ward and I will refresh ourselves first by blessing the waters of the Madam’s fine house.”
As Reeves closed the door behind them, Padma could just barely be heard hissing, “You’re the sluttiest man I have ever met.” and Reeves cojoined boisterous laughing response of, “You haven’t met my brother.“
Araminta still refused to believe it was anything more than just the teasing of a man who knew how to gently set people off kilter. Or in this case, hassle his younger ward into frustration at every turn. Catching her and Theon in the crosshairs, no less.
On down the hall she clasped his hand and started reaching to retrieve her basket from him, stopping halfway when she realized he likely was glad to actually be using the arm now. Leaving her to be more than happy to wrap herself around his free arm without any more worries about tugging him too hard. Now having other concerns as she glanced up at him with a frown.
“It’s heavy to know there is something not right in you. Scary especially, when you’re not sure what can happen.”
That muffled commentary was worth a staring hold. Slightly curious but a little more horrified to think that Araminta may have accidentally delivered a man to the Stable Fawn that would be hard to remove. Padma might have to tug him out by his ear why fawning women were all over him. Suddenly making the name sound just a little on the nose. Guessing it may have been part of its reasoning for being deemed as such. It was, quite the thought!
Still, they had things now to do and with him being able to breathe right, his arm and back no longer ached and the use of his hand was back to normal, he wasn’t so much a walking eyesore. Or pity party. Having gotten that enough when he was corralling the three children outdoors and someone was doing that cooing pity that had started to really annoy him behind the mental wall. Now, he was able to move freely once more and found Araminta having once more moved to claim that of limb with ease. A creature of habit though he was hardly loathing it. Quite the opposite.
Appreciative that she didn’t suddenly find everything learnt about his mother and himself, worth saying toodles too. Though he would have hardly blamed her. And she had been on about her being too much, what the hell did that say about him!
“There’s plenty not right. This… was just a added layer of disbelief I just don’t know what to make of.” Brows furrowed gingerly, lightly touching the spot that ought to be beating strongly but finding that familiar faintness he had assumed was entirely normal for so long! He couldn’t even say when it wasn’t normal. “We both know at least she won’t try to kill me unless I am at her own feet. Not that it is a boon. Just now everything that had left that man’s mouth makes sense and expressed all the more that truly all we ever were to her was that of toys. Just the others had long since broken.” Claiming siblings as such that had come to the end of their lives so they couldn’t be used any further.
“Now… I don’t know what to think. Things I thought were the same as anyone else, isn’t.” How could he be sure anything he felt was real? Didn’t the heart have a purpose for those things.
“You are still you, as Padma did say,” Araminta brought up to help ease his mind. “She’d not have not sent her magic nor her mercenary if she had true control of your heart and mind. You are still Theon.”
However, it did beg the question of why, which was such an open ended thing that had many potential answers. Not knowing herself how black magics worked, but she was good at pondering over the details of all her little puzzle pieces. While they didn’t get a resolution, there was more revealed pieces than they had yesterday. Giving way to new ideas and theories.
“It is interesting how much comes back to the fae,” she mused out loud as they headed out of the Sable Fawn and on likely towards the markets she could safely assume. “You are the only one born of fae, yes? She is such a powerful woman, yet in all of her years only managed one? More than one trial relates to the fae even if in just vague ways. Somehow she could get to me and take control with a spell, yet she cannot seem to do that with you even though she holds your heart?”
“I do not know what it means yet,” Araminta admitted with a sigh. “I feel somehow that connection is important, though. As important as the information about her cult ties.”
“And what if the person I am right now, is not the real person at all?” He asked her then knowing she was trying to comfort him but it was a glaring thought in his mind. “Who is to say that if I had a heart… it might not be as black as her own.” Such a thought was entirely ugly and truly no one could have wanted to think of it in such a way, he knew a heart had so much persuasion on someone. It was a muscle yes, but it housed so much more. It had been one of the many new thoughts that were flocking to him like hungry blood flies. Ready to chomp and bite. No matter how much he swatted them away, they got in to bite!
With a bidding of goodbye for now from whomever was at the front of the shop, he drew the cloak closer. Pulling hood up with the reminding niggling chill and found Araminta was deep in thought. Her brows lightly pressed and features consumed in the motion of deep contemplation that he had long since found fascinating. Now there was an influence of cute added but he didn’t know how much she would appreciate that.
Just that she seemed to be mentioning how he was only born of one side to the fae while his mother was in fact human. A powerful one but human. That had clearly made deals to benefit herself in ways that were likely just that. Benefit to her. “Nokken are beings that are known to be charmers, ones who would lure children typically into their watery graves seeing as they are the easiest to manipulate, but they were known for shapeshifting to handsome men with well… a fiddle.” He knew enough of the nokken history but didn’t know how it applied to him. “With the Imperial Queen and the Fae having a strong distaste to another, I could only assume that my father was either one of those proud fae that assumed he was untouchable, or made a bargain with The Imperial Queen thinking that he would win at the end. Unless she knew his real name, he wouldn’t have been banished away easily.”
Mouth became a grim line, “I’d assume that that being fae myself in some way may have been important to get into the graces of the court. But if that was the case, then she would have attempted or had attempted the same with my eldest brother.” Theon considered Araminta, “He was a dragon born child. And proved many times that he was not so easily controlled.” Brows tensed, “And I never truly heard of his death just that he disappeared. Assumed dead. Dragons are beings that are notorious for being either truly good, or truly evil. There weren’t particularly that many outside perhaps my orc sister that may have had purpose to her plans of say greater conquering. But, that still doesn’t explain how I have no heart, or if they never had hearts either. Where they influenced by her… controlled? There’s so much unanswered and honestly—”
He looked around for a moment, “I don’t know how to truly process any of it.” Allowing the silver gaze to fall upon her, “Who is to say that what I feel isn’t a ruse?”
These were fair worries to have – to not know if your feelings and actions were your own. Araminta had many of those herself and she knew there were no words that would take those worries away from him. Squeezing his hand as a means of silent support, even as she listened and filed these useful bits of information away in her head to help fill out the puzzle.
In her opinion it sounded as if a Nokken mate was a simple and easy target for the Queen. One whose nature already leaned towards a seductive charm and the potential to lean towards truly wicked instead of the gently mischievous. With ones like Baphomet existing, it could have been a work-in-progress sort of plan to find her way into the fae realm or fae power.
More curious was what he described his siblings as, for the first time actually lighting up a few of her other curious thoughts.
“…an orc’s tusk is the seventh trial, and a dragon’s scale is the tenth. ” she revealed, finding this all the more interesting.
For the moment though, Araminta paused her walking to draw Theon to a stop too. Crooking a beckoning finger at him until he bent down low enough for her to rich via the rise onto her toes and plant a simple sweet kiss to that of lips.
“If what you are right now is a ruse, then I will happily live in this daydream for as long as it lasts. Should things change in the future, well, we will it figure it out as we have so far.”
Honestly if she was ever curious he would answer her wonderments about that of long gone siblings. He had a good enough record of them that they had mostly been ingrained into his thoughts! Some more of nightmares but there no less. As he theorized he was closer to some of the last children that came from the Imperial Queen. It was merely assumption though to hear her mentioning that a orc tusk and dragon scale were also part of the trails, he blinked at her. “Truly?” he had never really asked about the trials honestly even when he agreed to help.
Now, he was realizing he ought to. “Perhaps, when it is safer to do so, we could go through the trials one by one in a verbal sense. Admittedly I don’t know a lot about them and… if I am to help, then I should know more.” Of course he wasn’t sure what he could glean from it all but it would do well to make him focus on something else besides the glaring reality that he might as well have been a clay golem with no heart!
As she bid them to a stop, Theon paused. Turning back to see the beckoning digit indicating that she wasn’t just saying follow along but asking for a closing of their height differences. Where the stoop was offered, finding the gentle press that was saying simple things to a muddled mind when she was bold enough to do so. Sure that if anyone knew she was the one kissing the imperial prince, they might try to raze both of them to the stake. Even picturing Padma practically fainting considering she damn near had a heart attack when Araminta had hugged him.
Still, it softened a good portion of him. “That’s the part that worries me the most. Figuring it out.” For a moment he thought of just clamming up. Holding such things to himself but knew how well that had worked thus far, “I worry that whatever comes of this will be grievous and that you’ll truly be endangered. Because of me. Due to me.”
“That’s what I feel all of the time,” she admitted with a wry grin and a shrug of her shoulder. Returning to her place at his side to resume their walking proper again now that his brows didn’t looked so harshly furrowed. “I thought that I trapped you in this mess with me, and I worry that I’m going to get you killed. But we were both already in danger on our own. Now we can look out for each other. In fact, I argue that we are safer because of each other.”
Araminta would not have survived the trials on her own without Theon. That was one hundred percent fact, regardless of how Theon seemed to believe she could cleverly think her way out of anything. Being clever could only get her so far before something was bigger and stronger than she! In turn, Araminta did hope that she provided a sense of safety for Theon as well. While she couldn’t shield him entirely from the evils of his mother, Araminta was happy to be the bridge that helped him connect to others.
For awhile life looked bleak and now because they’d stumbled across each other – ironically because of the Queen’s own actions – they were both better for it.
“We’ll discuss the trials and what I know so far once we have the quiet moments,” Araminta agreed easily. Knowing the only reason she hadn’t before was because she was so worried about how much she placed on Theon’s shoulders. “About your family, too, I think. We might discover something new with different perspectives.”
To hear her suggest that was how she felt as well plenty of times, it was a little more than what he could have ever thought. Naturally he wanted to point out the folly and how she was nothing less than good and kind and everything he had been missing in the world, while putting her higher on the pedestal, but he didn’t. Thinking about it and hearing how she had been fearful that she assumed he was trapped because of her. That his death was going to be due to her own actions and well, he didn’t think he ought to keep downplaying her own thoughts. Her feelings.
He didn’t have to agree with them, but he could hear them. “Considering the only safe space I’ve had before was in the imperial palace with a gaggle of murderous children and a parent that was more of a gladiator judge, yes. We are safer together.” Theon exhaled a bit roughly but motioned that they could keep walking.
Humming soon enough when she agreed to talk more about the trials but adding on about his family. “I think that’s a good idea.” It was a very subtle motion to the corner of lip, a slight lift to suggest approval. Before thoughts continued and, “Did… Reeves just invite us to be in a threesome at the bathhouse?” He asked them so strangely and so suddenly that even as he said it, he knew it was very peculiar.
His sudden question about Reeves came seemingly out of nowhere, sending Araminta into a laugh loud enough to erupt the day of anyone else out on the street! A mix of horror, scandal, confusion and delight – as goodness, the Lord Paladin was certainly and interesting mix of bluntly honest statements and charming flattery.
“I am… I am not sure anymore!” she admitted still with half a giggle in her voice and her eyes wide. “I hadn’t thought so, but Padma looked as about as done as anyone could be with a man. He seems to have a fondness and respect for you, but I did not think it extended to flirtations.”
Out of the two of them, if Araminta thought there were any inclinations of interest, they were for certain aimed in Theon’s direction. The paladin had only ever been perfectly respectful and kind with her, not once crossing any lines that made her feel uncomfortable. While she certainly had seen and heard him pouring his praises about Theon in a variety of ways!
“I have a feeling Sir Reeves enjoys a bit of mischief of his own making. I’ve not heard him say a single lie yet, he values his candor so much. Surely he did actually mean only a conversation and well… who is to say what that conversation would’ve been.”
On that note she tilted her head, giving Theon a curious examining look.
“…you’ve said you had experiences before, is that one of them?”
The merry sound of her laughter didn’t perturb him like it would have formerly. Knowing that while he had certainly asked a question that might as well have come out from the wild blue yonder, he had genuinely been curious. As he could read most situations but that one had just caught him so off guard that to query Araminta seemed wise. For even if she wasn’t practiced in such things, she was as smart as a whip. Feeling comfortable to seek her insight to the point that even as she collected herself to mere giggles and people had seemed to be curious to what prompted such a noise; they continued walking towards the market.
Listening as she was not entirely sure either. Just that Padma certainly proved to be the part of fed up ward that didn’t know what to do with her mentor a second more. The whole muffled statement of him being slutty, sure did seem like he was a bit more promiscuous than one might believe a paladin to be. However, as the woman beside him continued, he wasn’t sure he was figuring out what she was saying. Till it stole an additional second to realize she was implying Reeves may have thought him to be the one of interest.
Urging him to momentarily wrinkle his nose. Not sure that would have even crossed his mind.
Shortly arranging the mercury rings to her with a contemplative hold. “Not with men.” Just in case that was what she was meaning, “Though I was younger then, and it was not something done because there was feelings. It was just…” Theon motioned with a hand as if he were letting something go, “Done. She had intentions of using me to get closer to the Imperial Queen. I… was just lonely.” He expressed probably the first time properly understanding that what he felt back then, was not only a carnal want but severe loneliness. Desperate for any sort of connection, even if he knew he was being used.
What a wretched girl to have taken advantage of a young man that desperately needed affection. It was unfortunate enough that such people would chase and pester those of noble blood to gain status and favor, she’d certainly seen enough of those herself. Yet how much worse it was for Theon having grown up without any ounce of love and attention aimed in his direction, except for lies and false promises!
Araminta would not give him pitying looks for this, though! He probably had enough of people’s pity and sorrow by now! She’s save all her anger on his behave for some fateful day she ever got to tell his witch of a mother exactly where she belonged.
“I have never,” Araminta revealed, as it was a good time to share if they were crossing into new territory. Even if the topic was leaving a faint flush of pink in her cheeks. It wasn’t exactly the sort of topic appropriate for a princess to be speaking so openly about… but Araminta was no longer a normal princess, was she! “I was never even the slightest bit interested in anyone… until now.”
Before Araminta could blush any further, she stopped suddenly with a soft oh no under her breath. Pausing to look over her shoulder and then a frown up at Theon.
“I was supposed to speak to Madam Jasa! Sir Reeves’ nonsense had me so befuddled I completely forgot!”
At the time, he was more than aware that the woman that had shown him false fancy was only in it because she thought she could get closer to the Imperial Queen. To heighten her own status and then try to wiggle her way into positions that someone of her status would never be able too. Just, he was accustomed to being used but had warmed under the lying affection. Knowing it was only for her own gain but it had been really the first time that someone had even been close to him. It had been one of the reasons that when Araminta started showing him similar affections, he was leery about.
Though in cousin like vein, he had been desperate for just gentle assurances and touches that he’d overlook them eventually. Just this time, Araminta wasn’t intending to lure him into false hopes for her benefit. She could have, easily. They both likely knew this but she had proven that she wasn’t trying to weasel her way around him to get something better.
Nor did he have any reason to lie to her. To deflect or push away her question. Preferring to be open with her as she asked something. Though, he had not expected her to give commentary back in her own vein. “I know.” Her state of being untouched and pure in that way was fairly obvious. Due to the way she spoke of her own parents, how they loved another and her general actions to being embarrassed when situations did catch her off guard; he was pretty aware. Not that it mattered, she had been raised to be far different and expected to be married off to one only to share such things with.
Something about how she stated she had no interest in anyone till now, he might have wanted to ask about the past. Had she known that he wasn’t the sort of Imperial Prince she expected, what would she have done to the suggestion of an arranged marriage. Sure that she would have managed to strike his curiosity even then that he may had defied his mother all the same.
Just that she stopped again with more of a breathy sound and looking back they way they had come. “Oh.” He had forgot that the Madam wished to speak to Araminta. “Do you wish to go back? We can split ways for now and I can gather the items for the dinner and let you catch up with the Madam?”
Araminta didn’t quite like knowing it was plain to see and quite obvious that she was an inexperienced miss. Though, it’s not as if she was ever the flirtatious, sultry sort of woman that knew how to use feminine wiles either. Sometimes wishing she had experienced some sort of former crush or paramour so she’d have at least been practiced in being that kind of charming.
Yet here in the present, she was still frowning glancing at Theon and then back the way they came. Quietly debating if she was even willing to separate after they’d finally gotten past the awkwardness of their strange week. Preferring to stay close to make up for lost time… only, that wouldn’t be very practical would it. Nor was it good for them if she couldn’t trust they’d have their time later.
“That is best, I think. It’ll only be arrangements for my last performance, so it shouldn’t take too long. I can meet you at the house and we can make dinner together?”
He knew this musical endeavour was important to her and there was no need for both of them to go to the market anyways. The idea that she had potentially been sidetracked due to him was enough of a reason not to insist on them being glue hand to hand. And he had been graciously mended by the paladin Padma, so there was little reason for her to stay about anyways. She had other things to tend too and he was not about to act as a wall to that.
“Don’t rush. This is an important thing to you with your music, take the necessary time till you are pleased with it.” Theon nodded gingerly as he retracted hand from her own. Glancing the way they had come, “I will be at Bogart’s and Adra’s when you are ready.”
A light tip of head to bid that of departure, he motioned for the basket for him to take along. Knowing that with the Madam, she likely wanted the ins and outs from Araminta herself, to assure that all that happened next was suitable to both make coin and of course to offer the princess only the best for the evening. It sounded important enough that it was worth the added time anyways! So it shouldn’t be a concern to hasten or rush at all.
He’d return to the abode and state that he would mind after the children for the parents once more so they wouldn’t feel pressured or worried that their little ones would have to be kept under skirt.
Once basket was in hand, another nod was given and he sought to the task that was now the first on the list.
Even with him insisting she go, Araminta’s few steps backwards were hesitant, lingering longer than she needed to as she just didn’t want to go. Theon wasn’t wrong, though. This opportunity to play her music was a special treat, something she needed to take advantage of while she had the chance. For who knew where the trials would take them next and if she’d have a chance again.
