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Alvaerelle Wynzorwyn Queen Mentions: Cyrus (Dir) Esen, Catori, Ivan, The Elders, Akith'ki, Syllivanna(Ind)
Her face of the calmest neutrality, perhaps simmering with only the slightest annoyance, had been met with one of primal animalistic anger. Upon her touch she saw Cyrus for the male nearly all of the tribe described him as — a feral beast, a heathen to be forever hated. It was hard to see past that guise now but she faced him head on, her own fire soon to erupt and meet his. Everyone had been too afraid to correct this male and left him unchecked for far too long. If she had to be the one to face his wrath so be it, perhaps it would be what the male needed to change. Peering into his pinpoint pupils and infuriated gaze she could see it had been an entirely different Cyrus from the one that had realized who he glanced back at. She saw the shift of pure outrage to the one analyzing the current situation at hand. At the rise of his hand the female would pin her sharp pointed ears tightly against the back of her skull, offering to meet his once angered snarl with one equally as feral being initiated by a hiss. Fangs bared, her own pupils would constrict pinning themselves firmly upon the males' own. It was as if time had slowed between them. That is, until the male had caught his own swing making an attempt to pull away, ultimately failing leaving a jagged scratch against her forearm. As his nails made their contact ripping the flesh from her skin she’d grimace, quickly snapping her arm back towards her chest. Her gaze would shift down toward her arm to see where the wound would take its place, scenting the metallic fragrance, and soon seeing the blood begin to rise upon her skin she’d glare back toward him, pupils still pinpoint. She saw the panic, the remorse, the concern, perhaps even fear rise upon the males widened eyes. She truthfully didn’t know how to react. He’d begin to lose all sense of his charm and his composure rapidly, his vocals stammering to get a grasp of any formal sentence. The female would begin to allow a deep laugh to escape her, the beginnings of a growl would soon follow shortly afterwards. Her gaze remained pinned upon the male, fierce, yet calm and dignified. “Do not bother to get me anything.” She spat. Her gaze firmly set upon the male, who had nearly begun begging for forgiveness for his assault upon her. “You have gone unchecked for far too long Cyrus and it was time someone put you in your proper place.” She would begin approaching the male allowing a snarl to etch itself upon her steely mask. Had anyone in the tribe dared approach the pair to intervene they’d be met with a feral snarl to back off and wait. “I see you for who you want to be. A male craving power. That is, power that would never be granted to you even if you were the last choice to receive it and even you know it. Power is never given to those who crave it for the wrong reasons.” The female would raise her hand to meet his chest soon digging her own nail at its center. “You were not always this type of male. I have heard a great deal of who you were before. You have allowed your view of what this tribe was centuries ago to skew what it has grown to become. You view it as weak, fragile, perhaps even delicate. Yet you do not evolve nor learn anything, do you. My Esen, Catori, Ivan - even is a testament to that inner strength perhaps you lack within yourself.” “Believe me, when I say that I am fully aware of the insult you believe the Elders have brought you, perhaps you even believe the fucking Gods have spited you for the outcomes of your life. However, let me be very fucking clear. You need to take a closer inspection of yourself, of your fucking heart — that is if you still even have one.” She’d state, digging a single sharp claw into his chest dragging it up towards the base of his neck, drawing blood along its path, unbothered by her own physical assault against him. “You think you know what this tribe needs. You think this tribe needs someone like you, and it in fact does not. It will never need a male like you, so hungry to send it back into the savagery it once was a millennia ago. Have you ever taken any thought to what it is that you might actually need? Your concerns on the tribes wellbeing are not at all what the tribe actually needs. They are of your own selfishness.” “You are not of royal blood and likely never will be. Even if you turned rogue and made your own tribe of savages it would crumble and fall out of existence. Your own son wouldn’t even join you, not that you care for him in any other sense than something to keep your pathetic excuse of a bloodline alive anyway. Whose to say he’d even keep your last name and not take the maiden name of your mate.” She’d add shifting her glare towards his son, her speech likely more for him than the tribe itself, at this point, snapping back toward the brute in front of her. Her enraged gaze, had now returned to normal, emitting nothing but a firm sternness. She would pull out a knife that had been kept well hidden at her waistband ensuring the male hadn’t dared to snap at her for the mention of his deceased mate and would firmly grab for his own arm that reached toward her, and sliced her knife against his arm to bear the same mark as her, on his opposing forearm. She’d gaze at any who had surrounded the pair and state firmly, loudly enough for all immediate ears within the vicinity to pick up. “We are even. Blood for blood. Should anyone dare punish this male for his insult against me, the insult has been reciprocated adequately enough. Leave him be.” She retorted calmly, her gaze now of only disappointment as it rested on the male. She would take her leave, dismissing herself from the scene. She’d sigh to herself. That speech, the entire interaction had taken it out of her. Her skull was still pounding, so she’d make the decision to stop at a table and drink some water before further dismissing herself to the sandy shore of the beach, not only to wash her blade of Cyrus’ blood but also recollect herself. There was likely only one other person who’d know exactly where to find her, that individual being Ivan. She would find her little cove and claim a seat at its shoreline. The calming sound of the waves splashing against the rocks rejuvenating her tiredness from the night, the moonlight peeking through gaping holes at the top of the cove. Tranquility and peace found her here so she remained for a bit longer, knowing she’d have to go find Esen before the young apprentice tried to go find her. She would hope that Syllivanna had managed to keep her attention but perhaps Esen being as emotionally intellectual as her cousin would grant her the space she needed. Edited at September 15, 2024 08:58 AM by Sanania
