Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 11, 2021 11:08:20 GMT -5
Cian had taken a chance. Even after all that was written and the very fact that she had sought him out this day, he had been hesitant. He wanted to be mindful and respectful of her lover's memory, to possibly take a moment to figure this out a little more, but it had grown increasingly difficult to ignore the thunderous beating of his heart and that immediate pull towards her. It was intriguing and undeniable, and he had caved. He desperately wanted to assure himself that he still, somehow, wasn't imagining any of it.
So, when she didn't withdraw from him, there was this soft sigh of relief against her mouth, his fingers curling further into her hair as he drew her a little closer. And he just kissed her. It was gentle, curious, losing some of that hesitation of just seconds before. Time had slowed, but at some point, he had pulled away, just enough to find his breath and his senses. At least most of them.
'Don't. His eyes had still been closed, but that single word prompted him to open them. There was a split second of panic, of possible rejection until he saw that grin grace her features. 'Don't apologise.' Instantly, a smile returned to his own lips, and he chuckled lowly. She knew exactly what he had wanted to say before and what he was about to say now. It was becoming a bad habit, one they both couldn't seem to break. He really wasn't sorry, though. Cian didn't think he ever would be for that.
Before he could claim those lips again, knowing it would be hard to stop if he did, he finally stood up straight; having sought for her hand to draw her up with him. "So long as you save me from this place," he said, his gaze flickering towards the entrance of the stables. No one should really be looking for him, but he still wondered. Normally it was Dunny tracking him down, however, just the other day Lillia had randomly been looking for him with a strange request. His family only ever seemed to bother him at the most unexpected of times...and this would be a prime opportunity.
And that silent worry lasted for all of two seconds before bright eyes alighted upon her face. ”Did you ride here?” he asked, unsure if her horse was in one of these stalls or she had arrived by other means. It was clear that he was finally realizing it probably wasn’t wise to stand around the barracks, considering he was still keen on holding onto her hand.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 11, 2021 18:41:37 GMT -5
Last time his fingers had found her hair, cradling her head and protecting her from the fall- Aoife had been angry, indignant even, that he had felt the need to protect her. This time, it was completely different. His hold was comforting, reassuring, steading- and the mystic allowed him to draw her closer without even thinking about it. Lips parted just a little, her body responding on instinct as they shared a first kiss. No overthinking, barely even any thinking. Her hand reached upwards, resting lightly against the soldier’s chest for a moment.
It fell away as the kiss broke, and the mystic looked up at Cian with curious eyes. That might not have been how she had seen this day going- but Aoife was by no means complaining. This was already so much better than anything her anxious imagination had managed to conjure. Hopping down from the barrel at his guidance, she gave his hand a reassuring squeeze. As though she was telling him that this was okay, that she didn’t want the soldier to let go just yet- or perhaps ever. ”I think we can manage that.” There were so many places they could go. Though Aoife had been planning on being home for dinner to avoid any questions, right then she would have probably rode to the most westernly point of Teronna if that’s what Cian suggested. However, if they were running the risk of being caught in the stables by a curious or pestering DeGraff- they were probably tempting fate by riding west, straying too close to Greyshollow, Lasairdubh, or even Namyca Forest would undoubtedly lead to a run in with at least one Lee Frye.
She broke into a smile when those blue eyes found her, and again she felt her heartbeat increase in tempo- was it the adrenaline from the kiss making him have this effect on her so easily? Or was it those feelings she still didn’t fully understand beginning to grow and develop just a little more quickly than they already had been? Either way, as distracting as the thrill could be, Aoife wished he would keep looking at her like that.
”I rode here.” Aoife confirmed, giving a low whistle and watching with satisfaction as the stallion stuck his head over the stall- nickering softly. ”So, where shall we go?” She asked him, mischief sparkling behind those grey eyes of hers. ”The beach? The mountains? To Saryus perhaps?” Anywhere but home, anywhere they wouldn’t be recognised or seen.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 12, 2021 0:12:44 GMT -5
He honestly could have stayed there the rest of the day with her. It never seemed to matter where they were because conversation happened to come naturally. Although it was slowly getting back to that, there was still that soft tension, the curiosity and all of the questions because of what was forming between them. Regardless, the military stables were not ideal, not while both families lingered so close. Cian didn't want to worry about someone finding him simply holding her hand, or watching her in that silent way, or if there happened to be moment to steal another kiss.
