She took the brush and dipped it in the blue paint, before giggling as she wrinkled her nose.
"Richter!"
He was moving again. He could never sit still! She gave an impatient sigh, but smiled anyways as she shook her head. "Richter, really," she gave a light stomp of her foot. "Please sit still." She smiled and shook her head at him. "How can I paint your eyes if I can't see them? This painting looks really creepy with the eyes."
She held up the brush, smirking over at him before shaking her head again and returning her attention to the canvas.
"You know how finicky these paints can be," she said, moving in real close to the canvas as she took her time, painting the circles of his blue eyes. Dabbing the paint brush into more paint, she worked at the second one and then added black for the depth, and white for the gloss and began to lightly shade over the eyes before glancing over at Richter and smiling again.
"Ricther Lavier," she said, hands to her hips and giving a shake o fher head. "Really, you're like a kid. But I suppose this painting is almost done." And she took a moment to rub at her face, not realizing she smeared some blue paint across her cheek.
"Ok.. come on," she said, after placing a few finishing strokes across the piece before glancing his way. "You can look now." And she stood there, holding her breath in anticipation. She gripped her paint brush between both hands and stepped away, but not before brushing some loose strands of blonde hair from her face.
"What do you think?"
She hoped he liked it. It had been a while since she got a draw anyone from life- and even longer since she had thought to paint her brother. She was just happy he actually let her this time. They hadn't spent a lot of time together as of recently and she missed him. ANd he had a nice face. She just hope she captured it alright.
"Well?" She leaned forward a bit, anxiously awaiting his thoughts, all the while not realizing blue paint was dripping from her brush onto her boots.
He frowned at being treated like a child. But he wasn't going to protest too much when it came to Ania. He had an itch so he needed to scratch it. His eyes were getting dry so he needed to blink. It just so happened he squirmed for a few seconds and held his eyes shut for a whole minute straight. But at her complaints, what was a greater cause for struggle was holding back a smile, as he angled his head purposefully the other way to keep her messing up.
He burst out laughing, holding his belly as he sat perched on the stool she had designated for posing. "All right all right! I'll settle down. It's just..that look on your face," he beamed and finally relaxed for her to execute the finishing touches on her painting. He had always admired Ania's painting. Her skill in art was something he could never match, and he never hoped to. And he would pose for days if she commanded him to.
Richter looked intently at Ania as she splotched the last bits of paint onto the canvas. The sunlight pouring through her room in the small house Richter had used to purchase for themselves. It was near Richard's old estate, which had since been claimed by their Aunt Evelyn and any cousins that came to pick at the remains. Though Richter should have been the heir, Richard's will was true to the word, and what coin was given to the twins served toward comfortable living for them for now.
It was a small house with two stories, each their own room and not nearly as grand as the manor house in which they grew up. But it was comfortable and they had a small farm and the crops were selling well this season. Richter watched the sunlight play through the window and dance upon her golden hair. She was always most beautiful in sunlight. Moonlight cast them both in a sallow glow, but in the sun...she was radiant.
"Is it done already?" Richter hopped down from the chair and walked over to the portrait. He gave an obvious gasp and beamed at her. "I always knew you had talent. We should take these to town some day and hang them in a gallery. Perhaps we could sell a few pieces," he said. Plucking the canvas from the easel, he held it up to the window and examined it in the sunlight, smiling even wider. "Though I don't know if anyone would pay for a portrait of my ugly mug," he laughed.
Ania gasped.
"Be careful with it, Richter!" And as he held it up,s he held a breath, but when he turned to her and suggested selling it, (though perhaps this one might not be able to go) she gasped and placed her hands to her hips.
"Richter!" And she took her paint brush and pointed at him scoldingly. "Your face is not ugly. Or else I wouldn't paint it. Besides, don't you think you look much more handsome on canvas? And I couldn't part with it.." and delicately, she took the painting from him with a sigh and peered up at him. The canvas was so large, it hid most of her body from sight before she turned from him and delicately placed it on the easel.
"Although.." she said, now taking a look at the thing. She tilted her head and furrowed her brows, becoming deep in thought. "Something seems missing... but I just can't put my finger on it.
Richter smiled sweetly at his sister, his only family, and loved her even more in that moment. He wasn't the most handsomest man in the world, he always thought himself rather plain, but it was certainly better to have someone tell it to you. It could be hard to try and believe it yourself. "Oh you do flatter me, Ania," he said and let her take the picture from him.
"Missing something. Yes, I agree, but what could possibly make it more complete than it already is," Richter said, placing one arm underneath his elbow and the bend of his arm underneath his chin like popular poses of great thinkers and philosophers.
"You," he answered at last. "It's missing you standing beside me! I'm sure you'll find a way to work yourself inside the painting!"
Ania turned to Richter as her lips fell open.
"Me?" she shook her head. "Oh, no. I'd never paint myself!" The very idea made her blush.
Richter put an arm around her shoulders and hugged her tight, then pointed to the painting. "Nonsense. I can't think of anyone more fitting to stand beside me than you? It would certainly fill up the space and I think you should do it," he reasoned, letting her go and moving toward the rear of the room, pulling out the full length mirror. He crouched a little in front of it and coaxed her to stand slightly behind him at his side, viewing their reflection in the mirror, as an example of what it might look like in the painting.
"See? Doesn't it seem better? Besides who else should stand beside?"
Ania blushed when she peeked at the pair of them in the mirror together. Shaking her head, she shoved him lightly. "Richter! No means no!" she said firmly. "Besides, don't we have some place we ought to be getting to?" she reminded him, moving away as she began to clean up her painting supplies.
Richter gave it up and sighed, crossing his hands over his chest and leaning by the window. He looked out into the field of their small farmland. It was fair and the crops were good, though the horizon seemed dark so far away. A storm was coming in.
At her words, his lips frowned a little and he didn't look at her. "No, not that I can think of. Oh... wait a minute," he said, his mind lingering on something else. "I suppose we can take the crop out to town today to see if the stall will be able to sell more. Tobin was supposed to come in today and take a haul but he didn't show up yet. If we go ourselves, we probably won't make it back in time. Clouds are brewing. Look on."
He gestured to the window and they seemed to grow darker the longer he looked at them. "Besides, I know how tired you get on long journeys into town. And you know I can't leave you here by yourself. Tobin fancies you, y'know."
"Richter! Tobin does not!" Ania pressed. "Why would you think he does? Besides, he's... he's pretty old." She said, trying to stifle a laugh before making a more serious expression as she shook her head.
"But I see you're right. Looks like we'll be rained in today.." she said, approaching the window and leaning against it as she smiled and enjoyed the cool breeze from the on coming storm.