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Syllivanna Zylqirelle Apprentice Mentions: Esen (Dir) Elders, Ravae, Cyrus, Alvaerelle (Ind)
Upon the endless slew of apologetic words coming from her cousin, Syllivanna would place a gentle hand on her cousin's shoulder, and offer a gentle smile. “Esen, there is nothing stupid about protecting your family. Although, remind me to bring mead with us because we may need that brashness during our trials.” She’d tease, her cousin attempting to rub her eyes as if it would cause everyone to forget the scene she just witnessed. Her gaze would shift, as her sharp ears now prickled at the silence of the music. Her pale bi-colored pools would peer up towards the Elders as they began their announcements, a chill creeping along her spine causing her to straighten a bit more. She had followed every word the elders had shared raising an eyebrow trying to make sense of their rhyme. Her neutral gaze would side glance to meet that of the uncertain gaze of her cousin offering some sort of calm to the nervousness that likely arose. Her gaze would shift once more toward Ivan, now promoted to lieutenant, and momentarily fall upon Esen who appeared to be staring at the male with fire in her eyes. May the Gods save the male that Alvaerelle directs any interest to. Finally upon the Elders last announcement. Ravae, she was a gatherer wholly unbeknownst to her. She was to be the next Shaman. Did she know the use of all the herbs both her and Eirlys spent years training to learn. Would Ravae have to learn them and their uses through the apprentices? She surely knew what each herb likely looked like but what about the uses? Did the female know how to suture a wound? The anatomy of both dragons and elves alike? Surely, at least the elven anatomy it’d be strange for anyone not to know but the slightest hint of doubts crossed her mind on the females ability having known nothing of the female to begin with. Her bi-colored gaze would drag itself to Althea, she was a female who expressed lots of interest in the position having spent a decent amount of time around the previous shaman. What would she make of this selection. Mmm. Her ears would flicker and her eyes would return back toward the violet gaze of her cousin. “I know nothing of Ravae, though, I would hope based upon her apparent shyness that she will make a good teacher.” She would state earnestly. Her attention would then snap at the bickering pair between three pyres. It was Alvaerelle and Cyrus. The male had apparently strongly disapproved of all the announcements and changes, though, when would the male ever approve of it, if it didn’t involve him or his presumed choices. Her face and body would stiffen as she watched the male raise his hand in an attempt to what would appear direct harm toward the female only to attempt to be redirected away. Her eyes would squint in a near wince at the attempted assault, her skull drawing back slightly. From where the pair of cousins stood it was clear as day to see that blood was drawn, its scent lingered in the air. She watched the queen draw her arm back and study the mark left by the male only to have the boldness many did not have to now correct the male who appeared immensely remorseful, respectively accepting his death if not by the female before him than by the clan itself. She quickly whirled herself in front of her cousin, in an attempt to hold her in place. “We should stay here. Alvaerelle is incredibly capable of handling herself Esen.” She would add hoping her cousin wouldn’t allow whatever mead remained in her system to take a hold of her again. She would peer back over her shoulder as the queen now sliced down the male's own arm. Scenting two different types of blood the males permeating the premises more heavily than the female. She had noticed he was bleeding now not only from his arm but also his chest and toward the center of his neck. The queen surely knew what she was doing. For she could have easily veered left or right and sliced into his carotid artery though everything she seemed to have done was deliberate. She watched wide-eyed over her shoulder as the female would take her leave toward a local table take a drink of water and dismiss herself entirely. “I think we should give her some space to cool down.” She would add toward her cousin who likely pushed her out of place and dragged her toward the bodies that rushed to aid the female only to circle around the couple upon the snarl emitted by the queen as warning for any who dared any closer. Edited at September 15, 2024 09:50 AM by Sanania
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Sarolta Cimmerian Apprentice | Mentions: Indirectly: Akith’ki, Kethryll'ia, Cyrus, Alvaerelle Sarolta's eyes lingered on Akith’ki and Kethryll'ia as they fumbled their way through the dance, her gaze sharp and predatory, like a wolf sizing up its prey. Akith’ki’s focus was entirely on avoiding missteps, more concerned with where his feet landed than with the rhythm. It was almost amusing, watching him—normally so composed—stumble in this intimate moment. Sarolta’s lips curled slightly, the scene before her a blend of pity and intrigue, but her eyes gleamed with something far more calculated. Her gaze flickered briefly to Cyrus and Alvaerelle, their dance an odd sight in its own right. The rigid, cruel nature of Cyrus paired with the ethereal grace of her aunt was a contrast too strange to ignore. It was like watching two forces of nature trying to coexist in the same space—one cold and oppressive, the other warm and free-flowing. Sarolta felt a mix of amusement and unease watching them twirl together. They seemed so mismatched in every possible way. But her thoughts soon drifted back to Akith’ki. A small seed of protectiveness took root in her chest as she watched him awkwardly navigate the dance. His father, Cyrus, was a known tyrant, a man who treated Akith’ki like a burden rather than a son. Everyone in the clan despised the man, but Akith’ki bore the brunt of his father’s cruelty. Sarolta’s fingers tightened around her dagger, feeling a subtle urge to protect him, though she wouldn’t admit it to anyone. Either way, if Saro had anything to say about it, she’d make sure Akith’ki found his way out from under his father’s shadow. Still, despite her distaste for Cyrus, she saw something valuable in him. He hated the Elders as much as she did, and that mutual loathing made him more than just a potential adversary—it made him a potential ally. Sarolta was nothing if not strategic. She could see the benefit in aligning herself with someone like Cyrus, despite his flaws. They both wanted the same thing: to