Spirits of the Earth

Western Le'raana => La'marri => Topic started by: Wrathwyrm on June 03, 2017, 07:22:08 PM

Title: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 03, 2017, 07:22:08 PM
La'Marri is a well-knit comminuty that keeps to itself, eschewing much of the outside world...EXCEPT for the occasion where one wishes to join their population and abide wholey by their rules.  This land is a magically-active place, practically alive itself.  It is perfect for a village filled with mystics, alchemists, mages, sages, and other gifted sorts.  They help one another, they tend to the needs of each other, and they do not bring trouble in from the outside.

Several years ago, they admitted a young woman, a most unusual one, at that.

She was a Beastkin, a beast that walks like a human being, like the Gnoll or the Draconian.  Beastkin are of the animal and the human being in one.  This one, in particular, was a Ferret, mostly black-furred with white highlights, with a natural mask-pattern on her face that is common amongst ferret-kind.  She dressed in black and came to train in her talents of Ferromancy, the magic of metal.  This was Keefe Zarla, who now lives in a house on the outskirts of town, owing to a preference to live closer to wilderness than others.

Years later, she brought in a human, claiming him as her protege'.  This was Sano Alistair.

The community knew that Keefe was both talented in fighting and her magic, though how exceptional she was might only become well-known in her training of the young man for several years.  They sometimes wondered just what she did on her many excursions, but as she said in regards to those, she stated that she would abide by all of La'Marri's laws and never bring trouble to their doorstep.  She never did, and the young man's training continued, until...

One day, she had come back badly hurt, almost dead.

They had heard some of it from Sano, mostly that Keefe had been injured by someone, and that he needed a healer to look after Keefe until she was well.  That was a while ago, and Sano had set out to 'take care of this'.  He was noticeably scant on the details.  Because Keefe had been just about stabilized with her emergency potions, the healing process was a matter of clearing up the damage and the trauma, and going through the recovery process.

We now come to today...

Keefe had, in these days, been sleeping in because she had to for her recovery.  The body mended itself more in sleep.  However, because she was also stubborn, when she awakened, she was also keen on moving about, even if it did not seem wise.  The ferret's violet eyes snapped open in bed, a little earlier than intended and she sat up suddenly, wincing before gripping her stomach with a clawed hand.  Under the shirt, that area was bandaged from where she had been stabbed and the cursed blood sprayed out.  Keefe looked down at herself, clenching her fist.

Idiot...

That was directed at herself.  Keefe had a very harsh opinion on failure, hers or anybody's.  A failure of this magnitude had her cursing herself out with every complaint of her body.

Taken like an amateur...

She remembered that she needed water today.  Throwing off the covers of her bed, she willed a metal cane to her side and made use of it as she got up.  Her body was still not at one hundred percent, but her powers were okay.  It was not recommended, exactly, that she do any activities, but she also refused to go soft on herself, not when she had allowed that monstrosity to beat her.  That umm...was why she was up early, by the by.  It'd been another dream of the encounter.

So now, Keefe was in an understandably sour mood.  Hopefully, she won't be staying that way.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 04, 2017, 10:32:39 PM
"Izayah!" Nevayah called from outside their country home as she secured the strap holding her supplies to the horse.

"I'm coming!" He yelled from the doorway as he slipped on his other boot. Today was just like any other day, the boy had offered to help his mother with her morning route. Soon enough he was ready to go and so grabbed his bag and threw it over his shoulder before closing the door behind him.

His horse, already saddled, was waiting alongside his mother and her glare said more than words ever could. Yet again he had caused her to run behind schedule due to his lack of motivation. Nevayah was a force to be reckoned with on her own, her motherly aptitude increasing her ferocity at least ten fold. Though, you most likely could never convince anyone else of this. Izayah knew all too well fury his mother could bring, but if you asked anyone else... she was a saint.

"I'm sorry" he whispered as he mounted his horse, and clicked his tongue to urge it forwards. As the two trotted alongside one another the mother and son discussed their schedule for the day along with any other conversation that may come up between a mother and her son.

"You really should try harder Izayah. I swear I am having to do all of this on my own anymore." The mother clearly poking fun at him.

" Maybe I don't want to do it, mom, maybe I don't want to be a herbalist." The conversation suddenly sounding all too familiar. Of course, Nevayah said nothing as she looked on down the road towards one of her clients.

From as far back as she could remember Nevayah knew Izayah was unhappy with his circumstances. While their blood is both a blessing and a curse, Izayah never saw it as more than a hindrance on his aspirations. He saw his gift as useless, nothing more than a party trick compared to his sister's own ability. And all of this Nevayah knew, being familiar with that very feeling. Her blood did nothing more than heal and empower, completely useless when it came to protecting her family.

She knew Izayah felt the same way deep down. He wanted to protect them and be the son and brother he had always dreamt of becoming. Only just recently did Lannister even allow Izayah to have a sword, one that he practiced with day in and day out as long as his father allowed it. Before that, it was nothing more than sparring sessions with makeshift wooden weaponry.

Within a few minutes that had already arrived at their first stop, the home of Keefe Zarla. Both of the Tainted's dismounted their horses and Nevayah began making her way towards the door with Izayah behind.

"Keefe? It's Nevayah, are you decent?" Her ear almost touching the door as she listened for a response. Izayah of course standing behind her wanting to be anywhere but there.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 04, 2017, 11:15:39 PM
Stomach wounds were unpleasant.  Putting aside all of the organs that could be ruined with a single thrust, and the fact that it lacked even the protection of a ribcage, it was all very important in your everyday life.  Just as your backbone was important in the holding of so many bones together, your stomach area was the core of your physical strength.  Tear the muscles there and you'll find that all surrounding areas - in terms of lift, locomotion, and flex - are diminished in capacity.  Now, this was technically healed, but it was still traumatized and tender.  Pushing things too far could certainly cause a hernia.  Fortunately, Keefe could move around with only a soreness about her if she used a cane.

Now, it was only because she was assessing her home situation - what chores needed to be taken care of and what Sano had handled before he's gone - that she did not hear the clip-clopping of horses on approach.  Her mood had definitely contributed to this.  The reason she knew she needed more water in was because most of it had been used in...well...clean-up.  Keefe was pretty sure Sano had burnt the clothes he'd been wearing the night he'd been soaked in her blood.

The outside of Keefe's house - as anybody riding up could see - was generally pleasant to look at.  It was generally warm and inviting, largely made of wood, with metal here and there as needed, such as with the latches and such.  When Keefe had settled into this place, she wanted it to remind her of the years she was being raised by her surrogate mother.  Not that anybody - including Sano - really knew about that.  All the training she did was out back.  All the washing and drying she did was out front, away from the trees so that the sun actually hits the clothes.  Her well was up front too, just off to the left of the covered porch.

Inside, the front door led to a den and sitting room area.  A doorway with no door led into the cooking/dining area in the left-back of the house, Keefe's bedroom behind an actual door in the right-back area.  The back door leading out was at the dining area.  The chimney and double-sided fireplace was about centered.  Stairs leading up were on the far left, which led to some storage rooms and the guest room, which had been Sano's room for a number of years.  Keefe was still in her 'kitchen' area when she heard the call to her.

"Yes, Nevayah!  Thoroughly decent!"

Her voice had the tense of someone irritated, which we've covered.  Keefe stepped over to the dining doorway to point her hand at the front door and undo it while leaning against said doorway.  That all said, when they saw her in pants and a shirt - always black, never anything feminine - the ferret had just above managed a smirk.

"Someone once told me to always be decent, if I could help it.  You never know who's watching."

This said, even though all her windows were battened shut right now.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 05, 2017, 12:14:44 AM
After the door opened Nevayah stepped inside, Izayah still following with his less than enthusiastic expression. "You have a point, although I don't share the same ideals."