So even with her hesitation, Araminta finally turned on her heels to go back the way she came. Returning to the Sable Fawn within the few shorts minutes… wondering if she might catch a glimpse of Sir Reeves traipsing off with a couple of ladies on his arm, or if his comments about Padma wandering away with a girl was true or just a tease.
Already knowing the halls of the inn and bathhouse so well, that when she asked one of the girls if Madam Jasa was in her office she was able to take herself there on her own. Pausing to knock gently on the door with a soft It’s Araminta!
The madam herself was stationed behind that of the desk. Furiously drafting something that was related to the entire enterprise of the place but nothing so demanding that when the knock at the door and the declaration of the girl being whom was requested to come, Jasa leaned back. “It’s open.” Calling back with eyes flickering up and around to see just how long she had been uninterrupted. Guessing no longer than a few minutes at most, but appreciated that the girl had come regardless.
Knowing that they only had a few details left to discuss and well, “Well you’ve made some interesting friends that is for sure. I am sure my ladies will be grateful for the banquet you’ve provided them.” Jasa smirked as if she had already picked up on Reeves salacious personality. Or someone had come to whisper in her ear. “At this point, I’m curious what next trick you are going to pull. I thought the Imperial Prince was already quite the feat but paladins of the Lady of Light. Araminta, you have your elbows rubbing with quite the class of people.”
A hand directed her to sit, “I’m starting to think I ought to keep you here to flutter and preen in ways to bring even higher clientele without having to do the servicing yourself! But that’s not what you’re here for. It’s for the musical show and well, I thought you might want to decide a few details. We are literally going with a masquerade theme, so masks will be handed at the door. But for you darling, well… we’ll need details on what you want to do. And how long you wish to play for.”
It seemed Araminta was inspiring people left and right with interesting ideas, finding herself very curious peering at the work on Madam Jasa’s desk when she entered. Lingering before she finally took a seat at the Madam’s beckoning.
“I have a fondness for people,” Araminta cryptically, yet truthfully replied. If Jasa knew that she had also met a faerie king as well, the woman might think Araminta had some sort of mystical charm about her, instead of the simple fact that the princess enjoyed meeting and getting to know others. Something that had so far done her well.
“In another life I would have enjoyed staying here to play the part of your songbird,” Araminta laughed. One that ended just as quick, for what a fantastic idea to have a masquerade! Piquing her interest immediately. “What a wonderfully fun idea! It adds such a wicked ambience, doesn’t it?”
Masquerades were always things of mystery, mischief, and romance. For a place like this, to host such an event would certainly add to the sultry dance of charm the ladies of the Sable Fawn worked so hard to achieve. Although, that did beg the question of how Araminta was going to fit into the scene. She did not live up to the allure.
“I can play for an hour and a little more, then I could socialize if you wish me to. I am… I am not quite sure what I would dress as. My first thought is to look like a silvery faerie queen, but that is a bit silly.”
“Call it what you will but I know that sort of fondness works well for business. It brings that sort of homey experience that assures people return because they had such a pleasant time.” The woman grinned as if she was already putting together an ornate plot that would be sure to see Araminta back at the Sable Fawn for a prolonged stay. Adding notches to the beam when it was suggested that she would have enjoyed doing so in another life. Well, it could still be this one. After some things, surely.
But that stuff could be attended too later. Now, she wanted to talk about the plan about having the miss play amongst the ground of shrouded guests. Adding dazzle and mystery that for a moment, she waited for Araminta to catch on. “I was thinking at least three hours. Half hour break between a set, and whatever socializing you would want to do would be left to you at your leisure.” Of course she wanted longer to make sure the time Edgar was not playing, was profitable. “And I’ve even secured it that Edgar and his ladies will not be present. Well lady. Rose, decided she wanted to stay and help you out. So you can talk with her later if you wish. The violin player.” Of course Edgar and Lilliana had no desire to stay but that didn’t surprise her. Even if Edgar was mad that he wasn’t getting any profit from the event either.
That was his own problem.
“Well you did reference a fae before and I’m starting to wonder if you have a fascination with them,” Giving Araminta a long stare that was likely trying to figure out her oddity with them. Whilst hands moved over the desk to pull out three artistic designs, “Regardless of that, Clover and Maud had decided to put something together. We have a few dresses that they want to alter and are waiting for you to choose which one. So there is your options. Of course we will style the rest and make you a mask to fit as well.”
The time suggested was longer than Araminta was expecting – not that she minded! With breaks in between it would be a breeze to play without growing physically tired. Made even better yet with the aid of the violin player, as Araminta could easily direct the woman on what sort of notes to play through freestyle or even written music. It’d be such an exciting thing to have someone else help play her songs!
“You may not believe me if I were to say I have met fae before,” chimed Araminta. “I like this arrangement of time, it would be a nice evening.”
Shifting in her seat to take a look at the sketched out garments, her eyebrows rose along with her pure delight. The ladies of the Sable Fawn were astute at reading a person, far more than anyone could ever realize. The evidence was here in three beautifully suggested gowns that somehow so perfectly suited Araminta’s personal taste that they could’ve been pulled out of her own former wardrobe.
There were all so lovely and with each such a different sort of atmosphere that it was difficult for Araminta to decide just which aspect of personality she wanted to step into for the evening. Finally, reaching out to tap her finger on the one of iris purple, as it reminded her of the very pin the Treant King had given her. What a lovely representation to wear to go along with the very aria she wrote for them!
“This one is perfect! To look like a garden iris would go so well with the harp,” she mused aloud. After a moment, in thinking of masks and mystery, her mouth twist to the side and there was that sneaky-fox turn of her head and squint of her eyes.
“If everyone is wearing masks, then it wouldn’t be such a trouble at all if Theon were to throw a sheet over his head and be a ghost in the crowd, don’t you think?”
“At this point Araminta, I am starting to wonder just whom you haven’t met yet.” Eyeing the lovely little chestnut as she so easily suggested that her court had been favoured by that of a fae once before. Unaware that it was certainly more than once and not just inside the enchanted forest. Although that itself would have been quite the tale to hear. Over drink’s. No one ought to be sober for that recounting.
As the items were set down in front of her to choose out what particular frock she wanted to potentially wear, she knew the decision would have to be made promptly. For a complimenting mask to be made and to give the girls time to both pick something that would work with Rose’s figure while not overshadowing the main player of tomorrow evening. It was going to be frantic pace that had she known Araminta had temporarily forgot this meeting request, she’d likely be getting a waggling finger.
“Good.” Taking the purple one to hold up with an intention of admiring it, “We’ll need you at least here an hour before your performance. Perhaps even sooner considering you may want to work with Rose.” Jasa hummed, “See now this is where I would say it was better if you were just lounging here. Then we could have this all put together.”
Lips pressed and looked at Araminta, “I could work it out that you’d be able to board in a room tonight with Clover. I am sure she’d love a chance to play all sorts of ideas upon you.” The little one hadn’t really stopped talking about Araminta, highly suggesting that outside of awe and respect that Clover may have had herself a little crush. Nothing new there.
With a thoughtful hum, she shouldn’t be surprised that the man was mentioned and Jasa sort of made a face. “The funny thing is with masquerades, people think you can’t recognize faces that easily. That is just more nonsense.” Finding that trope to be rather ridiculous. Setting down the selected paper with a tapping of fingers and admittedly, “I believe this event is for you to enjoy, is it not? While maybe no one would notice or put their finger on the fact that the Imperial Prince is there at all, its just… well… he’s not really that outgoing or even the type of mood that would be beneficial in such a time. I do think it might be better for you and your desires to not bother with him tomorrow night. It should be about your enjoyment and you’ll have the paladin lord surely as I doubt he would miss the chance. The girl, well I am sure she can keep the prince entertained by her lovely disposition. Two peas in a pod as it were.”
Araminta was sure she’d meet quite a few more interesting people yet if how things had gone so far in her trials was any hint. Prompting this bright sort of mysterious smile at the very thought. Nothing she needed to make mention to the Madam, however, so instead she dutifully listened to when she was meant to arrive for preparations. Agreeing easily that an early one would be important to help prepare Rose and still give the ladies a chance to fuss over Araminta’s makeup.
To spend the evening at the Sable Fawn again wasn’t such a bad idea, but Araminta already didn’t want to spend the evening away from Theon, especially since it seemed the Madam was holding fast to her wish that Theon wouldn’t be there at all. The twist of Araminta’s mouth was enough of a display to show the princess wasn’t pleased about it, and certainly disappointed. Araminta couldn’t blame the woman, however, as her reasons were more than understandable.
“I would enjoy it far more if he could attend, but I understand the problems it could cause,” she replied truthfully. “With that being the case, though, I will have to decline spending the night here so I can spend this evening with Theon. I’ll arrive early tomorrow without any trouble.”
As for Sir Reeves and the Lady Padma, well… That was a bounty of amusing thoughts, wasn’t it! Unsure if he’d have more trouble with Padma, who seemed to be as bad as Theon when it came to socializing… or with Sir Reeves who may very well try to charm the Imperial Prince if he had half the chance!
Colour her curious at all that the woman across from her was so strangely gungho for someone that was well… unsavoury by reputation and various other things. Not to mention she was certain that they had a friendly relationship. Granted, it was also not her business to get into anyways, so there was no point in deciding to start poking at Araminta. Just taking stock that she looked unhappy and displeased but personally doubted the woman would care come tomorrow anyways. So it wasn’t worth mentioning too much further.
Wanting to point out that she doubted the Imperial Prince would care seeing as he practically left the first day, came back damaged and hadn’t had much to do with anyone anyways. But again, not her business. “That should be good then in that matter. Just try to be here on time, we may have a lot to change on a whim seeing as sometimes plans do not come together the right way.” Jasa looked like she had plenty experience with such things but smiled no sooner. “Other than that, well I think I can handle the rest. Whilst giving the girls a chance to play around with their ideas. Do try to invite others if you wish, while we might be playing the game of mystery, it should at least be fun and busy for us both. After all, you’ll be making some tidy profit depending on how busy it gets.”
Brows flicked up and down, pleased with the way this was coming together regardless, “Unless you have questions yourself, I think that’s all darling.”
“I’ll make it as early as I can,” she agreed, already sliding up out of her seat. “Like any musician, I wish it to be such a good show that leaves everyone wishing for more!”
There was no better proof than an audience that wishes the night to never end! Araminta knew if she played well and the event successful it would be a huge boon for the ladies of the Sable Fawn, even long after Araminta was gone. Better yet, the relationships she built here was a foundation to continue building on, for future visits and business.
For Araminta was not the only inspiring others – Sir Reeves had given her undue praise for apparently building an underground network of allies. What better allies for gaining gossip and information than beautiful courtesans who are listening ears to so many different people. Madam Jasa would not be the only one benefitting from this unusual arrangement!
After a cheery goodbye to the Madam, Araminta made a quick exist from the bathhouse. Still holding some disappointment that she couldn’t bring Theon, and having to push that to the side and remember there would be other chances. Especially now that she and Theon had finally laid it out on the table that they were… well, a pair. Unsure of what specifically to call it, as it certainly wasn’t the means of courting that Araminta was so used to. Yet calling Theon boyfriend sounded absolutely ridiculous.
Regardless, Araminta took to running all the way back home, as she’d took her time with Madam Jasa, it didn’t mean she shouldn’t rush her way back to the house!
He’d gotten what he felt was suitable enough to be a comparable meal for all sorts of varying palette’s. Realizing that even as he was picking through the means of last bits of vegetables for the season, settling more for the means of rice as it was a easy grain to use; he had managed to find a few pearl onions and celery that weren’t worm bitten. With a bit of tarragon and he already had plenty a plan in mind. Making a strong haste to gather up any chicken breast he could before milling back to the abode of the giving family.
A little surprised he was to find that Adra was still present though with a quick exchange, she shushed the idea of him even offering to take the kids. As she promptly expressed with a lot of shooing hands that she was going to spend some time with them this day and he was to rest after even if she looked pleasantly pleased that he had regained his limb mobility and wasn’t appearing to be a broken old man a second longer.
Making some sideways comment that had earned her no more than a lot of blinking; she was swiftly out the door with the trio of complaining ducklings. Seemingly not thrilled either at the idea of now being made to go out when they could have stayed in and played a lot more freely when he wasn’t busted up.
Well, he’d use the time to at least start gathering up the necessary items that would help him cook for later. To have everything prepped would be helpful to avoid his nerves getting the better of him later. After all, cooking with Adra for the family was one thing. But as he stated, he had never done such a thing beyond that. After all, who would eat anything the notorious cut-throat of the Imperial Queen serve then anything that he had made. It was a lot more nerve wracking than he thought possible!
Doubtful this was a good idea at all but at least he could focus and make notes down on how he wanted to put it all together when he claimed quill and paper once more.
This time upon arriving back to the house as a windblown mess, Araminta was in a far better mood than the night prior when she’d been surly and sad. Bustling in as a cheery graceful tornado of activity, with a bounty of things to be excited over. Removing her cloak in a fluid motion to hang aside. Out of habit picking up and tidying anything the little ones had scattered around, and realizing quickly that the house was much quieter than expected. Having assumed Adra would’ve left the children with Theon the second she had a chance to, so that she could focus on her own work.
Even more surprising was to find Theon scribbling away and not already working his usual magic when it came to preparing a meal.
Prompting Araminta to pause in the doorway, leaning against the frame just to watch the soft scribblings. A quiet house and a busy Theon was something to appreciate, especially now that he was no longer looking worse for wear. Slowly drawing out a gentle smile and all sorts of lovely ideas for him to have a proper kitchen in their hut-turned cabin.
Perhaps he was being preemptive to assume that Adra may want what he was doing in the form of a recipe so she could repeat it when he was gone. Or he was trying to figure out what sort of things would be best to each person that he knew somewhat of their palette selection, regardless of what it was; he was focused for a good while. Unaware to the sound of a blustery entrance that would have had him in a state of worry prior. Just that his means of putting scribbles down was important enough to demand the attention to where after a few moments and a slow dawning realization that he was feeling literal eyes upon him; scrolled his own upwards.
Staving off the means of nib itching to blink inquiringly at the woman that was posed there. Leaning to the side of wall and looking like she had been there longer than he cared to admit.
Growing somewhat bashful to the point that cheeks warmed subtly and he was straightening out. Letting quill settle upon the paper without dripping. Thinking a long moment before figuring that it might be best for him to start at least cleaning the wild rice so there was no chance of anything gnarly being found within it. “Did all go well with the Madam?” Asking quietly in a hopes that she likely would launch into her own delights so he wouldn’t continue feeling awkward, Theon sidestepped over to that of the bag of rice and basin alike.
Araminta found that a focused and quiet Theon was just as wonderful to see as the one who was confident and boldly in charge. In both cases there was a sort of clarity in his expression that she found perfectly enthralling. …almost as much as this sudden hint of an embarrassed flush that he’d been snuck up on without notice.
“Everything is going just as Madam Jasa wishes,” she answered. Stepping in and smoothing her hair back out of her face before taking to rolling up her sleeves, with every intention of being his kitchen assistant. “I am content myself with most, except she wishes for me not to invite you and that’s- Well. I thought since it is a masquerade it would be fine, but she has fair reasons.”
Fair reasons as it may be, she was clearly not happy about it but was not going to force it. Heaving a heavy sigh before quickly turning back to grinning smiles and trailing after him.
“What would you like me to help with? I am freely yours until tomorrow. Certainly a more helpful assistant than tiny ones, I hope.”
There was a soft pause there as she expressed that things were going the way the madam wished. Leaving him to eye the young woman that came trailing after a moment in time. Showing that she was rolling that of sleeves to the point that it would have been hard not to figure out her intention in the moment. Broadcasting her desire to help without actually saying so thus far. Allowing him to be the patient spectator when it seemed that the Madam had made it clear that his presence was not to be in attendance to such a thing.
Allowing a myriad of sensations to roll through the plain of noggin’. Finding first and foremost that he understood the lack of desire and felt that was just a common everyday normality that really it shouldn’t have surprised him even remotely. It was normal to be unwanted and considered a bother in most, if not all, circumstances. So he couldn’t really fathom this swell of insult that came but was promptly swallowed back down. Considering her a second even as Araminta expressed that the reasons the Madam gave were fair.
Not sure why that stung but nodded. Promptly accepting with a turn to consider the basin as he would need water to start rinsing the rice.
As long as Araminta enjoyed the evening and was able to play to her heart’s content, then he would be pleased with the results. Motioning then to her if she could grab a bowl with the small holes in it to be able to drain out the water, “If you can wash the rice, I would appreciate that.” Theon set the bag on the counter and indicated that such a chore was left to her.
He would work on slicing the little onions up with the celery to make a sort of mixed arrangement so he could season it somewhat. “You do not need to allot your time with me either. I know this evening prepared with The Sable Fawn is important. If it requires attention, then you should give it attention. This is something for you to enjoy and something you are wishing to do for that same peace. It does not make sense to put segments of time upon it. I know it is something you enjoy and find no reason for you not to spend as much as you can there. As things will change when the trials call once more when you are ready to go.” He didn’t want her to feel like she was obligated to be somewhere when she didn’t need to be. Knowing that with how often she spoke of it and her talents were, it was foolish to put expectations where they didn’t belong.
With a task of washing rice, Araminta set to arranging bowl and colander and rice. Not really understanding why rice needing washing in the first place, at least until she started running the water through it and discovering… oh! Wild rice was a bit dusty!
Pausing only when he made mention that she shouldn’t spend her time here with him when she could be at the Sable Fawn preparing. Causing her to glance over her shoulder and squint her eyes suspiciously, wondering if he could truly see into her mind and know what she’d been up to or talked about during the day. Unsure if it were his intelligence that lead him to suspecting there was work there she could be doing, or his insecurity in assuming her time was better spent with anyone but him!