topple the Elders’ power. And if she could leverage his hatred to her advantage, she would. Setting her mug down with a deliberate clink on the table, Sarolta leaned back in her chair, her fingers still lazily tracing the intricate designs on her dagger. The slow, deliberate movements of her hand seemed almost idle, but her intent was anything but. Her pale eyes drifted toward Akith’ki, locking onto him with a quiet, commanding gaze. Without a word, she subtly shifted her focus to the empty seat beside her, the unspoken demand clear in the flick of her gaze. There was no invitation in it—just an expectation that he would follow. The music swelled for a moment before the gathering fell silent, all attention drawn to Valae as she began her droning speech. Sarolta’s expression shifted to one of mild disdain, her eyes flashing briefly as the prophecy was mentioned. Then came the announcement—Ivan as Lieutenant, and Ravae as Shaman. Odd choices, but none that Sarolta particularly cared about. Her true focus lay elsewhere. What she cared about was how Cyrus, ever the tyrant, would react now that his mate’s position had been filled. That, she thought with dark satisfaction, would be worth watching. Sure enough, Cyrus reacted as she’d expected—terribly. His fury was palpable, a storm barely contained. But instead of lashing out at the Elders or the newly appointed, he turned on Alvaerelle, his wrath spilling onto her aunt. The shift was immediate, and Sarolta’s instincts flared. She was on her feet in an instant, dagger in hand, the cold steel catching the light as a low, guttural snarl escaped her lips. Her muscles coiled, ready to intervene, but she hesitated, watching her aunt closely. Alvaerelle handled herself with both grace and savagery, a true warrior in every sense despite carrying the triplets. She met Cyrus’s aggression head-on, her fury a mirror of his own. Blood for blood. When Alvaerelle’s dagger sliced through Cyrus’s arm, Sarolta couldn’t help but grin, her teeth flashing like a predator’s in the dim light. The sight of crimson spilling from his wound sent a ripple of satisfaction through her. Her grip on her own dagger loosened as she stood back, relishing the chaos that unfolded before her. Without a word, Alvaerelle turned on her heel, stalking off into the distance, her figure disappearing into the shadows. The abruptness of her departure only heightened the tension, leaving Cyrus seething and the rest of the gathering in stunned silence. Sarolta’s smile lingered as she watched her aunt’s retreating form. Slowly, she eased herself back into her seat, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction at the divide in the clan. Edited at September 15, 2024 01:14 PM by The Bewitched
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Ivan Lécuyer || Heir-Lieutenant || M: Alvaerelle (Dir); Cyrus, Sarolta, Esen, Syllivanna, Koa, Ravae, Others (Ind) The elders' announcements seemed to be going over more smoothly than he'd anticipated. Of course, a considerable portion of the clan were disgruntled or outright upset, which was to be expected, but no riots were breaking out. Cyrus was pacing and snarling -- also to be expected -- but Ravae's bewilderment brought a small, amused smile to Ivan's face. Had she missed the announcement? Or was it just a surprise to her as well? He'd never interacted with her much, as she was always elsewhere -- even when physically present -- but she seemed capable. His gaze was drawn to Cyrus once again as the ferality increased in intensity, waves of anger rolling off him and almost tangible enough to stir up the dust. A silent groan welled up as Vae went to approach him, but it turned into a soft growl when Cyrus's claws made contact with her arm. If Alvaerelle hadn't drawn a knife as quickly as she did, Ivan would have materialized next to them. Out of the corner of his eyes, he saw the glint of Sarolta's dagger and the hellish fury etched into Esen's features. Even Koa made a protesting sound and stood from his position beside Catori, but all were frozen as they watched the queen take her own revenge. The heir tried his hardest to keep a surprised laugh down, and he succeeded, but he could not stop the shocked amusement from dancing in his eyes and causing the corners of his pursed lips to twitch upwards ever so slightly. This night was coming full of unexpected turns. Alvaerelle's rant was music to his ears, which caused a decent twinge of guilt to well up; it was immature to take pleasure from someone else's misery, even if the victim was Cyrus. He watched intently as the woman turned and addressed those who would take their own revenge on Cyrus before storming off. Opportunity missed. He sighed softly and watched Syllivanna quickly grab hold of a fuming Esen, who wilted in her cousin's grip and dropped her head in resignation. Sarolta's dagger had disappeared, though her grin remained, and Koa was sitting back down slowly. Ivan knew full well Alvaerelle would not want to be followed, but would it really be following if he just happened to walk to her secret hideout? Well, either he would be successful, or the elders would have to call Kethryll'ia as successor and then bury whatever remained of Ivan. While the majority of the clan remained distracted by the sudden commotion, Ivan melted into the shadows and slipped through the trees towards the shoreline. As he suspected, a silhouette graced the rocks of the cove, and a pang of disappointment ran through him at the lack of a second. Samblar should've still been there, and then none of this would be happening. Maybe his old friend would bless his endeavors, though. Either that, or Samblar was screaming profanities at him from the heavens. Another small smile broke free at the last thought as he trekked through the sand, coming to a stop beside Alvaerelle. He placed his hands behind his back and turned a gray-green gaze on the waves as they rolled in, the moonlight glistening on their foamy tops. "I think Syllivanna has convinced Esen to wait for you," he said after a long silence. Ivan bent down and picked up a piece of driftwood, thumbing the smoothed stick and turning it so the salty coating would catch the light. He unceremoniously plopped down in the sand next to her perch and continued to study the old wood. With a loose, relaxed throw, he sent the driftwood whirring through the air, watching it land in the water and begin to rock closer to the shore again. "That was quite the grand finale for the night." He laid back in the sand, scoffing softly as the crushed grains attempted to infiltrate his torn ear beneath the bar that held it together. Ivan put his hands behind his head to prevent that and looked up into the stars, lips stilled once again.