It had been years since Nevayah let go of the 'someone is out to get me' feeling she used to always carry. La'Marri was safe, her freedom secured by its borders and those living within it. She no longer lived in constant fear of being whisked away with her husband back to Essyrn. Life had moved on and so had Nevayah. Izayah though never knew such a feeling and so lived each day like La'Marri was more a prison than the sanctuary it actually was.

Reaching into her bag she pulled out two bottles of her tonics, setting them down on a small table just inside the living room. "One for pain..." she paused to point at one bottle before pointing at the other. "... the other to promote healing." Neither of these tonics containing the 'secret' ingredient she used to get her profession up and running. In fact, she hardly ever used it anymore except in emergency situations.

Straightening up Nevayah took in Keefe's state, cane and all. "Still sore I see?" Her pain understandable considering the wound she was recovering from. Nevayah actually had no idea how Keefe had gotten so injured, and she wouldn't ask. All she knew was that someone needed her help and well... here she was.

"Anything else I can do for you today? Do you need any help with anything?" Nevayah's eyes then shot back to Izayah who was busy staring at the decor of the home. "Perhaps Izayah could help you with some chores or something?"

At the mention of his name Izayah's focus centered. "I would be happy to help" he spoke as he stepped up beside his mother. Ebony hair and blue hued eyes pleading with Keefe to give him anything to do besides ride around with his mother all day.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 05, 2017, 12:43:25 AM
At the mention of similar ideals not being shared, Keefe smiled to herself, very certain that Nevayah was not saying that she ever pranced about indecently...but the thought of it being amusing, nonetheless.  Because, naturally, the villagers of La'Marri did not heavily pry into one's affairs unless it were warranted somehow, Keefe knew nothing of Nevayah and Lannister's past.  It would be fair to say that she knew more of their son's present, than that.  This did not bother her, as they were good people, the kind of people that Keefe felt at-ease around, rather than to ever feel threatened for any reason.  La'Marri's ways suited her.  She would live here and she would die here, though hopefully not soon.  The situation, of late...

Even if I haven't done them any harm, I still feel it's wrong to have to trouble them like this...

Nevayah brought about her tonics, though.  In no way were such things unwelcome.  Truthfully, between her and all others capable of healing, Keefe would most-certainly have died if such things were unavailable, and if she hadn't taken in a protege'.  It was going to feel empty without Sano around...  The Beastkin almost missed the woman speaking to her for a moment.  She knew which medicine was which by scent, so no danger there, but pointing at her...  Oh!  Keefe looked down at her stomach, where behind that shirt were her bandages.

"Yes, it may be so for some time.  I can move about, though, as you can see."

She picked up the cane and idly twirled it about like it was a staff for a moment, before setting it down once more.  Talent didn't go away simply because of wounds, and she didn't need it for balance, per se.  Every setback had a solution somewhere.  Sadly, the one to this particular problem was 'rest often, train yourself, and bide your time until it stops hurting'.  She hated having been reduced this way.  If she didn't trust Sano to approach this rationally, she'd rather he not leave until she was well.  Now, as to the question of chores...  Yes, she did notice the look in that boy's eyes.  The ferret smirked.

"You know, it does so happen that I have a few things that need to be taken care of.  I won't keep you from your rounds, Nevayah.  He can help out here, since Sano is out traveling now."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 05, 2017, 05:31:29 PM
His face lit up when Keefe agreed to have him stay behind to help. Ever so slightly he nodded his head at Keefe, hoping she would pick up on a number of thanks he was sending her way in that moment.

"Have you heard from him? Sano that is? I do hope he is doing well." Nevayah knew of Sano and thought him to be kind. Actually, he almost reminded her of Izayah with a few exceptions. "I do miss seeing him out and about. He has always been such a sweet boy."

Nevayah then wondered if Sano or Keefe had ever picked up on the fact that both Lannister and Nevayah looked almost identical to how they looked 14 years ago when they first arrived in La'Marri. Even Izayah was beginning to look more like her younger brother than as a son. The fact that no one ever brought it up another reason why she had grown to love the solace of where they lived. One day, assuming he shared the same fate as his parents, Izayah would cease to age as well.

Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 05, 2017, 06:04:10 PM
Yes, it DID seem like the boy was up to something, didn't he?  Well, his reasoning would come out later.  Perhaps he just needed a break from his parent, though Keefe personally didn't know why.  She hadn't exactly had parents, after all.  The possibility of being fed up with them did not exist for her.  Now, Keefe inclined her head towards Nevayah and shook it, in answer to her question.

"No, he hadn't made any contact, and I'm partially to blame for that.  I never had anyone to write to, in the past.  Even in the case of this village, I haven't exactly been away long enough to warrant it.  Because I haven't, it might not even occur to him for a while, not unless he-"

Suddenly, her violet eyes shot open with realization before she facepalmed with her free hand.

"I am such an idiot...!"

She just found another reason to be mad at herself, for overlooking something tremendously obvious.  Her hand lowered and she hissed in irritation.

"I've spent years of my life filling his head with fighting techniques, knowledge of our magic, and all manner of information to make up for his life on the streets...and I never told him of The Meeting Place."

The Meeting Place, a strange and magical place that acted as a mystical conduit between locations.  Travelers and people in distant lands could find and speak to each other in this place.  It could even be guaranteed safety if one was unarmed.  It wasn't likely that she or Sano would ever be unarmed unless they temporarily converted their weapons.  Even so, Keefe felt bad about missing that when educating him.

"I suppose he'll have to learn that one on his own."

Incidentally, Keefe might have noticed that Nevayah and Lannister weren't starting to appear like her oldd guardian, Ella Cray, but it was not exactly the best of conversation to ask about somebody's age, weight, or height.  Such is life.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 06, 2017, 11:19:59 AM
Standing calmly Nevayah listened as Keefe spoke, only slightly jumping at her sudden change in demeanor. Even Izayah took a step forwards, Keefe's worry infecting both of the Tainted's as the left themselves to wonder what she was freaking out about.

However, while Keefe began rambling on Izayah's eyes lit up. "Fighting techniques" the only word that stuck in his mind after that.

When Keefe was done Nevayah chuckled, taking a step back towards the door as she thought this minor meltdown was something she may have done over something so small. "Well, hopefully, he figured it out." Her eyes then turned to her son, who was still standing there with little fantasies of being a master in weaponry playing behind his eyes.

"Izayah... I will see you at home later." She then stepped up to him, placing a kiss on his cheek before heading out the door.

And then there were two, Keefe and Izayah just standing there.

"What would you like me to do first?"
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 06, 2017, 11:54:06 AM
Putting aside the fact that she knew the seriousness of what Sano was up to, Keefe was always hard on herself.  'Meltdown' was probably too strong a word for the reaction she had, but someone really needs to tell this woman that turning on herself like that was generally not healthy.  Still, Keefe calmed down and and Nevayah left him with her son, so...on with the chores!

"The first task is water.  All the water I have for cooking, cleaning, and drinking has been used up.  I'm sure you've done this for your parents at home."

She pointed her hand at something in the next room and a metal bucket of reasonable size came into it, which she then gave over to Izayah.  A number of things she had that were often made of wood were metal in Keefe's house.  Of course, it was known that she was a Ferromancer, so the idea of that many metal objects in her possession was to be expected.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 06, 2017, 06:18:45 PM
Nodding at the fact Izayah did know how to haul water his eyes shifted to the newly formed bucket. Keefe truly was amazing, at least in his eyes, and he found the fact that she was a Ferromancer enchanting. Again this led him back around to feeling ashamed of himself, having been born with useless healing blood like his mother, or so he thought.