He also just wanted to get away and forget the responsibilities that would only be waiting there when he returned. The soldier had already wasted hours with patrol, with scanning over map after map, studying every stretch of beach, every ridge of mountain. Today was her, for however long he could keep her.
The grin widened just a little more at the feeling of her hand within his, that reassuring squeeze that he hadn't realized he truly needed. And then there was her smile. Cian was already swiftly forgetting everything that haunted him, anything that was trying to weigh him down because he adored the way her expression changed, the way her face lit up differently when she allowed herself to truly smile. Nothing forced, just this genuine emotion that made him catch his breath; similar to the way she captivated him when she fought. It had been visceral, it had been this beautifully calculated dance she made look so easy, and a part of him had felt guilty for liking the way she'd gotten so flustered when she lost the upper hand. When he had subconsciously protected her from the fall.
Cian was thinking about that day in the rain again, those blues staring at her until her words pulled him back into reality. He blinked, shifting his attention to find her horse giving his response and he chuckled lightly. For now, he would have to part from her, which was probably why he was delaying it a little bit; ever so slowly drawing her along with him towards one of the other stalls.
His free hand smacked against the gate a couple of times. "Time to go, Sarge." The chestnut stallion turned a little to peer at him, nickering a bit before shaking his head as if he was arguing. "Uh huh..." Cian murmured to himself. The beast had started to become a bit lazy, and that was perhaps the soldier's fault. He didn't often get to go for as many rides these days. But instead of being an idiot and arguing with a horse, he regarded Aoife with that lopsided grin again, finally answering her question. "Let's head a bit north, to the mountains. There's a place I'd like to show you." A place he hadn't been to in years.
Turning, he casually leaned against the stall, idly toying with her fingers. "I'll meet you outside the gates?" It probably wouldn't be smart to leave together. Cian was already beginning to hate the tip-toeing around, but he would do it.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 12, 2021 7:02:38 GMT -5
If Aoife stopped to really think about it a little more, she might have understood Ciaran a little better- the sneaking around, the fear of what would happen if their parents found out he had gone to bed with a commoner. But for the moment, she thought the two situations were entirely different. Yes a DeGraff was technically, probably, worse in their parents eyes… technically they hadn’t done anything that might be considered wrong. The Lee Fryes and DeGraffs were at the very least civil towards each other in public, having to work together so often in their respective duties within Teronna’s military. Granted, she didn’t want to find out what would happen should one of her brother’s chance by the stables while she stood there: a stupid smile on her lips and her hand in Cian’s. But at least they wouldn’t find her here with a child in her arms. Still, that grin of his was doing what it was so very good at: pulling her back into the moment, back to the soldier. Aoife didn’t know why Cian DeGraff captivated her so. There had been that element of rivalry, the way he seemed to challenge her without ever crossing a line. The way he hadn’t held back, at least not until the very last moment, when they had sparred. It was the other side to him that held her enthralled too, the side that had been so patient with her, been so open with himself. Whilst everyone else in her life had been treating her like porcelain, as though she might crack or even shatter at the slightest touch- Cian had treated her as though she was human. He had pushed her at times, with gentle teasing and a grin on his lips, but he had still held her together (often without even realising it) when the cracks began to show. The mystic wanted to do the same for him, to keep the soldier from the darkness: to keep him safe and keep that grin she loved so much on his lips. Her horse would wait, impatiently pawing at the ground, but he would wait. The poor creature had been doing that a lot lately. Waiting in the woods whilst Aoife interrogated her big brother. Waiting halfway up a mountain whilst Aoife disappeared on the instructions of the Warden Inquisitor. Waiting by the sand dunes and chewing on beach grass whilst Aoife had skipped stones into the sea. At least this time he wouldn’t