"He is rather old. And personally I don't much favor him. You can do better than an old balding farm goods clerk," Richter said idly, smiling at his sister. "I mean, you can't live with your frumpy ol' brother forever can you?" He laughed and gestured to the painting again. "I really do love it. You've gotten so much better since you started, it's amazing to watch you progress. I could never do anything like that."
Ania blushed at his compliment and averted her gaze.
"Oh, I don't know. Who knows if I'll ever get married. Then you will be stuck with your messy sister, forever!" she teased, wrinkling her nose at him as she smiled. SHe turned from him and glanced back at the room. It really was a mess. There was paint cans, brushes and half painted canvases everywhere. She sighed.
"Guess I should consider tidying this room up sometime," she said. "I never meant to consume this much space in our study."
"Nonsense. This space is mind to share with you and you know what, I'm glad someone's made use of it because what do you expect me to do, sit down and write ledgers and letters to uncles and aunts and cousins that want nothing to do with us?" Richter said, half jesting and half serious at the thought.
Ania blushed and tucked back a smile while giving a shake of her head.
"No.. no, I wouldn't expect as much. But I do wonder when you might get married, brother. Neither of us are getting any younger and well.." She turned away from him, feeling nervous over such a question as her body turned hot and her hands, clammy. "I just... I hope I'm not in the way. I know we've been so close over the years but I.... I can't help but feel awful I might be all that you have."
Though at the same time, she wished she was, too. She had only ever known her brother's affection, and outwardly feared any others. She was too nervous anyways around men, like an awkward, skittish bird. But with Richter... well, she always felt safe with him. They were twins after all, and no one could be any closer than family- and turns out, right now- they truly only had one another.
"Mhmm," Richter had mused and was lost in thought. His eyes lingered on the coming clouds and he watched them brew quicker and with great fury in the sky. They seemed to almost possess him and in the dimming sunlight his face seemed grim, sunken, older, grayer, almost as if a veil of death was upon him.
"A storm is coming," he commented idly, not realizing he had already said so before.
There was a sudden knock at the door that did not make Richter jump. It was almost as if he was expecting it, but when he turned and looked at Ania, it was evident in his face that it was not. "That can't be Tobin."
Ania looked up at Richter. Before she could tell him he just repeated himself, the knock at the door made her jump. Sighing, she shook her head.
"Well, we should not keep them waiting. I'll clean up my mess here, you can go answer the door." She said, lightly touching her brother's arm with a smile.
He gave her a nod before heading downstairs and checking the sudden knock at the door. The pounding came again and this time, Richter grew anxious and slowly pried it open. On the other side was a ragged looking man, old and with a hood over his head. He was bundled up for the wind was fierce and rain began to come down as the clouds came in.
"Can I help you?"
"Are you Richter Lavier? Son of Richard Lavier?" the man asked. Richter saw his hand lingering inside his coat and he stiffened a little.
"What's this about?"
"I have a message for you." He produced a small leather bundle and handed it to him.
"But who is it from?
"He didn't give his name. Just said to meet him at the Roadram Inn. Better bundle up. It's freezing out here." And with that he pulled his hood down and set down the path from the farm.
Ania continued about, boxing up her art supplies and setting her canvas to one corner to dry. She paused a moment to study the way she captured her brother- the brush lines making him seem to come alive. She smiled and ghosted her fingers over the painting before movement outside caught her attention. Seems whoever the visitor was had already gone and left.
Richter unfolded the leather skin that wrapped the pieces of paper. They were a well-made parchment, and closed by a seal. It was simple and he could not decipher what it was he broke the seal and unfolded them. He poured over the papers, furrowing his brows the more and more he read and reread the wordings within and his heart was racing. A sweat took to his brow despite the cold air and he felt a knot form in his throat that he suddenly choked on.
He clutched his throat and coughed it away, forcing the knot away and looking upstairs. "Ania...this is what I've been waiting for for so long...but ... it could all be a trick," he whispered to himself as he remained below stairs for the time being. It took a few minutes to regain his bearings and slowly walked upstairs, stalking like he was half-dead.
"Ania...We have to go. Get your cloak," he called out as he approached the study.
Ania looked down at her brother from where she was perched a top of the steps.
"Richter... what is it? What does the letter say?" Curiously, she moved closer to his side, but remained hesitant as it appeared as if her brother had just seen a ghost!
Richter peered up at Ania and it seemed he had only just registered her words and her presence. "We have to go. Now," he said. "Get your coat. Look presentable, we have to head to the Roadram Inn in town."
She lifted a hand to her lips.
"The Roadram Inn, but why?"
Richter seemed almost delirious in how he looked at her, answered her. "The messenger said, there was a man that wanted to meet us there. The letter said it was urgent. That it something to do with our father. Our...real father," he said softly, looking at her more clearly. He felt his blood rush, anger wanting to surge through him. Yet it only resulted in a clenched jaw and fist. "Here," he said, forcing himself to relax and handing over the leather wrapped parchment. "See for yourself."
"A man?" Ania blinked, still confused but once it was revealed, her jaw dropped open and it appeared as if she had seen a ghost.
"Truly?"
She peered down at the parchment, but she was too stunned to even register the words.
"But what.. what does this mean? How?" She said, shaking her head. It just sounded so crazy!
Richter nodded to her but then promptly shrugged. "I don't know. That's what we have to go find out. It could be dangerous. I will bring Richard's pistol just in case, but...we should at least give it a chance... It could bee what I've been looking for all this time. A chance to claim what is rightfully ours!"
"Rightfully ours? Richter.. I don't know,"s he said, visibly frowning at such a suggestion. "Just because.. because of who our real father is I..." Her frown deepened. "If anything, I'm more afraid. I don't know much about nobility, but you've heard the way father had talked about him- and his wife and I.... I don't know." She cast her gaze to the grown as she sighed. "But if, if you really want to go, then I'll go with you." And she nodded at him. She'd support him no matter what. They had to- they were all each other had.
"I-I know the rumors. I know the stories. But ... I can't stand the thought of what he has done...or what he hasn't done. What we deserve. We are unwanted no matter where we go. But if this could change all that... I don't know if I could forgive myself if I didn't give it a chance," Richter murmured. He peered somberly at Ania, his eyes saying there was no objection he would be willing to listen to and gestured toward the direction of her room. "Get ready. We must leave before it is too difficult to come back."
Rushing to her room, Ania dressed herself in a more appropriate dress, but her anxiety got the better of her as her fingers fumbled over the laces. Turning towards her door, she cracked it open.
"Richter, can you help me with this thing? I'm having trouble with the ties."
Richter blinked at his sister for a moment, as he waited in the hallway. When she requested his assistance, he nodded and moved into her room. "Look at this mess. Ania! What did I tell you about cleaning up this room once in a while. It wouldn't hurt you know." Richter laughed and moved behind Ania. "Now just how do I tie this thing up then?"