"I will get right on it." He smiled as he picked up the bucket and began making his way towards the well outside. Of course, this bucket was much heavier than the wooden one he used for chores, but it also held so much more. Ultimately it meant fewer trips to the well in the wrong one, this bucket able to carry at least twice as much as he was used to.

By the time he was back in the house and sliding the bucket onto the counter Izayah had already begun to form a sweat on his brow, his chest moving only slightly more rapidly than before. This though was nothing compared to some of the chores he took care of at home. Carrying crates of his mother's tonics, cleaning out the barns, carrying water from the well to the house only a small list of the many things he did.

With his father always working and his mother constantly making runs it really only left Izayah and his twin to get these things done. Emia usually took care of matters inside the house while Izayah labored outside.  In fact, now that he thought of it, he was going to have to play catch up as soon as he got home.

Almost leaning on the counter Izayah turned to Keefe with hesitant eyes. Something was weighing heavily on his mind and perhaps Keefe could help him out. "Keefe? What made you decide to do what you do? How did you decide it was what you really wanted?" Reaching up he rubbed the back of his neck, clearly feeling awkward even asking. "I always meant to ask Sano but never really had the chance."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 06, 2017, 06:51:01 PM
Yes, metal over wood had its positive and negative aspects.  Well, for some.  For Keefe, it was all plusses, of course, given she could move such a thing around with her mind.  With Izayah working on the task of water, she could focus upon the tonics at hand.  They weren't magic potion, like her emergency medicine, but regular ones.  Regular doses, throughout the day, a little at a time for maximum effectivety.

Keefe had taken a seat at the table by the time Izayah had returned, with what was on his mind.  She'd seen that look on enough human faces to understand that something stews under protest, or something like that.  In this particular instance, it appeared that he might burst if it were not released.  When he DID speak it, the question took her be surprise, at first, but then she found a reason to chuckle after he mentioned Sano.

"Well, in Sano's case, training under my wing was the term I insisted upon for taking him into my house.  I felt it fair, given the circumstances.  Also necessary, as an untrained Ferromancer could end up doing terrible damage in times of extreme stress.  I'm sure it's the same with any other 'mancer style, but I know it to be true in mine, so it's better that I did train him.  As for me..."

She leaned her head on her arm in thought for a moment, trying to recall the moment and decide how to word all of this, all in one go.  It was difficult.  He wasn't a child, but she did not burden her friends and neighbors of La'Marri with her outside life.  She straightened up again once she had her answer.

"It wasn't merely the training, which was harder for me because I did not learn from another Ferromancer.  At first, I only wanted to live a life similar to the one my guardian raised me in, a pleasant one with hardly any worries greater than 'What shall I eat today?'.  Between then and my arrival here, I heard of alot of bad situations in the world.  Certain prejudices, anti-magic laws in Connlaoth, slavery...  I almost went back to Serendipity, but I pressed on here because it seemed about right for somewhere to be left alone, but not completely left alone.  Do you understand?"
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 09, 2017, 03:56:31 PM
Keefe went on, answering the very question Izayah had asked and at the end he found himself nodding in acknowledgment. "I understand" His words carrying a deeper meaning than he would let on.

Of course, he understood, because Izayah himself had not only heard of but lived through some of the horrible things happening in this world. Not to mention his parents and what they had been through when they were his age. Of course, they would never fully disclose their pasts, but they really didn't have to.

Another fascinating thing about Tainted blooded humans was that they could create 'A Blood Bond'. A bond in which, if you shared the blood of your fellow Tainted, would connect you by more than just touching palms. Izayah and his sister both connected to their parents simply by genetics. And with this bond you could feel what another Tainted felt, you could dream what another Tainted lived, you could sense what another Tainted sensed.

So the dreams, at first played off as nothing more than a nightmare in his younger years, were not dreams at all. Instead, it was the memories of his parent's and their pasts. The horrors in which they overcame by sheer willpower alone. Izayah had seen far more of the world than one may realize and it was simply by looking through his parent's eyes.

Due to the nightmarish lives, Izayah's parents endured he found himself at a very young age wanting to do anything to protect him. His mother, his father, his sister... all people that he felt the undeniable urge to keep safe. Yet, he couldn't as he did not have the ability to do so with his blood alone. He knew he had to do more, and as of right now he would be nothing more than a burden or in the way should a situation arise where his family needed him.

"Another question." Izayah again acting casual as he prodded Keefe for more information. "Would you ever take on another student? Like Sano I mean?"
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 09, 2017, 05:19:02 PM
"Hmm?"

That actually caught her off-guard, her small whiskers sort of spreading as she looked at him with a bit of confusion.  You see, Keefe had only ever met one other Ferromancer in her life, two if such a person had been around when she awakened.  She didn't bet on finding another for a long time, but if she did...  Now, she considered it, rubbing the fur of her chin in thought.

"Well, if I see an untrained Ferromancer, I simply must, for the sake of anybody around whoever's got the gift.  There's no question of that.  But if it's the fighting, you mean..."

She leaned back in the chair, getting comfortable.

"It's funny.  Sano is the first person I ever trained in anything.  I figured he deserved the full benefit of what I knew, since life had treated him so badly.  I even filled in some of the gaps of his education.  I guess if...

She sort of huffed through her nose, smiling a little.

"I guess if they needed it, if I felt it was important for that person to learn combat skills..."

Her violet eyes focused on him now.

"Don't think I haven't noticed those looks, Izayah.  In my work, precision and detail is everything.  Say what's on your mind."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 10, 2017, 07:55:55 PM
Of course, Keefe would at first assume he meant another Ferromancer, which of course Izayah was not. However, when she focused her eyes on him Izayah knew Keefe saw past his simple questions. But how was he supposed to answer hers with honesty? He could easily go into detail about his family and why he felt he needed more skill, but that would risk disclosing sensitive information on his blood.

His entire life Izayah had been told to never tell their secret. The Tainted blood running through his veins putting his entire family at risk should the wrong person ever find out. Easily his parents could be drug back to Essyrn, as they were never established as 'free'. No, instead of above their names on some parchment somewhere would be 'missing' or 'escaped'.

Sweat began to build on his brow as nervousness took over. The battle of whether or not to tell raging in his mind. Keefe seemed trustworthy, but didn't everyone at some point? And if his mother and father found out he told, his hide would be had. But then this raises the question of whether or not they even have to know.

"I can't" he choked, turning his body towards the counter as he tried to hide his face.

"Is there anything else you need from me, Keefe? Uhm, perhaps something outside?" Already he was smacking himself on the inside, angry with the fact that he had just passed up the perfect opportunity to ask Keefe to take him on as a student.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 10, 2017, 08:22:25 PM
His response made Keefe suspicious, of course, but not that there was something wrong with him.  More like something was wrong about what he couldn't talk about.  Izayah would note that the ferret was giving him a look like she was trying to figure him out without him saying more.  Why would he say that he couldn't speak his mind?  He wanted to talk to her, but when asked...he couldn't say.  Why?

Keefe could not imagine his parents having done something that he can't talk about because of some perceived punishment to be incoming.  They were good people.  Still, neither he nor she said anything more until he asked if there was anything else she needed.  Keefe smiled, resolved to find out what it was he wanted to say with...perhaps a little subtlety.  So, she nodded at him.

"Well, since you're offering, I could use a hand with lunch."

She stood up now, indicating her double-sided fireplace, in which this side had cookinng equipment and such at, including a pot that was hung by the spit.

"I shouldn't have much of a problem, really, but it'd go faster if I had someone passing me ingredients.  Since they're not in anything made of metal, I can't just levitate the things.  Might wrap little metal rings around 'em later, but for now...how about it?"
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 13, 2017, 01:34:58 PM
He could tell she knew something deeper remained locked behind his lips. And now, she was probably searching for the key. To his dismay, Keefe asked if he would help her cook, not exactly the chore he had in mind but at least they were talking about something else.

