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Darkseeker
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Gaia Altolos || Traveler || M: Jhessica, Christopher, Warwick There were easier things in the world than babysitting one's spoiled cousin. Alas, that was the hand Gaia had been dealt, and it was the task she would dedicate her life to. It was the oath she'd nearly died to keep just hours before. The young woman had started fighting off bandits as they had appeared, but once their numbers increased so drastically that their little caravan had become outnumbered beyond hope, she had decided the best way to keep Jhessica alive was to keep her head down and force the noblewoman to do the same. She was ready to accept that her cousin would never forgive her for that, but at least she was alive. Gaia trailed a safe distance from the other woman now, cool gray eyes focused on the group's surroundings. She wore only the bare uniform of the De Valois guard, as the thick cloak she'd originally donned had been taken along with most of the group's other belongings. Dried blood streaked her white hair and caked her face and arms; she still hadn't quite figured out how much of it was hers, though her soreness didn't seem to suggest she was going to keel over any time soon. The hand that rested on the hilt of her sword was now likely frozen in that position. Her fingertips were beginning to turn purple, and her lips had taken on a blue hue hours ago, but Gaia refused to let herself shiver. The sun had taken off the edge of the chill anyway as it had risen, and as long as they found refuge before dusk, she was certain that she would be just fine. Gaia surveyed the exterior of the castle as Jhessica and Warwick approached the redheaded man at the gates. She could sense her cousin's displeasure at the lack of welcome, but really, what had she expected out in the middle of nowhere? A giant welcome feast? The names of nobility -- even the names of kings -- would hold little sway here, she thought. The lack of warmth in the foreign man's voice suggested that strangers had not impressed him in the past, and his overall tone spoke of an authoritative figure, though not necessarily one from regal upbringing. Actually, Gaia found that refreshing. An honest man, running a castle? A sight for sore eyes, indeed. She stationed herself closer to Jhessica and briefly studied the man through the gates before focusing her other senses on the grounds around them once more. She'd made the mistake of being caught off guard once already; it would not happen again. |
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Lightbringer
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Geralt Fairweather
Human | Knight | Male | Mentions: Those in the travelers, Chris He pulled the ends of the heavy fured cloak tighter about his frame as the man followed in the prints of those before him. The taller male hunched over trying to keep as much heat as he could as he walked. A few curses left his chapped lips and drifted into the air with the steam from his breath. His deep crystaline blue eyes scanned the group around him taking a silent head count to make sure that no one had lagged behind. His heavy steps halted as the shadow of the stone walls fell upon them. The muscles in his jaw tightened seeing the cold and uninviting weaponry became clearer. His eyes moved to the male that was leading the group and a couple of blonde women, one of which had grated on his nerves from the moment that he had joined the group. All he wanted to do was to get home and have some time to relax and enjoy not having to fight bandits or chase some unknown lead that leads to a waste of time and wounded men. A huff left his frame as he straightened his back, holding back the wince as his muscles strained to hold him upright, fighting against the cold that moved through his veins. His gaze moved over to the voice asking who they were and scanned over the man that wasn't much shorter than him with firey red hair. He moved to stand next to the male that had started the conversation and barely held back his eyes from rolling at Jhessica's words. He cleared his throat after she spoke and bowed his head in greeting. "I apologize for our intrusion, we have just the clothes on our backs and the food in our bellies that have brought us here. We needn't stay long. Just long enough to get supplies and help those of us that are wounded." His voice a deep baritone, holding the poise of one that had been trained to treat everyone with respect especially in times of need. Geralt would do anything to not have to kneel in this awful snow that had soaked his riding boots thoroughly to the point he wasn't sure that his feet were even still attached. He pulled his sword from the sheath at his side and held it own in a show of peace to the stranger. The weapon was a large greatsword. Intricate designs covered the heavy hilt looking much like vines had been used to mold the metal itself. The hilt was a mixture of steel and silver to accentuate the delicate features. The blade itself was a heavy steel that looked almost too plain for the decorated hilt. "I give you the sword that has been passed down in my family for generations as a show that we mean no harm. We are just tired and in need of sanctuary." |
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Neutral