Ania held onto her hair with one hand, the front of her dress with the other.
"Just start from the bottom and pull the strings upwards as muhc as you can, though I've already gotten some of it- it still needs to be pulled tighter."S he frowned back at Richter. "Perhaps I should wear something else if you don't think you could help?" THough she wasn't sure it was appropriate to wear something... so bland- and the outfits she had without a tie back were her plain, working clothes- and most of those were covered in paints.
Richter shook his head. "No, no, I can manage," he said. He furrowed his brow and quickly worked on tying up the back of her dress. It felt strange, being in his sister's room, and it was momentarily surreal, observing her wardrobe scattered all over the place. He knotted the last loop at the top of her dress and put a hand gently on her shoulders. "Here that burgundy cloak goes nicely with that dress." He moved across the room and pulled the cloak from the wardrobe and set it across her shoulders. "There, that looks better doesn't it?"
Ania gave a numbed nod.
"Yes, thank you. BUt which brooch? We... shouldn't I wear one? I mean I have one of sapphire, or the other of crystal- though I'm afraid neither would impress..." If that was the idea anyway as she nervously thumbed over the cloak on her shoulders.
Richter was silent as he looked over Ania's shoulder, his eyes lingering on her skin, her neck and his frown deepening. "Ania, you don't have to impress anyone. Whoever sees you would be more than stunned by how beautiful you are," he gave her a soft smile and wrapped his arm around her shoulders, hugging her tightly to him. "I like your hummingbird brooch the best."
Ania blushed fiercely as her brother hugged her.
"Only you would say that." But at least she realized she was pretty enough, though apparently not so to catch the eyes of any suitors. What would their real father think when he learned neither of them had been wed? They were so late in their ages that it was inconceivable by most that it were to ever be allowed to happened, but she supposed not everyone got married in their life and she- she never knew really what to think on it.
After all, her brother was her world, and as her blue eyes raised to peer back at him in the mirror, she smiled softly and gathered up her hummingbird brooch and fastened it to her clothes. It had multiple colors but they were made of imitation pasts, though was pretty anyways and the blue color accented her eyes.
"I like the humming bird, too," she told him softly, a hand resting over his. "It had always looked beautiful on mum."
At the mention of mother and the hummingbird pin, Richter's eyes widened. How could he have forgotten, and as he looked at the pin, his lips curled into a soft smile and he nodded. "She could never be as pretty as you of course. But damn is she a close second," Richter beamed and fixed it a little on her shoulder. "Are you ready to depart? I know once we leave...things aren't liable to be the same," he said, frowning suddenly and grabbing her hands in his own. "Here's to hoping."
Once Richter took her hand, she turned to him, blue eyes sparkling.
"Yes. There's always hope." She gave him an uncertain smile before squeezing his hand and moving to his side.
"And yes, I am ready. Let us go." And she followed him out the door.
Richter locked the door of their farmhouse behind him and felt along his breast and felt the letter in his coat pocket, taking a breath to steady him. When that was done they moved toward the stables and he pulled out their small carriage, and the horse in his jacket ready to go. He helped her inside and took the reins in hand, slapping them and they went barreling down the road.
Ania huddled into her cloak. The winds were wicked, and a sudden bolt of lightning made her jump n her seat. Peering out the window, she looked up at her brother and called to him through the raging winds.
"Are you sure it's wise we do this now? The storm's almost upon us, Richter!"
"We'll make it to town before the storm," Richter said, not casting a glance back to her as he rode through the ferocity of the coming storm. It wasn't very far into town, but with the threat of rain and wind and lightning making the way impassible, it was most certainly a challenge, but not an impossible one. He smacked the reins for the horse to run faster.
Where Richter appeared fearless and determined, Ania was fearful and uncertain. She wasn't sure what sort of things awaited them at this meeting as she clutched onto the sides of her bench within the carriage and peered out at the darkening skies. The only thign that kept her brave, was her trust in her brother. She had to trust in him, in this- and she knew she'd be safe. But her heart was fluttered and her stomach doing flip flops. It made it rather difficult for her to put on a brave face.
He was afraid. He was very afraid. But he concealed it well. For the sake of Ania, he kept himself stable, the grip on the reins was hard enough as it was. As the town came closer and closer into view, suddenly he realized the uncertainty of this whole situation. He pulled a little on the reins and came to a slow walk. His eyes looked sad and angry and distant all at once. "I don't know..." he breathed. "I don't know if we should continue..."
Hearing her brother's doubts did nothing to quell her own.
"But we're already nearly there, Richter,"s he whispered, her voice- perhaps not reaching his ears against the winds. But she leaned forward and found a way to touch him lightly. "But we must be strong. You said so yourself- this is a way for us to get answers. So we must be brave."
Her words resonated within him more than she could know. Richter nodded to her and soon found his resolve. Then slapped the reins down on the horse and the carriage lurched forward once more.
Ania returned back to fretting in the carriage. But a sense of awareness washed over her. Yes, they weren't alone- and the twins needed one another now more than they had ever before. So her blue eyes searched outside the carriage as her hands clutched her skirts, anxiously hoping the storm could hold out until they made it to the inn.
When it did, Richter slowed the carriage to a halt and he gave a shuddering breath. He stepped from the buckboard with mild assurance and opened the door for his sister, helping her step out. "I suppose there's no turning back now," he said, giving her a forced smile, but it quickly faded. He never could pretend much with her. "Let's go."
Ania took his hand and moved to press herself closely against his side.
"I'm afraid,"s he whispered, her voice nearly lost to the winds. "What if he doesn't like us?"
Could their real father have them killed for something so petty?
Richter had given that some thought at the time and he put his hands on hers. "We'll be okay. If he doesn't like us...then it's likely he can forget all about us and we can go back to the farm like nothing at all happened," he whispered back to her. He smiled and leaned in to kiss her cheek. "Let's just see this through. There are worse things that could happen."
The inn was quiet when they stepped inside, and the few patrons inside paid them little heed as Richter stepped through with Ania on his arm. The bartender gave them a small nod, mostly at Richter as they stepped through. He left her side momentarily, stepping up to the bar, asking about a man fitting the description in the letter - sans the letter of course - and the bartended pointed to a backroom just around the corner.
Richter stepped through toward the indicated room, pulling Ania behind him and he stepped toward the closed door. Cigar smoke filled the air, as he gently knocked on it and opened it slowly. Behind it sat a lone man, with a guardsman at his back and a valet refilling his whiskey glass. "Are you...Sir Argus Halbrook?" Richter asked tentatively as he eyed the graying man behind the table.
"Who wants to know?" he asked, his eyes shaded with exhaustion and drink.
"I received your letter..." Richter said, pulling it from his coat pocket.