Immediately his demeanor shifted as he thought maybe, just maybe, they had moved on from the subject and that they were actually going to talk about food.

"Sure" he smiled, almost letting out a breath of relief at the end of the word.

"What do you plan on making? I help my mother in the kitchen sometimes even though that is more my sister's thing than mine. But I would be happy to help in any way I can."

Another half truth.

Izayah did indeed help his mother in the kitchen from time to time, but it was usually aiding in cleaning up or setting the table. Truth be told Izayah didn't know the difference between cumin and parsley.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 13, 2017, 02:38:56 PM
Hah, you dismay at Keefe's mention of something perfectly ordinary?  This is what she's like when she's not fighting.  She's at ease, calm and relaxe, not worrying about terrible things or the means by which to instatly kill a large foe.  She lived that life so she could live this life.  Perhaps that was going to be one of those things that Izayah would have trouble understanding.  He wanted to learn how to fight, although he had yet to say as much to the ferret yet.  She treasured those moments in which she didn't even have to think about fighting, because she knew that she was safe and secure.

"We'll be having beef stew.  I eat alot of meat."

Filling the pot was no real difficulty, now that there was water on hand.  Keefe also had her cooking area memorized, so she could point at cabinet without looking and call out the ingredient.  The meat in question was preserved stuff that she'd taught Sano how to hunt and skin and cut and preserve himself, so that she wouldn't have to hunt when she came back.  It was going to be depleted soon, which meant she would need to go out injured or rely on someone from town.

Hmmm...  How to get him more into a talking mood?

She started the fire, wondering this.  Had he hinted at what he wanted already?  It may be, but she had to be certain on this.  Only a fool would stick his or her head out and say a stupid thing without checking first to see if that was what was desired.

"What kind of things can you do, by the by?"
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 13, 2017, 07:51:48 PM
Lending a helping hand Izayah went ahead and began filling the pot with water. As undereducated as he was in the culinary field he at least knew what stew was. The basics were all there... water, meat, random spices to throw in.

At her question, the boy tilted his head a bit, not really sure what she was asking. "What can I do?" He had to think on this because even he had never thought of the things he was capable of.

"I suppose I am a decent farm hand? I can saddle a horse quickly, or at least I would like to think I can." Izayah began scratching the back of his head again, a nervous and confused gesture on his part displayed most when he was overthinking things.

"I can heal things with my blood" A thought that he wished he could mention.

"I guess I can wield a sword decently. Again I would like to think I can anyways." Taking a deep breath he lowered his hand before leaning against the counter once more. There wasn't much more he knew to do, filling the pot with water the extent of his knowledge.

"I am better than my sister, but my father still always manages to get me down. Only recently did he even let me own a real one. Before that, it was wooden stick and boards I had carved into shape." Oh yes, the argument between a father and son. For years he had begged for a real sword only to be denied time and time again. It wasn't until recently that Izayah finally was able to make his father see he wasn't just a child anymore.

Keefe's trick had worked and now Izayah had just begun going on about his amateur weapon skills. "He never understood why I wanted one so badly... honestly he probably still doesn't."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 13, 2017, 08:18:31 PM
Oh, don't worry.  Keefe had things to occupy his hands while he thought and spoke.  She began to point out things she needed - the meat, the herbs, and a bit of other things - so that he could grab 'em and hand 'em to her.  She would have a knife on hand and began cutting bits off of whatever was handed to her before dropping it into the pot.  This gave them plenty to do while he spoke his mind and let it go for a ride.  She smiled when he mentioned the sword.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I'm perfectly fine with using knives, but if I have a power that can make weapons at will, I want a sword."

"The disciplines are different, though.  You'll have alot of trouble with me, since I've devoted alot of time to beating swordsmen."

They were out in back, the early days of their training.  Keefe was the same age then as Sano was now, in the present.

"You've mastered alot of things, Keefe.  I don't think it'll make much difference, but it's what I'm comfortable with."

"Very well, Sano.  So long as you understand the hell you put yourself through."


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Well, I've always preferred knives, but a sword is good, as well."

So, there it was.  He had allowed it to come more into the open.  And now...

"I think Sano was only a couple years older than you are now when her started.  Of course, he had to learn everything.  Six years of living on the streets...  I'm surprised he wasn't as feral..."

As feral as what?  As...you?  Oh my...
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 13, 2017, 09:11:02 PM
Listening as Keefe instructed Izayah reached for the various ingredients at her command. Some of the labels reading spices he had never even heard of before, and his mother was an herbalist. "Should have paid more attention"

Handing off a bit of green flaky looking stuff Izayah continued with the conversation, smiling at the thought of Sano starting off later than he had. "As I said I've been practicing from the age I was old enough to know what a sword was. My dad used to call me his little soldier because I was always carrying around my little wooden sword." Izayah smirked, reliving his childhood memories from when things were much simpler.

"So Sano lived on the streets? I can't imagine what it would have been like without having parents. I know that mine grew up withou-.... ummm"

"Crap... Stop talking Izayah stop and change the subject!"

Reaching for yet another bottle of unknown flaky wonder he pursed his lips before finally carrying on. "I've never liked the thought of giant swords though. I prefer the thinner ones, more movement I would like to think. Wish I knew what they were called though, only ever seen them carried around. Carved one out of wood once, although it turned out looking like a pole with a pointy tip."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 13, 2017, 09:37:29 PM
Okay, you can cool it now.  She'd gotten in the ingredients and the pot was stirring, meaning of course that the ladle was moving on its own, according to Keefe's own whims while she leaned on her cane.  Right now, she was thinking about her earlier feral days - the days which evetually led to the years of living under a human guardian.  She actually hadn't caught the part that Izayah was trying so hard to cover up.

"In Sano's case, I would think it preferrable.  They were not good people."

She adopted a more thoughtful expression when he brought up the question of types of swords.  Keefe knew quite a few weapon types, so she'd be able to satisfy his curiosity in that direction.

"Well, assuming you mean the single-sided kind...  A curved, single-edge sword would probably be a saber, which are mainly for slashing maneuvers.  However, if it were meant for a stabbing motion, because it's thicker towards the hilt, it's a rapier."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 15, 2017, 06:15:54 PM
Having parent's that were not loving or kind was something Izayah couldn't even imagine. Growing up his mother and father had been there for every step, every fall, and every tear. They put up with him in his worst moments and embraced him in the best. No tantrum as a child nor argument now faltered the love they had for him and he knew it. Everyone deserves to be loved, there was no exception.

"Saber!" he laughed, feeling silly he had not placed the word to the weapon long ago. "I want to be fast!" With eyes lit once more at the excitement of talking about something he loved so much, Izayah went on, not realizing he was rambling again.

"I am not large, my father nor my mother are bulky so I know that I will never be a brute like some of the folks you see walking around. I can't even imagine carrying a weapon so ridiculously large. I want to be quick, able to dodge and attack within a seconds notice. I want to end the fight instead of start it with force. I want to be tactical... I want to be..."

Izayah allowed for a pause in his declaration as he thought of what it actually was he really wanted to be.

"I want to be able to protect people... one day." Shaking his head Izayah turned his attention to the pot now stirring itself. "Has my mother ever seen you do this trick? She would be beside herself if she didn't have to stir constantly."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 15, 2017, 06:35:48 PM
Yes, Izayah was definitely lucky.  Keefe could not even remember what her own parents looked like.  At a guess, she'd have said they were...well...Beastkin of the ferret variety.  But beyond that...nothing.  Still, Keefe had been fortunate enough to find Ella, and then fortunate again to find Sano.  Still, back on the subject at hand, saber!  Keefe smiled at the boy's excited revelation as to what he'd been referring to.  Did his life here not often give him the word in conversation?  His talk of speed made Keefe nod with certain agreement.