be waiting so long as Cian led her only a few feet away, to one of the neighbouring stalls. Whilst the bay had instantly perked to attention at her whistle, the soldier’s stallion seemed to have other ideas. Barely even turning to regard them. Sarge… it was funny, Aoife’s horse technically outranked the chestnut stallion, if only in name. She half-smiled at the thought, but didn’t voice it. ”I hope your men pay you a little more attention.” She teased, not bothering to temper the amusement in her tone. Nodding her agreement, the mystic felt curiosity bubbling, threatening to spill over into a question. But she trusted him, wherever he planned to lead them. Even if the logical part of her knew the parting was only temporary, a matter of mere minutes in comparison to the weeks that had stretched between their last meeting: Aoife was reluctant to let her hand fall from his. Cian seemed to share the sentiment as he hadn’t quite let go. But every moment they lingered here ran the risk of getting caught. Keeping secrets and sneaking around had never come naturally to her, but there wasn’t exactly another option for them. ”Outside the gates.” Aoife confirmed with a bob of her head. Fingers still intertwined with his, the mystic leaned forwards- closing the gap between them before she could stop herself. She planted a gentle kiss against his cheek before finally turning to leave. After their sparring match, Aoife hadn’t turned, hadn’t paused to look behind. But this time, she couldn’t help herself. She barely reached the stall door before she turned back to him- as though she was checking he was still there, that this was all real. A bashful smile came to her lips, her cheeks flushing for the second time that day, and she quickly looked away. Doubting she would be here long, Aoife hadn’t untacked her horse before going to find Cian- so it was a matter of simply swinging up into the saddle with practiced grace and guiding the beast towards the door, out of the stables and towards the gates. There she waited, idly plaiting loose strands of Captain’s mane. If she had been on foot, the mystic would have probably paced- but she didn’t know how long the ride ahead would be, and she didn’t want to tire the stallion unnecessarily. Once Cian caught up- she would follow his lead, riding alongside him.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 12, 2021 15:54:09 GMT -5
Cian would have traveled clear across the island if time allowed, but he was trying not to get so far ahead mentally that even he wouldn't be able to catch up. Maybe it was her absence for all of these weeks that made it very easy to want to spend every waking moment with her. Now that he knew he wasn't alone in his thoughts and these growing feelings, it was easy to get so lost in them. So, there was this section of the mountains, just outside the city that wasn't terribly far, and both of them could make it back at a decent hour to avoid their families getting curious. Cian, at least, had the luxury of using work as an excuse if Dunstan or Lillia didn't tattle, but he was guessing Aoife did not. Being a "lady of leisure" and all.
"Usually," he replied to her comment. "This one's just been a bit of a grump." He glanced over to the horse who seemed to sense that he was actually going to be let out. Now, he was getting a little antsy and even bumped against the gate a little as if to tell Cian to hurry up. But in order to do that and leave this place, he'd have to let go of her hand. Certainly the moody animal realized his dilemma?
Sneaking around was never something he had to do. As a child, he certainly got into mischief with his siblings, and it was the worst when it was just him and Cara. It was double the trouble, as they say, but all in all he was a relatively good kid. So no, this did not exactly come naturally to him either, and yet, he knew how to keep a secret. He was a secret with being a Warden- a trained soldier that hunted down those with magic.
Perhaps he was a poor one, because he didn't even know a Mystic stood before him, quickly beginning to wrap herself around his heart.
His attention had dropped to their hands again before she was planting a kiss to his cheek. It was a reflex to tug lightly on her arm to keep her close, as if he was refusing her to leave, but it lasted just a couple of seconds because he knew better. Aoife was parting from his side, and those blue eyes trailed up to find her face right when she glanced over, something he had desperately wished she had done that day in the rain. That bashful smile of hers prompted a rather sly one of his own, finding himself unable to look away even as she did...until something was knocking into him.