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Cyrus Terosh | Warrior | Mentions: Alvaerelle, Warriors (Dir.) Ivan (Indir.) At the first sentence that ripped from her lips, Cyrus knew he was in the black books again. His ears remaining flicked back, he stopped his attempt to reach for her and drew his arms back to his sides. He noticed his hunched position and quickly moved to rectify it as she moved towards him. Keeping his head high, he lowered his gaze to watch her carefully. He could see the anger burning in her eyes, her lips drawn into a growl of distaste. Cyrus’s chest gave a sharp intake of breath as Alvaerelle’s nail met his skin, digging in without a moment of hesitation. He could feel the small pooling pain at the pinprick of contact as she spoke. With each statement, his eyes narrowed further and further, critical. Perhaps the smallest hint of disappointment, but the overwhelming irritation at the audacity of her claims conquered his expression. Power was a very important attribute to the tribe’s success. What if another group moved into their land, if they were not dominant they would lose their home. He deemed that a worthy reason for his fixations. It was when Alvaerelle began to speak of his son that he felt a true white-hot fury ignite within him. He did not move, his muscles tensing as she drew her nail further up his skin, splitting it cleanly, the pain numbed by his umbrage. She had no right to talk of his son in this manner, she did not know their relationship to its core. She had no right. A small curl of his upper lip betraying his newly kindled annoyance. He was still ruminating on the ridiculous claims when she drew his arm towards her. For a moment, a flicker of confusion on his face before he saw the glint of the knife. A sharp gasp flew out from him, a light grimace at the slice, feeling the drops of blood beginning to form on his skin. His arm returned to his side as she let it go and began to address the larger group. Gravity drew the blood down from his new wound, running along his hands before it began to drip slowly onto the floor. Cyrus saw the underlying look of disappointment cast over Alvaerelle’s face as she turned to stalk away from the clearing, leaving him in her wake. Slowly, he lifted his eyes to the onlookers, his typical wrathful expression returning with ease, creasing his skin. “What are you looking at.” He spat, beginning to walk towards a crack in the rocks that led towards the nearest dwellings, making to find someone’s water reserve to wash the blood from his skin. Vanishing into the shadows without another word, he gritted his teeth in frustration. He had seen Ivan slink off after her, like a lost puppy trying to get its master’s attention. The thought made a short snort escape his lips, they could do whatever they pleased. At the moment, Cyrus could not care less. Reaching a smaller communal sunshade, under which a small collection of pots and rain collectors sat. He used a bowl beside it to lift a scoop of cold water and splash it onto his arm, discarding the bowl and using his free hand to rub the skin down. He would likely not need any salve or remedy for these injuries, he had sustained worse in his training with the experienced warriors.
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Cornaith Iliven Warrior Mentions: Cliste, Catori, Koa, Esen, Cyrus, Alvaerelle, The Elders, Ivan, Baiyen (Ind) “When it comes to you, I have no sentiment, Cornaith.” Her vocals landed upon him rather coldly, her icy emerald gaze met his pale pools. He’d frown slightly with mild distaste, beginning to pour. “That was a bit harsh.” He’d state in return, facial features returning to a more neutral expression. “I can take care of myself, thanks for the offer.” She’d retort placidly, waving a hand at him, before dismissing herself to another table in the distance, a smirk smug upon her lips. Naith would purse his lips and set the flower he had in his hand onto the table before him. So, it would be that kind of night tonight. He’d sigh, attention being drawn to the atmosphere around him, there was dancing, the music growing louder than softer, faster then slower. There was laughing, children running rampant, groups gathered in conversation. It was peaceful actually. Naith would allow his hand to wrap itself over his cup of ale and sip from it only to grab another cup shortly after. His pale gaze that burned a bright red-orange would fall upon a dancing Catori and Koa. They were a befitting pair carefree and wild was Catori dancing in hand with a fairly relaxed Koa, the male was wary not to appear overly flashy with his grasp on the lieutenant, Naith likely would have done the same but perhaps there would be fire between him and Catori had the option arisen. His gaze shifted once more toward a sprinting Esen taking the place of Alvaerelle who had been dancing with Cyrus. A hint of tension could be seen from Alvaerelle before she’d calm down and settle in the arms of Ivan. The image of the pair had brought back a very familiar scene of them when they had been far younger. He’d known of Samblar, they were not close by any means but he’d trained with the male. It was a shame, he had died from an ambush. The male was very likely destined to become the next Lieutenant were it not for his untimely death. That would have been a promotion Naith could stand by, though Catori had risen above and beyond her role having to juggle multiple other roles that had grown vacant as of late. He had to give her props for managing so well, though she did appear a lot more tired than usual. His attention would drift off toward the elders as the music halted and silence fell upon the once bustling crowd. Ivan their new lieutenant and Ravae the new Shaman. Naith didn’t know what to make of the Elder’s decision but it likely didn’t really matter as it had little effect on him. Ivan would likely merely be a step-in until the elders felt as though he were ready to become chief, then placing Catori back in her position of lieutenant once again, or perhaps they’d select someone new to serve as lieutenant had she grown tired of the position. Who knows. Naith grew fairly apprehensive about the mention of a change in the trials. Change during the trials that his half-brother was to take part in. His