"Speed works well for a small body."

She liked his honest statement, though.  All Keefe wanted was to live a good life where she wouldn't think for one moment that people would be attacked for their differences or what strange power they might possess.  Speaking of unusual power...she looked at the pot, then shrugged.

"I'm sure your mother has seen some of my magic at work.  People in town know that I'm a Ferromancer, and that I'll freely help them with things, if needed.

They didn't line up at her house for things that a blacksmith could handle on his or her own.  Nor did she want to put such a person out of work, so the kinds of things you'd have to ask for would be more up magic's alley, or at least that the need was important enough.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 15, 2017, 09:19:27 PM
"Mom knows what you are, but that doesn't mean she understands all the amazing things you can do," Izayah smirked as his eyes followed the ladle stirring the pot. "I bet she never even thought of you being able to do something as simple as this."

His eyes followed the motion for a few moments before he finally turned back to Keefe. Just standing and talking to her like this made him feel more comfortable. Whether she knew it or not she was actually quite pleasant to talk to, even to a 14-year-old boy.

"So mom never told me, I don't even think she knows, to be honest. Either that or she doesn't think it's right to tell me but... What happened to you exactly?"
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 15, 2017, 09:58:04 PM
"Perhaps not, but it's usually what happens with us 'mancers.  When you learn a magic that focuses on the mastery of a single element, you tend to be very good at what you do."

She took this moment to check the stew in the pot with her nose, discerning whether or not it was at the balance of flavors she'd hoped for.  All seemed to be okay.  Of course, she stopped when Izayah went and asked the...rather big question of 'what happened to her'.  Keefe looked him over for a moment, violet eyes appraising.  Yes...he was not a mere boy...  If Sano kept his sanity as a child living on the streets, Izayah could stand to hear some of he truth.  She kept the nature of her external business out there in the world, after all.  She fixed him with a careful look now.

"What I tell you does not leave this room, Izayah.  I keep what happens outside of La'Marri where it belongs: Outside."

She was serious about that.  It was her promise to the people living in La'Marri that she would not bring trouble to their doorstep, that she wanted this to be her home and to live pleasantly here.  All of this was true.  Keefe just couldn't turn a blind eye to the world, hence her travels.  And so, without divulging the true nature of her work, she explained.

"I found a vampire Connlaoth.  A strong one.  He hit me with a very painful curse, one that I suffered through, getting home.  Someone like that is too dangerous not to tell anybody about, so I told Sano"

The ferret woman looked down

"I thought I'd die there.  It was a blood curse that'd been trying to force its way out of me.  The part that even I didn't expect was that Sano would cure me with a knife."

She pointed to the center of the injury.

"He's the one that cut me, relieving the pressure.  It must've been horrifying for him...  I don't know, of course, because I passed out.  I lost alot of blood, and only the potions I keep for emergencies were able to keep me alive."

Those emergency life-restoring potions of good health and healing that she kept for emergencies.  Depleted, for now, but they served their purpose.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 15, 2017, 11:25:13 PM
Nodding his head Izayah silently agreed to her request. He could see where she was coming from, in keeping all of this away from home. And so she informed him of a vampire that had cursed her. This also explained why Sano had left. He was out looking for it, he was sure. Izayah could only think if something similar had happened to his family that is what he would do. He would go and find that vampire and kill it, not just for vengeance either, but to spare others.

"I am glad you survived it then, and happy Sano was here to help you."

The boy then wondered if he himself could have saved Keefe in that situation. He had only used his blood once to help someone and could barely even remember that. The nightmare was still one that haunted his dreams to this day, ten years later. He was just a boy when the demon came to their home, the demon his parents tricked to escape Essyrn before he was born. Somehow it had found them and was intent on exacting revenge, and it nearly did.

His father lay on the floor almost dead when Izayah crawled over to him, all of them injured in one way or another. The fight was all but lost at this point until Izayah simply rested his forehead against his fathers... and then it happened. He remembers wishing that his father would be okay and that he would live through this. After that, he remembered waking up and the demon dead by the hands of his sister. Before that his parents had kept their secret well... a secret to even their children.

From then on Izayah had toyed with his own abilities, discovering mainly with plants that he could restore something that had begun to decay or die at a cost. He could even mend cuts and wounds as long as he willed it. All of this completely useless if he ever needed to defend his family. The incident with the demon opening the four-year-old boy's eyes to the truths of the world. He could help and heal all he wanted but that alone would never stop something like that from happening again.

Again he was shown this when his family took a trip to Essyrn so that his mother could sell her tonic at the market and also show the Tainted children where they came from. Needless to say even years later Essyrn is still not safe and probably never would be for them.

"A secret for a secret?" He offered, realizing that he owed Keefe more than just his word that he would not tell a soul.

OOC: (BAHH run on sentences galore! lol forgive me)
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 15, 2017, 11:39:55 PM
"So am I."

Because she'd never been that close to death in her life.  It honestly scared her, at the time.  She still had dreams about it, nightmares of her fight with the vampire and of her death.  It wouldn't make her afraid of her own mortality or of that which might threaten it, but Keefe was nevertheless affected by it.  From now on, she would treat the night world with a little more care, redouble her efforts to master it.  She only hoped that Sano was doing the same, that he was handling this with the seriousness that it deserved.

Putting her hand to the spot of the wound, she almost found it funny that such a terrible thing as a curse could be stopped by almost killing her, but that young man had the will to try and she liked that.  Keefe knew that she had chosen well.  Very fortunate indeed to have the help of Sano Alistair.  Now umm...her ears perked up slightly at the mention of secrets from Izayah.  Keefe nodded at him.

"Never to leave this room."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 15, 2017, 11:58:15 PM
She seemed trustworthy enough and had already told him more than he intended. There was clearly trust growing between them, or at least on his side. His mind was already made up, he was going to tell Keefe his darkest secret. Not only because he had been dying to tell someone for as long as he could remember, but because he wanted to use it as the cause for what he really wanted from her.

Without a word he walked over to the counter and picked up a piece of potato that was not worthy enough to make it into the still simmering stew. With his other hand, he picked up a small paring knife and slipped the blade across his palm. Hopefully, his mother would never find out, but if she did it would be too late anyways.

Still without speaking Izayah then placed the potato piece in his bloodied hand with palm facing upwards. Holding it there he stared at it for a few seconds before taking in a deep breath. As he inhaled nothing happened, he probably even looked a little crazy. But, the moment he began to release his breath the potatoes would begin to sprout new stems as if it had been planted weeks before and never disturbed.

"Ever heard of a Tainted human?" He never took his eyes off the potatoes as he was still just as intrigued with his ability as the first day he realized what it was he could do. "People that are completely normal in every way except for their blood." After that he set the potatoes down, wiping the blood on his pants.

Fortunately, the act of sprouting a potato was not enough to create any lasting exhaustion. As always he felt slightly weakened but surely would recover whatever life force he had just given in a matter of minutes. "You should hear of how popular we are in Essyrn. How much people would pay to get their hands on one of us."

Only now did he allow his eyes to meet hers. Even at only 14 years old Izayah held a sense of maturity about him now that exceeded beyond his years.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 16, 2017, 12:55:34 AM
At first, when he picked up the knife, she was going to stop him, but Keefe stopped herself and decided he knew what he was doing.  After all, Izayah didn't seem to carry himself as the kind of person who goes 'Watch this!' and then does something foolish.  He was young, not stupid.  He cut his palm and allowed his blood to smear on the piece of potato he'd picked up.  The ferret's eyes widened as the part of the plant suddenly began to grow new life, as though a potato had been left in the ground to take root.