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- P A I G E - Male - Lycan - Beta Male Mentions - Erasmus, Catherine, Christopher, Colette, Warwick, Jhesica, Gaia, Geralt Paige had initially risen in the morning earlier than he would have liked to be awake. It was cold, after all, and while he did prefer to live inside of a room within the castle's walls, the warm fire could only do so much to stave off the unforgiving winds. He shivered a little when a particularly biting breeze went past the pair, wrapping one of his thicker cloaks tighter around himself as he looked around the beautiful area of the place they called home not even ten years ago, though it felt like much longer. Next to him was his boyfriend, Erasmus, and with a rising sense of glee Paige gave him a warm smile before pecking him gently on his cheek. "A morning walk was a wonderful idea." Despite the cold, he relished any opportunity that he could grasp to get outside and do virtually anything that didn't involve standing for long periods of time. For Paige found himself getting constantly restless as the day continued, and when he got restless that tended to make him start to feel anxious or he wasn't where he was supposed to be. This morning, in fact, he and Catherine had gone out early in the morning to patrol the area, and other than some animals they hadn't seen any suspicious activity very close by. Afterwards, Paige found he didn't fancy the idea of going back to sleep even if it was way too early to even be up, so now it seemed he and Erasmus could spend some time together. He always marveled at his partner's beauty, more attractive than Paige could ever see himself, and conversations were always engaging and enjoyable between the two of them. Often, they found themselves bouncing ideas and thoughts between their brains, and Paige found something so very interesting about the way his boyfriend viewed things. They did have their differences in a few matters, however dating someone such as he left little room for discontent. Paige liked bringing his own little bit of dramatic and sappy flair to their relationship, and as such had picked up some flowers on the way to meet him before their walk even began. Flowers were few and far between, however he was grateful to the members of the pack who didn't mind Paige exchanging some help insulating their homes for a few flowers. He was glad to assist them, after all, and he found he enjoyed looking over problems and finding solutions to them. Paige's current pace down one of the pathways was relaxed and easygoing, enjoying the scenery he must have seen a thousand times by now. They were headed back closer to the castle, and despite the walk coming to an end he highly doubted this would be the last time the two of them got to see one another for the day. The market square was now close enough so that he could clearly make out the very top of the high flames that made up the great fire in the center of the square, meaning the others must be beginning to stir by this time. However despite the normal occurrence of seeing the flame lit around this time of day, something seemed… off. Paige gave Erasmus a slightly worried look before giving their interlocked hands a quick squeeze, pecking his boyfriend on the lips once more before breaking off and quickening his pace so he could scan the area with a carefully neutral expression. Christopher was who he managed to see first, his red hair easily standing out amidst the white snow that promised colder and more unforgiving weather. Christopher was normal. He was their alpha, their leader after all. What wasn't normal was the strangers standing at one of the gates, more and more drawing closer. It appeared to him that words had already begun to be exchanged, though Paige wasn't able to catch any comprehensible information between all that was said. Just a few words dizzied and scattered by the winds, bound to cause more confusion than clarity if he attempted to piece them together. Paige eyed the newcomers warily, but forced his posture to remain relaxed as he took a small breath to calm his racing heart. Steadily, he approached his alpha before positioning himself so he could keep an eye on the wary looking strangers, yet still show proper respect to Christopher as he finally addressed him. "Newcomers, sir?" He asked quietly, so that only Christopher could be able to hear him. He kept his expression carefully neutral, as to not give any of his emotions away to the few who had approached the gate seemingly begging for temporary shelter against the cold and promise of a storm. Paige thought for a moment before correcting his first statement. "... Welcome newcomers?" He asked, unsure whether they were to be trusted or even let in for that matter. The uneasy feeling started to stir once again. The few who had approached the bars were a mix of men and women, though no matter who they were they were definitely bedraggled looking. Paige stared at them for a moment. They were people who he didn't have any qualms against yet, but had no reason to trust either. A small part of him wanted to pity the travelers and welcome them in quickly, shelter them from the cold and ask if they needed anything, however Paige was very hasty to push all of that away. They chanced a risk to the pack, and the pack took priority. It was the alphas who would make the final call, after all. The beta risked a glance towards Erasmus, hoping he had followed him in his haste to get here and knowing he would feel a bit more at ease with his support, waiting to see what his alpha would ultimately decide to do with the stragglers that had somehow stumbled upon their home. |
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Darkseeker