“Madam Jasa did offer to have me stay the evening there for easier preparations, but since she is not keen on your attendance tomorrow night I told her I’d rather spend this evening with you.” she clarified easy enough. Resuming her rinsing of rice, trying to see just how clean the grains needed to be.
“It may be something I will enjoy, yes, only it would be better if you were there. I want you to see the entire experience of an actual performance! Honestly, her only reason the other day was that we are a danger to her girls that she wishes to minimize, to which her masquerade idea seems to be so wonderfully perfect to move about unnoticed! She still said no.”
It was no mind reading. Or anything of that sort. He simply understood at this point from having watched the minstrels from Essurn preparing with the fact that Madam Jasa had asked Araminta to meet her and how she had been dressed the one night; that this was likely a very lengthy event. Requiring many hands and due care to prepare so he didn’t want her to waste her efforts here when she could be doing something for herself. Not sure how large it was but thus far had since figured out that nothing at the tavern was done in small motions. Add on that Araminta had apparently been talked up to Reeves and Padma as people they knew, there was no telling how much Jasa spread word about Araminta’s skills to the unknown.
Knowing that most things too a lot to prepare and well, he just sort of assumed in the end.
Bringing out a cutting board and knife with the selected veggies to be sliced upon, he kept his line of sight to it. Appreciating the means of being able to properly cut with two hands while he was unaware of her disbelieving gaze.
Pricking ears up in a figurative sense to where Araminta mentioned wasting her time with him though in a nicer statement, and pointed out in a neatly tied up way that Madam Jasa just wasn’t fond of him. Now she was making it sound all fancy, he knew what that meant. No matter what sort of reason there was to be had, good or bad, she didn’t wish for him there because of whom he was. That he was familiar with, though he did prefer it when people were like Padma. Just forthright with their distaste rather than making it all flowery because they didn’t want to look like they were actually disapproving. This was normal. Any time someone knew who he was, their attitudes changed.
They were then cautious in their own right and he held no ill will to their distaste or distrust. Her business was important and those around her as well. “It’s fine. It’s about you in the end and that’s the part that matters.” Theon pointed out authentically before he sort of paused. Wondering if he ought to just tell Araminta that she should just get used to it. But he didn’t want to upset her or sound like he was just being petty either. “Shake it as much as you can to remove any water once you finish rinsing please.” Filling his mouth instead as he began the means of dicing up celery into suitable portions and halving the little onions.
Allowing himself to lull into silence. Reminding himself that he was able to accept these sort of things in the end. To hold no grudge or upset at the decisions of others, because they were allowed and valid to have such things.
He’d ignore it at the end of the day. As long as Araminta was able to enjoy it, then nothing else mattered to him.
“If it were only about me and what I wish, then you would be there with me,” complained Araminta. Likely one of the rare moments she actually had something besides geese to vocally complain about. “But it is Madam Jasa’s business and I have already made things difficult for her with Edgar so I have not pushed it.”
Fair and unfair all at the same time. At this point Araminta suspected that Madam Jasa just didn’t want her distracted and giving all of her attention to Theon. Likely assuming she’d spend all of her free time with the Imperial Prince instead of socializing on the floor during breaks. …to which, perhaps so. He’d be the first person she’d want to speak to after every set, to know what he thought of every song. Even if he still didn’t quite understand the full scope of music, his opinion would be the only one she cared to hear.
Once she was certain the rice ran clear, Araminta gave it a few hard shakes. Imagining she was tryin to shake some sense into Madam Jasa, because there truly was no good reason why Theon couldn’t hide in a corner or behind a curtain! Really, who is going to notice him hooded and masked in the dim smokey room, surrounded by candles and beautiful girls!
“Jasa suggested you spend the evening with Padma because you are both, as she said, two peas in a pod. She only wants to fill seats with those that will spendy money on girls, I bet. Which is expected of a business woman, I suppose. It’s still rude.”
Maybe he didn’t get why it was seemingly worth her effort to complain about. Personally pushing down and away any ire or upset from himself. It wasn’t worth it and he’d just be content knowing Araminta got to do this. For her love of music and being properly appreciated with those who did and understood her art. If he thought about it carefully, she wasted her talent on those who didn’t know any differently. Himself included. That thought alone was enough to make him feel secure in knowing this was a good thing and he was happy for Araminta.
He took up enough of her time already. This was to be valued. Appreciated for her and encouraged all of Araminta’s sake. She’d lost enough, it was time she got to enjoy the things she loved.
He’d grab a bowl to put his cuttings into without too much need or thought.
Still to pause when the jovial woman beside shaking the rice stated that Jasa said him and Padma were two peas in a pod.
Basically they weren’t pleasant, or the type suitable for everyday conversation. Suppose he could understand that. Though he found it insulting to lump Padma in his column. “It’s rather unkind to say that about Padma. She’s doing many great things with Reeves and has been kind to help where and when she’d rather not.” Far more insulted that Jasa was being rude to a person who may not be the most endearing but contributed in countless ways.
He truly felt bad for that. Add on that Jasa was implying Padma was also devoid of a heart, and it just sounded so callous. To a point he felt as though he ought to apologize to Padma.
“I’m sorry she said something that cruel to the lady paladin. That was uncalled for. Just try not to let it bother you or your event. That wouldn’t be fair to yourself.”
Araminta did not fail to notice he was quick to defend Padma’s honor, when he himself was the one being pushed out. Once she’d set the rice on the counter on top of a dish towel so any remaining water didn’t drip anywhere, she turned to face Theon as he bustled about. Resting her arms on her hips with a huff.
“It’s rude to you too, Theon.” she insisted. “If she truly was so afraid of Bloody Heirra raining fire down on the Inn, she wouldn’t even be allowing me to play at all! Jasa is happy enough to take your money but cannot be arsed to let you wear a bedsheet and sit in a dark corner just to watch me play!”
Araminta might’ve cancelled the entire thing had she not felt it was important to honor her deal as well as earning that money for herself and Theon. Certain that if she played well and was a shining little socialite, she ought to earn enough money to make up for everything Theon had given Jasa and then some.
Finally she let out a small huffing sigh.
“I am still going to be mad on your behalf. And for me. I am mad for both of us! I’ll still perform as I promised I would, but maybe I will not give it the full sparkle! They’ll get an Eclipse of Araminta and likely not know the difference, anyway.”
The hands on her hips and the huffing was enough to cause him to wise to ge was likely treading into dangerous waters. Being wise not to continue down the path of honesty in this case as he didn’t want her to be mad at him. “It’s alright. It’s Jasa’s business at the end of it all and this is nothing new to me. So do not waste your energy being upset for something that most would feel, Ara.” Hoping that it would be enough to temper potential ire. “Perhaps you can invite Bogart and Adra to it. Then it should help.”
Staying here was fine and if the parents wanted additional time while being able to be in awe of Araminta’s talent.
Just she was expressing to be angry at all on both of their behalf’s. “You shouldn’t waste energy in that way. There’s no reason for you to be angry at what others feel and are justified to have. I’ve stopped feeling much to such things and accept it. To extend such feelings would be no more than an effort not worth it.” Shoulders shrugged, “I’m not saying this to upset you, but, I’m fine with being disliked. You get used to it. It’s no reason for you to make yourself upset on my behalf when this is something for you to enjoy Ara. Enjoy it. Don’t put energy into anything else but what this will do for you and you alone.”
With the bowl collected and everything put into it, he motioned that he’d be now taking the chicken breast’s to ready by seasoning and placing them into the clay oven. “I don’t expect you or anyone to do more than to do what you enjoy. What makes you happy. That’s good enough for me to know your happy and getting a chance to show off how good you are. So that’s all I ask. That you enjoy it, get to do what you want and when you feel up to it dealing with me at the end then that’ll be nice. You deserve to spend this time for you. You can tell me about it later when you want too.” Feeling like that worked to explain his thoughts, Theon nodded. Comfortable being told things later or never. He’d not push her to do anything she didn’t want. Content to just be considered eventually, as this was nice to just be thought of.
Bo and Adra were not the ones she wanted to be there. …not that it wouldn’t be lovely to have them! But as she stood there, looking ready to head out to battle as she watched him collect the chicken and give it season, Araminta could see those subtle signs that this was not something Theon wanted to deal with right now. It didn’t matter if it were her frustration he was avoiding or simply standing up for his own right to exist in spaces, he was telling her in his usual soft way to let it go.
It took a moment of tap-tappy her fingers at her hips and a deep intake of breath to let out in a long sloooow way. Softening her features back to something pliant until she dropped her arms to her sides again. There was no way to help him understand all the silly reasons why it was so important to her. That would have to come with time and experience, with most importantly patience… didn’t mean she wouldn’t brood silently elsewhere, though.
“Having you there would make me happiest,” she muttered. “But I will leave it be and enjoy playing, because you have asked me to do so.”
And that was the last thing she would say about it. Deciding if she were going to be without Theon all day tomorrow, she might as well enjoy this evening while she had the opportunity and freedom to do so.
“What else do you wish for me to do?”
It came down to the fact that he wasn’t sure how else to explain any of this. That while Jasa could use his history as the deciding factor of why he was potentially dangerous and dislike him, he also was accustomed to it. Not to say it didn’t bother him, that part was a bit of a lie. But he had come to know how to handle such things. Accepting it as it was and letting that discomfort of knowing that others thought of him in that way, sink down. To be likely dealt with never but accepting it to turn into bland acceptance.
He just didn’t want Araminta carrying around this weight when she was going to be doing something that he suspected she was very excited for. So less to press upon her, she ought to just forget about it. And perhaps get used to the fact that this was likely going to never stop. People were entitled to how they felt.
Thankfully it seemed that Araminta either understood his means or he was just leaving it alone for now. Pulling the means of a gentle eye towards her as she stated it outloud. Not sure if he did right by her currently but he’d have to learn. “The onion and celery chopped up, can you mix it together with the rice. Then chopping up some tarragon after will need to be done. Thank you.”
“That I can do,” she acquiesced. Shifting to gather up the chopped onion and celery, giving Theon a gentle touch to back as she moved around him so he’d know it wasn’t him she was frustrated with and just for that peace of mind in physical contact. Araminta stole a piece of celery to pop in her mouth before she went about tossing the vegetables and grain together in their bowl. Then she slid over to claim a knife, pausing for a second to smell the tarragon as it was such a nice strong sent! Her knife skills weren’t exactly the best, but Araminta minded her fingers.
It was easy to fall into a companionable silence as it always was. There were plenty of things to talk about, but none of which Araminta wanted to touch on just yet. She didn’t want to think about the trials until they were on the road again. Araminta was interested in discussing his family more, only that too was a topic better left for later, preferring to simmer herself down into a peaceful evening. Sampling a leaf of the tarragon, Araminta curiously remembered that one of his siblings was dragon born and that… How on earth did that woman have a baby with a dragon! How did that even-
Best to put that right out of her head immediately!
There was a low appreciative hum even by the barest of touch. Practically a blooming flower at the slightest bit of contact from her, he hadn’t bothered or wouldn’t be bothered to try the means of conversation again right now. Accepting and enjoying the comfortable silence, though he was keeping an eye on her. Particularly to assure that Araminta wasn’t about to get wild with her skills and lose a fingertip.
Mentally arranging it in his knowledge banks that she was absolutely a person that had to sample things. She ate with gusto most times he knew. Willing to taste anything at least once and in turn she was getting a sense of things here by doing just that. Sampling to get a better understanding.
As he poked a bunch of small holes through the chicken before seasoning and assuring each piece was well coated, he pulled out a small pan that was flat and smooth. More like a rock but it would work best for cooking as each piece was laid out. Eventually put into the clay oven to start baking, allowing him to wash up and come to address the young lady.
Lingering a moment in watching as she seemed to be settled, “Half cup of water into the rice and mixture. It’ll need to rest and soak up the water for the next bit before there will be enough drippings from the chicken to add to the rice.” Theon stated simply, “Give it a good mix so the tarragon can steep into the water as well. Then it’ll just be some waiting.”
Araminta, as always, was a very good student when she was interested in what she was doing. While cooking didn’t incite her passion the way music did, she found it an enjoyable chore, especially when done in cooperation with someone else. Likewise, getting to taste and try each little individual piece of the dish helped her understand better how the finished product came about. Food was such an important part of culture and family life, it was something meant to be enjoyed!
Most importantly, this was the first thing Theon openly admitted to discovering as his own joy, and that had her quite pleased with the entire process. Fetching the perfectly measure half cup of water to add to her mixture and giving it several good turns of her spoon until she felt all the bit and bobs were well mixed in. Leaning to smell the bowl, as even without being cooked just yet, it was already smelling rather nice.
Araminta set her spoon aside and dusted off her hands as it was a job well done for now! The waiting she figured was for the chicken to cook and rice to soften before he somehow did some sort of culinary magic to make it all come together.
Naturally the first thing she did was hug him. Finally free to do so as she pleased and earlier that day amidst the serious conversations with Reeves and Padma had not been nearly enough!
He would need the rice to soak up and the tarragon to ferment a bit to make sure the flavours came out, so when the chicken had enough drippings, they could add the stock also to the rice. Allowing it to take more of the flavour profile so when it was all melded together, as a baked rice bowl, it would compliment everything.
It was now just the means of watching the clay oven to ensure it was not overcooking the chicken and waiting. Although he had hardly ever did this much work when he was being the Queen’s loyal monster, settling for basic meals unless he was at the hut.
It might have been one of the few things he did to ensure he knew how to cook correctly. The idea of being poisoned didn’t just mean being laced with something but also undercooking something that one was painfully and terribly ill!
As he passed the cloth over hands and gaze made a final round that of the kitchen, colour him a bit surprised but gingerly welcoming when she seemed to be sliding in close once more. Bidding a palm to move down to line itself over the middle of back to express that he was hardly as resistant to the means of her seeking physical contact as he had been. Lightly brushing the tips of fingers in a back and forth sway indicating his own appreciation for the means and well, “What will you play tomorrow evening?” Deciding while he wasn’t welcome in attendance, he still would like to know more. Knowing it was important and being sure that she was well excited for the entire thing.
Araminta squeezed him as hard as she could now that it was possible… not that she had much strength in those spindly arms of hers! Finally glancing up at Theon with an uncertain expression. She’d meant to not speak about the event at all near him, since he couldn’t attend and it felt so dismissive and rude to do so. If he were asking, though, Araminta would tell him anything he wanted to know.
“I will play my own music,” she revealed thoughtfully. “I think I will elaborate the song I wrote for the fae into an entire sonata! For Jasa’s establishment I might give it a sultry sort of undertone? There will be a violin player to help me and she’ll be able to do a beautiful warmth to go with the harp.”
It seemed now that she’d started thinking about it, those floodgates were open. With Araminta pulling back to excitedly explain along with the motions of her hands exactly what she was plotting up with her arrangement as if those little motions of her fingers meant anything to someone who had no idea what a conductor was!
“If I had more instruments I could grow it into an entire symphony! With flutes and clarinet for a whimsical little harmony and extra strings to feel like flowing winds and rushing rivers. Or maybe even a focused piano concerto, with something moody and melancholy and dark as the treant king’s starry cape.”
Sonata. Symphony. Concerto. All these sort of things flew over his head but it didn’t particularly matter. One could listen and engage even if he didn’t understand the depth of her musical background. Or the terminology entirely… or at all. Just seeing her alight with new life was enough and he could see that while she started off slowly, she promptly latched on and began to truly feel the motion of that thrilling desire. Only affirming to him as she was trying to explain the means of what she as potentially desire, was something she wanted to do.
Doing well to remind him that while she had been a princess and wanted to do right by her kingdom, it still seemed that Araminta was putting her own hopes and dreams so far on the backburner that they were liable to be crusted into burnt toast.
Suppose he was really going to have to try and find a way that she could live her dream and still accomplish everything she wanted too. “Is such things easy to access?” He asked her curious as he had followed her motions of fingers through the air with next to know realization that they were indicating conducting that of an entire group of instruments. To keep the count to the tempo while keeping everyone else in time. “And you’ll have a violin player with you tomorrow to help. That is a good thing, yes?” He knew what a violin was, granted some people called it a fiddle. But it seemed that Araminta had a chance for others to help her out, so sounded like this event was about to be even better for her.
“Rose’s addition is going to make it better, yes!” she beamed. “One instrument is beautiful all by itself as you can appreciate it’s own special sound. As you add additional ones, it creates this effect of layers. A baseline of steady rhythm, harmonies, melodies, with cadence and tempo and it’s… it’s like listening to all the sounds of the forest. It all comes together and fills your body with emotions! It’s as nourishing to the soul and food is to the body.”
As for his question of whether or not it was easy to access her evergreen eyes went wide and there was a fervent shaking of her head.
“For an entire symphony? Nearly impossible! It is hard enough to put together a quartet, Jasa doesn’t even have a full quartet. Most do not have the time to learn even a single instrument, and even if they did you would have to find enough people with the skill the play. As well as the wide variety of instruments for a proper orchestra. The minstrel troupe is about as close as I have ever seen, and they were wonderful, but still not the same as a full classical orchestra.”
This is where Araminta realized she was blabbering on and on about things that were likely to have his head spinning. Prompt to close her mouth for a moment with that faint hint of embarrassed pink in her cheeks as she moved to see about making a cup of tea.
He didn’t understand even a quarter of what she said outside that it was apparently very difficult to get that many people together to create this symphony. Although he suspected in a city it may be easier. With a larger populace and more people with a variety of talents, it didn’t seem so out there. But the rest, no. No less he was still listening, trying to organize thoughts into categories so he could perhaps one day know a little something to be sure to engage her in such ways. It was clearly important to her.
And brought a sparkling dazzle of life to Araminta that should never find the means of being quashed.