Is he a druid like Ella?

No, that didn't seem to fit.  Druidic magic was hardly a secret, in fact a well-known nature magic that put you in tune with the living world around you.  When Izayah asked his question, Keefe shook her head.  The term was completely unfamiliar to her, unless he meant that he was somehow a human filled with corruption.  Somehow, the life-giving boy just didn't fit that venue.  Apparently, though, people with his kind of blood power were very 'popular' in Essyrn.  And for 'popular', read as 'useful as slaves'.  When he met her eyes again, they were some damn serious eyes.

"I abhor the idea of people as a commodity, like they were nothing more than...dill leaves and oregano."

Her hardened expression calmed down after a bit.

"I spent a good part of my life in Seren, as you know, and even though there is some slavery there, I like that they will not remain so forever.  Even still, it's not something I would approve of, so your family will never have anything to fear from me."

More than likely, if any such people came to take them, said slavers would meet a bloody demise.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 16, 2017, 10:11:42 PM

He was happy to see that Keefe followed what he was getting at. She was able to distinguish that by popular he clearly meant eagerly attained. And not only did she understand, but was against the thought of humans being traded like spices.

"It's not just slavers though." Immediately Izayah thought of his mother. Her blood healed and gave power, similar to a strong drug. Not only was she valuable as a slave, but valuable to anyone that wanted to increase their own abilities.

"Some of us are healers, some of us can cause disease. Some are weapons... all are human. Each member of my family can do something different with their blood. I won't bore you with their abilities and they are not my secret to tell, but I will tell you that mine is on the healing side as you saw."

"I trust you, Keefe, otherwise I would not have told but you cannot tell my mother or father that I did it or else I will probably never see the light of day again!" Perhaps he was being a bit over dramatic but Izayah knew he would be in serious trouble if they found out. He could already see what they would do to him if they found out. A picture of his mother staring down at him caused a shiver to travel up his spine.

"My mother can be quite scary... and sometimes I swear she has eyes everywhere." Slowly he began to look around the kitchen of Keefe's home as if his mother were watching him in that moment.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 17, 2017, 01:32:18 AM
Of course, it didn't matter who wanted these Tainted people so badly, in Keefe's eyes.  It was just wrong.  It wasn't a way to live that should exist in this world.  And now, because they guarded this secret so carefully, Izayah was legitimately fearful that his mother might be listening, that whatever punishment he would have for revealing the fact to her would be a extreme one.  Now...Keefe was not given to have omniscient power, but she could hear well and stuff.  Nevayah was definitely not here.  She hadn't been since earlier.  Of that, she was certain.

"You needn't worry yourself, Izayah.  I promise to you that I will not mention this to anybody else, at least not without perhaps conferring with you.  Not even to Sano, and you know the trust I have in him."

Very high, considering that he'd saved her life, so that should settle that.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 18, 2017, 02:32:33 PM
All he did was smile at her promise and then went back to focusing on the stew. "Anything else you need from me while this cooks?" Then just like his father Izayah ran a hand through his messy hair before letting it rest on the back of his neck.

It really was a something he couldn't help. His father did it all the time and I guess he just picked the gesture up. It was a sign of unease or deep thought, restlessness all projected by a simple movement.

"Maybe you need some laundry hung out, or I could sweep if you want." He then smiled again with a boyish grin. "I really can do anything while I am here. Don't want ya hurting yourself when I'm gone."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 18, 2017, 06:14:20 PM
Anything else, while the stew continued to umm...stew?  Well, actually...

"The stew will take a while, as they are wont to.  I'm afraid I do have another task for you."

This was said in a light enough mood, but when he mentioned cloathing just then, she realized that...yes, there would be an issue with that there.  Namely, that she hadn't done much of any laundary yet.  Recovery hadn't allowed it, not with her core strength out of commission.

"It's washing and drying, actually.  Remember, it's taken me time to walk with a bit of assistance.  Washing would definitely put pressure on the wound."

She had one of those scrubber tubs out back, though the lines would be set up out front where the sun could reach the clothes.

"I don't know if Sano put my...travel gear in with the dirty clothes, but if so, it may've gotten blood on it.  You can leave that be, if you find it."

She was referring to her assassin suit, of course.  She might have to sew a new one.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 21, 2017, 10:02:24 PM
"I can wash no problem." Izayah being deep down a very kind hearted soul would do anything to help if it meant Keefe not hurting herself.  "If I find anything with blood I will set it aside." He smiled, blood clearly not being something that bothered him.

And then he was off, out the door with another bucket in hand to fill the washing tub. Of course it would take a few trips from the well but eventually, he would get it plenty full to wash clothes properly. This chore was something he could handle, something he often helped his mother with at home.

In a way, even as a child, he saw it as practice, a way to build muscle by not only carrying buckets but also scrubbing the clothes on a board. Or at least that is what his parents used to tell him. Actually looking back on it as he scrubbed Keefe's clothes he wondered if it were all a ruse just to get him to help.

"I'm such an idiot!" he laughed, realizing now ten years later his parents had pulled one over on him and to this day still kept the charade.

After a bit, he had washed the majority of the clothes and was now hanging them on the line to dry. It was such a nice day out that he didn't mind being stuck outside, he actually preferred it.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 21, 2017, 10:29:49 PM
Well, it was a good thing that Izayah didn't think this all a ruse.  If Sano had been around and he said something like that, he'd give the young man a look like he wanted to hit him.  It'd be one of those cases of having seen or done too much to let a comment like that slide.  No word yet on how Keefe would react, if asked such a thing.  Maybe she'd laugh.  As it stood, the ferret-woman took this time to do what she felt was probably necessary for her right now: Exercises.

Specifically, exercises of the muscles.  Her core strength was diminished and would recover fully, but she couldn't just lie around all day.  She had to keep up her strengths, make sure she didn't go to waste.  So, it was a case of simple bends and stretches.  She was doing this every day, trying to do more and more, as though to prove to herselv that the healing process was progressing and that she would be fine.  She knew her own limits, of course, but you should still try.

Of course, with the time it took Izayah to handle that, her stew was likely to be done soon.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 21, 2017, 11:02:45 PM
After everything was laundered and hung up to dry Izayah went back inside. Keefe was doing some kind of stretches and the house smelled like the stew cooking in the pot.

"I didn't see anything with blood on it. Maybe Sano put it somewhere else?"

Izayah made his way back to the kitchen to check on the stew even though he had no idea what it was he should be watching out for. So he had helped now with getting water and laundering her clothes, plenty of time for him to grow more comfortable around the woman.

"You know I could come back every day or so and help you out if you want it. You wouldn't have to pay me of course. It's not like I have anything else going on in my life."

This part was true. Izayah's mother had her tonic business and his father worked at the tavern. Even his sister was busy most of the time with her nose in a book studying.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 22, 2017, 12:34:46 AM
Keefe stopped when Izayah mentioned that he hadn't found the assassin suit.

Damn, where is it?  I need to see it before I know to toss it yet.

She stood for a moment, thinking about it as she massaged the fur of her jawline with her nails.

"Where could it be...?"

It hadn't been burned yet.  She'd know the smell and there hadn't been any fragments of the thing or, in fact, evidence of its hidden daggers lying around.  Ah!  The daggers, and the emblem.

"I should be able to find it later through the daggers and such."

Whereupon, the young lad now offered his services on a regular basis during his recovery.  That would be nice, though she wondered how much of that had to do with..  Well, he still wanted something, right?  He'd told her about his family secret, but his desire wasn't about telling her about his family secret.  That was a stepping stone on a path.  There was still more to come.

"Well, I really should pay you back somehow.  La'Marri lives and breathes on the act of people helping one another.  There must be something I can do in return."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 23, 2017, 11:51:04 AM
Immediately Izayah smiled. This was his chance, the perfect opportunity to ask the question that had been burning in the back of his mind all day.