His eye widened and he sat straighter. "Please...come in. Be seated, Master Lavier...and... Mademoiselle Lavier."
OOC: Madame means he's married XD so it'd be Mademoiselle Lavier X3
-------
Ania's heart fluttered, as it always did when her brother kissed her cheek. They had been close, closer to each other than to anyone else in the world- for most of their lives they had grown up nary apart, and in a life full of awkward misfortunes, they were stead fast in their loyalty and devotion to the other. Though having been the only man in her life worth seeking, she always held her brother on a pedestal above all other men, and now that he was taking the lead, she followed blindly, and did the best she could not to choke and cough on the cigar smoke that filled the room,-
but she did.
Once her throat was cleared, she curtsied rigidly before the gentleman but was too afraid to speak just yet and found herself keeping her eyes averted, too afraid to even look at him.
[D: I didn't know! But fixed it! xD thanks.]
Richter unleashed a steady breath, one he knew Sir Argus noted. He viewed the man across from him as he helped Ania into a wooden chair that he wasn't an old man, but he appeared older by the wrinkles around his eyes and mouth. He was grizzled and his hair was graying at the temples though much of it still remained dark upon his scalp and his eyes were alert, though they seemed...exhausted. Richter had no doubt that the man was a professional, in whatever his endeavors led him to do, and he was loyal....undoubtedly loyal.
Richter could feel his heart pounding heavily inside him and his stomach knotting in a growing sense of dread. He did as best he could to keep his face from showing it and it was apparent in the knight that the young man was trying to keep himself together. No doubt this requested meeting came as a shock to everyone.
"Thank you, sir," Richter said with a bow of his head as he took a seat beside his sister. "I came as soon as I received your letter. I...I wasn't sure what to make of it frankly, but I never expected to hear something like this in all my days. I hope you understand my initial hesitation."
Sir Argus looked up at him with those alert eyes and just a twinkle of a smile seemed to touch them. He gave them a nod and then looked up at valet. "Please, forgive my rudeness. Have some food and drink. It's the least I can offer you, in the hopes that you'll feel more comfortable."
Ania, now seated, looked from Sir Argus to her brother, and observed them both in silence. She didn't assume much, but she could read into their body language- for she had a knack for such thing s and was elated when the conversation started with food.
"Yes, a drink would be lovely." Though she was uncertain if she could eat anything, for the knots in her belly were severe and tight. But her mouth was parched. Yes,a drink would be acceptable, and once it was served, she gave it a few dainty sips and listened in intent silence.
Richter stared at his wine with a blank look for a time before glancing at the man across the table. Sir Argus nodded to him and Richter sniffed the drink before he took a sip. He let the drink relax his bones for the moment, lest his nerves get the better of him. And then he looked up at Sir Argus, squaring his resolving, and knowing they could scarcely skirt around the heart of the matter for longer than necessary.
"How did you find us?"
Argus took a breath and held his own glass tightly in hand. "I always knew where you were. I've never felt it prudent to make my presence known until now, however. But-"
"Why? We were content with our lives there on the farm. Why now?"
Argus was struck, silent, and he didn't know what to say. "I knew it was only a matter of time before the truth caught up to me, and to you, and your sister. But in years before...it wouldn't have done for anyone in such a prominent position to openly acknowledge any illegitimate heirs to the Duchy of Hellvion. But I knew my Lord would not have wanted me to keep it from you for the rest of your life."
Ania remained quiet, sipping gingerly at her offered drink, but still feeling too queasy and anxious over this situation to properly enjoy any of these amenities. It just all seemed so strange,a nd this man before them made her nervous, even if had no malicious air about him.
"But even with us knowing.." she said softly, lifting her blue gaze from her cup. "What does this mean for us?"
Argus' eyes were old, tired and haggard and weighed down with the secret he carried. He considered Ania's question, stewing in silence as he turned his glass over in hand. He then looked back at the twins. They looked so much like their father... it was such a shame.
"You have the right to know," he said at last. "You have every right to claim your birth right for yourselves. I risked everything to come here. If you would like...I can take you back with me."
Ania felt fear clutch her heart. Her eyes were wide as she shook her head, but said nothing as she turned to her brother.
"But how could we? If what you are telling us is true... I just... " And the right words failed to come out from her lips.
Richter shared Ania's shock, and he felt his face burn in anger. He wanted to take his drink and throw it at the knight's face, that he even dare come here and tell them this. "What are you playing at?" he growled suddenly. "Who really sent you? You would come all this way to tear our lives apart! We were perfectly happy until you showed up."
Sir Argus stood when Richter did and he set his hands down on the table. He looked like he could snap Richter's neck in two if it so pleased him. But the pain in his eyes was clearly evident. "I am telling you the truth! I have risked more than my life in coming here. But I made an oath to my lord and I intend to carry it out. You do not have to come with me...but...but you had a right to know."
And with that the older man sat down again, and took another swig of his drink.
Richter's expression sobered and he looked at his sister. Then his eyes peered back up to Halbrook. "When can we leave?"
Ania kept her eyes dropped, focusing them on the table as thousands of thoughts swarmed her head. If this was true, she wasn't sure she wanted to meet their father. As Richter pointed out- their lives were perfectly fine until now. But knowing this truth...
What benefit could it cause anyone? She felt it was best left unknown, for the civil war on the country but a lot of pressure on nobility, and she did not want to be any part of that.
Richter felt sudden tension in the room and he looked across to Ania. "Is something the matter?" he asked.
Her blue eyes looked up at him, frightened, nervous, before she quickly dropped her gaze and shook her head.
Why try to fight this? She had a feeling the results to ignore it would.do.even more harm to them.both now since they had that knowledge.
"You have a say sister," Richter nodded. "Speak. Please."
She only shook her head again, too nervous and too shy to reveal her thoughts before the stranger. If it was just Richter, she would tell all but...
She had no idea if she could trust such fear to this man, despite what he risked to give them this advice.
"I.. I'm just still in shock," she half whispered, half muttered as she shifted uneasily on the chair. "It's just a lot to take in."
Richter nodded at her statement, and all the truth it contained. It was a lot to take in at a time like this. And for this stranger to come all the way over here..., if he did not come in treachery and deceit, it only meant there was so much more to take in at the same time. "It is quite a lot," he said, looking up at Sir Argus.
The older man made a loud 'hah!" but his expression remained lined with the gravity of his offer. "I understand," he said. "If you wish, I can leave now. And everything I said never has to leave this room. I know it's a lot to take in."
At that Richter paled and lunged up from his seat. He moved toward his sister and put an arm around her. "No!" he said suddenly, as if a child facing the confiscation of his favored toy. He fixed his collar and squared his shoulders. "No... We-we don't want that. We just...need a little time, to think about it."