half-brother would do fine. Baiyen had a level-head on him and being the son of their father he would be fine. The training Naith held with his half-brother proved his strength and ability to handle himself. He’d be fine. His attention would once more be drawn back to a pacing Cyrus. Naith had no true opinions of the male other than an adequate amount of respect for a more experienced warrior. While he was immensely traditional in his way of thinking and perhaps even life that is who Cyrus is. Naith would watch the interaction carefully, ears pinning back toward his skull in warning should Cyrus forget who approached him. Sure enough, upon the rise of the male's arm Naith had nearly leaped over the table in near primal rage to defend the female. However, he was met with a nasty snarl in warning to back off and so he did, eyes burning upon the male watching as he cowered before the female for a moment before straightening himself once more. Naith’s ears were still pinned against his skull as he watched the encounter. The controlled intensity of the female was incredibly impressive he had to give it to her. She laid out every word methodically. He’d emit a loud snarl in response to one that had been emitted from the male before him, drawn out at the mention of his son. The female was spitting the truth in his face and the male still appeared defiant to her words. Naith wondered if she purposefully decided not to jab that knife right into the male's heart and instead leave him a flesh wound much like her own for a reason. He continued to listen and watch as the female ordered them to stand down and dismiss herself without another word. Naith’s fiery gaze would return back toward the hulking male and hiss in response to his snap, having all eyes land upon him. If he were the most hated he’d surely be made an utter outcast for assaulting a Queen, one of the most crucial members of the tribe to be treated with the utmost respect. Blood having risen within him he’d return back to a table and gather a drink. Glancing toward the relatives of Alvaerelle he’d wait to approach allowing their own blood to settle as well.
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Alvaerelle Wynzorwyn Queen Mentions: Ivan (Dir) Esen & Cyrus (Ind)
Seated on the soft sand, toes barely being touched by the cool ocean, her pointed ears would flicker, picking up the slightest sound of footsteps. She hadn’t bothered to turn her gaze from the water knowing precisely who joined her in tranquility. “Perhaps, though, I believe Esen would know I’d rather her be safe under the tribe's protection than out here with me. Even if I am capable of doing the same.” She’d state. Her gaze would shift toward the male as he sat beside her, peering down at the piece of driftwood Ivan had eventually chucked out into the ocean. She would watch it float about for a bit before turning her attention to Ivan. His gray-green pools were not wholly visible shimmering against the moonlight. She would now tuck her knees in toward herself, giving her belly plenty of real estate so as not to squish the children in her belly, and soon rest her temple on her knees. “I should have cut him deeper. He deserved a scar as a reminder of me, the encounter, all of it.” She’d state. Her pale lilac eyes would begin to glow vibrantly against the dark and would follow Ivan as he laid down beside her, arms tucked neatly behind his head. At the sound of a scoff as the sand attempted to assault his tattered ear she’d allow a small chuckle to escape her throat. A smile etched itself upon her face as she watched him now look up at the sky. She would sigh and uncurl herself, soon joining the male. With the night she had, what would it matter if she decided to be bold, she’d already been brazen and brash, what more could she possibly not do at this rate. The queen would inch herself closer to the male, now aiming to rest her skull upon his chest. She would lay on her right side, belly resting gently to his left, legs laying atop one another, the bottom leg accepting the coldness that licked at her from the soft sand. She’d place a hand on his chest, her gaze peering off toward the right of the pair. Something had just felt right upon settling into his chest. His heartbeat against her ear, the rise and fall of his breathing. She’d likely refuse to return back to the tribe if only to hang onto a moment like this for longer. She would inhale deeply taking in his magnificent scent soon twining within her own and sigh. “I suppose I should congratulate you on your promotion.” She’d state lazily, a grin spilling across her face. It had been some time since the pair had any time alone to actually talk. She had debated whether or not the timing was great and if the subject would put a hindrance on their time together but perhaps she needed the time to talk anyway. She hadn’t been particularly close to anyone other than her girls but even then there were subjects that she wouldn’t discuss with him unless she felt a need. She could feel a knot form within her throat and sense the tingling of her nares her eyes growing much more watery than she’d recall prior. Her bottom lip would quiver slightly as her grin would soon fade. “I miss him Ivan.” She’d state rather sadly, resting her hand on his opposing pectoral. She of all people hated being sappy but Ivan had always been someone she confided in when it came to her feelings, especially during that tumultuous time during her and Samblar’s relationship early on. She expressed her doubts in whether or not they had actually made a good pair to which he had said the best. He had stated that she deserved only the best and that he could not picture her with anyone else but Samblar. Should she have trusted Ivan not to be selling her lies about his closest friend and partner in crime, probably not, but he was a man of truth and honesty and loyalty to all of the members within the tribe so what more was there to be believed, said, or done. Edited at September 15, 2024 10:34 PM by Sanania