"I mean there is one thing you could do..."

He was suddenly bashful as he yet again brought his hand to the back of his neck. "Think you could train me?"

The way he said it was like he was joking, but he was actually far from it.

"I meant what I said earlier. I want to be able to protect my family and not only that but never be in the way again. I don't want to go on some mission to avenge my parent's name or whatever... I just want to know that as long as I am around all of them will be safe."

There... he said it.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 23, 2017, 01:08:38 PM
Yes, this was his chance, the very setup that he needed to make his thoughts known...just as Keefe planned.  After all, he was holding something back, something he very badly wanted to say.  She simply gave him the opening he needed.  Because if he wasn't going to speak it under the best of opportunities, he might never do so.  Fortunately, Izayah DID speak, and thus confirmed what the ferret had been expecting him to ask.

He wanted to be trained to fight.

He'd left enough clues for her, such as the 'Would you ever train anybody else, Keefe?', or 'I want to be able to protect my family', and of course 'What's that long, thin sword called again?'.  Oh, but he had not exactly been subtle about it.  Perhaps there was an aspect of her that concerned Izayah that had prevented him from just being open about it, at first.  Or maybe it was the secret of his family?  Well, whatever it was, Keefe couldn't help but chuckle a bit.  Before he could even say anything, she held up a hand.

"I'm not laughing at you.  It's just that you could have said so when I asked you to speak your mind.  Let's talk, shall we?  And eat.  The food is ready."

It was at this point that the lid of the pot, which had been off the past couple of hours, levitated over the fire and came down upon it, which of course would suffocate the flames.  The ladle stopped, and Keefe indicated where bowls would be found with the pointing of her clawed finger.  This was an interesting development, one which could be beneficial to the both of them.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 23, 2017, 02:19:09 PM
At first when she laughed Izayah thought she was laughing at him, except she quickly corrected the thought before he could voice it.

Helping Izayah grabbed two bowls from the cabinet where Keefe had instructed and then walked over to the pot and ladled stew in both. After that, he walked over to her table and sat them down before taking a place in front of one of them.

"So you'll do it?" Already the excitement within him was beginning to surface.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 23, 2017, 02:47:59 PM
So!  Bowls, spoons, ladle, stew, done.  Keefe allowed herself the pause of enjoying some of her food before speaking again.  Nothing further removed her from the harsh life of the world outside La'Marri like a homecooked meal.  Once settled in that manner, the violet eyes of the ferret focused upon him.

"Well, you're not that much younger than Sano was when I took him in, so it's not as though age would be a factor.  In fact, considering I had so much more to teach him along with fighting, it may even go faster."

Yes, there was the fact that she taught him his magic, helped fill in what he lacked in education, and trained him to fight.

"The only issue, in reality, lies with myself.  I can't fight to the fullest right now, so I won't be starting off exactly as you might've seen between myself and Sano."

Which is a good thing, since she ended up bruising him regularly.  The two of them had had to explain to others that this was all part of the training and that Sano had agreed to it, and that Keefe would never do any real harm to her protege'.  Truer words were never spoken.  It toughened him up, quite a bit, and he was a worthy successor.  Shame he was only a little younger than she was, especially since Keefe had no idea how long her lifespan really was.

"What I propose is that your training will help my recovery exercises, the ones I've been doing to keep from growing soft and lazy.  You're gonna learn, alright.  When I'm finished, you'll outwit even unfair opponents, of which there are many in the world."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 26, 2017, 12:59:03 PM
Keefe explained how Izayah was near the same age as Sano when he started. Very intently he processed that Keefe couldn't fight with everything due to her current state. None of this information even mattered to Izayah though. From the second he realized Keefe would help him it was taking every bit of self-restraint he had not to jump up and down cheering.

And then it hit him, the realization of how stupid he probably seemed right now. Izayah wasn't a child anymore and so he really needed to stop acting like one at times like this. He needed to keep his cool and appear calm and collected. That was important, wasn't it? Jumping at the very first thought to come to your mind was something that could probably even get you killed in some places.

"Thank you, Keefe." The meaning behind the words so much more than he could ever hope to explain. Single handily Keefe had just assured Izayah's entire future. He knew deep down that she wasn't lying and that when she was done he would be able to protect those he loved and so much more. He wouldn't be a burden anymore or lost living the same boring life day in and day out. Izayah now had a purpose, and again it was all thanks to Keefe.

"I will have to tell my parents at some point. They will figure it out if I don't. I think I want to tell my mom first, she always seems to at least try and understand where I am coming from. My dad is another story..."

Izayah already knew that the second Lannister found out it was going to be a battle similar to when he asked for his very first real weapon. His dad didn't know and would probably never understand why Izayah felt the way he did about his circumstances, but then again he wasn't born with useless blood like he was either.

"Yeah... definitely going to have to tell my mom first.."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 26, 2017, 01:38:24 PM
Having a talk like this over a warm meal was soothing to the senses, really took the edge off.  Well, for some, perhaps.    Izayah seemed quite a bit excited.  That much, he had over Sano when he first started.  Sano had been more than a little nervous around her, given that she'd been playing up the 'mysterious assassin calling all the shots' routine.  Oh well, at least in this case, he was familiar with her home life and not nearly as standoffish.  The only issue that Keefe could see at the present moment was that, even while injured, she was going to thoroughly outclass him.  Aspiring young artisans of ANY class or skill hated to be shown their limitations.  Even still, this represented a big change in his life.

"You should thank me when it's over, not when it's only begun."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

in the yard of a quaint little home in Serendipity, a young ferret Beastkin wearing mostly black stood - eyes closed and in heavy concentration - as several spinning metal objects orbitted around her.  An old lady in light clothes and a brown robe with a hat watched her.  Finally, the various pieces of metal gently lowered to the ground.  The young ferret opened her eyes.

"You've done well, Keefe.  I believe your control of that magic has properly solidified."

"All thanks to you, Ella."

"Oh, this old woman didn't do much.  My strength is in druidic lore, not the world of metal.  I merely showed you a door.  You opened it and embraced what was inside."

The ferret shook her head.

"No, I mean it.  I wasn't prepared before, and if I tried alone, I might've been killed."


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Yes, definitely after."

Even still, he was ready and raring to go.  Perhaps not today, since a good portion of the day was spent, but they would begin soon.  And then, there was the issue of his parents.  Yes, that was going to be a hard sell, apparently harder to his father, Lannister.

"It may occur sooner than you like.  There could be bruises unaccounted for, things that would tip them off to our activities."

Because, make no mistake: Keefe could still send him flying.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 27, 2017, 03:16:29 PM
Keefe did have a point. After a while, Izayah could have an issue making up excuses over bruises that were inevitable. There was also the issue that Izayah and his father sparred quite often. Lannister knew how capable he was and if that skill suddenly started improving it would leave cause for question.

"I will tell them eventually."

Lifting another spoonful of stew to his mouth Izayah thought as he savored the flavor. He would tell his mother tonight so that hopefully she could soften the blow when he decided to tell Lannister. Maybe she could even help come up with excuses for a bit until they figured out exactly how to do it.

"So when can we start?" And he was at it again, bursting at the thought of finally getting to learn something useful.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 27, 2017, 04:34:15 PM
At least he could handle his parents.  Keefe did find just a twinge of jealousy running through her about that, though.  It's not that she had no one to care for her in her youth, just that her own family tree wa sessentially a stump with a seedling grown beside it.  No lineage, no history, and no parents.  She cared about Sano not only because of his power, but because he was in about he same boat, just discarded like trash and left with nothing.  She doubted that he even wanted any part of his old life.  Izayah snatched Keefe back to reality as she was thinking and eating, then.