Argus grew quiet and stood from his own chair. "Very well," he said and bowed his head. "I will be in town until late this evening. You have until then to give me your answer. If you do not come, then I will know. And it will be as if I never arrived. Is that fair?"
Richter was about to protest, but bit down on his tongue. Instead he nodded to him and turned to Ania. "Let's go home, sister," he said and gave her a small flicker of a grin.
Not sure or certain what to say, Ania simply nodded and rose from her chair. Tucking back some of her hair, she clutched her shawl around herself so tight, her knuckles turned white. She peered over at Richter, caught his look but couldn't smile back in kind. In truth, he could probably read what she was feeling in her eyes, for the fear was crystal clear, even in her silence.
He could. But Richter would not speak of such in front of strangers. When they left the tavern, they rode in silence through the rain back to the farm and once inside, Richter rang out his coat, laughing like a boy as he was soaked. He took Ania's coat and hung them up to dry by the fire. "Come let's get warmed up, I can whip up some stew if you'd like. It's far too chilly in here," he said, trying to lighten the mood.
While he was all laughter and charms, Ania was still shaken by what had happened. Once her coat and shawl had been removed, she took a seat and worked at the ties of her boots.
"I'm not hungry. But if you wish to cook yourself something, please don't inconvenience yourself because of me."
Richter sat in silence as he watched his sister struggle with her boot. He frowned and moved down to help her. He quietly loosened the laces on the other one and pulled the leather apart. "I know it's a lot to take in all at once. But would you really....pass it up? Our birthright?"
Ania went still, allowing her brother to tend to her boot. Once her feet were free, she wriggled her toes within her socks, socks that were now went from the travel home. And that is where her eyes remained for just a moment before they were raised and met to his.
"I... do not know, Richter. All I know is before all of this, we were fine, life was alright. But to bring in this.. this knowledge... our lives won't ever be the same. Perhaps I'm just afraid of change, no.." and hse turned away, shaking her head as her eyes moved around in thought as she licked her dry lips before pressing them together as she sighed through her nose. Her blue eyes returned to his.
"No, I am afraid, Richter. Yes, it might seem like a great opportunity, potential rank in life, more wealth... but what about the consequences? If there were none... would we not have known this all along? I just can't see this as something good. It troubles me, and last night.... " And at that, she cast her eyes down as she wrung her hands.
"Last night I saw a white owl... like the one from my dreams..."
The one's from her nightmares where she believed the entire world would end, would burn; and the pair of them were drowning in the lake, beneath the darkened sky of night that hailed no moon or stars-
Just darkness.
And then darkness no more-
And tht's when she'd awaken. And now that the white owl from her dream she believed had come...
She could only imagine this was a bad omen.
"It.. it's why I wanted to paint you," she went on, shifting uneasily in her chair as she looked at him. "I know it sounds silly but.. I was afraid.. afraid there was some connection tot he dream and I.. I did not want to lose you, lose this moment in our life." And she pressed her lips together as they trembled, eyes balling with tears as she looked away and tried to hide them, but they slipped down ehr cheeks anyway.
"I can not help but feel so against this over a silly dream. But to think... if i am wrong.." And she laughed at herself, a hollow noise through tears before she shook her head and turned to him.
"What do you think? What can we gain fromt his knowledge if there is something to gain? That we are bastard children of a Duke...."
Richter trusted Ania implicitly and though she was a free soul, he never took her as one to simply run off with flights of fancy. He knew of her owl dream, the white creature having frightened her since they were children. But he didn't know what to tell her then, he could only console her that it was a bad dream and that was all. Bad dreams went away with the morning.
Richter was quiet and looked down at her feet, still wet in their socks and he reached up and peeled them from her feet, setting them down beside the open flame. He resumed his seat and crossed his legs, leaning elbows on his knees and looking at the flames. "You ever wonder how fire burns?" he said, in a half-fascinated tone.
"I mean, it starts out as a small flame, before it enraptures kindling and turns it slowly to ash. Fire burns, it can cause pain, and grow beyond control. But like you and me, it dies. It turns cold, to ash. Something so mighty, is also so fragile, like mother's crystal. I broke her favored chalice once, I never told Richard," Richter went on, musingly.
"I don't think he would've cared either way."
He cut his eyes to his sister and moved up on his knees, leaning against the side of the sofa before planting his behind on the rug. "I know you're scared," he said, expression soft. "If it's any consolation, I'm frightened to my wit's end. All of this...is almost too much to bear. If it weren't for you, I'd likely be hyperventilating right now. But...but, in the end, I...I want to venture into the unknown. I want to know...we have a right to know, Ania. There were dangers even before this day. Every night I would look out all our windows, lock all our doors, and stay up sleepless for hours just to make sure we were safe."
Richter shook his head and buried his face in his arms, resting it on the cushion. "We were rejected as children from the only family we knew," he found himself saying. "What if this is our chance to find our real family?"
Ania was silent as she digested his words. And she knew he was right, however...
"It's the war," she began, turning to look at him. "I know our life has not been easy but..." She presses her lips together. "I was always thankful we were not touched by it. But to have noble blood...." And here she paused, a slight smike twitching on her lips.
"I wonder if that means we'll get to attend royal balls and meat fancy people." And she studied Richter as she tried to bite back a smile. After all, every girl.always dreames of becoming a princess, and she was no exception.
He smiled at her and rose up to sit beside her. "Oh I know," he said, tilting his head sympathetically. "That old adage, with great power comes great responsibility. We would have a great deal to deal with, a duty to uphold. But we'd have something no one else would have amidst this terrible war. We'd have each other."
She gave him a bashful smile and shake of her head.
"I'm sure all siblings say that," she said and went on to point out, "but don't forget we're cursed. Angsar cares not much for two children born at once."
"I don't care what Ansgar says," Richter said plainly. "People that fight and die and attempt to speak for a God that no one can see are fools. Who knows what he could've really said. He likely had all passels of brats that were born at once." Richter smiled at her and reached across to poke her nose with his index finger. "Besides, you don't look like a bad omen to me. Do I look like some kind've ominous thing crawling out from the dark and deep to you?"
Ania's smile broadened before turning a little mischievous.
"Maybe... Those blue eyes do remind me of devil's blood."
Richter's eyes widened a little and swiftly reached across to her sides and danced across them savagely. "They remind you of what!?" he bellowed, laughing. "A devil was it!?"
Ania ceased up, her face exploding into laughter as she jerked away.
"Yes, yes!" she persisted, scrambling off her chair to get away from his tickling fingers. And hiding behind the chair (her only line of defense for now!), she smiled at him and spoke through light pants of breath, "A devil is my brother! A devil from the deep!"
"I hope you mean a handsome devil!" he growled and got up, skirting around the chair. "Now come here! I'll get you!"