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Catori Thirle | Stand-In Chief | Mentions Koa, Cornaith (Dir.) Cyrus, Alvaerelle, Syllivanna, Elders(Indir.) Her short amused relief was quickly torn away from the young woman by the sudden rip of snarling from beside the fires, her head snapped around to peer into the flames. Her pupils narrowed into thin slits as she made out the situation. She could see the hulking figure of Cyrus, to be expected when there was an upset in the tribe. The others were smaller, one a queen? Alvaerelle? She had caught a glimpse of them together earlier in the night, but it seemed they had advanced to the dance floor. Catori was about to dismiss the situation as Cyrus going on about something the elders had said, but that was when Cyrus’s hand began to arc over his head. Her heart suddenly pounded in her chest. He was going to hit her, strike down a queen. Catori in quick succession realised she was too far away to reach the pair in time to prevent any damage from being done, Ivan was nearby, perhaps he would intervene? She knew he was sweet on the soon-to-be mother. Yet he did not move. Oh Gods, she did not have the emotional capacity to deal with this tonight. “Koa.” Catori’s voice changed from her lilting joyousness from earlier to a sharper, authoritative tone. Her switch had been flicked, no more games tonight for her. Moments of relaxation had always been fleeting for her in these past years. She wanted his attention, to be ready to move forward with her. As she began to take a step forward, Cyrus had already brought his hand down firmly towards Alvaerelle and she could see that the woman had clutched her arm to her chest. He had missed. He had corrected himself, it was too late but at least he had not harmed her further. His form changed, the apparent anger gone now as he spoke. Catori could not hear but she needed to go over there, as she began to walk, she saw Cornaith’s pale form sprinting towards the scene, where he had come storming from she had no idea, but she was grateful that he was nearby. Upon her approach, the queen seemed to be dishing out an adequate punishment for Cyrus who simply stood there seething at the woman’s words. Then the knife was drawn over his skin in a quick and practised movement, a flutter of pride lifted in Catori’s chest, pleased to see her warrior making a stand towards the elder man. The pair had split, walking in opposite directions as Catori made it to their location, feeling as though she should have done something sooner, she simply stood there and watched Cyrus’s retreating form. She did not know what to do with that man. He was a brilliant man, incredible in battle and a loving husband, but she had watched him crumble, admittedly she was fairly young when it occurred. Yet the change was so stark, even the children could see it. The sting of blood rose to her nose, looking down there were a few drops on the floor, soaking into the dry earth. For once, just once, she wanted an event like this to go smoothly under her command. She had yet to achieve that goal. Tearing her attention away from her own thoughts, Catori looked up to the rest of the tribe members, with a dismissive wave of her hand she flicked away the staring eyes. "Enough gawking, we have things to attend to tonight other than quarrels." Catori fought to keep her voice strong, forcing her cold eyes to look out at the clearing, trying to pick out the apprentices; they should be preparing for the day ahead of them now. Having had their fill of food and fun for the evening, at least that's what she wanted to tell Syllivanna to do. Scanning around the clearing, she couldn’t make out the familiar form from where she stood, in fact most people seemed engaged with each other now. Either whispering about the interaction that had just occurred or about the prophecy the elders had just proclaimed to the tribe, the latter was more important, but the weight of what had just happened under her watch was dragging Catori’s attention back to the blood at her feet. Her dark eyes met the form of Cornaith as he sat alone once more, she could see his muscles tensed as he gripped his drink. Clearly still riled up from his jump to action, a good warrior. Another small flutter of pride at the sight. Despite her lack of success in reining in Cyrus, she could place her confidence in her other warriors. Soon she found her footsteps bringing her to Cornaith’s side, she would be lying if she said she did not crave another glass of the dark wine, but she forced herself to sit beside the man instead. She could not afford to be any more intoxicated than she already was. The warm fuzzy feeling still prickled at her limbs, but it was withdrawing slowly. She sat in silence for a few long seconds, staring out at the clearly before she spoke, her eyes still forced forwards. “Thank you for going to them. I was too far.” Catori praised him, keeping her voice level, it took considerable effort to not let the tinge of exhaustion enter her voice each time she spoke. Before she had almost forgotten about the heavy weight on her shoulders, flitting around with Koa, but that was all it was. Fleeting freedom. Slowly, she rolled her neck so that she was facing Cornaith, her eyes dulled from the previous taunting look she had thrown to him. “For the record, I thought the lieutenant would have been yourself or Elariel.” She offered, trying to draw her own attention away from the nasty business with Cyrus. She would have to talk to him later, there was no point trailing after the man now, he was impossible to talk to when he was riled up like that. Catori made a point to keep her gaze locked on Cornaith’s face, she had no intense desire simmering beneath her skin, but she would not lie to herself and deny the fact that Cornaith was a treat to look at. On that note, Koa too was a handsome piece of eye candy, but perhaps that was simply some feral bit of her yearning for interactions beyond the professional. She had never initiated anything with her warriors, she felt in doing so it may bring about discussions of favouritism. Instead, she stuck to gatherers or warriors outside of their elite circle. Alas, this festival meant that both Koa and Cornaith were parading around her with the delectable fire light shining off of their bodies, and Koa was not here right now. As she felt her thoughts trail away, a glimmer flashed across her eyes as her next words formed. "You didn't actually put aphrodisiacs in that wine, did you?" Catori's voice was a little lower, tinted with a joking hum, yet there was obviously a trickle of genuine question to her words. Edited at September 19, 2024 05:05 AM by Urux