Sarge had leaned his head over the gate and nudged him with his snout, enough to rock Cian a couple steps back. "Seriously?" he grumbled at the horse who was bobbing his head as if to say hurry up already. Sarge had been one of the first animals Cian tested his "magic" on, and ever since then the beast had gotten extra snarky and impatient. It was as if he left a part of his own mind within the equine's, making him a bit more "human" in a way. That, or he just became a very sassy horse all on his own. He probably should have been Arya's.
Cian would be a few minutes. Although he wanted to rush, he forced himself to take his time saddling and readying Sarge, allowing the moment of paranoia to leave a small gap of time from when she left till the moment he left the gates as well. They would still need to make it out of the city, but that was a shorter distance through a guarded side path, so he was less concerned.
He tried not to smile like an idiot when he caught sight of her again, but it was still clear he was happy to see her as he made a vague gesture for her to follow. There were many people coming and going, so their departure wouldn't be noted together. He offered one of the men stationed a few words and a wave before forcing Sarge into a light gallop down the dirt path that would take them from the city and towards the mountains behind it. When he felt he was a decent distance away with less eyes upon the road, he slowed the horse down to wait for her.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 12, 2021 18:40:21 GMT -5
Aoife had quite a lot of leeway, particularly for an unmarried woman of her status. Partly because her father was simply too busy to keep tabs on his only daughter throughout the day. Partly because he trusted her to be able to handle herself. Partly because he was just glad she was actually getting out instead of moping around. But mostly, mostly, Robert Lee Frye didn’t worry or meddle in the affairs of his children nearly as much as his wife did. He had raised them right, as far as he was concerned, and they were all capable of looking after themselves. He would be there if they needed him, his office door open and at least half of his attention at the beck and call of his sons and daughter. But for the most part, he left them be unless Catriona insisted otherwise. So, she was free more or less to come and go as she pleased, but that didn’t mean some comings and goings wouldn’t raise questions. Staying out too late without prior warning would be one of those instances and sneaking out without a word was another. Aoife didn’t know what she would say if her father questioned her about today. She would probably shrug, avert her gaze, and say she had been out with a friend. It was true, in a sense. But the guilt would still colour her cheeks and make her trip over her words more than a little- so hopefully it wouldn’t come to that.
Reluctantly, the mystic pulled her eyes away from Cian, following his gaze as it found the chestnut stallion seemed to have changed his mind- now itching to get out instead of ignoring the soldier. Aoife hadn’t paused to consider that the DeGraff might have magic of his own, whether it came from an artefact or otherwise. It might have made a few pieces of the puzzle click into place had she known- the darkness he had spoken of, the connection he seemed to have with the horse... why she always felt as though Cian was holding back just as much as she was. However, Aoife had always been told that DeGraffs were not to be trusted for many reasons, and one of those was just how set against gramyre they were. So naturally, the mystic had just assumed Cian’s secrets were something else entirely- and that the bond formed with Sarge was the result of time and familiarity, nothing more.
The way he held her close didn’t go unnoticed by Aoife. She was beginning to like this, having easy, instinctive intimacy with someone again without immediately wanting to bolt. There would be a time to overthink, to worry she was beginning to like it a little too much- becoming as dependent on the soldier’s touch as she was to the easy way he set her at ease and kept her grounded. It would only make his absence even more noticeable when today was over and they parted ways, for however long it would be this time.
Aoife had a taste of it as she waited a little ways outside of the gate. It really was foolish, but the mystic actually did miss him. As the minutes ticked by, the mystic began to wonder if Cian had changed his mind or been waylaid- his attention commandeered by another guard or even one of his siblings. She knew it was silly, and the rational part of her brain told her to ignore it- that she was being ridiculous. But that didn’t stop her feeling relief when she finally caught sight of that mop of brown curls. Unlike Cian, Aoife didn’t pause to exchange words with the stationed guards- giving them little more than a slight nod as she rode by a few moments later, urging the large horse to an ambling trot down the same path the soldier had taken.