However, he seen her starting to turn slightly pink as her lips stopped. Moving away and well, he didn’t realize she might feel embarrassed for talking so animatedly. Contrary to what she believed, even if he didn’t understand it, he found her passion worth it all. “Have you been to a symphony or… orchestra before? Is there different types?” Theon asked entirely intending to keep engaging her with this until otherwise stated. “What’s the purpose to have different instruments to make layers as you said. Is it important as well?”
Araminta filled a kettle with water, silently thinking none of this could possibly be interesting for Theon as really, no one ever did care to listen to her talk about music. Even Edgar who should have been thrilled to discuss music with another who had a passion for it was more interested in snubbing her than having a chat.
So it was a great deal of curious disbelief when she glanced over her shoulder to spy at Theon as he continued to ask even more questions. Hesitant to keep rambling on. But if he was asking…
“I’ve seen an orchestra of twelve in my castle home, during one of the banquet balls. They were a classical group from very far away and I can’t quite remember where now.” That was a long while ago when she first debuted and was allowed to go to the adult parties. Leaving her tilting her head and trying to remember where they might have been from, as they certainly weren’t local or from their mountain region.
“Oh! But they had a full set of string instruments, some wind and brass. There was even a maestro to conduct them with a baton. They were all dressed in this beautifully elegant black and played a whole arrangement of waltzes. It wasn’t anything like the usual musical guests that my parents would host. They must have been brought along with a visiting noble from another land.”
That was curious to hear that she had actually been to such a thing. Wondering where such events were held at in turn if they weren’t in a castle banquet hall. For twelve people with instruments and whatever a maestro was, with what sounded like many nobles considering she was a royal, had gone to watch; then he suspected the venue had to be very large for all of it. Sure there was probably a place like that in the Imperial City but couldn’t even begin to think of a reference point to that. Tapping fingers in hopes the motion might help him determine such things, but found him next to be curious all over again.
It seemed like this had been a very large event when she described the people who played were dressed elegantly. Unlike the minstrels he had seen with her. And something about waltzes which he knew was a dance but again none of that had ever entered his education.
He was the tool for the queen. Who needed to know any of this for the means of work and extortion and murder. “What’s the difference between wind and brass?” The term not really making sense to him outside well wind being an element. And brass being a metal. Before considering her, “Nobles bring orchestra’s with them. Then that implies there are different types?” Theon pressed his lips with thought, “Is there a particular type that you would be best interested in or suited for?”
Bringing her kettle over to get heated, once it was sat down she turned fully back to Theon. Loosely crossing her arms and giving him a quick up and down look… it finally coming together to realize he was doing Theon Things again. Taking all sorts of little mental notes and details, likely to figure out how he was going to make something happen for her. She could see it all over his face! Drawing out this quickly widening smile as, what exactly did he think he was going to do? Build her a symphony house? That was ridiculous!
He was wonderful in every possible way.
“Wind is short for woodwind; they split the air to make their sound. Flutes, clarinets, reed pipes. Brass makes the sound more along the vibration of the mouth instead of the wind? Like a trumpet or a tuba.”
With his other question she loosened one arm to tap her fingers at her chin, seeing if she could even recall more than one type!
“I imagine there are all sorts of different ensembles! There is already so many different arrangements of instrument groupings. Likely any country with a strong local culture and their own ideas of what makes a band or orchestra. It’d be a grand thing to travel to all sorts of countries to hear their music.”
Finally, she tilted her head and grinned that knowing smile at him. “I don’t wish to be part of an orchestra, Theon. Save yourself the trouble of hunting. I do want to finish writing an entire symphony though and to hear a full orchestra play it. So if you are plotting, perhaps plot to give me more inspiration so I have things to write about?”
So different instruments were categorized into different categories. Not all were the same which made a lot of sense. Just when she started listing off the types, well he wasn’t sure again. Tapping fingers all over again while seemingly having to learn the differences in both what type and the looks between what a flute was and what a tuba was.
Of course she was continuing and he was being diligent to listen along. Although she mentioned that it was likely different ensembles could be likely influenced by their own cultures, he still didn’t really get much of it. Assuming it was like each country having their own coat of arms. They were never exactly the same but each had it. Hearing her express that it would be nice to travel to listen to such things. That he could probably do. Gather up enough coin and go with her to such places so she could experience the music at her leisure while he was content to simply wait back at whatever place was suitable for bedding.
Yet as she grinned, he realized that she was guessing he was thinking she wanted to be part of the orchestra. Well, he did. But was left blinking before furrowing brows very lightly at the suggestion of plotting to give her inspiration. Finding that was a flat idea seeing as he had no understanding of any of this. To give inspiration in such a way was about the same as asking a chicken to swim like a shark. “I wouldn’t attempt to befuddle or ruin your creative process. I was more thinking that I would be able to amass coin to be sure that you could go all over the world to other countries to hear said music.” Theon admitted, “I don’t know much else in the way of being supportive or helpful for you in such regard.”
Araminta laughed, an easy musical sound in itself. For a man that didn’t have any ambition of his own, he knew how to dream big too. Starting to wonder if at some point he was going to start a business venture simply to fund whatever nonsense he thought she desperately needed to have. As if they were not already traveling the world to see new places and things, as if he were not already giving her everything she wanted and needed.
“But inspiration is such a funny thing, as you don’t really need to do anything specific to be a muse for someone. I could already write a dozen songs about you and the way you make me feel. Then I could still write a dozen more.”
That statement alone seemed to light up an idea in her head, starting a quiet giggling and casting him a new sort soft smile she hadn’t quite given before.
“I’ll write the entire Aria of Aramintheon, that’s even better than naming a treaty. It’ll be beautiful and thrilling. Every time you hear it, you’ll feel warm, and wistful, and think of everything lovely we’ve ever done.”
There was a prolonged hold as he leaned back into the counter to observe her. Not sure he really could comprehend this means of inspiration or muses. Nor would he really feel adequate in the state of being told that somehow he could do any of that for her. Finding it was almost too mystical to be fact. “I feel your audience would grow bored.” The man admitted easily and not to be amusing about it. Or whomever listened only to find out such things were done with him as the muse, he worried she’d be tarred and feathered! Chased out of whatever place she was with curses befitting that of a murderer rather than one putting together a song.
Was that a risk worth it?
He didn’t think so.
Especially when she was giggling and looking like she was delighted by something that pulled features from soft interest to perturbed. “Not that name again.” Theon mumbled shaking his head no sooner. Slowly lifting gaze to look at her under brow and pressed once more lips till there was nothing defining their location in beard. “I feel you are determined to make it a thing just to tease me at this point.”
Araminta wagged a finger at him immediately.
“Insulting to you and to me! You are plenty fascinating in such a multitude of ways, yet even if you were not I could write your sorrow, I could write your quietness. I could write that shift of eyes you give me when you think I’m being ridiculous.”
Her kettle was plenty hot enough for a decent cup of tea, in her opinion, so Araminta pulled it off the fire to bustle about getting herself a cup and one of the tea blends. Stopping in the middle of the kitchen when Theon made that very spoken of look and dared to fuss about her new favorite word.
“Oh! But Theon I do like it,” she complained in all earnest insistence. “It’s a musical lyric all by itself, two entirely separate names meeting right in the middle to sound beautifully new.” She even gestured so with her hands, only it looked more like miming little kissing figures, and once Araminta realized that, it was back to flushing all over again. Scoffing at him as if it was all his own fault. Quickly going back to what she was doing.
“I’m going to do it anyway. An aria or a kingdom named Aramintheon, it is your choice.”
He was liable to start feeling like she was goading him with that waggled finger and the suggestion he had a plethora of things that could have inspired songs. Mighty terrible ones that he really didn’t think she ought to do because of every ill thought he had about himself. Why would she do that to herself!
Granted he was smart enough not to divulge such things, instead beginning to move out of the way in case he was in the way of her getting that of a tea prepared. Till this one was suggesting that damnable name to where he had opened the door for her in a figurative sense to step through and declare that she had liked it. That it had some sort of poetic meaning to it that he was sort of left staring at her like she was potentially possessed.
Yet she was turning away, huffing and hiding a flush that made not a lick of sense to him. “Both are terrible.” The man pointed out once more, “And both have a potential of being known broader than between you or I. And I’d hate to think of what poor things would happen to either choice, so I would select neither if it was going to be allowed. But I don’t think it will be.”
He turned then to reach for the bowl of rice, to give it a stir. Making sure it was all getting a chance to be part of the mixture. With rice soaking up the seasoned water, he would need to check the chicken soon and surely there would be people returning back so he could serve and get out of their way.
“Good!” came her bold retort. “I hope it’s heard all over the world and beyond to realms we have never even heard of! It’ll be a declaration of love and affection, and just a tiny bit of me making this spicy little look of I told you so, but I’ll never actually say it out loud. Just a smile and a side-eyed glance as I pet my chicken, or cerulean snail, or whatever sweet creature you have brought home for me.”
It was such a good name and he was only being difficult. Surely over time, when he stopped assuming he was a bane upon the world, he’d realize how lovely it truly was. To which she would absolutely carry out her side-eyeing plots.
In the meantime, she poured herself a little brew of tea to set on the table and steep. Then tilting her head with some thought, went searching about the kitchen for a nice drinking accompaniment for dinner. Simple water? Milk? A tea with ice? Juice? Either way, she was going to put it in a pitcher for easy serving and passing around the table. If adults wanted something of a stronger nature, Adra could be in charge of that.
Spicy was right! He didn’t think the name was so important that it struck a point of live or die with her. Though hearing her ramble off that she was going to be sure to point it out if it did in fact spread so far with an look of I told you so and further, he just glanced at her for a split second. And thought. “Chickens are food.” He pointed out so matter of fact that he doubted she was going to be happy if there was one and they started needing to slaughter them after they stopped producing eggs. Because hens would stop and well… he didn’t finish that thought.
Nor did he think Matilda would give up a snail for her either. What would it eat anyways?
With the chicken pulled and decided that it was good to the point that gathered juices were sizzling alongside, he took due care to hold the slab over the bowl without losing the chicken to the floor. Letting the drippings go into the bowl and for him to let the chicken rest on a racking to avoid burning the counter top. Beginning the means of stirring and combining the creation that shortly the bowl was transferred to the oven itself. Well more so the coals that weren’t in midst of flame, so he could start stirring the combination to avoid it burning.
Allowing the silence to return for a while.
Till it wasn’t him or her that made the first noise, but the three gangling children barrelling into the home –abandoning shoes and coats with a wild furry- as Adra clucked no sooner behind. “Hang your stuff! Hang it up. Ey ey… this is no barn of pigs, come now, get your things otherwise you’ll be in your rooms pouting!”
Sophia complied swiftly so she could zoom into the room, “Hi Araminta,” She declared but came to a slowing trot to stand beside that of himself, “Can I help! What are you making this time, Ghost!”
“No fair!” Chloe declared though still half stuck in her coat, looking more like a chipmunk as Philip naturally mocked with his equal escape. “I wanna help too!”
“maudits gremlins!” Adra spluttered, “Surely I will send you each to the fields to burn this energy upon them farmers come spring!”
The look of prissy outrage and horror she shot him on reminding her that chickens were food, might’ve been the most royal princessy sort of expression she’d ever cast in his direction. That perfect blend of Oh no! mixed with How dare you eat my chicken! At least it was clear that Araminta wasn’t actually upset, in fact, now she was trying to hold back a grin with a soft muttering of not MY chickens. Turning her attentions back to what she’d decided was going to be a full pot of brewed tea, mixed with spices and honey. Taking a few cues from Theon’s own experimentation to give a little taste to spices before adding them in with the blend. It’d be warm and cozy and go so well with dinner.
A chorus of little ones tearing through the house was enough to wake the dead!
“I am Ghost’s kitchen assistant today, though I think we are going to need extra help with the table. There will be two guests sharing dinner with us, so they will need plates and seats?”
That ought to keep them plenty busy for a few moments before Adra wrangled them and sent them away to be oxen for farmers, Araminta figured. Delighted with the entire chattery chaos that had erupted within moments.
Had he been a better or more confident person, he might have met that look she gave him with a glare of try me. Instead nodding with a belief that if there were chickens at all, Araminta was going to keep them till they were old, gray and withered. Looking more like ratty things than actual resources. Well, that was if she was going to live in a hut with a reject prince. Which that wasn’t likely to happen anyways, so she could keep up her belief in this moment.
Now torn away when Sophia and the others were tearing into the house like their entire lives were made for this particular moment. Tiring mother out that she was preparing to sell them off to be workers at the local farmsteads rather than little monsters in her house that didn’t hang up their stuff or put their shoes back in place. Earning quite the tirade of something in the woman’s native tongue. Sounding both elegant and clucking in turn.
“You aren’t assisting though.” Sophia looked at Araminta and pointed at the kettle, “Ghost doesn’t drink tea.” He considered Sophia a moment as if she was getting ready to defend some unspoken honour. “The other two can help with dishes, I wanna help Ghost here. I’ve been really good with helping him and now that he’s all healed, well… I think I should learn how too.” Her little cheeks puffed almost ready to verbally give Araminta the same sort of gears she’d give her parents when she felt like her choices were being met with injustice.
Philip shrugged and looked at Araminta, “Do I have to do dishes later? With more people, is more dishes.”
“I hate dishes!” The youngest now trying to be pried out of her coat by mother, loudly complained.
Taking the moment, Sophia turned and squatted down beside. “Why are you stirring it?”
“To make sure it doesn’t burn on the bottom.” Her eyes glittered for a moment, “Grab some salt. It will need it.” The man replied gingerly looking pleased that Sophia was also interested though he was not about to get between the battle of the people.
Adra eventually wandered in with Chloe squawking about something else. “I will sell them to you if you wish. Good price, only used for so many years but will be great scrubbers.”
“Ma!” They all cried in a chorus of horror, spurring the parent to grins.
Brushing fingers through that of dark tresses, “It smells delicious in here. I do hope you made enough Ghost. No leaving the table this night if you are bringing guests upon us. Do not think I do not know your ploy.” He didn’t bother looking over his shoulder seeing as he was being called out, “Bad Ghost. How was your day, Araminta? Looks as though you have a good work horse once more now that your friend is healed to graces of strong arms once more.”
Araminta could argue that Theon might actually like tea, but how would anyone know if no one saw him drink it. Only Sophia seemed determined to be at his side, and she didn’t have the heart to get in the way. The poor thing’s heart was going to be broken into pieces enough when Araminta and Theon were ready leave.
“I have been replaced,” she murmured and sighed. “Suppose I will help with the dishware then. It may as well be me doing the dishes tonight too.”
They were her own invited guests, after all. It was only fair that Araminta clean up the mess afterwards.
Adra was quick to know that Theon would indeed attempt to make an escape from the dinner table, leaving the princess so glad that someone else could do the pinning him down to sit still. Giving a cheeky grin to the woman at her teasing of children, as well as the question.
“My Ghost is whole once again and that is a weight lifted. Although he might start moving your furniture around next if he is idle too long. You’ll have to keep him busy while I am at the Sable Fawn tomorrow.”
There was a smugness to Sophia at hearing Araminta state she had been replaced. That sort of child impish gleam that was pleased with the result but not about to go too much further now that she had won. “Naw naw,” Adra however was waggling finger, “The dishes are the children’s chore and how will they learn they cannot shirk their responsibilities if you are given in.” Dark eyes were glittering with the empowerment of matron of the house, before shaking her head at Araminta. “They will do their chores and you will not intervene otherwise I will also give you more beadwork as a chore, Araminta.”
As if that was a real threat, the two younger kiddos at least started working on the means of getting the table situated. Leaving mother and Araminta to stand aside to play the role of chatty chicks.
After a bit of rousing in the way that suggested such younglings were so easily given up when fairly everyone knew that Adra would fight anyone and everyone for them. No matter whom they were.
“Ah, the Sable Fawn. To woo and flutter such lashes with strumming fingers to men that think of such playful desires.” Spindly fingers crooked upon her chin, “Perhaps we will mimic the scene for that of your Ghost now that he is whole once more. Take him out with the children and let them woo potential women who also have playful desires. To give each of you a night of fun.” She looked perfectly pleased with this idea even if she was mostly muttering it to Araminta.
Knowing damn well that come the evening tomorrow, said Ghost would probably look for something to do. “You think he has not moved my furniture already?”
The look of horror Araminta gave at the suggestion of having to do more mindless beadwork likely matched the children’s. Goodness, she’d rather trade them and take the dishes for herself! That motherly threat was enough to get the whole lot of them in line, save for Sophia who presently preened at stealing Araminta’s place. Heavens help the poor boys in this town when Sophia was older and of a proper age!
Though Araminta was not sure if she were so keen on Adra’s idea of taking him about town to lure in the gaze of women. The sorts looking for a steady handsome husband that were good with children, liable to snatch him right up off the street if they had the chance! Doubting it would be so dramatic, but it certainly set a twinge of jealous annoyance at the very thought. Made worse because he couldn’t be at the event with her where he actually belong. Nor did she get to decide what he’d do while she was out!
He’d asked her not to fret about it anymore, so Araminta wouldn’t. She was going to leave it.
“I suppose you are right, he’s likely already swept away every cobweb he could find.” The house was still standing, so he hadn’t found any spiders while he did.
Araminta might’ve said something more, but there was such a heavy knock at the door that came so sudden she jumped and squeaked. One probably should’ve known the Lord Paladin would knock just as loud as his personality! Scooting quickly to go answer it herself so she could make proper introductions.
Imagine her surprise to open up the door and find Sir Reeves standing there not in his usual shining armor, but the sort of fine noble garments that Bogart would sell out of his shop. In creams, golds, tans and a light sky blue, he appeared to be the very picture of a noble lord. Even more surprising was Padma at his side, looking greatly uncomfortable without her full armor and regalia, dressed very similar in terms of color as it represented their Paladin Temple, but without a vest and added flair that Sir Reeves seemed to have. Keeping to a simple pair of pants and tunic top, and holding a mysterious tin of something in her hands.