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Neutral
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Zinniah Livius || Gatherer || F || 229 || Mentions: Ula (ind.), Ravae , Aelion (ind), Valae & Niabi (ind), Althaea & family (ind), Cyrus & Avarelle (ind) To Zinniah's relief she did not have to wait long for a companion to grace her presence. Despite her attention now diverted to the swaying form of her mother Ula - a sight that had pulled the smallest of smiles out of her frosted features, from of the periphery of her sharp gaze she could see the blonde head of Ravae making her way through those gathered in the pocket of space between them; a little star in the crowd of people Zinn did not particularly care for. The younger woman's determination to avoid anyone on her path over was faintly amusing to Zinniah, and something she too often found herself doing; it was comforting to know there was another not wholly enjoying the evening, and doing her best to avoid getting caught in it. The huntresses’ tiny smile remained in place for a moment, and she cast it in the younger gatherer's direction as she took place by Zinniah's side before dropping it altogether, her gaze once more cast out into the choppy sea of her clan-mates as they moved and conversed. Besides her family, Ravae was one of the only people who's company she could truly appreciate at events like these. After a momentary silence, a comfortable one between friends that was long enough for Zinniah to scoop up a drink, the younger woman spoke. The blonde gatherer's soft words came easily to Zinniah's sensitive ears; though the music had picked up in speed and sound she was well used to their quieter conversations by now, hanging closely on each word. Ravae was making a series of good points regarding this whole evening but for a moment Zinn found no reason to respond besides a slightest nod at her observations. It wasn't difficult to agree with her words of dissaproval. To Zinniah, though she was unsure how to put it into speech herself, this event seemed to lie somewhere between sickening and bittersweet, with each passing moment teetering ever closer to filling her with disgust. To send the tribe's progeny into certain and purposeful danger felt cruel, no matter what it's intention was, no matter what potential - impossible? - reward it could gain them. In previous times Zinniah had been able to at the very least grant herself an emotional disconnect to the trials but not this time, not with Aelion taking part. At Ravae's mention of apprentices she had made a mental note to herself to find her nephew before the party would wind down. Though she doubted she could give him any kind of useful comfort in the last few hours before his trials began, she would at least do her best to offer some kind of advice. Advice, in any case, would do far better in potentially saving his life than any kind of comfort in the world. The thought of something having to 'save his life' made her stiffen. Still, “I have faith in many of the apprentices' skills. That shall protect them.” She responded monotonously, silently adding 'even if the dragons will not.' It came no suprise to Zinniah when the elders, or rather Valae taking the lead, suddenly silenced the music to share announcements with the clan. She could just make out her mother's features twist into an irritated form - her dancing interrupted - before she refocused on her aunt's speech. To others Valae's words were like honey, entrapping you in the rich tones of her voice and the strange intrigue of her nature, her words leaving you wide eyed and craving more. But Zinniah, given her familiarity with the elder and her eerie voice, could better focus on the exact intention of her words. What she didn't expect from the old woman was the announcement of a prophecy, accompanied by Valae's proclamation of the challenge it seemed to suggest. And then, without leaving anyone a moment to truely digest her words, the announcement Ivan's relegation to the role of lieutenant. And finally, as if the last minute had not been filled to the brim with enough new information, Valae announced the Spirit's call for Ravae as Shaman. Zinniah did not let suprise show in her features, nor did she wholly feel it in her chest at the sound of Ravae's name and the title Shaman together. She could sense other’s surprise, their confusion – and from some even their anger - coming in waves like the flickering firelight. That third emotion seemed to come most from Althaea’s family, and of course Cyrus - the former shaman’s husband. But to her it did make sense on some level. Althaea - despite her keen interest - could hardly serve as Shaman while tending to her young, them as her first priority; she knew her cousin well enough to believe she could never put the role above the wellbeing of her children. That made an amazing mother, but hardly a capable Shaman. As for other experienced gatherers - Zinniah's logical mind could only pinpoint herself and Ravae. No warrior would hold the crucial skills important for that role (not to mention their liking for aggression tarnishing the supposed caring nature of a shaman); meanwhile the shaman apprentices were destined for the trials in mere hours, certainly not qualified for the task. So that left only Ravae and herself. And the idea of Zinniah being a Shaman would make anyone laugh. The scent of blood prevented Zinniah from returning to the matter of Ravae and her reaction, though it kept her train of thought on the temperamental warrior Cyrus. Her ears pricking to try and catch his words above the now quieter mutterings of the clan, Zinniah just caught the end his encounter with who she recognised as a queen, Averelle. The mingling scent of their blood was just rising above the scent of the remaining food and the pyres, both of their forms tensed. Before anyone had truely reacted to what Zinniah took to be the man's initial strike, Averelle - a warrior in every way (admirable, Zinniah noted, despite her violent tendencies) had made her own marks against Cyrus before excusing herself. Though she could hardly assume the entire nature of their interaction, the male's evident act of violence did