Once she was clear of the sightline of the guards, Aoife coaxed Captain forward: pushing him into a gallop in the hopes of catching up sooner rather than later. ”So-” She began, allowing the bay stallion to fall into step alongside. Her curiosity was beginning to get the better of her, and Aoife couldn’t resist asking: ”-Where is it we’re going?” Following the path, the mystic relaxed a little more into the saddle. As Cian was leading, Aoife allowed her gaze to wander over him. And for the first time her curious gaze was almost shameless, drinking in every detail as though hoping to permanently commit this moment to memory. If he turned to look at her then, caught her staring so intently, Aoife would look away quickly: focusing instead on the mountains to which they rode towards.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 13, 2021 13:31:02 GMT -5
Fortunately for Cian, he wasn't often questioned. There were so many DeGraffs coming and going from the city and Windhaven Manor at different times, there was no saying who would be where. He always had a bit of leeway...and he was thankful for that, because his parents were often curious people if they caught wind of anything. The only relative that had an inkling about any of this was Camille, only because he'd gone home that day after the spar in such a daze; also covered in mud, and the girl's curiosity pulled it out of him. He wouldn't be so lax next time, but he was no longer wondering if he'd done something incredibly stupid or disrespectful, either.
It would be easy for him to lie unless he tried something very out of character for him, and it wasn't often that he did. Being a Warden wasn't a secret from his parents- they knew and supported it, even urged him into it. He could easily blame any strange delay or lateness on that instead of the military. But would he have to? As he had been making his way down that path, waiting for Aoife to catch up, he was wondering what they were even doing. Keeping this- again, whatever it was- a secret had been this immediate, unspoken thing, and how long would it remain that way? How often would he be able to steal away with her?
Was he beginning to think too much again?
When she found her way back to him, he strangely wasn't worrying about it anymore. All they had to do was exactly what they have been doing- take it all one day at a time. And he would have her for the next few hours, at least.
He veered them off a smaller path to the left, right off the main one where it would be a surprise to run into anyone (at least, anyone they would know). There was a farmer with his cart that would bypass them, headed towards the city, but other than that, it was just the two of them and the looming mountains ahead.
At her question, Cian's gaze drifted sidelong to her with a faint grin, catching her quick look away. "Just someplace I haven't been to in years," he answered, wondering if he would give any more details than that. He really couldn't remember the last time he made a trek up there, only recalling how calm it was, and the sights weren't half bad. Having no plans on what they should do, it was the first thing that came to mind. "You're not afraid of heights, are you?" Hmm, perhaps he should have asked that before they started this little journey.
After a couple of minutes, the flat, dirt path began to get a little more rocky, beginning a slow incline. It wouldn't be a horrible climb, and it was still safe and level enough to bring the horses up most of the way. Cian had made this trip with his siblings enough times that he knew it all by heart.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 13, 2021 17:47:31 GMT -5
She wasn’t thinking about the future, of how long they could possibly keep up with the cloak and dagger. She tried not to think too far ahead at the best of times, knowing just how quickly the rug could be pulled from beneath her- how quickly what she worked to build could come crashing down. Still, if she did pause to consider it… it would be nice to not have to hide. To walk down the street hand-in-hand or to visit his office without pausing to think who might see; instead of deciding between tossing a pebble at his window or climbing through it. But it was also nice to have something that was just theirs. Something special and precious that they were only just beginning to understand. Even if Cian hadn’t been a DeGraff, Aoife would have been reluctant to mention the man to her family so soon- Lee Fryes had a habit of being a lot. Though the mystic didn’t doubt he would be capable of holding his own, she wasn’t quite ready to throw the guard out of the frying pan and into the fire (almost literally in this case).
But, she didn’t pause to consider it. So it wasn’t a problem. At least not yet.
Though Cian captured most of her attention, Aoife allowed her gaze to wander a little as they rode- taking in the scenery as they meandered through the forest trail. It was serene, peaceful, after the din of the barracks. And Aoife found herself lulled into calm by the birdsong and rhythmic falling of their horses’ feet. If only this moment could stretch on forever. Somehow, even in silence, the soldier managed to put her at peace, quiet her worries and drive her wandering mind back on track.