“Forgive us for our early arrival, my ward seems to think I have no sense of time,” apologized Sir Reeves, stepping inside on Araminta’s beckoning. Padma muttered softly something about three hours in the bath – Araminta decided not to ask!
She did however lead the way to through the house beaming like a cat that had brought home a treat for the family.
“Please allow me to introduce Sir Reeves and Lady Padma, Paladins of the Temple of Light,” she chirped, gesturing to each. “This is Adra, who has graciously housed us, and her little Sophia, Phillip and Chloe.”
Reeves gave a ridiculously low bow and a wink to the child at eye level. Padma looked like she’d not been properly warned of what she’d be walking into and gave a small curt bow before thrusting out her tin towards Adra.
“It- It is chocolate covered blueberries. A customary gift for welcomed allies.” Padma stammered out.
“Allies, nay! Friends!” interjected Reeves. “Dearest Lady Adra, we are eternally grateful to your generous hospitality to us wandering souls. Had I known we’d be joining an angel turned mother, I might have brought along a fine wine and a basket of figs as a humble offering.”
“I dare think any spiders that were sitting within looking for tasty morsels have had to find a new place of residence.” Adra commented, as if the very creatures were very much alive at this point of season. Lucky if they were able to find someplace to hibernate, let alone miss the eyes of the man who truly hated them. And the house was not on fire. Likely good not to tell Adra, otherwise she might not allow Theon to clean at all!
Of course there was such a thump at the door, that eyes of many all went whirling towards it. Almost expecting the very panel of wood to come falling upon the floor whilst mother placed hand to her chest to calm the startled vessel within. Tutting after her children to finish their task and to look ready because they all knew their father wouldn’t rattle the door as such nor even bother too. It was his abode after all.
In a manner of moments entered a rather splendidly dressed looking man and a trailing lady after that were sporting similar colours to announce their alliance to their place of occupation. Finding that children –including Sophia- had come to observe this new greeting of bodies and awing in particular when the two souls were like that of night and day. Or the fact that after they had been introduced, the man of oozing charisma had bowed to them at such a depth that he probably could have nosedived into the floor. Giggling no sooner between the three of themselves as Sophia seemed to step up to Padma, “I can take them and put them on the counter, Miss Padma.”
Adra turned that of her attention onto the man after adorning her child’s head with a gentle patting –silent approval- only to narrow those dark eyes upon him. Raising a lengthy finger towards him, “I’m going to have to keep my eye upon you. You’re silver tongue must get you into much trouble, Sir Reeves. And now I feel utter pity for that of your companion, she must had tired fingers from pinching your ear all day.” The mother lifted brows and dropped hands to rest upon her hips. “No wonder Araminta made friends with you, both of you reek of genuine bullshit at the best of moments.”
Chloe turned heel to go trotting back into the kitchen leaving Philip to be the gawping eyes. Currently more in awe at the man who looked like he was some grand groomed hero by some standard, “Come. Sit. Bo will be home shortly. We can sit whilst Ghost finishes that of meal.” Just that she stopped and considered Padma, “Do not be shy about kicking him beneath the table, he seems like he is a wily soul.”
Padma handed the tin to the young girl, much like one would try to offer a treat to a wild animal they didn’t quite trust. Apparently only have one true fear, and that was tiny small children. Immediately giving Adra that confirming nod of world weary solace – Yes, yes she did have to pull him by the ears so often. It was a relentless job.
Reeves, of course, took this with his usual grand smile. Growing all the wider to find that Adra too was a woman of candor.
“I’d say my tongue gets me out of more trouble than it gets me into, dear lady. But if I were to say any more, I may not have any shins left by the end of the night. To the table we go! I have not in all my years been served a meal prepared by a Ghost, this will surely be a tale to tell for decades to come!” With arms opened wide, Reeves somehow managed to take over the hosting of this dinner, without being the man to own the house, without even being the one to arrange the meal! Naturally escorting that of Adra (an attempt at Padma who just swatted his hand away) and Araminta. With nothing but bright open smiles for any little ones under feet.
At the table Padma slid into a seat, looking all the more uncomfortable without a clue of how to mask her expression. Sitting up straight, prim and proper as any lady might, but without that usual air that came with nobility or people of note. After a beat, relaxing enough to curiously look around, assessing whatever it was she was conjuring up in her mind. Growing even more curious that it was the Imperial Prince himself making the dinner – suddenly she was all wide eyed interest.
Reeves, naturally pulled out a seat for Adra first and attempted to do so for Araminta who quickly shook her head. He did so for the little ladies instead, an overdone princely motion that made Araminta softly giggle and Padma roll her eyes. Araminta quickly moved away to gather the special tea that she brewed, giving Theon a gentle, encouraging squeeze to the arm before moving to pour cups.
There was a soft sort of sympathy for Padma, both with the obviousness that children made her a bit uncomfortable and the fact that she apparently had a man-sized one that she had to manage in ways that likely would strengthen her ability for many situations. Yet Adra was turning that of her eyes upon Reeves when he spoke that his tongue probably saved them more times than introduced trouble. Something the woman considered. Then believed. In small efforts.
Still they were escorted into the kitchen to where Sophia and the other two were promptly being assisted to that of chairs. Well two of the three, the eldest sort of gave Reeves a look that might be potentially close to mirroring that of his own ward. Deciding that she was not quite ready to sit down but went to more so that of Araminta, “Can I help you know Araminta?” Making a motion that she would like to assist the unknown princess with tea even if it was just to watch how one did it gracefully.
Where the ghost let a soft hum to the gentle squeeze of arm be noticed but kept the final means of prep of a meal; leaving Adra to be that next directing soul. Leaving eyes of Philip and Chloe to be all sparkly with the fact that they were having guests over of very different walks of life.
“You look like you have a stick replacing that of your spine, Padma.” Adra called out giving the other woman a slow up and down like it was going to determine openly what had her so potentially stiff. “Surely this is not your first time eating with strangers, I’d assume with your elder’s waggling silver tongue, that’d you’d be resting comfortably on the hospitable efforts of the local man and fed often by that of different walks.”
“Oh, yes, please do!” Araminta chirped at the little Sophia, amused that she didn’t seem to instantly take to Sir Reeves that same way she was enchanted with Theon. “We’ll need a tray of cups for everyone, with cream, sugar and honey just in case.”
Luckily for all Padma took no offense to Adra’s bluntness, nor was she shy about being so herself.
“I am an orphan of the Temple, the priests didn’t exactly serve up family style dinners.” the woman answered, then gesturing at the two wide-eyed children, narrowing her own in suspicion. “And these things are unpredictable little chaos machines. One second they’re quiet and the next they’re screaming demons, and you don’t know what you’re going to get!”
Reeves chuckled, leaning back in his chair with his hands neatly folded in his lap.
“This is Padma’s first time outside of the temple. I’m afraid our order is the last one still standing and openly worshipping our Lady of Light. There may be other sects still out there underground, but it’s possible that you are looking at the only two paladins left in the Imperial Kingdoms.”
“Oh! Your mission to Neive was the very first ever?” exclaimed Araminta with surprise, bringing over the hot brewed kettle with Sophia close behind. “That must have been exciting and frightening all at once!”
Padma paused, seeming to contemplate this for a moment. “To be honest, if I had to stay in the temple and listen to one more holy choir chant I would’ve left anyway. It’s good to feel like I am actually doing something useful now.”
So easily Sophia’s eyes lit up with the chance to keep helping. And in turn, to keep watching. At that age that she was allowed to be at the adult’s table to listen to what was being said because she could start to formulate her own opinions. Although there would be a limit and her mother would shoo her away if she felt the topic of conversation was going to be too mature. Still, one knew half the time the children sat so enrapt was likely because they wanted to hear parents tell stories about them!
With a hop to her step and a new task assigned, mother of the room came to point out Padma’s obvious stiffness. Tension would have been a better word.
Adra smiled at Padma’s declaration that the children themselves had unnerved her. “Adults can be the same. Worse actually. And far more dangerous.” The mother reached over to muss her fingers through Philip’s dusty blond hair, “But yes, they are screaming demons. Best to have a nanny that takes them and wheedles out their energy.” Eyes narrowed with a playful tinge, “Ghost has been good for this. So less chaos machines, more sleepy gremlins.”
The man mentioned dared a glance over his shoulder but still offered no verbal contribution to the conversation. Just somewhat reaching over to adjust the collection of honey that Sophia had nearly dropped, earning a soft thank you, while the eldest came walking back with the tray all focused and forced now. Allowing the information that Padma had been kept inside the order till only recently –no wonder she was so cranky, she had never been let off the leash- and Chloe seemed to be the one to bite at this. “Is Reeves your nanny then?” identifying this as the same sort of relationship that was had between the trio and imperial prince.
“Reeves is probably more like her father,” Sophia seemed to add on eyeing the two of them. “Look how much older he is than her!”
Well unpredictable was how Padma described them.
“Father!” exclaimed Reeves, taking on an air of offense, complete with a hand to his chest as if his own heart had been pierced. With the tiniest sparkle of mirth in his eyes despite it.
Padma blinked with surprise before suddenly letting out a laugh. Likely the first time she’d laughed in quite a while. “Grandfather is more likely, he is well over sixty,” she corrected easily, ignoring Reeves’ sputtered and side-eye he was now sending in her direction. “But, no, not like a nanny. I am his apprentice – an acolyte of the temple. To be a Paladin Knight, one must first follow a mentor to learn.”
“Padma would have an apprentice of her own by now, if the kingdoms were not so dangerous for the Followers of Light.” added Sir Reeves. “However, there is change on the horizon, we may just yet start gathering astute young mages and have a flourishing temple once again.”
Amidst this conversation, Araminta was showing Sophia how to server up cups of tea with the elegance of a princess. Having the girl set the cup on the table, while Araminta showed how to hold the kettle and the lid secure so that when your poured, tea didn’t go sloshing out the top. Where to pause while people were talking so you didn’t lean into someone’s field of view. How much to pour in a cup so there might be room for additives should a person choose to add cream or honey.
Listening herself about the state of the Temple and curious about it’s future. Not failing to miss that this new hope for future acolytes was born from them being able to meet Theon and knowing that the Imperial Prince was someone they could trust and give their loyalty to, compared to his hateful mother who was likely the reason their order had dwindled down to nothing. She hoped Theon was listening and realized this is the gift HE had given them!
The two looked at another when Padma said Reeves was more of a grandfather stature. Philip looking baffled and well, Chloe in all her innocence, “You’re so old.” She scooted forward a bit no longer really listening to Padma explain what she was to Reeves, just now that grandpa was here well he was now her focus. “Grandpa Reeves, wh… when you were little did you ride.. um those… those big lizards around?” She was asking earnestly and was not about to let this go even remotely. “That’s what Grandpa Holn says he did when we see him.”
Adra had her lips pressed to a tight seal. Betraying her amusement in full force but not about to add to it when it was likely that if she went to speak, she would burst into giggles. Needing time to temper herself down. “Dinosaurs, Chloe. Grandpa Holn calls them dinosaurs,” The boy added but seemed to become a little more interested too. Looking in such a way that was simply like well, did you?
Even he was a little intrigued and was giving Reeves a bit of a consideration seeing as he didn’t really seem like he was well over a century and some change. But Theon found himself listening more so to the means that the temple may have a change coming to them. Unfortunately for Araminta’s quick wits, he wasn’t catching onto the means that they were somehow loosely referencing himself. Just now he was curious, “How does one find apprentices or young ones with the gift?” He asked softly whilst Sophia did well to watch and learn from Araminta.
Of course there was added noise of the door opening once more and the sounds of Bo clearly muttering in annoyance. Likely having dealt with some irritating last customer that delayed him at all. “Welcome my love, we have guests.” Adra beckoned in case Bo started cursing in ways that would defame the Lady of Light. “And by how Ghost looks ready, a meal to be served.”
Grandpa Reeves rubbed his bearded grizzly chin as if he had to think back centuries and centuries to remember if he’d ever road on the back of a dinosaur before. it was so absurdly silly that Araminta giggled softly, while Padma’s amusement at him being referred to as an ancient old man was waning now that he seemed to be enjoying it. Likely knowing he was going to have some fun with that for awhile yet, often at her expense!
“No, no, never a dinosaur in all my years. I have been on the backs of many an odd creature, however, in one form or another. Some more pleasant than others.” he answered truthfully, more than ready to regail the children with tales of interesting beasts, only to have the Imperial Prince himself interject with a question.
“Before the Imperial Queen came to rule, temples all across the kingdoms flourished in such a way to teach any young mage that wished to learn the craft of light and healing before they moved on to other schools of learning. Many would stay, finding their path lay with the Lady of Light and becoming a Knight of our Order.”
“People are afraid to openly practice now,” added in Padma. “No one seeks out the temple anymore. As we traveled here I didn’t even see casual magic in the villages, so I doubt finding people to take up The Path is going to be an easy thing.”
With the front door opening to herald in the man of the house, both Reeves and Padma stood to greet the man out of the proper respect her was due. Araminta setting the tea kettle on a trivet on the table to give introductions quickly of Sir Reeves and Lady Padma, to the highly esteemed Bogart.
Eyes were all glued to the elder man that had now pulled rapt attention with the idea that while he had never boarded a grand thunder lizard as their biological grandfather liked to say; they were still naturally curious. Things could only be so interesting when they toddled after parent’s feet on a near daily basis. Hearing the idea that this man had done something more well, they were liable to start asking for stories. Had it not been for Theon being curious to just how one in the past learn of mage gifted children.
In that, he learnt something that had not been known before. And then held a frown to his face that seemed to be pondering on something heavy. Not about to be asked in polite company but, “If you will indulge my curiosity later, I’d have some more questions pertaining to all this for yourself and Padma.” Theon declared just in time too. For the arrival of last member to the house, meant dinner was to be shortly served.
Watching the two gather up to where Bo was slightly surprised to see the two before turning features into a cheery but tired sort of grin. “I was starting to worry I’d return too late and your guests, would have left Araminta.” Humming softly whilst gesturing, “Please sit. It seems that Ghost and his little helpful crew have done a good job at preparing everything. I will just take a moment to wash up and join everyone.”
“Good trained man.” A comment flowing from mother’s lips as she had taken tea cup to sip nonchalantly no sooner. Not about to give way that she had ever been the one to utter such things. “Come sit now Araminta. Sophia.” Her head peeked over shoulder, “And you will stay present to have this meal with us as well Ghost. Just in case you thought I would forget that you like to hide away without eating.”
A soft agreement came as Sophia moved over to hop into chair for herself. The three littles looking excited for the meal that was brought over to allow each person to serve themselves up the rice and chicken breast medley, “Sit by me Ghost!” Of course Sophia was echoing to assure the man didn’t actually try to escape. Just sort of pausing to look at Araminta however to see if she would agree or not to the means of sitting by the little ones.
“Whilst we dish up,” Adra indicated for Reeves and Padma to start, “How does two paladin’s come across our little wildling fae child and her toddling ghost?”
Reeves gave Theon a quick understanding nod, more than welcoming a chance to talk about the Temple and it’s future, especially when it seemed to the paladin that there was a bright new future on the horizon. Always best to be on the same page as the next generation of ruling class. Even if the Imperial Prince refused to be referred to as such. Title or not, that throne was his!
This left a bit of table shuffling as the father of the house had finally arrived and little ones were claiming seats. Araminta allowing Sophia once again the claim of sitting at Theon’s side, having to select the opposite seat for herself. Having a quiet moment of amusement that it was likely to be this way too should Theon ever have starstruck daughters of his own. Doomed to be the coveted favorite!
At Adra’s beckoning Padma took up the motions of serving out a plate for herself and Reeves, whilst the man cast a quick, amused glanced at Araminta for a confirmation on whether or not this story could be told, or rather… exactly what parts of it! The princess gave a little tilt of her head towards the children with a shake of no, and a tilt towards Adra with a yes. Giving the man all he needed to know how to tell this story.
By the way he stretched out his arms to force his sleeves up and leaned them against the table, his face lighting up full of all sorts of delighted mischief, it seemed the Lord Paladin was also a story teller. No one that had spoken to him longer than five minutes could be surprised.
“Well, now, let’s see… It was a quiet afternoon at the Temple of Our Lady of Light. The priests were busy with their afternoon chores, as myself and Padma were in the courtyard working on our training. One of the notices came stumbling out to announce a stranger had staggered in, looking as ragged and hellish as could be, carrying an unconscious young woman. The man managing to speak out no other word beyond Help.”
Knowing he had a rapt audience, Reeves paused there for deliberate effect, taking a moment to reach for his cup of tea to wet his mouth. Meanwhile Padma was going ahead to serve up the little ones, more out of her distrust that they’d do so without flinging food everywhere than any kindness.
“Come to discover this unlucky lady had been set upon by demons some months ago, and that entire time was slowly being poisoned by a shattered piece of demon’s horn still deep beneath the skin! With her guardian’s aid and many hours of healing, we were able to remove all traces of the poison. That tenacious miracle is your very Araminta and her stalwart hero, the silent Ghost. “
With plates being given portions of food by that of Padma –much to Adra’s approval and gentle sounding appreciation- bums were properly parked. Himself also curious just how Reeves was going to develop this tale that it could be suitable for younger ears without it blurring the lines of fantasy and reality. Truly starting to suspect that Reeves ought to have used his charmastic skills to be a wandering storyteller instead of paladin, because he was threading weaves in a vocal sense that had the three and mother –adding in father after a moment or so with a pecking to wife’s cheek so he too could sit comfortably- all listening with rapt awe.