"Oh, but of course, a handsome devil! Though to be honest if I were to admit other wise, I'd be declaring my own self as ugly." And she paused, hiding behind their table and staring back at him as she caught her breath. "It is the consequence of being twins."
"Would I be lying if I said you were the most beautiful woman in all of Connlaoth!? Twins or not!" He laughed and darted around the table, trying to corner her and he even dropped to his knees when he realized she'd be impossible to catch. And he threw himself beneath to table to snatch her ankles.
"Twin or not, ha! As if I'd believe a devil!" And she stuck her tongue out at him and shrieked when his hands reached for her ankles. She danced just out of his reach and continued to sprint away, making for the stairs.
Richter was now taken with the game and crawled quickly out from beneath the table, scrambling for the stairs. He tripped on a step, but not for long, and bounded up four at a time. "You can run, but you can't hide! I know where you live!"
Ania simply laughed, bounding up the stairs before disappearing around the corner.
Richter stopped suddenly, pausing at the stairs and listening instead to where Ania was running off to and he crept slowly up until he was at the corner, but had not crossed it just yet. "How DARE you wait there for me to climb up to you? YEAH YOU BETTER RUN!" He laughed and pounded the ground after her.
And when he'd reach the top of the stairs to the hallway, he'd notice it was dark and quiet and there was no sign of his sister.
Richter would remain quiet until he approached the door of her room, but soon he stopped short of entering. No, she would expect him to go after her in her haven. He waited at the door for a long second before moving to his room and slowly pushing the door ajar. The hinges creaked in all places of their small farmhouse and his room was no different. His quarters was spartan in comparison to Ania's. And had fewer places to hideo. So Richter waited like a cat wanting to catch the mice at play.
But Richter would find no sister stirring in his room, however, the long clothe curtain covering the hall window rustled ever so slightly, especially after Ania realized her one foot was sticking out beneath it. And she held her breath, hoping Richter wouldn't have seen.
Richter saw it, just ever so slightly and when he did, he darted for that foot and snatched it, tickling it furiously. "FOUND YOU!"
Ania cried out in alarm, and struggled to get away, finding herself becoming tangled in the drapes.
That's when he heard a rip and felt something heavy promptly fall on him.
Ania gasped and attempted to roll off of him, though the sting of the fall made her movements clumsy, and the figure squirming beneath.
"I'm so sorry, Richter! Are you okay?"
Richter's head felt like it was going to explode, but he was otherwise okay. Instead he snatched her in his arms and bellowed in laughter, triumphant. "I got you! Like I said I would," he hissed.
Gasping again, she gave Richter an attempted accusatory look, but it was marred by laughter.
"Richter! That's cheating! I was worried you had been hurt!"
"I was hurt! Your big soggy bottom landed on me! You'd be hurt too if I fell on you. Well, mostly because I'm bigger than you," he teased and stuck his tongue out childlike at her. He grinned and shook his head, abating the game and standing up, brushing himself off, and helping Ania to her feet as well.
He held her hands gingerly in his and turned them over so they were palm to palm. "You can paint me, if you want to," he offered. "I'd be honored."
"Paint you? Now why would I do a ridiculous thing like that?"
"Because I think it would be nice. You've never painted me before," he said and jutted out his chin to look more handsome than ever. "C'mon, you said you wanted to before!"
Ania was taken back and placed her hands to her hips.
"Richter Lavier, really! Where is that brain of yours? Did you forget I already painted you- and just this morning?"
"Well, just humor me and paint me again. I want to look regal!" he exclaimed.
"Regal? What, do you think you're some sort of prince?"
"Yes," he said with playful resolution. He stuck his chin out at her and held out his arm to her. "And that makes you a princess. May I have this dance?"
Richter hardly waited for her to accept before he swept her away and began to dance, holding her firmly but gently as every young gentleman was taught to do in the presence of lovely company. "Did all of Richard's dancing lessons pay off? Lala lala lala la-laaaaa. At least a gift from him was finally good for something."
"Richter!" But before she could protest any further, she was swept away into a dance. And despite her foot steps being clumsy, she eventually picked up the steps and gave her brother a mocked irritated sigh.
"Lessons or not, a gentlemen, or prince waits for the lady to accept!"
"You just did," and gave her a smug grin.
Ania gasped and purposely moved just so to step on his foot.
"I most certainly did not!"
Richter made just the slightest face of discomfort, but his own feet didn't miss a step. And he swooped his sister down the gallery to her own room. "Well you did mention something about being a devil did you not?"
"And you about being a gentleman, a prince!"
"And if any gentleman or prince gives you any trouble, you just better tell your devil of a brother. I'll fix them fast," he said with a half-playful, but mostly serious expression. "And that's no joke, understand?"
Ania halted in her dancing and gave her brother the look.
But Richter stayed serious. "I mean it, Ania. Even if we stay in our cozy little world, a time will come when a man will want to sweep you off your feet. And if he isn't everything you deserve, I'll show him what a devil's really like."
She kept that look but found herself smiling as she shook her head.
"You worry too much, Richter." And even after she said that, she realized how much he sounded like her. Both of them got anxious over things too easily, and it was normally something involving the other, since after all, the main reason she feared about their true father's identity was because as the only son, even a bastard one, to a duke with no male heir....
It put a lot of unknowns on him and well...
dangers.
Sighing, she simply wrapped her arms around him and nestled her face into his shoulder and sighed a second time, taking in his scent and just letting herself relax, if even just a little.
At the sudden hug, Richter stopped dancing and paused, feeling her body around him. He closed his eyes and sighed, hugging her back and squeezing her just a little. "What are we going to do, Ania?"
Ania simply stayed where she was, perched against him before she sighed and peered up into his face.
"I don't know," she told him in earnest. "But at least whatever does happen.. we'll have each other." And here she smiled. "We always have."
That much had always been true. They'd had each other all of their lives and were as close as family could be. But Richter didn't know if he could stay here for the rest of his life, feeling as all they deserved had been wrenched from him... "Then let's do it. Let's go to Hellvion."
Ania tensed, eyes going wide in shock. But to hear such truth and want from her brother in such a simple way, in simple words, with no stuttering, no demands, just simple statement, a matter of factness...
Who was she to deny him that?
And after a moment, a smile slowly grew upon her lips.
"Let's."
The packing of things was always a difficult one. Richter didn't even know where to begin or what to bring. A part of him couldn't dream of parting with this house, what had become their home since Richard's death. But now they would be venturing on to a new home and while the very thought terrified him, it only exhilarated him all the more.
Richter looked at his bags in his room and paused. His journal perhaps? The picture frame of his mother?... He hrmmed thoughtfully to himself before deciding to take nothing more than he could carry on his back. After all, they would have so much more than what they brought with them. They could have the whole world if they wanted.