Somewhere he hadn’t been in years… well that was cryptic. And though Aoife shot him a puzzled glance, Aoife didn’t ask anymore questions. She could be patient- she just didn’t like it all that much. I’m not afraid of heights, no.” Cocking her head slightly, dark hair spilled over her shoulder as she regarded him- attention drawn completely away from their surroundings once again. ”Ships, if we’re being honest, but not heights.” Even if she had been petrified of heights, Aoife didn’t doubt she would have followed Cian and Sarge into the mountains regardless. Somewhere he hadn’t been in years… Still curious as to where they were heading: she imagined Cian wandering up this path as a boy, and felt honoured that he was choosing to share this with her. But as soon as her mind strayed to the thought- Aoife felt a slight pang of guilt. Cian had shared so much with her already, and all she seemed to do was hide parts of herself.
Even though her horse was more suited for long treks over flatter landscapes or hauling- the incline was still gentle as they made their way into the mountains. So Aoife didn’t worry about him slipping or struggling just yet- after all, he had made it most of the way up Nephim peak without faltering. "Did anything happen whilst I was away? It feels as though I was gone for an age..."
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 13, 2021 20:29:24 GMT -5
By even thinking about pursuing this, they were not only contending with one big and powerful family, they were dealing with two. That should have been reason enough for him to back away, not just the ridiculous rivalry, but despite his often light-hearted nature, Cian didn't easily let go of or back away from something he wanted.
And his sights were set, even if he was mostly subtle about it, or at least tried to be. You know, when he wasn't blatantly staring, that is.
The trek would certainly be easy on the horses. The path was a very slow and gradual incline up the mountain, and he wasn't aiming to bring them to the very top. There was a particular valley in these parts he had been rather fond of, and the ride up was lovely to look at. Still forested, but not as thick as Namyca, the sky above loomed blue with few clouds. There were open areas of tall grass and wild flowers that had just started to bloom, littered with large boulders along the way. Eventually, the path would begin to even out and she would hear the sound of trickling water nearby.
It was beautiful up here, and most of all, peaceful and quiet. He'd discovered it when he was a boy, during a trip with his father, bringing his siblings a couple of times...but it had been mostly for him. It was just far enough away to feel like he was somewhere else completely, yet in reality it was a trip that he could make quickly if need be. It was where he'd also spent the most time training himself to use that blasted gift he was never completely certain he was glad for. In ways, it gave him an advantage against Mystics, but it also went against everything he was supposed to believe in. Hypocrisy at its finest, he supposed.
"Nothing of much interest," he answered her. Wow, had his life been that dull? Cian grinned and shook his head at himself, watching the path ahead. "Family drama, mostly." She had been there to see what happened to Dunny, which was something he definitely wasn't going to repeat, lest it ruin his mood again. "Mother's fretting more now, though. Rowan's been busy. Lillia is having boy problems, and Cami-" That was when he stopped. Cian realized he was talking about his family as if Aoife knew them personally. He also wondered if he should be telling her about Camille and that she was the only one he'd actually told about...this. Well, she knew the initial situation, anyway. He hadn't told her that he finally got up the courage to pen Aoife a letter.
Nearly rolling his eyes, there came a low chuckle from deep within his chest. "Sorry. This is just the first time I'm finally getting away." It wasn't just family business, but work as well. The captain also had a job for him and Rowan, one that he couldn't exactly speak to Aoife about.
Soon, the sound of water would get a little louder, and they'd find themselves riding along a trickling stream flowing the opposite way. Slowly, after some more time, it turned into that of a small river the further they went. It was at the end that she'd be able to spot the waterfall wedged between two tall peaks. That was their final destination.