Although he personally felt this was more storybook, Theon didn’t find a reason to interject anywhere. Even if he had, he wouldn’t. If anything just offering Reeves a bit of his own style of glare when the man suggested any sort of hero status at all. Finding the word ought to belong to the woman that had suffered through such an extraordinary and terrible fate!
Using this sort of rambling nonsense as a chance to sample the baked chicken and wild rice bowl to make sure it had cooked well enough and had enough flavour without it being so overpowering that one would need water at their side rather than tea. Finding it passing approval that nothing currently needed to be adjusted.
Noting how when the man finished, a sort of dumb couple of blinks fluttered through the family unit. And of course, “Demons.” Philip looked both horrified and terribly intrigued.
“How in the world does a young lady end up with a demon’s horn in her. Though I suspect at this point you may have damn well bare-knuckle wrestled such things, Araminta.” The mother looked a little disbelieving but not so entirely that she could comfortably write off the whole thing. Spooning up a mouthful as if to keep her from making further commentary. Leaving such tasks to silent children and husband.
Bo currently squinting at Araminta, “Mother did say you seemed to be a bit feistier than most would be. I mean dealing with her, you’d have to be.” He’d have to agree in that latter portion. “I swear Araminta, each time we think we know something about you, another level reveals itself.”
“The Lady of Light can heal people like that?” The eldest youth looked particularly interested, “We only have a medical place here and they just wrap people up. But healing like that… wow.”
Araminta thought that this was a wonderful tale of Theon and the Paladins saving her life, with very little being important about her, and yet now there were several eyes on her and questions to boot! Sending the princess into a flustered embarrassment to be the center of attention, at least concerning this particular topic.
“My kingdom was beset by demons – I surely didn’t wrestle one. There was a lot of running.” That was all she wished to say about that, especially in front of the children. There were too many gory, horrible details and they did not need to know the world was filled with that sort of horror. Finding herself grateful that Sophia chimed in to ask Reeves a new question about his work.
“Ah, but it is not the Lady of Light who does the healing, little one,” corrected Reeves with a raise of his finger. “While her spirit and teachings guide us, it is the individual’s own merit and magic that does the work. A healer is quite the rare and special thing, whether they use simple medical sciences or have innate abilities. All it takes is a will to learn and practice.”
Padma was right in the middle of being amazed the Imperial Prince could actually cook a meal, having to quickly pause her chewing to swallow fast and be able to speak.
“Even with magic, one has to learn the body and how it works if you wish to heal more than surface wounds.” she added on. “Even those with natural talents need to learn technique to become a master of the craft. You study bone, muscle, and mind, as well as medicines, herbs, manna control… It’s fascinating. Without technique you might, well, blow someone up. Or yourself.”
Adra paused to look at the other girl, sizing her up and then putting the spoonful in mouth to make a long thoughtful chew. Eventually freeing up the space between so words could flow, “I bet you would though.” As if she knew that the little spicy princess just might get pissed off enough with the means of running to grab the demon by the horns to begin a wrassle. Unlikely that the woman was to be convinced otherwise seeing how this Araminta had proven time previously that she could get rather feisty over miniscule things. One only knew what she might do against those who were truly problems.
It could be considered something thankful that Sophia was now intrigued by how healing worked. Only knowing of those who were of the bandaging and chew on this nasty stick sort. To hear that there was those that could mend what had been broken by means of magical prowess, well it was very much a fantastical thing. Seeing it nearly first hand by that of the silent ghost having been returned to using two hands and not worrying about his wounds opening to be scolded by the spicy chestnut crowned woman.
Although he wasn’t looking at the two of them, he was equally curious about all this. Being one that could heal as well, it was information he had never had. Granted, he was no knight, no paladin and certainly not a person that had followed any following!
“Really?” Sophia asked curiously about Padma’s additional explanation. “That can happen?”
Theon paused then himself but didn’t linger too long. Although to think about it from Padma’s telling, it made sense that such dedication would go into the art. No wonder they were both so talented! It made him all the more grateful that she had even been willing to heal him.
“Has that happened before!” Philip asked then with that boyish wonder that was probably in line for poking dead things with sticks.
“I blew up a stag once,” Padma admitted, not realizing that this might not be something to admit to children at the dinner table until after she already said it. Looking a bit alarmed and then shooting a glance to the parents to make sure she hadn’t crossed a line.
“Oh no,” exclaimed Araminta, seeming to be fine with the reminder of being gored by a demon, but here she was looking dreadfully sad about a poor deer!
Sir Reeves simply nodded, oh so seriously, with that furrow of his brow. “One as talented as Padma will occasionally grow cocky, especially when young. Too much light, too much manna, far too fast. This is why training under a master is important – to have the practice and experience. …fully roasted it, though. Made a good meal.”
Now it was Padma looking red in the face, though it was less about the compliments and more about this casual discussion about blowing up animals in front of Araminta, who was as delicate as an orchid and these children who were probably going to have nightmares about exploding stags!
“Speaking of meals, this is a fantastic one The-e ..uh Ghost. Better than anything Reeves has ever managed to cobble together and he is okay.”
Those words contracted two different reactions. Philip looked positively amazed while both Chloe and Sophia were the same as Araminta. Absolutely horrified.
“Well,” Bo blinked a few times hovering his food near that of face, looking between his child and his wife currently trying to manage her emotions by not laughing out loud, “That’s one way to hunt.” The man was trying to digest this himself though there was no real upset about it. They all knew in some regard that things happened, even the unusual and Padma already looked perfectly embarrassed about her admittance anyways.
With Reeves promptly looking to educate how that with over confidence, things could happen. That one needed good practice and care and the experience to know when too much was in fact, too much. “At least it wasn’t wasted.” Theon mumbled softly when it was declared to be eaten. Knowing the importance of not wasting what was given even in the most unusual circumstances.
Adra was still struggling not to start laughing –unfazed in the slightest. Likely due to her own travels and having to hunt, knowing things were never so easy and blood had to be spilled.
Chloe grumbled something with Sophia echoing it but still not so traumatize that they went wailing from the room. Far too interested in these new strangers to be terrified. Just that Padma was likely trying to deflect by nearly calling him by name and suggesting he produced something half decent, “Thank you Padma. You tend to learn when you have troubles eating what others make.” Gingerly he expressed honesty to the room and why he knew how to. “Though I’ve made plenty of terrible ones.” Just everyone in this room was very lucky he only ever made himself sick by his learning how to do it all. Or what went well or poorly together.
“Perhaps you should take notes for Padma’s sake, Reeves,” Dark eyes glittered all the while with her bemusement. “Then your ward would not have to feel so responsible for clucking and henning you to follow her instructions.” Of course there was still poking to be made, “We’ve been very spoiled since Araminta and Ghost have roosted in our spare room. Now bringing quite the curious and thrilling company.”
“Aah, but is it not a good way for her to learn the woes of having a ward of her own?” retorted Reeves with a winsome smile. “They never do quite understand what you’re teaching them until you set them loose.”
Padma, naturally, did not look even the slightest bit impressed. “What did she say before? That you are full of genuine bullshit. What an apt description.”
Araminta was still trying to get the image of a blown up stag out of her head, only instead of something bloody and gory, it was more like a pop of light and then roasted leg shanks raining from the sky due to their descriptive additives. In any case, she did reach under the table to give Theon’s knee an encouraging squeeze. Both for the honesty he shared and the fact he was actually participating in this conversation at all. A silly conversation as it were, but still such a good thing for Theon to be experiencing now. Family and friends with a comfortable meal and lovey companionship.
“I’d say the pair has given us quite an exciting new shake up to our own routines! I intend to enjoy the Sable Fawn’s attractions before we must head out to our next endeavor. No doubt our lady Araminta and her treasured Ghost is bound to bring home many more curious new friends for you to meet in the future. One might say an assembly of like-minded allies?” mentioned Reeves, now casting Araminta that wide all-too-knowing smile.
The princess looking a bit put on the spot again! Of course the idea had crossed her mind, but it was Reeves himself that suggested it all in the first place! Araminta simply wanted people that she cared about and enjoyed to meet each other!
There was seemingly an agreement at least shared with Reeves sentiment between that of parents. Them sharing a look and nodding in such a way that you could just tell they had a full on conversation with one single glance. A talent that was quite useful truly. Though lips were cracked from the woman being quoted and Bo muttered audibly just the most exasperated my lark. So used to it himself but still leery somewhat that others may find her particular brand of humour just enough worrisome that he’d have to start talking to get her potentially out of trouble.
She was merely pleased with herself and it showed.
So much of this conversation was odd to him. The means of easy calm that felt as though it ought to be sitting on the edge of sharpened knife, while no such thing was even remotely close to such a thought. Yet the mention of Reeves taking advantage of the Sable Fawn’s attractions, only made him consider Reeves once more. “Don’t let them ladies find out you are old enough to be their grandfather. They may be horrified in their own ways.” Adra added on once more putting a forkful into her mouth to stop any additional comments.
Bo seemingly taking that second, “If you three are finished, you can go on and play.” Eyes looking upon children that seemed to be questioning what the Sable Fawn was and why it was starting to sound like an playground. Not suitable for younglings.
Sophia seemed to catch on as she nodded and collected her plate generally empty. Only that with her movement, Philip realized he had been too enamoured with the conversation, suddenly shoveling all the food he possibly could into his mouth whilst Chloe proved that she wasn’t that interested in continuing. Likely thinking about exploding deer still. Poor thing.
Still they collected up and muttered soft thank yous towards himself before scurrying away after plates had been set aside to the counter. Happy to have a chance to go running around and coming back for any seconds after they felt like it.
Leaving just in time to miss the commentary following about the two of them. “Well if things keep looking like they may have a promising change of leadership, then surely the idea of Araminta and Ghost bringing more like-minded allies truly will help this land.” Bo smirked as he said so and there was a sort of look cast his direction as if he believed there was some grander scheme in place. One he could only assume was more on the assumption of Araminta’s talent to befriend people.
With children dashing out to play, Padma visibly relaxed quite a bit, now that she no longer needed to mind her mouth as to not traumatize little ones. Not that Reeves was helping in the slightest with being so loose at mentioning the Sable Fawn and alluding to the activities he planned on getting up to.
Araminta was finding that hearing a change of leadership out loud by someone that wasn’t herself when she was hell-raising mad about the Imperial Queen was… weighty. While true it needed to happen, true again that Araminta herself was scheming all sorts of scenarios. Only, it all felt like something very, very far away and not quite yet real. They would have to make it through the trials and survive whatever monster Bloody Heirra sent after them next.
However, she did promise to Theon that she wouldn’t die. Araminta intended to keep that promise.
“It is… a slow work in progress to make friends,” admitted Araminta warily. “There are the trials. Although… I suppose even when things have gone terribly awry we have somehow still found wonderful people to help! So I am incredibly grateful that Theon managed to find the Temple. And that Matilda sent us here to Bo and Adra. Meeting the lot of you has made all of the struggles feel worth it.”
There was a barely noticeable sense of relief once the little ones had set their plates aside and went to go naturally play and harass another. Still within earshot of parents but out of the line of sight that should anyone start squawking, someone was going to have to do some walking.
It was likely better the small ears were no longer here anyways if the topic was going to switch to adult matters like the Sable Fawn or something more gory outside of exploding stags. If that was possible.
It seemed that there was mention of a change of leadership in which had him sort of just looking up. Playing the gentle card of watchful intrigue certainly not putting together that such a statement was likely referencing the switch out from crazed she-beast of a Imperial Queen to singular remaining child. Had he figured that out, he’d likely show how vehemently he hated the idea.
Thankfully to his attention, it looked like most of the thought process was focusing on that of Araminta and her ability to make friends and allies alike.
“A progress no less. Considering you befriended my mother alone is a feat, Araminta.” Bo chuckled highly unaware that his parent had thrown a rock at Reeves noggin.
“There are likely maybe people who would rally anyways, if you know where to look. Many of the destroyed kingdoms certainly would be quick to alliance for retribution.” Dark eyes looked around the table, “Is there no other temples outside the Twelve Kingdoms? I know my homeland doesn’t, but they also worship one who drinks like a fish and thinks purely of agriculture.”
“I am certain there are temples beyond the borders of the twelve Kingdoms,” Reeves affirmed with a thoughtful nod. “It is likely those that could not be safe here in the Imperial Lands have moved outwards.”
“No offense to Araminta, but it’s doubtful the outland kingdoms are going to listen to a refugee princess with nothing to back her,” chimed in Padma. “Not against Heirra when it’s already been proven with every kingdom she’s destroyed or taken that, well… she’ll decimate an entire land and assassinate it’s crown just to win it.”
Araminta took no offense at all, for how true it was! Maybe if she had come out on the other side of the mountains she might have stumbled into a kingdom willing to help her with her own problem. Even if they wouldn’t be willing to send an army to fight demons, she could have easily negotiated an alliance in exchange for opening the mountain pass just so she could get back home. Instead she’d landed with the Imperial Queen who seemed to be right on par with demons themselves, as a worshipper? As their ally? Something just as evil and difficult to deal with!
“Ah, but our Araminta does have the backing of the one single soul that could change their minds,” alluded Reeves without any subtlety as he pointed a finger direct at Theon. “Names and Titles can be powerful in themselves when used properly. Allies can be made with a promise from the Heir Apparent.”
“Perhaps.” Adra shrugged proving that while she believed there was a lot that could be done, she was also showing her lack of knowledge when it came to the means of political chess that one had to compete with. Other kingdoms that were not daring to listen or care because the backing was no longer there. Add on as they all said that Heirra had no qualms to nuke an entire place because she wanted it. While there could have been a commentary that the queen currently had no obvious beast of control to send out in the form of defected prince and slaughtered Gusteau, the fact she was likely alliance with the Black Wyvern and such was enough not to even entertain her lack of resources. She may not want to get her hands dirty as she had in the past, but there was no telling when that very action would crumble and she’d had her hands curled around someone’s neck.
He was thoughtful about this. Looking at plate as he tapped the prongs of fork to the side. Trying to consider ways that things could be put together so Araminta could charm and delight those of interest to her cause but found himself rounding eyes of polished silver upwards.
To a finger pointing at him and realizing that they were banking falsely on him!
“You forget that I was not made the heir apparent.” Lips moved to point out the fact seeing as it was clear everyone at this table knew exactly who he was anyways. Those who didn’t, were background noise of joy. “To use such falsities would only give that distrust in return.”
Bo leaned back having finished his meal. Crossing arms with a thoughtful look, “Perhaps you may not be the official crowned prince, however, that could be a good thing. Many of the countries want nothing to do with with Bloody Heirra after all. You and Araminta are fallen royals, surviving. It may be a time to start setting up that you are no longer your respective kingdoms but something new. Something between you two and with the backing of the last temple, well… you may have the start.”
Back straightened, “That sounds like a rebellion in fancier terms. Which is incredibly dangerous.”
Araminta leaned, gently bumping her shoulder to Theon’s arm to tilt her face towards him and whisper a soft mischievous Aramintheon. Finding it completely irresistible in that moment of suggestion in something new to bring up the name that (at least she) thought was beautiful.
He’d think she was teasing, but Araminta was quite serious about it.
“We have talked about it before,” Araminta admitted when she straightened, less being a wily fox and now just herself. Princess. Girl. Just Araminta. “About dreams and what the future might look like for us. What a lovely future we might have if all of the Twelve Kingdoms were free and there was a new treaty of alliance in place. A council of kingdoms with representatives and ambassadors.”
“Sweet and naive,” pointed out Padma. “If Heirra doesn’t get to you first, someone else nefarious might try to fill the vacuum in her place. Every kingdom will not be your friend, Araminta.”
Reeves himself had dropped that air of flamboyant charm to be all business, resting arms on the table between taking a sip of tea and eyeing the royal pair.
“Hmn. This is true. Yet… is it not worth trying for? Not an easy feat by any means, but one does not need everyone’s support. One only needs enough. Our temple is dying and we could let it become history or we could invest in this wild chance to make things right again. We could in theory be the vassals of a newly formed union, to seek out temples beyond the Imperial Lands for support. To go beyond our borders to speak to other kingdoms on behalf of a potentially new ruling body…”
Reeves trailed off, gesturing towards both Theon and Araminta.
“It is a dangerous move. Is this what you both wish to do?”
She sparked an animated glare when she was whispering that damn name. He should have expected it but instead slipped a hand to rest on her knee. Patting it a couple of times as if that would stop her from saying that cursed name again. Slowly turning his attention back to the gathered group at the table. Where these were the council of minds as it were whilst Araminta pointed out a thought of the future if things had gone well their way. Something he would want to see happen because surely of all the kingdoms taken over in some way or another, they’d like to have their freedom. As someone who knew that feeling, it was well understood.
Of course, Padma was a pessimistic realist. “Not everyone wants to be suppressed either. They may not be the best choices but even those of ill intent will want to have their own chance for wriggling out.” Bo expressed, “That doesn’t mean one can’t note their actions, use them while eventually having someone else better to replace. If it came down to it.” His wife hummed looking thoughtful and unusually tempered. Likely because this was a conversation that had been unusual to happen at the table.
Reeves then mentioned how it wasn’t necessary to have everyone’s support, just enough. The right one would be the best after all and safely they could surely believe there was one or two that would want to leap upon that chance.
It was more the mention of how the last standing temple could act as a liaison to potential others. Offering hands and trying to build together for that of a potentially new ruling body. Never mind how much his mouth turned at the corners at that.
“It’s a safer move than what is current.” Opening hand that wasn’t pressed upon Araminta, “It is either attempt to do something, or continue as we are. But the means of simply complaining is doing nothing in the end either.” Theon sighed softly, kneading fingers soon to beard covered cheek. “So it’s more of a question of, do we leave things as is and accept that eventually the kingdoms will be devoured in some form. Or try the dangerous deed knowing it’s unlikely to be any less dangerous than something else.”