nothing to curb Zinniah's great dislike of him. Either way she had once again been proven right to dislike gatherings, for they always brought out the worst in people. Zinniah wrapped up her thoughts with a narrowed glare before checking once more over the general area. She had been paying little attention to the weaving of pairings in the countless dances, believing that if anything particularly interesting occured no doubt it would reach her keen ears in time. But as always she'd be up to speed soon enough; gossip would travel easily, especially with many hungover. No doubt about that. Besides, she would rather not find herself in the audience of some aggressive dispute - if people were to react to negatively to her friend's appointment as Shaman, that would be more than enough aggression to deal with. Any more and she'd start to feel flighty. Admittedly Zinniah had her own selfish reasons to dislike the appointion of Ravae – with her diverted from her gatherer role, that would leave the gatherers once again diminishing in number. Not that Ravae had been wholely reliable anyway given her free spirited disposition, but her company had been Zinn's personal highlight. Then there was Ravae's general suitability... in Zinn's opinion she lacked the practicality the huntress would personally desire in a shaman, but then again she had always neglected to nurture the spiritual aspects of herself. Meanwhile perhaps Ravae's distracted qualities were the spirit's way of preparing her mortal vessel for the insights she would soon be privy to. Ugh ... Perhaps she had been spending too much time around the elders. Looking up, she could feel the bright eyes of others trained in Ravae's direction. Many had seemed to latch onto this third and final development of the evening, poor girl. She did not look pleased at that in the slightest. Zinniah took the oppertunity to sweep a particularly icy gaze past any who had stared a little too long for her liking. She did not appreciate being tangled up in the near-centre of the half the clan's attention, but she could hardly abandon poor Ravae for the forest now. The already small woman had began to shrink in on herself as if she was afraid someone were about to yell at her which, given Cyrus' nearly feral state at the moment Zinniah was beggining to fear. Ravae’s tiny “um” recaught Zinniah’s full attention and she felt a stab of pity for the younger woman. The many other complications aside, Shaman would be an enormous responsibility for anyone to shoulder. Let alone for someone like Ravae who thrived in a less restricted environment, happier left to her own devices. The shaman role meant dealing with anyone in the clan's issues, often whenever they needed, which Zinniah could hardly see her friend doing. But if she knew her mother and aunts well, this role would not one Ravae could easily shrink off. In that case, “Congratulations. Ravae the Shaman, hmm?” Her eyebrow raised slightly, her expression neutral as she watched for companion's reaction. Something about the blonde's sudden interest in the ground told her Ravae may not have payed her fullest attention to the tail end of the elder’s announcements. And while she had initially been hoping to ask for her take on the prophecy - something Zinniah couldn't hope to personally figure out - first things first: “I take it my mother nor aunts warned you of this new arrangement?” She chuckled softly, clapping her on the shoulder with a warmth that never quite extended to her features. Perhaps Ravae would take an unexpected liking to the role. At the very least, it better her than Zinniah, that was for sure. Edited at September 17, 2024 07:37 PM by Moose
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Darkseeker
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Esen Eradia || Apprentice || M: Syllivanna (Dir), Alvaerelle, Cyrus, Ivan, Catori, Koa, Cornaith, Sarolta, Others (Ind) "If you bring mead, we'll be spending half the time trying to keep it away from the others, and it'll be useless," she joked back. "Though, truthfully, I wouldn't mind looking bolder. That... would certainly solve a lot of problems." She grimaced dismissively and focused on the answer regarding Ravae. Yes, a lower-energy teacher would be a good one to learn from, in her opinion. Keeping up with the more fiery types, like those making up the vast majority of her friends and family, had always been a challenge for Esen despite her desperate wishes to meet and exceed all their expectations during training. She hadn't even managed to complete her first shift yet; she was leagues behind the best apprentices. Such thoughts blurred her mind and caused her to miss the commotion that started up, her attention only brought back by the drastic shift in energy all around her. Her eyes snapped up in unease and her ears tilted downwards against her head as she studied the clan. It didn't take very long for her to find the source of the commotion: Alvaerelle was bleeding and had Cyrus beneath one sharp nail, tone leaking venom. Alarm ran through the girl and she tried to make sense of what was going on. Did Cyrus claw a queen? Several others were making their way towards them, some with weapons drawn, before Vae snarled at them all, causing all to stop in their tracks and some to recede entirely. Esen worked her jaw and let her sharp canines grind each other; this was not how the night was supposed to go. Tensions were high enough around regular trials, but tonight, a new shaman and lieutenant had been named on top of a prophecy foretelling more difficult trials. Nerves were even more frayed, and it appeared that one too many had finally snapped. Esen pursed her lips. Alvaerelle had given Cyrus a decent cut of his own before disappearing. The apprentice moved to follow out of instinct, but Syl's desperate grappling and plea to give the woman space caused her to deflate, steps faltering. Her ears wilted to stick straight out like airplane wings and she released a reluctant sigh. "Okay..." With nothing to do now but wring her hands and feet over her mother-figure, Esen lowered her gaze and tried to direct her thoughts to anything else. "Um... So... what do you make of the prophecy? It kind of sounds promising. And terrible."
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