Wordlessly, Cian slowed Sarge to a stop and dismounted. He didn't bother tethering the horse to anything, knowing the animal would be content to graze there in the valley. Patting him on the neck and murmuring some words of praise, he glanced Aoife's way with a hint of a smirk before heading towards the falls. She'd have to follow if she had anymore questions.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 14, 2021 16:54:00 GMT -5
Having grown up on the shores of a lake, surrounded by dense forest and woodland- Aoife hadn’t seen mountains until she was in her early teens. She had heard stories of them, legends of the stone circles their ancestors had erected upon the peaks- close to the fires of the sun; but the mystic had not seen them with her own eyes until Catriona had deemed her daughter old enough to make her first appearance at court. Though Aoife had been captivated by the city itself, how small Lasairdubh seemed in comparison to the royal castle, it was the surrounding mountains that truly left the strongest impression on the young girl. After she joined the military, Aoife had spent her days away from the barracks exploring the landscape. She had found both peace and challenges amongst the peaks- climbing gave her a workout unlike any other, improving her strength and stamina just as much as her military training.
She had adored those weekends spent alone, but she was enjoying Cian’s company even more- even in those moments when silence stretched between them. In those moments, Aoife divided her time and attention between the trail and the soldier. The mystic wouldn’t have been able to decide which was better at holding her attention. Forest rides through Namyca were often spent in shadow- the dense canopy only allowing light to fully filter through here and there, mostly the light fell dappled through the trees, soft and often eerie. Here however, the sky stretched endlessly overhead: a clear, cold blue. It truly was peaceful. Despite their proximity of Ethion, it was effortlessly easy to forget the city. It seemed so far away, even the noise of the hustle and bustle didn’t reach this far along the trail.
Family drama? That piqued her interest, and Aoife cocked a brow at the soldier- her own family could seem so chaotic at times that Aoife often wondered just what other families were like behind closed doors. Whether they bickered and fought just as much as the Lee Frye’s did. So as Cian detailed what was going on with his relatives, though she couldn’t place faces to all of the names he mentioned: Aoife listened with curiosity. Mother’s fretting was something she could empathise with- afterall, Catriona had called the entire family back home so she could voice her concerns. ”Apologising again?” The mystic said, that teasing edge once again creeping into her tone. ”But really, don’t, worry- what happened with Cami?” Aoife asked, encouraging the man to continue.
Aoife allowed her grey orbs to fall away from Cian and towards the ground, noticing the spring flowers that were beginning to bloom amongst the grasses- some hugging the dirt path on which they rode. She inhaled deeply, drinking in the gentle perfume of the blooms. How often did she stop to appreciate the flowers? Not quite often enough. Even though Aoife was a self-titled lady of leisure these days, she seemed to keep herself too busy to remark the little things- but here, away from worries and responsibilities, the mystic was beginning to notice them now.
Soon the peace of falling hooves and birdsong was joined by the bubbling of a stream, and Aoife was taken aback somewhat. These sounds, it was exactly like Nephim peak… at least the beginning of her ascent. All it needed was a sudden herd of fleeing deer. Luckily there was no such sudden movement, and the mystic managed to quash the sudden unease that had stirred within her- helped along a little by the smirk on Cian’s lips. Heading towards the falls, the Soldier didn’t stop to wait. So, swinging down, she paused only to give her mount a reassuring rub on the nose- lowly muttering ”Stay here, be good.” to the beast before chasing after Cian- jogging the last few steps in order to catch up.
For a moment, she deliberated whether to slide her hand into his once again. It seemed as though Cian had been the one taking all the chances recently: sending that letter, kissing her in the stables, suggesting they go somewhere- anywhere. She figured it was probably her turn. So Aoife took that chance- gently grabbing the soldier’s hand as he led them closer towards the falls. ”Are you going to tell me why you keep smirking, or is it one of those wait-and-see kind of occasions?” Tilting her head, Aoife regarded him curiously- trying to decipher any clues the soldier’s expression may give away.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 15, 2021 11:36:58 GMT -5
Cian wasn't moving too fast, purposely lagging behind so that she could catch up. There was this strange relief at just being here again. The location wasn't anything spectacular, maybe, although it was beautiful, but it was calming. It was peaceful. It had been a place he often thought about when his mind was too clouded with thoughts and he had always wished to return. It was his childhood and his first taste of adventure. And now, it seemed to be his present, and he was liking that a whole lot more.