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Colette Frost Luna || Female || Lycan || Mentions: Rhea, Christopher, Catherine Hand draping across her eyes, Colette allowed it to rest there momentarily before it continued its path, reaching towards where Christopher rested. Unfortunately, her fingers were met with empty air where her husband's figure should have been, causing the woman to open her eyes slightly. She was met with the sight of Christopher perched on the edge of the bed, his hair disheveled and a slump to his posture. She had heard him enter the room late in the hour, knowing that he was stressed with the upcoming full moon and tasks associated with it. However, she had underestimated the toll it took on his nerves. "You should rest longer, let me handle some of the tasks," she offered softly, fully expecting him to decline. Still, she made the offer, watching as her mate circled around and drew near. A faint smile graced her lips when he suggested she could sleep as long as she needed. "You're sweet," she said, tilting her head up as he planted a kiss on her forehead. Both of them knew she had no intention of resting longer, and she had already begun to peel the covers away from her legs. She briefly paused as his hand rested on her somewhat enlarged stomach, a change she didn't mind at all, and beamed at him. "I will join you shortly," she murmured, watching him leave the room. After a moment of lingering in bed, she finally pushed the covers aside and sat on the edge. Pausing for a moment, she used one hand to steady herself on the bed while the other encircled her stomach. Throughout the night, her back had ached, and the nausea, a consequence of her pregnancy, had washed over her at times. But she considered it all worth it. Colette cherished her role as a mother and adored her children. The mere thought of them spurred her into action. She made her way to the dressing table, ran a hairbrush through her blonde locks to tame the stray strands, and then proceeded to the door. She draped a robe around herself, clutching it tightly, and left the room. As soon as she stepped into the hallway, she detected the hurried footsteps echoing down the corridor, instantly triggering a sense of concern. She glanced in both directions and moved towards a nearby room, pausing outside. She gently turned the doorknob and peered inside to check on Rhea. The worry in her heart eased upon seeing her daughter's figure, and she lingered for a few moments before quietly closing the door behind her to avoid disturbing her. Continuing down the hall, she encountered a figure at the far end. "Caite," she greeted, albeit, in a slightly urgent tone, though she was grateful to see her closest friend. "Do you know the whereabouts of Christopher?" |
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Neutral
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Azela Kirshten
Lycan | Priestess | 24 Female | Mentions: Chris, Colette, Rhea, Paige, Caite, Travelers . Rising from her warm bed Azela frowned at the low light outside of her window, seems the fires were not tended to enough overnight. A sigh left her as she rose from her bed, eyes scanning the small space. While it wasn't the largest it had plenty of space for her liking, moving about the room she changed into more suitable clothes. Her usual form of dress with pants underneath would be fine enough for today, pausing by the fireplace she threw a few extra logs into the fire to keep it going while she was away. . Grabbing her thick cotton cloak she made her way outside, pulling the fur lining tighter against the chill, Azela sighed moving to start her morning preparations. Pausing briefly when she spotted Chris approach and light the main fire in the square, giving the male a nod in greating. However her thoughts were interupted by the sound of footsteps approaching the gate, following the alpha's gaze she could see a small group of travelers. Frowning at the sight of them she could feel a wave of unease crawl up her back. . Chris turned toward her and barked an order, which surprised her a little. He's never barked orders at her like that, but then again they've never had anyone show up at their gates before. Azela nodded and quickly set off for the main castle, spotting Aella making her way to the castle. Giving the younger woman a brief smile and nod as she passed, Azela took the quickest route to the people she was looking for. Her steps rushed as she came down the hallway, pausing briefly as she spotted Caite speaking with the Luna. . Approaching them with heavy breathing she sighed, "there's visitors at the gates. Chris requests the both of you with him." Azela greeted the Luna with a bow as she spoke, and a nod to the beta, she understood that they needed to be quick so she kept her greeting brief. "I'll stay with Rhea so please do not worry for her" Azela gave the blond mother a gentle smile, hoping to aliviate any worry the mother would have for her child. . -~[][][]~--~[][][]~- . Camila Evans