A silent moment and well, “I’ve no love for the Imperial Queen and no desire to see others suffer her control. As much as I loathe the idea of even being a mentioned idea of a figurehead, I would do what I could to see a future for everyone rather than not. So yes, this is something I would do.” But he lifted a finger, “Under the condition that everyone understands that if something were to succeed, I would not take over. In any case.”
That glare of his and the patting of her knee might’ve been the single silliest thing he had ever done. All it really did was encourage her to love the name even more and the one whose name was attached to hers. Only holding herself in reservation out of respect for the seriousness of the conversation. These things they were discussing would not just impact their own lives but have repercussions across all of the Twelve Kingdoms, whether they were successful or not.
Bogart had a very good point that even an enemy could be a good ally when you shared a common threat, as long as you were aware they might be duplicitous in the future.
Most importantly, though, Theon was proving to have a good head for such things, even if he hated the idea of being the ruler in charge. To do the right thing of taking up the responsibility of helping those in the Twelve Kingdoms was both brave and heroic. To still somehow want to refuse the throne afterwards revealed a gentle humbleness, that he’d surely be incensed to know made him all the more fit to be a King worthy of the crown.
She was not the only one to think so, as she could see it in the way Reeves blossomed into a wide smile and how Padma lowered her head to try and suppress one.
“There is balance in a pair, is there not? What one cannot do, the other is capable,” suggested Reeves.
Padma finally got her expression under control to pipe in a little more bluntly. “Rebellion to save all the Imperial Kingdoms is a noble quest, but it’s not going to be all friendly talks. Again, absolutely no offense intended, but Araminta can’t handle the bloodshed that is going to happen. Let Araminta do what she does best – be a voice of hope and bring people together. You don’t have to rule, you could be her shield and sword.”
Now the two paladins were eyeing Araminta and she felt herself freeze on the spot. It was one thing to daydream ambitions, but it was quite another to have someone just announce you should be in charge! Even if she had lofty ideals of being an ambassador to bring the kingdoms together, this sounded much more far reaching in an overwhelming way. Araminta was never meant to be anything other than the keeper of a humble village somewhere!
Araminta still felt that Theon could be a King that was beloved and remembered for centuries. Yet if he wouldn’t take up the mantle, someone had to at least manage things until there was a suitable soul. Someone that wouldn’t take the throne and follow in his awful mother’s footsteps or set everything backwards again.
Chewing into her lip she glanced up at Theon.
“It is more dangerous than the trials. Politics can be ugly, but I could handle them. If you would keep me safe?”
In no short form of the thoughts he had, the throne was never to be something he wanted. Having seen only the sort of control his parent had and the cruelty she inflicted to maintain it, was not something he wanted to use for himself. Even if he could lead in the opposite way, it was not his calling. Not his desire and if he was truly supposed to be allowed to live eventually in his own direction then this was likely not going to change. It may just grow stronger in his decision to refute it. However, he knew this was important to spark even a little crackle of change.
Heirra had to be removed. Not only because she was a terrible ruler and only thought of herself, but she built additions to her kingdom on the backs, the bones and the skulls of those she deemed inferior. No where inside her was there a redeemable quality. He doubted anyone would fight for her genuinely, they’d fight for power. Money, and a darker desire that assumed that if she failed, they would rise. By all means, this was a dangerous choice but what hadn’t been at this point.
“That’s what lacks here. Balance.” Theon followed Reeves commentary but added to it not sure why Padma was ducking away. Though he did note how Bo and Adra seemed to be sharing Reeves grinning efforts.
“There’s no balance when one who is supposed to be the support has no intention of doing so.” Adra nodding assured of herself, “A saying from my culture is un pour tous et tous pour un. Meaning all for one and one for all. Balance.” Of course Padma knew something more and that was the fact that anything they did, there would be no escaping any sort of bloodshed.
Actually, it was likely to spark a great wave of it. This was liable to incite war. “You’re suggesting that of being the knight.” He knew what Padma meant and he felt torn between it.
As a boy, he had lofty ideas of that very title. Finding it far more dreamy and amazing than prince, however, it had been dulled over the years. To a point that when Araminta mentioned it a while ago now, he found it insulting. In two parts. Because he wasn’t worth that much and she deserved someone to hold that mantle properly.
He frowned still. And there was a tension settling before it seemed that Araminta was gracing her gaze upon him. “I do not know if I could do so as a knight. Especially one that is lacking a vital organ.” A heart seemed rather important for that, “But I would. I’m aware enough of devious politics can be even for those who are on good terms, worse when there is villainy and things afoot.”
And he paused then, gaze becoming distant in thought. Only to snap forward and realizing that Reeves had made a very good point about having enough support. “If you are able to sanction help from other temples and anything else that would be a start. We all know that the Imperial Queen has crippled the temples so it should not be difficult to rally a want to correct that fracture. With some difficulty I would assume as is anything else but,” He looked to Araminta, “It would help. Alongside a particular court that has been already charmed by yourself and gifts given by one who has made it known that their loyalty but their loathing is given to Queen Heirra.”
The fae court. The Fae King.
The white wolf had said there would come a time that they would need their help. He wasn’t sure if this was it but, “And to ask for their assistance in potentially getting what is mine without having to walk into the lair of the woman. If possible.”
There was no a table of eyes and ears rapt with attention all quite curious to hear exactly whom else Araminta had managed to win over with charm that currently was not already present. With Araminta tilting her head and pondering the suggestion herself.
“The white wolf did seem fond of you… we could ask her about the Faerie King.” she mused.
“The what!” exclaimed Padma, who thought she could not be surprised further by this girl and her guardian, but here it was!
Araminta flushed and shut her mouth tight, worried for a moment that she’d said something she shouldn’t have. After a few seconds deciding, well, they were discussing things this deeply and Theon was willing to lay this information out on the table, maybe it would be helpful for them to know as well.
“…during my third trial we met one that is a Faerie King, a Treant King? He was fae and tree and midnight sky all at once. He thought Theon interesting and he gave me a gift,” Her hand lift up to tap the wooden pin she’d always kept pinned somewhere even when she didn’t wear her clock. Paint of a purple iris and a white butterfly. “They have no liking for the Queen at all. With our trials so far it does honestly seem as if she’d been waging a silent war against them.”
Even Reeves was impressed by this, leaning back in his chair with a soft curse under his breath. “You are truly blessed! An avatar of the very Lady of Light herself!” Usually this was where Padma would scoff at Reeve’s religious nonsense, but even she was now completely astounded and staring at them both with wide dark eyes.
“By the Lady herself, I have said it before, but I say it again now,” announced Reeves, full of that genuine flamboyant flare once again. “Our temple aligns with you, with whole hearts and freely given loyalty. To you Theon, who sheds the name of Imperial Prince as a phoenix spreading wings out of the ashes, and to you Princess Araminta who continues to live as bright as the sun breaking rays through the stormiest of days.”
Padma in turn very fervently nodded her head in agreement, not one to give such flowery words.
Araminta did not know what to do with these sorts of declarations, and being the dramatic soul she was seemed to feel it so deeply that it was now threatening to well her up with tears. This was wonderful. Scary, dangerous, frightening… but wonderful. Eternally grateful that she’d even managed to get this far, still living, to actually meet people who wanted to help. Despite her efforts of trying to be graciously elegant, her response ended up being a quick nod of her own before breaking into tears. Good tears! But tears nonetheless.
He shrugged at the whole white wolf seeming fond of him. Unconvinced as it was not him that had the elegant creature of high intellect lounging across that of lap. Soothed by gentle melody as many others. Certain that had they entered the forest without Araminta being charmed away by floating wisps, she still would have managed to summon the beasts with that of her melody. Unclear it would be if she ever would have left though.
Liable to point out how it wasn’t himself that did this, Padma was breaking out of her momentary silence. Looking like she was about to slap hands to table in a declaration of further disbelief. “Zu ta lor.” Adra spoke softly but muttered something further to Bo who also just looked absolutely shocked further.
Sharing the fact of awe that any of this was possible, or had happened. Especially as Araminta decided to clarify that during that third trial, she had achieved something that most humans would consider highly impossible. It was too. To not only calm the ire of feisty fae but to manage to bring forth the being of mystery while earning gifts a plenty. Even the idea of saying how it wasn’t him the king had been curious about couldn’t be done. He had earned the large beings eye and he was still sure that it was probably out of annoyance seeing as the very Queen they loathed, ran half in his veins.
To hear Reeves speak up and claim that Araminta could very well be an avatar of their deity, he had no reason to deny it. “At this point, I am half expecting you to have managed to charm a great beast from the sky Araminta and ride across the lands upon its back.” Bo blinked as he spoke, seemingly showing that he was hardly kidding about this.
“We’ll be expecting more stories regardless.” Wife chimed in to echo in her own way as Reeves seemed emboldened to give some mighty declaration.
Though it was entirely dramatic, he was starting to suspect that was exactly the sort of personality Reeves just had. Entirely dramatic. Which only caused him to feel a mental amusement at the whole thing, at least till Araminta burst into tears. Urging Adra to get up to go and collect that of a tissue as he retracted hand from her knee in case that was being a bit too bold at the moment. “We are least know where to start now.” Theon stated giving Araminta space at least as she took the time needed to collect at her preference.
Leaving Adra the means of standing to pat-pat and stroke the top of the princess’ head, “Yes, you’ll do well to keep Bo and I notified to all your antics, eh? Of course, we will do our best to see what we can scope out too. Nobles talk of course, we can always play ears.”
“Might be the only thing half good about the snobby nobles, they do like the gossip about everything, anyone and in-between. The queen herself is always a hot topic I’d typically wish not to be privy too but in this case, it could help.”
The woman nodded and as he quietly sort of just observed the scene now, thinking with idle wonders. “With that off the table in a sense, then after your performance tomorrow Araminta, I assume you both will be tarrying off to the next challenge officially? You both will be attending to observe another talent of the dear lady, yes?” Adra looked at Padma and Reeves in this case trying to move the topic now to something lighter and still praising that of Araminta.
He took this as a sign to gather up any empty places, so they could discuss and rave naturally for the event of the next day.
“You’re all so kind..!” was all Araminta could sniffle out in the moment. Taking the tissue offered by Adra and trying to stop her tears before she made and even bigger fool of herself. Giving Theon a bit of a pitiful look when he pulled away, yet realizing it was likely an awkward thing to be so intimately touching a women when she was nearly sobbing! Even if it was tears of joy! Only to continue to nod her affirmations that yes she would be very sure to keep in touch, not just because of this wild and ambitious plan of theirs, but because these were now all genuine friends. In a place where she had once been all alone, there came along Theon to look after her, and now a circle of wonderful people.
“I would not miss a musical performance by a fae enchanting princess for the world,” Reeves answered with true delight. By the way he brightened, chances were he intended to enjoy for more than just the music while at the Sable Fawn.
Padma gave a noncommittal shrug as she had not quite decided if she wanted to be present for her teacher’s debauchery, even at the chance to see something especially unusual.
“We shall leave the day or two after. Only if Bo has finished a set of winter clothes for us. I don’t think Theon will much like the cold and we will be a good way north of here.” answered Araminta once her sniffling was under control. Deliberately avoiding any means of discussing the event, as without Theon being there with her, it wasn’t really worth the fanfare about it. She’d promised him she’d enjoy the moment, but that didn’t mean she was going to be happy about it!
Adra smiled at the way Reeves grew in delight with the means that Araminta would be playing and likely had other reasons for enjoying such an affair. Seeing as Bo too got up to aid the princeling in gathering up the items. Though hardly about to miss the fact that Padma was not echoing her teacher’s enthusiasm. “Padma if you wish not to partake, you can come back here. We are not going alongside Ghost either, so it is a safe space.” The woman pointed out with a authentic invite, “I won’t even have you be subjected to the unpredictable gremlin’s, in case you need something to be certain of. But Reeves, we will need a strong recounting of Araminta’s event. Every detail. Every nuance so we can feel as though we have experienced it. As a man who seems to be very much a teller of tales, I am sure you will oblige us with this.” You’d think Adra was trying to give the lord paladin a task instead of playing coy and wily with the flirtatious women at the Sable Fawn.
The man of the house chuckled some, before glancing over his shoulder at the suggestion of clothing. “I have most prepared. Thankfully simple things that will be warm without needing days upon days of strict detailing.” Though he seemed to pause looking at the other man, “And a new couple tunic so these threadbare ones can be properly turned into rags.”
“Thank you. You are overly kind.”
There was a lift of brows then light shake of head, “I wouldn’t say that. You and Araminta have been utterly helpful. It is only a fair thing to do. So everything will be prepared.”
Padma gave a curious sort of look in Theon’s direction at the mention that he wasn’t going to be attending Araminta’s unique recital. Keeping whatever thought it was to herself for the moment on hearing Adra’s invite, which seemed to draw her into a thoughtful state before she nodded her acceptance.
“I will be here. I would like a chance to talk with you, Theon, without Reeves being a nuisance to us all,” she stated simply, apparently not worried in the slightest about offending her mentor.
Which made Reeves cast that wide winsome smile ever more.
“It will be my pleasure to soak in every sound, sight, smell, and detail of such a wonderous evening to come regale the tale to a most beautiful of hostess.” With that Reeves made the motions of getting up from his seat, subtly gesturing with a hand that his ward should be coming too. “For now, my aggravated student and I shall return to the Sable Fawn. Unless our stalwart former prince wishes for that private discussion now?”
That, well, that made him look back at Padma with a bit of quizzical curiosity. Unable to think of any viable reason why Padma would want to talk to him in a sense of privacy without Reeves. Outside the frame that her mentor was a bit of a shit-disturber in the best sort of way. Seemingly needing to say something that was worth the means of coming to the abode rather than potentially keeping the lord paladin from flexing his eyebrows in wiggling forms. “Okay.” Well now he was going to be utterly fascinated to what it could possibly be from the ward paladin. Liable to have plenty of guesses and be nowhere near such correct truths.
With Reeves, the man clearly didn’t mind. Taking Adra’s mentioning of how she would expect a detailed retelling of the nightly affair without all the pinching, teasing and giggling that was not something she was interested in. Still, her brows lifted somewhat in a slow pace, making that waving motion before face, “Smells like poop again.” Declaring that his flowery intentions to butter her up were on par for a fresh roadapple that fell from someone’s bum. Probably why Bo wasn’t suddenly whipping his head around at breakneck speed that his wife was getting flattered. He’d likely stopped worrying since Adra would call it out long before anyone had a chance of flirting her into girlish giggles.
Granted, if she was doing so, one ought to be worried. She was likely planning something devious in the form of a prank.
Instead she put her hand back to smooth on top of Araminta’s head again. Playing mother to the girl whilst he personally turned a little at the statement that came. Thinking carefully before shaking his head. “I would like time to sort my thoughts into succinct questions. Much has been said this evening and it was originally only for the intent that Araminta wanted to share a meal. When I have thought better of the topic at hand and conversation, I will ask respectfully.” There was a lot that had happened over the table in means of kinship and he would just prefer that Araminta personally had the rest of the night to feel warm and toasty that things were hopefully coming up roses instead.
“Let me walk you to the door then,” A pat-pat and Adra motioned with her hands to act the guide.
“Pleasure meeting you both!” Bo called not about to just let them leave without being acknowledged.
Both Reeves and Padma excused themselves and bid a goodbye for the evening, this time without Reeves giving an exaggerated bow, though curiously Padma showing her respect through a fist tapped over her heart. The conversation having solidified something of value for her that might’ve been undecided before. The pair being escorted out by Adra with a few murmured pleasantries at the front door.
Araminta was still finding herself in an overwhelmed state of awe. How quickly things could shift just during a brief dinner conversation! It was one thing to have her ideas and blabber them out to Theon when she was having one of her long winded moments of trying to show him all the different possibilities in the world – and quite another to have those ideas solidified, confirmed, actually be supported with true potential to be realized!
Their time in this busy town had changed so much for them. It was taking a moment for her to catch her breath and settle her thoughts before her mind went wheeling and spinning and plotting about things that were not even close yet to fruition!
“I think I might like to get ready for bed early this evening,” admitted Araminta, twisting in her chair just enough to peer over the back at Theon. Giving him that soft questioning look to see if he was at least going to actually come to bed himself at some point without her having to fuss at him.
Highly no one ever expected the dinner to be this productive. To have come up with a majority of plots while hinging on the very basis of Araminta’s best scenario sort of plan. Although there would still be plenty of work to be done, it was a good foot forward. Truthfully he would just be grateful if there was a possible way to rely on the fae’s help to retrieve a rather vital organ for himself. With the conflict between demon queen and fae’s, he had to believe they were able to slide under another’s radar just enough. Or there were tricks that could counter another’s.
He wasn’t sure. The glaring holes in his knowledge banks about both demons and faerie’s was rather immense. Almost bordering on the info being just similar enough to commoner’s superstitions.
The voice spoke up and he was quick enough to turn to look upon her in that of seat. Jade rings present upon him with that all knowing silent asking that almost made him flare up in a rebellious declaration of stubbornness already. Stifled as he knew she wasn’t trying to force him into bed because she found it hilarious to do so –probably a little bit- but he tilted attention to Bo. “Go on, the kids can finish up the clean up with myself. You’ve done enough.”
Theon nodded, acquiescing to Bo’s allowance to forgive him for not finalizing this measure of tidying up everything. Brushing off hands and tidying up a few things into stacks so he could turn and face Araminta with a silent agreement that he would come along. Without any fighting or resistance. Truly, he might just need a bit of time away from everything else with her company to think through everything that had happened so well.
There was visible relief in her expression that there wouldn’t be a struggle to get him into bed. Truthfully it was just as much a selfish need to have him close as it was in trying to get him to properly care for himself. It was a peace of mind and companionship to have his company at the end of the day, to wind down somewhere comfortable and safe.