"When?  Tomorrow, if that suits you.  Part of the day is gone already, and I need to see just how much of a recovery I've made."

The weakness from the sudden loss and potion-based replacement of blood, as well as all the physical torment from the curse, was subsiding, but she was not completely out of those woods.  Also, her core strength was - as stated - still lacking.  Such was the folly of stomach wounds.  She'd figure out her limits for fighting tonight.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on June 30, 2017, 02:54:20 PM
"Tomorrow would be great!" Izayah then made quick work of the stew in front of him, emptying the bowl in half the time it would normally take. Already he was anxious for tomorrow to come, ready and eager to learn from Keefe.

"I will be here at first light!" Izayah then realized he couldn't come as soon as he woke up, he did still have chores to complete. "I mean I will be here a few hours after first light!" he corrected.

"I have chores to do first. I think I'm also going to try and talk to my mom."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on June 30, 2017, 03:55:05 PM
The rapid pace of his eating gave the woman pause for a moment.  Surely, that couldn't be any good for the digetion.  However, before she could point that out, Izayah made his bold declaration...followed by his amended declaration.  This made the lady ferret chuckle.  The clash of his determination and common sense were well-met.  He was very excited, but he was also thinking.  Very good.  He would need a good head on his shoulders.

"Promise me you're going to be much calmer and more serious when you tell her.  She needs to see this as a man's decision, rather than a boy's fancy.  You are serious about this, so you need to show it."

She thought about that, and then added.

"And please assure her that I will not be putting undue stress upon myself, either.  I know my limits.  I will have to work to overcome those limits, but that is for when I'm completely healed."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on July 02, 2017, 03:41:51 PM
Keefe had a point. Izayah couldn't talk to his mother about this acting like anything other than a man.

"My mom understands me. I think she will know where I am coming from when I tell her. I think she also knows that I would never put you in a position that would lead to you hurting yourself." Izayah had been shadowing his mother for years. While he didn't have the expanse of knowledge that Nevayah did, Izayah did understand some things about medicine.

"Is there anything else you need before I go?"
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on July 02, 2017, 03:51:49 PM
The ferret woman smiled at him, prepared to put some trust in the young man.

"Alright.  I leave it to you, then.  Come tomorrow, if it's you I see and not Nevayah to have a 'talk' with me, I'll know you've succeeded."

That said, Izayah wished to know if there was anything else he could do for her, but Keefe shook her head.

"Not at the moment.  You've saved me alot of work, Izayah.  I'm grateful, but don't force yourself."

He'd end up tiring himself out before completing the arduous task of convincing Nevayah.
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Blink on July 03, 2017, 02:50:09 PM
Scooting his chair out from the table Izayah stood up and nodded. "I will see you at some point in the morning then." And he was off, practically running out of the house and then to his horse still tied outside.

That evening as he rode home Izayah was full of nerves and excitement. It had turned out to not be a horrible day at all, yet somehow he felt the worst of it wasn't even over with yet. He would wait to tell his father, that was a given. However, he needed to at least talk to his mom. This way if any bruises came up at least then he had a chance of making up some kind of beleivable excuse.

Already he was rehearsing how he would tell her, in fact he had an entire speech mapped out in his head by the time he rode up to their barn. Quickly though every single memorized line faded from his mind the moment he saw his mother placing her own horse into the pasture.

Opting to skip going into the barn Izayah rode his horse up and dismounted, removing the bridal and saddle very quickly before setting it loose in the pasture as well.

"So how was Keefe's" Nevayah asked as she began brushing off the tack.

"She seems to be doing very well actually. She is still moving around slowly and its clear she is still in some discomfort but I think overall she is doing much better." Izayah again mimicked his mother as he threw the gear over the fence to brush out.

"Well, that is nice to hear. You didn't give her any trouble did you?" At the last part of her statement Nevayah turned towards Izayah as she stared him down.

"No! Why do you always assume I am going to cause trouble anyway!?' His eyes narrowed as he tried to concentrate harder on cleaning off the saddle.

"Because Izayah I am your mother and I know you better than you would like to think. You are reckless and sometimes do things halfway in order to get it done quicker. Sometimes I wish you were more focused like Em-"

Izayah cut her off before she even had a chance to finish the name. "Why are you always comparing me to her!?"

Nevayah regretting even bringing up such a topic. She knew how much he hated being compared to his twin yet she did it anyway. I guess even Nevayah still had moments where she didn't think before she spoke. "Listen Izayah... I'm sorry." It was evident in her tone she was remourseful. "I just want you to be happy that is all. You always seem like your bored or bothered with everything lately. As a mother I have a right to nag you about happiness." Nevayah then stepped towards her son and pinched his cheek. "You will always be our little soldier."

He couldn't help but smile at his mother's joke. Yes, their little soldier. It was a nickname given to him by his father when he was just a little tot. Izayah had always proclaimed he would protect them no matter what, even as a 4 year old with nothing more than a stick. "Speaking of being happy...." Izayah's voice fell soft.

Nevayah only smiled when he said it. She wondered if this was going to happen, having had suspicions from the moment she left him at Keefe's. Nevayah knew what she was and she also knew that Keefe had trained Sano. It was only smart to leave a young and willing boy at her doorstep when she needed something to keep her on her feet. "I won't tell him until you're ready..."

Izayah stopped immediately and turned his gaze to his mother. How on earth did she figure it out that fast!? "... thanks." And then the two silently finished cleaning off the gear, both of them knowing that Lanister would be the hardest sell on this entire venture. From day one Nevayah had been on Izayah's side on what her son wanted. She knew all too well how it felt to be weak and useless and would do anything to keep him from that fate.

"That was easier than I thought. Also note to self: Check is mother has been practicing the art of mind reading...again."
Title: Re: Where I live... (Blink)
Post by: Wrathwyrm on July 03, 2017, 06:09:01 PM
After Izayah had left, Keefe finished her meal in quiet thought, considering both how to handle the coming days, but also attempting to work out in her head where Sano put her assassin suit.  While talking with the young man, she had reached out with her mind to see if it could be found by its hidden daggers, but she felt that those were actually in her dresser, which did NOT contain the suit.  So then...she gave the matter some thought.

Now, let me think...  It's late at night, Both Sano and I have bloody clothes.  He burnt his, but I know he didn't do the same with me.  I'm in too fragile a condition for a while, barely alive.  He's had too much of a shock to do anything but watch and wait.  He doesn't try to change my clothes until later, realizing his mistake.  He knows the suit is important to me, but he doesn't know what to do with it.  So, where does he put it?

It hit her, and really she should have realized before.  It was so obvious, at least to her.  Getting up, Keefe cane-walked over to her room, sniffing the air.  Yes, not much gets out of there, but there were traces of that old blood smell, which she should have thought about sooner.  Reaching out with her mind, she undid the hidden latches inside the wall to reveal the secret closet.  Knives, swords, staffs, and - hanging up in the middle of it all - her hooded assassin suit.  Yes...it smelled of blood, alright.

"I may have to replace you."

It was in a state that she didn't like, akin to Batman or Catwoman finding their suits torn and muddied.  It was unacceptable.  Still, she now took a straight sword, a staff, and a pair of knives, and stepped outside.  Putting her cane down, Keefe slowly walked out into what was essentially her back yard...and began to train.  With every thrust and swing - sword, staff, knives - she noticed it: Her lack of strength made her slow.  It was a slow start to get up to speed, and then a wince from the exertion.  She could compensate with her mind and her magic, but this was unacceptable as a way of being.  Keefe was still young.  She didn't even know when she would be considered old.  She couldn't peak now, and then forever falter.

Well, Izayah, it seems we BOTH have alot of work to do...