Lycan | Maid | 23 Female | Mentions: Azela, Caite, Pack(ind) . A sigh left her as she wipped her hands on the old apron, her morning had been busy as usual. She'd just finished preping breakfast for the pack, now she was to help rekindle any fires within the castle. Her footsteps light as she traversed the halls, pausing briefly to bow as Azela rushed past. Her gaze following the taller woman as she stopped to speak to the Luna and beta. . She lowered her eyes and coninued along her path, checking fires within the castle walls. Pausing briefly to look out a window eyeing the clouds on the horizon, there would be a storm coming soon. This caused her to frown and shake her head, that would only make her job harder. 'Just wonderful' she muttered to herself as she walked away. Her feet however taking her to the back of the barn, a small smile appearing on her face. . Slipping through the doors Camila was greeted with soft neighs of the horses there, chuckling to herself at their knwoing she had treats. Reaching into the pocket on her apron she produced a few small cuts of apple, holding a few in each hand she approached the two closest. A beautiful chestnut and black, their coats well groomed, they happily lifted their heads and munched on the apples. Camila smiled as they did, giving them pats she felt herself calm. This was her happy place, spoiling the beautiful mounts with treats brought her peace. |
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Lightbringer
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Erasmus Toussaint
Lycan | Pack Member | Male | Mentions: Paige, The Travelers (ind) The young man was known for his restlessness, he could never manage to get a good nights rest - insomnia was a bitch. When he couldn't sleep, he liked to occupy his mind with other things, whether it be by reading or doing some sewing: as of now, he was accompanied by his boyfriend this rather chilly morning. He had "borrowed" one of his boyfriend's nicer and warmer cloaks - the cloak being nice and cozy - and it just smelled like him. It was particularly chilly, and he hadn't bothered to raise the hood of the cloak - though he probably should've. His thoughts were distracted by the feeling of lips against his cheek, and he had to blush at that and place his free hand on the cheek with a small and shy smile. Though him and Paige had been dating for a while, he couldn't help if he still went fuzzy in the heart and weak in the knees at the slightest moment he got affection - he would never get used to it. And he gave his boyfriend a smile at the statement. "I would have to agree, darling. Though it is very cold." He murmured softly as he huddled the taller man for more warmth. He couldn't help but start sniffling a bit. Damn him and his fragile immune system, he groaned inwardly at the implication of him sniffing. "Ugh." He bemoaned slightly, and wrinkled his nose in discontent. He decided to distract himself by admiring the flower that Paige had given him. He didn't know how the man had managed to even get in flowers at this time - but it just made him gush. The scarlet rose was very beautiful and he brought it up to his nose to smell as he hummed softly, just enjoying the company of his boyfriend. He wasn't close with many within the pack, and he hoped he could change that soon, but for now he was content to just have the company of his lover. The silky petals of the rose brushed slightly against his nose and it caused a small giggle to escape his lips. He was turning to face Paige to ask about his plans for breakfast, because he was feeling quite peckish - and he would quite fancy a romantic breakfast to keep the mood going. But that's when he caught the expression on his boyfriends face, and felt the squeeze of his hand. "Paige, are you al-" Before he could even finish his sentence, he gave a small mphm at being silenced by a quick peck to his lips. And while he quite liked the kiss, he wasn't happy that he hadn't gotten his questioned answered and to add to it - his boyfriend was leaving their little walk. He gave a huff of protest, and followed after his - ready to chew him a new one for doing such a thing to him. "Paige Neuvel, how dare you leave me . . . " he had began, sounding like someone's fussing partner, but he then caught sight of the newcomers and have a soft frown and looked at Paige with a quirked brow and the noticing their Alpha, Christopher was also present. He silently moved closer to Paige, and peered through the bars at B the people - they looked ragged and beat up. His expression was very neutral - he didn't trust this one bit, and he noticed some man looked to be offering some sword as a piece offering. Erasmus didn't know what to make of this and so he remained silent and eyes' the strangers warily.
He also subconsciously moved closer to Paige, and wrapped his arms around the other male's. Gently leaning his body against the later as he gave his boyfriend a quick glare - the meaning evidnef that his love was in for a talking to. But it quickly morphed back if it's observant look as he eerily eyes the people on the other side of the gates. He didn't care if he was being possessive or overly affectionate - these strangers wouldn't think that Paige is on the market, hell, if they couldn't tell by the rose he was holding then they were dumb. He just went back to smelling the rose while he silently awaited for his superiors to make the decision about the fate of these outsiders. |
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Darkseeker
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Christopher Frost
Lycan | Alpha | Male | Mentions: Paige, Erasmus, The Travelers
Steeled eyes observed the group impassively, little emotion given away on his face as he listened to them answer his question. The first who spoke was a tall gentleman, he seemed respectable enough and mentioned the group had been attacked by bandits and this was all who had survived. All their supplies, supposedly, had been taken from them, and they were lift with only what they had on them at the time.