He couldn't part with one thing, however, and reached for the necklace of his mother's with her portrait inside of it, a small delicately painted thing that had cost a small fortune to make, but he kept it along with a few other personal effects from Richard's manor. He couldn't part with it. He tucked it into the collar of his shirt and dressed in his best coat and jacket and boots, though it still rained outside.
Exiting his room, Richter walked toward Ania's quarters and popped his head in. "Do you need any help sister?"
But Ania wouldn't be in her room. Sure, some open bags were there, half packed and her room beginning to look a bit messy, but down the hall a light gleamed from a crack in the door from her work room- which sat at the top of a small perch of steps at the end of the hall.
Richter spied her and walked over to where she was. "Ania? Is something the matter?"
She wasn't startled by his approach. She could hear him coming, the squeaky floor boards were to thank. But at his arrival, she simply smiled, but kept her eyes upon the painting before her.
"The paint is still wet on this one," she said, speaking barely over a whisper as she studied the painting she had done of Richter earlier that day.
"Still wet, huh?" he asked and sat down beside her. He pointed to the lines around his mouth. "You made me look so old. Why?"
Ania said nothing, as she looked down from the top of the painting to where Richter had pointed. She still said nothing, staring down at it before simply replying, "The paint is just wet there. Like the paint for your eyes. See how it makes it appear as if you're crying?"
"Maybe you were crying," he said gently, observing her momentarily before looking onward toward the painting. "Maybe you were crying over how you want to remember me, remember us. And maybe you're afraid leaving our cozy little life here will change all of that."
Ania tensed at his accusation, before turning to him with a huff.
"I wouldn't cry over my paintings!" she went on, with an indignant glare. "You know how long it takes me to paint all these." ANd with a sigh, she stood up and moved over to the few other paintings she thought would be worthy enough to bring with them, and as she moved them to a pile, a smaller painting fell over, but it's back was to them while Ania set the other framed paintings near the door.
"These... I've narrowed it down to these few for us to take," she went on, brushing her loose hair from her face before peering over at her brother. "It'll make our new place become more like home. Or at least remind us of our older one." As was evident in the fact all of the paintings she chose were ones she painted inside, or outside, around their current home.
Richter hadn't meant to be harsh, even his tone had been gentle. But he couldn't deny that that was what was also lingering in the back of his mind. He remained quiet as she went over her paintings so matter-of-factly.
"We'll take any ones you want," he said, looking up at her with a small smile. "I'm not taking anything. There'll be plenty of room for your things."
Ania gave him a look and a small smile in return. Then she gestured all around her.
"I'm pretty sure, even with any absent space on your part, I still own too many paintings for us to simply fit into one carriage or wagon to be hauled."
Richter felt somber in the moment, the thought of bringing anything was a bit wrenching, but he knew that anywhere with Ania was home for him. "We can take all the paintings you like," he said with a small smile. "We should head back to the inn soon, as I'm sure Sir Argus is waiting for us," he said.
Ania nodded and tucked back some of her hair.
"Yes... I'm sure we have some time to discuss this later." And hse looked over towards the wall, where a small bag was set. "I put some clothes in there- just some simple things, for traveling." She looked up at him. "I'd assume we'd be traveling light. ANd I... I don't know what I'd even bring."
Richter looked at the painting of himself, allowing Ania to resume packing. He looked so much older in the oils, even the eyes. She captured them well, he admired her skill. It was certainly more than he could ever do.
He wished he was half the man he saw in that painting, noble, bright, regal, perhaps even powerful. To think how much their world was going to change.
He turned to Ania and smiled. "We're going to be home at last," he said, speaking more confidently than he felt.
Ania sighed. Though she felt this place had become their home, she couldn't deny it was exciting to see what new place their real father could afford. A sensation fluttered in her belly as it all sunk in. They were like royalty-
Bastards, but they carried blood with power. And though she tried to hide it, she smile and turned her face from Richter and continued to stuff things into her bag.
Richter watched her enthusiasm and smiled, a little. "Do you need any help with that?"
Ania smiled and shook her head.
"No, I think I'm just about done." And peering down at her bag, she looked at the contents, as folded neatly as she could before sighing and moving to close it. "We.. shouldn't keep that man waiting," she went on. "If we're going to do this, he said he'd only be there tonight."
They had all they could bring, all they needed and stepped downstairs. The night was so quiet, not even the crickets bothered with their evening chips and the air sent and eerie chill down his spine. He breathed, steam billowing out of his nostrils.
He was about to turn around to pull the wagon around when he heard chuffing in the distance and a bell ring. The hair on the back of his neck stood on end and he stood defensively in front of Ania as the carriage came out of the darkness. He raised the lantern he had in one hand. "Who goes there!?"
"Argus," said a voice and he pulled out his own lantern from inside his carriage. "I thought I would pass this way...in case you changed you mind. Have you?"
"We have. We've decided to come along. But you went so far...."
"It is no matter. Get in. The night is giving me chills."
Quickly and quietly as they could, their things were packed up and the pair of them, soon stepping inside. ANd it all happened so quickly that Ania wasn't quite sure if this were reality.. or a dream. So she pinched her brother's arm, just to be sure!
And that made Richter "accidentally" step on her foot.
And Ania to kick his shin.
And he to step on her foot while jabbing her ribs with sharp fingers.
Ania gasped and jabbed his ribs back, and pulled on his ear.
"You're not suppose to hit a lady!" she whispered beneath her breath, while the carriage continued to rock and bounce around lightly as it carried them off into the night.
"You're not a lady. You're just a sister," Richter whispered back and jabbed her ribs again, harder this time.
Sir Argus just stared at them.
OOC: Omg, love that quote from the Aristocats! 'You're not a lady. You're nothing but a sister!"
Noticing Argus's stare, Ania elbowed her brother.
"A sister who knows best," she whispered back, before sticking out her tongue on him. "Besides, you shouldn't act so infront of company. it's most unbecoming of you."
"You're right." Richter smiled at his annoying little bratty twin before grinning widely at her. "I can always just cut your hair while you're asleep. Or do something equally creepy and sinister when you least expect it."
Argus snorted then, laughing. "God, I wish I wasn't an only child for once in me miserable life. Do you two ever quit?"
"Only when I win."
She rolled her eyes.
"Like when you put that frog in my paints? Mum was so mad at you. The stains still have yet to get out of the floor boards!"
And she grew sheepish when Argus commented about their bickering. And at her brother's reply, she pinched his shoulder, hard.
"Which means it never stops,"s he went on with a grin.
Richter grew silent at the memory and he turned his head out the window. "Well, I guess that doesn't matter now, does it?" he murmured, voice somber.
Argus was about to say something but paused midway. Instead he looked to Ania. "Have you ever been away from home for long?"