Araminta left her chair, giving Bo a quick thankful squeeze to the shoulder as she mumbled a soft goodnight. On the way to their room Adra was assaulted with a full squeezing hug and a quiet thank you, almost at risk of breaking into tears again only to manage to hold them at bay. Releasing after a lingering moment to skitter off to the bedroom, leaving the door wide open for Theon to follow her at whatever pace he wished.
The princess dropped to sit on the edge of the bed, feeling both incredibly light of mood and so very heavily weighted with responsibility all at the same time. As if months and months of events and changes were now all sitting on top of her, good and bad, to leave her with a sense of having no idea of what to do with herself now. The path forward was as clear as day, yet there was still twists and complications and winding side roads and everything in between.
So mentally frazzled with it all, Araminta fell back against the mattress, not yet having the sense to take off her own boots. Leaving the girl staring at the ceiling just trying to settle her thoughts.
He wouldn’t particularly tarry long as Araminta zipped off after doling out affectionate actions to both Bo and Adra. The latter giggling as she had happily enough gave the girl an strong squeeze with a muttering that she didn’t need to be thanking them for much. Living that embodiment he supposed of a caring parent more than he knew previously. Observing this was such a strange interaction that he was surprised that such things were apparently supposed to be normal. Two loving parents that let their children be children, who knew!
With the mountain wildling zipping off no sooner to that of room, he gave Adra a nod and a bidding of goodnight. Only for her to stop him a moment to query about the dinner. Naturally something he had already prepared for. Extending a pointed finger to the kitchen with verbal indication that he had written down the ingredients and list of preparation for her in case she wanted to repeat the means of cooking. Thus far, it seemed her children all the way down to the fussiest one had taken well to the food. Indicating it would be a good meal to have on hand to fill bellies and keep anyone from vocalizing complaint. Worse yet, dramatically flopping around in their chair like the very thing was eating their backside.
After a few minutes and a patting motion made to his arm, he did toddle in after Araminta. Finding her flopped upon the mattress looking to the ceiling as he closed the door.
With an audible click and a noticing to her own footwear having not been removed, he took a page from her book before. Settling to help remove the things so she could suck legs up to coil as she wanted too, Theon set her shoes aside. Neat and tidy so he could repeat the same to his own footwear so he could come sit on the edge of the bed. Patiently waiting rather than nudging and insisting attention be given, as he could guess her own thoughts were just as heavy. Trying to think of something that would lighten the load in some way but was coming up with nothing obvious. Laying hands to his lap instead to just give time knowing that eventually she would divulge if there was a lot to consider.
Settling for, “Thank you for helping this evening. For the meal.” She did deserve to be told that and he did know verbal appreciation was a nice thing to have.
Theon stole her shoes! Araminta had half a mind to fuss about the same way he always tended to do when she was trying to take care of him. In the end not finding the will to do so as she was both too tired and so grateful to have Theon there at all, that she wasn’t going to dare be difficult with him.
Finally shifting up to sit when he’d murmured an unnecessary thank you to her, to wrap her arms around his and rest her head against Theon’s shoulder with a deep weary sigh.
“I enjoy making dinner with you,” she revealed, betting he likely didn’t even realize it!
Shifting then to properly glance him over with evergreen eyes, doing that thing again of trying to peer right into his mind to divine what sort of thoughts he might be swishing around in there. There was a lot to take in from one conversation and it was Theon himself who had led most of it. With impressive thoughts and ideas of his own instead of the quiet accepting silence of being led around by the nose.
“Are you alright?” she decided to ask directly, just to check in and see. “I did not know conversation would turn as serious as it did. With no regrets, mind you, but it was quite a lot.”
Softly he had a bare hint of a smile when she expressed that she had enjoyed cooking the dinner with him. “I wouldn’t be opposed to continuing such things as we travel. And to teach.” As she stated the desire to learn was there. He was still willing to teach. Knowing it would certainly benefit them both.
Of course came about the question of what he was mulling around in that of his mind. Something to think over a moment yet. “It was certainly not what I expected to talk about. Though much that came from it is very beneficial. A start to your ideas and hopes. So I might need to digest a but further but I don’t think anything bad. It’s good to have an idea and a better sense of footing.”
Tilting some so he could lay a gentle nudge of chin to the top of her crown. “And you? How does it feel to you?”
Araminta did very much like the idea of simple domestic routines while they traveled. Something rooted in present moments so the world didn’t feel so big and wide and full of all sorts of overwhelming terrors. Especially now that her world had grown beyond just Theon, but to include the very household they were currently staying with, and now the Paladin Temple…. potential temples plural!
“I am a little scared,” she admitted openly, tilting head back to peer at him. “It was easy to be fearless when it was me alone and I was certain my end would be in the jaws of some beast. It is easy too, to have ideas and big dreams and hopes when that is all they are, dreams and hopes.”
Sighing softly she buried her face against his arm for a moment, just glad he was even there and talking to her.
“I was never meant to be a real leader for anyone? A miss in a small cottage manor with a humble little village, maybe. Now I am afraid that I’ve started something spectacular that I am not even remotely qualified to handle. I will have gotten everyone’s hopes up only to disappoint them, or worse killed dead. There is a tiny little voice in the back of my mind whispered that I am doom and ruin with a pretty face.”
Shuffling just a bit so they could share the space a little easier without him potentially falling off the edge of the bed and taking her with him; the statement that she was a little scared still sounded strange to him. Learning slowly that even if Araminta behaved in ways that made her seem truly fearless, he was coming to understand that it may be somewhat of an act. To keep others from potentially feeling as though they were about to be sucked down into doom as well.
“If that were the case, others would feel that in some way or form.” Theon suggested when she had finished. The idea that she was any sort of leading omen being just that natural means of uncertainty. But if it were true, she wouldn’t be so easily able to boost people to her cause. That part he did believe with every part of his being. “Regardless, one cannot know unless they keep going. Thus far, you’ve managed many great things. It can be overwhelming and frightening too but you aren’t alone any further in it. That should be a good part to remember, yes?” He wasn’t the best for pep talks clearly but he could feel it in his he… well in his empty chest that this was fact.
“Doubt is normal. But I hope that you won’t let it control you.”
“Yes, I am not alone anymore.” she affirmed, mouth slowly reaching into a soft wide smile as she gently squeezed his arm to confirm that agreement. This was something Araminta had told him before, that he himself was no longer alone. Theon didn’t need to carry the weight of his sadness or loneliness anymore either, and she very much hoped he remembered that.
In fact, it was worth the reminder to prove it, giving way to her shifting about herself so she could cup his cheek and give him a quick kiss. Finding that even though she knew it was allowed, there was still this cheeky thrill that curled up in her stomach and brought that flush of pink to her features.
“Get in bed, Theon, it is going to be worlds better sleeping now without worry about rolling over on you arm,” she suggested, already shifting to get up so she could remove at least some of her clothes to be more comfortable herself. Somehow not thinking anything odd of it, as well… he’d seen plenty enough already! No reason to be bashful about linen rompers and bare legs.
It was going to keep going that way. More people surely were going to align with Araminta’s goals, now with the additional help of the Temple. Like a rolling stone gathering moss, it would be a hard force to stop when it truly started tumbling. It was something he could hope for and in turn, he had to believe that creating an alliance with the Treant King; that things might start to grow all the harder for the Imperial Queen. That a force was amassing together that could have been quashed in ways had the woman of demonic cult following just helped in her own diabolical way when Araminta originally came seeking assistance.
Well there was nothing about that in which could be done.
With a shifting that drew attention, the way she drew close enough to steal something personal from him with a gentle flush coating cheeks and the statement of getting into that of bed; he hummed in a means of agreed compliance. Rather than his typical refusal that would treat this mushy cushion as the bane of utter existence. Although his attention deviated to consider her when she had crawled out to start peeling away articles that were of no considerable use to sleeping, he knew a bit of his thoughts were veering away. Watchful but thankfully not leering like some prowling predator.
Maybe more appreciating in ways he hadn’t but kept a silent action about it.
Seeming pleased with the end action, after he had adjusted and assured that he was sorted as told to that of the terrible comfort. Grateful that arm was no longer about to create a bother to this.
Araminta didn’t rush through pulling off the day’s clothes, as it was quite nice not being in a hurry to go anywhere or do anything. Being glad too for heading to bed early to shake off what was a very emotional day. Her clothes were folded neatly to set aside, to then take a few moments to set her hair loose and run a brush through it. Never paying Theon much worry or mind beyond a few glances here and there just to confirm he wasn’t slowly inching his way to a chair, or right out the door just so he could avoid the evils of a marshmallow mattress.
Once she was through, she set about blowing out all the lights save for the one at the bedside table. Turning it down nice and low to cast the room into cozy shadows.
Finally climbing into bed herself to tucked up under covers and without any hesitation whatsoever to curl up in the crook of Theon’s arm to rest her head on his shoulder and throw an arm around him too. Perfectly content to let out that soft slow breath of relaxing body and mind to settle in.
Maybe even having that soft knowing smile that Theon was starting to come around to how nice and comfortable beds actually were!
It was a dull sort of awareness that seemed to become far more alert once his mind started properly acknowledging the focus. Rather than whipping his attention away like some ill behaved little peeping Tom, it was a slow retrieval. Funnelling the recollection of such actions through that of the mill that was one’s thoughts till Araminta was shortly helping herself into the marshmallow of doom. Snuggling up close to a position that was familiar at this point.
Shortly taking claim of a portion of himself that had likely become something comforting and seeing that bare little twist of a smile present that he could only at this point, register was she was thinking something potentially amusing.
Never mind that he was reflecting back on actions that had been taken years and years ago by that of himself. Inciting old sources that allowed the mental hold to reach out and grasp to remember what sort of behaviours had been there. Even amongst the knowing that the woman that had been trying to cozy on up to him was in it for herself with vain beliefs she was of any value to the illustrious harpy Queen. It didn’t mean he wasn’t affected. Quiet stealing looks and what he had thought were quickened beats of a absent heart –he was going to have to really reflect on all that- to the tingling sort of thrill that ran from the warmth of belly to spill outwards. Delectable twists and flutters that expressed timid excitement; it was vague but present now.
Just there was many different things between this moment and his former history that needed deeper consideration. Instead trying to push away the enamoured sort of attention, to pull that of blanket up to woman’s shoulder. Letting gaze wander the flat of wall like it was the omniscient presence that would answer all and every question one ever had. “Rest easy.” He mumbled. He might have come to the bed, that didn’t mean he would sleep! Worse now.
Araminta could practically hear the spinning of his thoughts, unsure which ones were plaguing him the most as there was surely so much on their shoulders now that attempting to read his mind would be impossible even if she could do it! All she knew was that he wasn’t quite relaxed, and the poor man needed sleep just as much now as ever. Healed body or not, sleep was just as important for the mind and heart.
Even if one’s heart was a ghost!
Being too comfortable now to get up and fetch her lyre to see if she could musically lull him to sleep, Araminta slid up a hand to give him some soft stroking through that dark red hair at his temple. Soft and repetitive, gentle affection that’d hopefully get him to sink down in the mattress and drift away properly.
Squinting at the movement of hand rising up, casting its shadow upon the wall to add to the awareness of its movement, he wasn’t entirely sure what this sort of petting motion was for. A little puzzling as this was a new means of touch that would require some scrutinizing to figure out. Certainly it wasn’t unpleasant just mystifying.
Eventually coming up with no real reason to the action outside of giving his head a bit of a shake and a slight retraction. Liable to take that wayward limb to tuck back under the blanket so she wouldn’t worry about reaching out to pet at all.
“That isn’t resting.” Came the uttering and a bit further adjusting to ensure she was as cozy as she wanted to be.
“You are not resting either,” she gently replied. Stopping only to raise up on an elbow to peer at him, because he seemed to be trying to nest her down to quietness and perhaps she found that suspicious. A little worried that now he could move about freely again, he might just go back to abandoning long rests in favor of wandering the nights.
“You do not have to tell me what is on your mind until you’ve sorted all through it… but I am going to be sure you fall asleep and sleep well.” came her not-so-subtle announcement. Reaching that hand up again, this time trying another soft technique of tapping finger to his forehead and then down his nose. There was nothing salacious or wicked in intent, simply something she remembered from long long ago, being a little one herself and what Araminta knew felt calm and soothing.
“I am complying with accepting laying down in this bed that you like, that doesn’t mean I am ready to rest.” Theon seemed to find a new form of being potentially stubborn. Outwardly he was accepting that this was how she wanted to sleep. Nestled up close, leeching heat from him while feeling comforted in the damnable squishy surface that he would sooner launch into a river than deal with but willing to start working to accepting it. That didn’t mean be wanted to sleep yet.
However, if he assumed it would be easy to do, Araminta was about to show him that she was just as mulish when she wanted to be. That steadfast bullish attitude that could leave one baffled at the most unusual instances, was not about to win him over right now.
Observing the lift of hand that came to tap a finger to the space between his brows. Blinking at it and then how she was smoothing finger tip down the length of nose to rinse and repeat. Furrowing brow in turn. Perhaps if he had some routines of nurturing or care as a youth that was recalled, maybe he wouldn’t think this was so weird. But alas, he did.
Once more shaking head and retracting with more of a tilt this time whilst eyeing that finger in case it went rogue. “You have much to do tomorrow. It is not necessary or required for you to worry about if and when I may rest. I am present and near, with more thoughts that I would like to organize currently. You wished to rest earlier. This feels counterproductive to that very thing.”
There was a squint of her eyes as Araminta tried to decipher what parts he wasn’t saying out loud and what parts were tied up in his lack of experience with gentle affections and genuine softness. Unsure if it was truly just his want to stay awake and ponder awhile longer, if he was rebelling against comfort, or if there was something new that was going to spring up and catch her unaware.
In the end deciding that she trusted him to tell her if something were actually wrong. And that she was also too weary to have anymore discussions and battles for the day. Supposing this one was truly her own fault, as it was indeed her that wanted to come to bed early. Araminta couldn’t expected Theon to always just be ready for bed simply because she’d been worn out herself!
“Okay,” she quietly acquiesced. Settling back down to what was now her spot with an equally quiet sigh. Certain at some point after she fell asleep he was going to escape and not having the will to fight him on it. “Thank you for coming to bed with me anyway, Theon.”
He would eventually talk to her about some things, certainly. Other things may never find the light of day seeing as he wasn’t sure he would want to bring up the items anyways when such topics could be heavy and burdensome. Knowing they already had plenty of that! Did they need another, hell no!
Thankfully she was able to relent. Not needing to will him into slumber because they had come to the room due to the weight of so much happening. It was still early for him and knew that she had a lot on the go for the next day. The reminding words that she had simply just wanted to be presence was enough of a reason for him to come and join her currently.
Barring his own piqued and swatted down interest. Settling to be grateful that she wasn’t trying to get him to saw logs but went back to scooting and roosting herself to where she wanted to be. It was doubtful they would see much of another anyways come the next day and he honestly didn’t want her to be so worn out that her event and time doing something she loved was wasted because she was too tired.
So the commentary about thanking him for coming to the room and bed alike was enough. Humming to express he heard, understood and wasn’t going to insist on any further conversation. Settling in for the night to sort his own thoughts properly and to be his familiar companion in the scape of thoughts while being sure that she rested!
Araminta herself usually liked those moments of laying down and letting her thoughts run where they wanted to so she could sort them out as she fell asleep. Discovering in this instance it was more a problem than a help, mostly because she was somehow dreading spending her day preparing tomorrow when it was supposed to be something she was excited for. Araminta was excited – an opportunity to play music like this didn’t happen. In fact, it had never happened! Any public recitals she had performed before were in the confines of her castle home, with a small social circle of people. Once she’d played for visiting nobles and that was the extent of Araminta’s solo playing.
Truthfully she wasn’t nervous about such a showcase with strangers and unknown patrons. Instead it felt like something she shouldn’t have. A silly indulgent thing to fluff her ego or give her some sense of joy when there were now so many more bigger important things to be concerned about. To be so excited about something that was purely for herself felt so wrong.
In the end, the princess had to convince herself that it wasn’t just for her. The night should provide Jasa with a good bit of business and line Araminta’s pockets with a healthy portion of money to help fund her continue progress in the trials without having to put that weight of earning coin solely on Theon’s shoulders. It’d help too that Theon knew she was doing things se enjoyed, so he’d not feel so obligated to keep finding new ways to provide it for her… or at least she hoped not do so in ways that ended with him hurt.
It was heavy thoughts Araminta fell asleep with, but she still did eventually succumb to sleep.
Only once he was certain she had properly fallen asleep, he lingered for a bit longer. Finding that his thoughts were as wild as a unbridled tempest. Too many things flying about in wicked mental winds that really even if he had been exhausted, the measure of rest would evade.
He’d be sure that she was deep enough that when he snuck from its hold, she could be all neatly tucked in. To avoid any heat escaping whilst he went to the task of exiting the room to that of the kitchen. Finding Bo still awake. Seemingly surprised himself to see the wicked prince coming out. Though a short lived effort as there was an offer to have a cup of late night tea and just sit. An offering that was accepted even if he didn’t feel much of a want or desire to speak. Appreciating that Bo hadn’t pressed for conversation but rather just sort of talked about anything he wanted. Rambling effortlessly till the time struck so late that the single cup of tea had become a lengthy endeavour. With the tailor excusing himself with a polite goodnight and allowing him to just sit in the kitchen for a while more.
It was after the rise of dawn that he eventually just begun the means of preparing a simple meal for those in the household. Knowing Araminta would need to leave sooner than later, so it seemed important to have something prepared so she didn’t need to stop or wait. Just able to grab something and leave as swiftly.
And it kept his hands busy at least.