His features didn't so much as flinch when he scoped the group out one by one, identifying a couple that seemed to have some form of weapon with them. It, in his opinion, didn't fully make sense, and it made him suspicious. He listened to the young woman speak next, introducing herself as someone of some form of importance to someone with enough high standing to pay for safe return. It truly meant little to him, but he wouldn't just brush it off since if trade or pay could help his pack, his duty was to consider it for them.
However, what truly caused him for pause was when the third man approached, offering out a greatsword as some sort of show of faith or something. This made Christopher all the more suspicious, more so than a couple of them having a weapon. A greatsword, even a stolen one, would fetch for a hefty price if sold to the correct party. He couldn't imagine bandits leaving behind such a piece, plus others' weapons, especially if they had killed others as suggested by the first man.
A soft, nearly inaudible growl rumbled in his chest, but he glanced at Paige in momentary relief when he approached. Chris was grateful he wouldn't have to deal with this alone, and appreciated having his Beta there. His eyes shifted to Erasmus, Paige's boyfriend, and nodded a gently greeting to him before flicking his eyes back to Paige.
He leaned over to the other Lycan and spoke in a murmur so that their words were no heard by the traveler's ears. "Possibly. They say they were attacked by bandits, and need shelter and rest. I'm unsure if their claims are true, though their appearance would suggest so. Except, some of them have weapons, and that man," he glanced breathely at the third man who had spoken, "has a an heirloom and a heavy cloak that weren't taken. Which brings me to pause. Why didn't they?"
He crossed his arms and his forehead finally gave away to some expression as it wrinkled in thought. "It could be a trap, the appearance of a hagard group needing aid just to get us to open our gates so that a raiding party can then come through and loot our homes," he gave Paige insight to his homes, a frown tugging at his lips. It was times like this he wished he had waited for Colette, he would like his lady's thoughts on the situation. Caite's wouldn't hurt either.
"I'd prefer if this was a decision made by the council rather than just I alone since this could be a trap and put us all at risk," he spoke honestly and tilted his head to the side. "Though it might be good to send someone out to investigate to see if there are any signs about the truth of their story. We could send someone for that, and to scout the area for any potential ambushes," he offered to Paige wanting the man's own thoughts.
"Maze is always out in the forest and mountains, and I think she was planning to do a hunt and some scouting with Elias before the sun rose this morning, so they should be returning soon. We could send her out to the Merchant's Road and have her, and maybe someone else, look for any signs of what they've said. Then send the Gamma to search for the Bandits, see if he can confirm that they're in the area, and maybe even harboring some stolen goods. While we are doing that we could offer to bring them in, but they have to allow us to lock up all their weapons, and wait here by the Square's Fire until Maze's return before we offer any additional aid," he spoke, laying out all of his thoughts for his trusted Second to hear.
"I don't know if we can help them past today, though, considering tomorrow... We might be able to spare a few things to send them on their way in the morning, and hopefully they'll make it out before the storm hits?" He rolled his shoulders, trying to relieve the stress settling between them. This threw a complete kink in his entire day.