Ania grew silent as she studied her brother. The heavy air was only broken when Argus spoke. She turned to him and shook her head.
"No... never. Not really."
"Actually...we have," Richter cut it, giving Argus a steely gaze. "Ever since we were about eight or nine years old. We've been away from what was our home for quite a long time. Our house...was only temporary. We are finally going home now."
Ania grew quiet, and the journey went on as thus for at least another half an hour. She had nearly fallen asleep, but she was too restless to do so as she found herself nestling up against Richter, for comfort, and for warmth.
Richter did not feel warm himself. Inside he felt his heart an empty shell, cold and bereft, and perhaps even lost in this wider world. It was easy to get lost in complacency. And easy to forget those that had left you behind if you had distraction enough.
Maybe it was better if he did forget. Then he would perhaps feel differently. He felt old... Beyond the years of any young man, having to care for his sister, and their rightful well-being. They were alone in this world, that much he'd come to terms with. However, it did not make anything any easier.
Studying his face, she asked softly, "What's wrong?"
[Wasn't she asleep?]
Richter didn't look at her. "I'm just thinking."
OOC: Maybe she woke up? :U
-----
She made a soft noise and nestled in against him.
"Don't think too hard. You'll get ugly thinking wrinkles on your forehead,"s he told him while giving him a tired smile.
[SHE WOULD CALL HIM UGLY! THE TURD!]
Richter turned go to look at her. "Maybe I want ugly thinking wrinkles. And I'd more like Richard on his death bed."
Ania sighed and gave her brother a nudge.
"Keep that attitude buried. I don't like seeing you so... moody."
"Why not?" he murmured, nudging her back. "Brooding isn't a good look for me?"
She gave a light snort and nudged back.
"Of course not. It makes you look old and so serious. Besides, if I can't be brooding, neither can you!"
"I never said you couldn't be brooding. It's just that I look better when I do it," he said with a laugh. Richter entwined fingers around hers. "But you are always the most beautiful creature that ever walked the face of the earth. Does that satisfy you?"
"No."
And she playfully stepped on his foot.
"Ew, your fungus stepped on my corns," he hissed and nuzzled in against her, kissing her cheek.
"What a ghastly thing to say!" she exclaimed, but the kiss to her cheek had her blushing as she laughed and pulled playfully away. Wiping at her cheek, she laughed, "And your fungus lips just tainted my cheeks! Now I know I will surely wither away into an old woman with warts and wrinkles lining all of my skin!"
"Oh good. How nice you're already embracing your most certain future," he said. He laughed a little loudly, rousing Sir Argus from his nap. He blinked, looking between the siblings.
"Sorry, sir," Richter was quick to say. He smirked however, Sir Argus settling in for a nap again.
"A most certain future with a brother like you!" she hissed back, trying to whisper not to rouse Sir Argus again, but she wasn't going to let her twin get the last say!
"You are getting on my nerves," he said, smiling and sticking his tongue out at her.
And that's when she reached out and tried to catch it!
But all she got were teeth that gnashed at her fingers. Richter shook his head away from her. "Stop being so childish. We've got a long journey to go, and you're not helping yourself with such foolish behavior. Next time I'll get those fingers, I will."
"Oh? Is that a promise or a threat?" she countered. But a soft chuckle from Sir Argus made her flush. She dropped her head. "I'm sorry we're keeping you awake." She curled her toes inside her boots and tucked them under the carriage bench. "I'm not exactly use to traveling like this."
Sir Argus shook his head, waving them off tiredly. "It's been too long since I was young like you two. I didn't have the fortune of having a sibling to bicker with. But if there's one thing I can tell is that you Richter are very protective of your sister. You look out for her. And that's good. People need looking out for in a world like this. Just...be mindful of your doting nature yes. You don't want to smother the poor bird."
Richter blushed, but was stung with a pang of irritation. Who was this man to tell him how he ought to treat his own sister. He furrowed his brows and straightened. "We take care of each other," he corrected. "I didn't see anyone else in any damn hurry to do so." He leaned further into the bench.
But his eyes softened when he looked to Ania. "I don't smother you do I?"
She gave him a side long look before nudging his side.
"Only when we share a bed!"came her teasing reply. Then she did a quick tongue sticking out at him.
At that Richter stuck his own tongue at her. "See what I have to put up with Argus? She's a pain to no end."
"And you're a pain to my end!" Came her retort as she sighed and sunk into the carriage bench on her side, stretching out so her legs propped over his. "This is taking forever. Wake me when we get there."
It would be a long journey still, but her legs laying on his didn't last long. Richter had angled them so they were on the floor of the carriage. He too had fallen asleep until he felt a bump in the road. They still had many miles to go, but the home they once knew was long behind them.
SHe dozed in and out of sleep, but the little carriage box they were stowed away in was stifling. She eventually stood up after another hour or so of riding.
"Cant' we stop to stretch our legs? Get a meal? Breath the air?"
"I suppose a brief stop wouldn't hurt. Although the road is largely empty where we are?" Sir Argus said. He didn't seem to happy about taking a break, but it was about time that they both had a breather.
Richter gestured to his sister, nudging her to move. "You're first, go on. I'll follow you."
Ania was more than excited they stopped for a break. She wasn't used to traveling this way. She had actually started to begin to feel sick. But the fresh air on her skin had her reveling, and she put her arms out and let the winds of the valley brush against her form.
It even smelled sweeter out here, versus that stifling carriage in which they rode. Smiling, she turned to Richter, and gave her arms a good stretch.
He watched her from the corner of his eye. She deserved this, and if they were going to do this, he was doing it for her. Hopefully by the time they made it Hellvion, that would be the end of their troubles.
"It smells really nice out here," Ania said, as she took a stroll alongside the road. "We mustn't be near a town. I can only smell the trees."
"Wait. Where are you going?" Richter hissed, as he followed along behind her. The carriage had stopped behind them and he cut his eyes back to Sir Argus that waited outside the door. "What are you doing, Ania?"
Clearly it was futile to pull her back, but he wasn't going to leave her alone either. So instead, Richter ran and got in front of her. "Ania, it's the middle of the night. We have to keep moving. Hellvion is days away. Don't you want to see our new home?"
"I know," she stated simply, still moving and smiling up at the woods.
"But I've never been through the woods at night.. Look how pretty the dew looks, Richter! It's glistening off all the spider webs.. Have you ever seen so many?"
"It's like you're not even listening to me. Ania!" he growled and shuffled off beside her. "Ania. Stop! Just where do you think you're going? I mean just what are you trying to achieve? Those spiders don't want to be bothered." And reached out to grab her arm gently.
At his touch she turned to him and blinked.
"I had no intentions of touching them." She made a face at the idea. "Do you know how long it takes them to spin their webs?" And how ticklish spiders were? And ticklish in a bad way!