Taking a step forward, he steeled his expression once more and stared down the group. "My name is Christopher. These are my people, this is my home," he paused for a moment, before continuing. "If what you've said is true, then please explain to me why the bandits allowed you to keep some of your weapons, especially this greatsword you so easily offer up, as well as your heavy cloak," he inquired, his steely eyes narrowed just a degree as he waited for their response. |
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Neutral
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Carter Lucius Traveler | 26 Male | Mentions: Zira, Warwick, Christopher, The Group . Carter kept his hand braced on his sister's back, helping her trude down the path with the group. A concerned expression when she stumbled or hesitated, he knew she was tired but they needed to keep moving. Lifting his gaze he paused seeing the large castle gates coming into view, part of him was relieved yet the other felt unease. This place was way off the beaten path and as they approached it didn't give the impression they got many visitors. . Voices from the front of the group sounded causing Carter to look past the gate to the man standing before them. He noted the red head's stature and tone of voice as being in charge. Frowning at the way the Lady Valois introduced herself, could this woman get anymore self-important? Looking to the side he gave the older man beside them a nod and pushed his sister towards him, giving her a silent 'stay here' before he walked toward the front of the group. . "Forgive us sir, I understand the suspision." Carter voiced pushing forward to stand before the gate, he placed a hand on Geralt's shoulder and gave a silent shake of his head. "Put your sword away" he whispered briefly with a glance. Turning back to the man in charge of the castle, not trying to hide the dirtied cloak he wore nor the weathered blade sheathed at his hip. "I'm Carter, we were attacked on the road by a group of bandits. Many of us were killed while the rest of us were forced to focus on our own self defense until the bandit's decided to leave." He explained, his voice level and serious. . Pausing to glnce back at his sister, Carter frowned briefly. "You do not need to believe our story, but I give you my word on my honor as a Knight, that we mean no harm. We seek only brief aid to recover from this attack then we will be on our way" he sounded turning back to Chris. His gaze level as he lifted a fist to his chest in a informal salute, showing off the family crest embroidered on the edge of his cloak. He hoped this man would see understanding, and trust his word of honor at the very least. . -~[][][]~--~[][][]~- . Zira Lucius
Traveler | 24 Female | Mentions: Carter, Warwick, Christopher, The Group . Zira pulled her brother's cloak tighter, he'd insisted she wear it instead of her own after the first night on the road. She sighed trudging forward behind the others, her brother's hand a constant support at her back. A shadow decended upon them causing Zira to lift her blue gaze from the muddied ground, her breath catching in her throat as she obsereved the walls before them. Feeling a twinge of unease how unwelcoming they were. Her eyes drifting down to where voices now sounded, a few of their companions were speaking to someone about getting help. . Zira frowned looking between her brother and the group, meeting his gaze briefly she hesitated when he pushed her to the elder that had been traveling with them. Worry clawed at her stomach as he walked forward and spoke up, addressing the man opposite of them about their current situation. Listening to his tone her brother had gone into what she called work mode, where his knight training really showed and he took control of a situation. Blue eyes meeting chocolate when he glanced back at her, Zira clenched her hands together. . Glancing up to the man, Fredriko was it? Wondering what the older male thought of the situation, he had seemed like a genuine person so far. Her unease continued to claw at her stomach, Zira knew they needed help in order to survive. But she wasn't sure about this place, it didn't seem like they were all that happy to help outsiders. Whish she could understand if she was honest, they were quite the arrangment of people for a group of travelers. Not to mention the warriors still had their weapons on them, which didn't help with the story of a bandit attack. A sigh escaped her, that was part of it anyway. |
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Darkseeker
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Maisie Bennett & Elias Sauzac
Lycans | Pack Members | Female & Male | Mentions: The Travelers, Chris
The sound of hooves clopping quietly on the ground was the only sound that filled the space between the pair as they rode back towards their home. Maisie had, with permission from the Alpha, gone on a early morning hunt, leaving before the sun rose, and had taken Elias with her, since she had wanted to use his horses in the process. She didn't mind his company, he never forced her into unecessary conversation, and he was competent enough not to get in her way during a hunt. She'd always prefer going alone, but she didn't hate his presence either.
Elias' large stature was completely relaxed, their speed a lazy trot as they went. A large buck was thrown over Maze's mount, the burly gelding she rode was sturdy and reliable, not the type to deposit their kill on the ground. The horse he rode? Not as likely. She was an older mare, but he had caught her wild shortly after they had moved there. He adored her spirit, but he understood her. She wasn't the type to trust with valuable goods on her back.
The wild haired brunette beside him yawned, stretching her hands above her head, eyes closed as she flexed her muscles and then shook them loose. She leaned lazily against the neck of the gelding and patted his neck affectionately, before glancing at Elias who stared ahead, a look of concern on his features.
"What is it?" She growled out, her voice rough and a bit raspy, her throat sounding dry.
"Listen," was Elias's reply to her question, but it was all she needed. Instead she focused on her hearing, trying to decipher what it was that set him on edge all of a sudden. It took her a second, but when she figured it out her entire body stiffed, muscle turning into tightly coiled springs. Quickly she lifted herself up a bit, inhaling quickly and deeply to scent the air.
"I don't smell blood, so if it's an attack I don't think it's been going on for long," she commented, gripping her horse's reins and urging the gelding to a canter. Elias, without a word, followed after her. While Maze's gelding was a thickly built black rabicano stallion, his mare was a bit more spindly, build more for speed as opposed to the gelding's power and strength. So, even with the head start, he caught up quickly to her as they cantered down the path leading to the front gates.
They slowed as soon as the weary group of travelers came into sight, the horses snorting loudly as they blew out their noses. Pulling their mounts to a stop, Elias and Maze kept several yards between them and the other party, their horses standing side by side. They had arrived just in time to here Chris finish speaking to the group, only for one of the men in the group to step forward and speak to him.
A low growl caught in Maze's throat and she instinctively got off her mount, tossing the reins to Elias, who caught them easily, and slipped into the forest. She moved in a languid motion, keeping her body crouched low to the ground, the fur and hide she wore for clothing helping her to quickly disappearing into the background of the forest.
Maisie Bennett didn't really do people, so Elias wasn't surprised when she quickly moved out of sight, though he could tell she hadn't gone far, just enough that the humans would have a hard time seeing her. His eyes passed over the group, barely paying them any mind as he called out to Chris once his Alpha had noticed their return.
"Did you want us to wait?" He didn't give any information out as he spoke, but he knew Chris would understand the question. Did he want them to wait and come in after this group was handled, or come around through the back. He didn't mind acting as muscle if Chris needed it from him, but if the Alpha didn't want that, he would happily take his horses to the back entrance and avoid interaction with the humans begging at their gates.
"I don't think you'll have to wait for long. Is Maze with you?" Chris called back to him.
Elias nodded gently in answer before verbalizing his answer, "Yeah, she's around." That was the entirety of the exchange between Elias and Chris. Nothing more needed to be said, Elias would wait to go through the front just in case he was needed to help for anything.
Sliding off the mare, he patted her pale colored neck, the stark contrast of her blood bay coat and it's white markings emphasized by the snow on the ground. Deciding that it was better than just standing there, Elias checked over their horses, running his hands up and down their legs for any possible injuries, then checked the rest of their bodies. Afterwards he pulled up each of their hooves to ensure they were good.
Despite the nonchalant motions he was going through, Elias was tense, but he trusted his senses and instincts if anyone tried anything, and he also trusted Maze to have his back, since he knew she was still lingering around. |
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Darkseeker
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Warwick Pierce | Male | Assassin/Blacksmith | Traveler | Mentions: Christopher, travelers
Warwick’s cold eyes moved over each person who stepped forward, his jaw ticked in annoyance. It was a bad joke, he thought as he rubbed his face. Too many had stepped up, this would appear threatening and overwhelming. Of course the man was going to be suspicious when three burly men and a spoiled woman stepped up- one of the men being armed. He nodded along with the red man- Christopher- as he heard him question Geralt. Warwick ran a hand through his thick inky hair as he turned his body to the knight. He agreed it was highly suspicious that the knight had his sword and his cloak while even Jhesica didn’t have her fur coat. Warwick thought of lying to smooth over the conversation but also enjoyed this mild confrontation. He was curious to see what kind of leader Christopher was and if Geralt was half the man he claims to be.
“While I can’t answer as to why Geralt still has his cloak and sword, you can see the rest of us are in bad shape. Even Jhesica was stripped of what she owned. Maybe the sword and the cloak aren’t worth anything to the bandits and have more.. sentimental value to Geralt. Or maybe the sword does have actual value and Geralt was able to successfully defend himself against the bandits, leaving him with his sword and cloak.” Warwick said thoughtfully, as he glanced towards Geralt’s sword. He turned as he listened as Carter said his piece that was similar to his own speech.
Warwick turned back to Christopher, his head tilted slightly. “What would you like us to do? You hold our lives and fates in your hands. We have no strength to fight back, only a few still carry weapons - which you can have as a safety precaution. I’m sure…” he paused, “Someone can attest to our story. Someone from your group could find it. We haven’t traveled that far from the attack site. There should still be bodies from our group there.” Or enough blood to still hold up the story. It was a stretch but an offer nonetheless. |
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Winter 
Day 