He laughed gently- yes, seemed like he was apologizing yet again, but he wasn't really sure how to continue that conversation. What about Cami? Well, she was the one he had spilled his emotions to after the spar, she was the one that knew everything (well, some things), and he had been avoiding her ever since. If he had to worry about anyone finding out about anything, it was likely her, even though she wasn't the type to tattle. "My cousin, uh....well, she had questions," he tried to explain without diving into too much detail. "She was there when I came home after our spar." And she would probably have so many more questions if she knew what was going on now. Aoife was welcome to nudge further about that, but for now, Cian wouldn't spill on his own. At least Camille didn't react the way he had feared.
His gaze was looking towards the sun, wondering if it was going to provide the proper light, when he felt her small hand reach for his own. Aoife immediately gained his attention while they walked, grinning again as his heart beat just a little bit faster. It was going to be difficult to part ways from her later, wasn't it? After all this waiting, after constantly wondering and hoping...she was finally here and he already thought they were running out of time.
At her question, he didn't reply, only offering a light shrug before he was pulling on her arm and playfully urging her in front of him when they neared the stone. The waterfall flowed to their right, gently spraying them in mist while the wall before them had clear divots in the rock to help with climbing. And it would be a short climb, perhaps only twenty feet or so. Cian still held onto her hand, his other moving to rest casually against her hip before she would hear his voice so close to her ear. "Wait-and-see," he finally answered. "Just need to climb." Well, he was being fairly vague now, wasn't he?
If and when she did, he would follow, realizing that maybe he should have gone first because he kept finding that he was staring. Still, it was to ensure she didn't fall, or that was simply the excuse he was giving himself. Fortunately (or maybe a little unfortunately), it wasn't long until he was requesting she stop, pointing towards the falls and the secret path that seemed to be resting just behind it. All she had to do was step over to it.
It was a long caved path, just tall enough for him to stand fully where the falling waters veiled them from sight. It was a neat little spot, but what he loved about it was that during certain times of the day, the sunlight filtered in through the falls just right and painted the rock wall in a rainbow of color. Reflections of the water waved and danced across the stones as well as her lovely face, and he was silent as he climbed in after her.
For someone who didn't like the idea of gramarye, maybe even feared it, he was often blown away by nature's natural magic.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 15, 2021 15:55:48 GMT -5
She was glad he wasn’t rushing along the trail, even if Cian had mostly been taking it slow so she could catch up: it still afforded Aoife the opportunity to truly take in the scenery. Even though the mystic had been spending a lot of time on her own in the last few months, taking time to enjoy staring out to sea and listening to the sound of the waves: her last few rides had been for a purpose, merely a means of going from A to B. From Ethion to Nephim peak, Ethion to Lasairdubh and back again, even the ride on which she had tailed Ciaran- they had all been a means to an end, merely a ride for the sake of riding. So Aoife was enjoying this, enjoying the pleasant ride and the easy company the soldier provided. It was also an honour, almost humbling even, that Cian would share somewhere so special to him- if only the mystic knew and understood exactly just how much this place meant to the soldier.
”Oh-” She breathed, not having even paused to consider the possibility that this- this new, fragile, and precious thing- wasn’t something that just the two of them shared anymore. ”I’m s-” Aoife began, before managing to stifle the apology that was about to fall from her lips. She was sorry for how she had left him that day, and she didn’t like to imagine just how Cian had been following their spar, didn’t like to think on the misplaced guilt she had put him through all because she had been too scared to say anything. Too scared to even think clearly. ”And what did you tell her? What did she say?” How many times had the mystic paused to wonder how her own family would react to this? Now, she found herself equally curious as to how Cian’s family had reacted. Grey eyes didn’t leave the man as she waited for his answer, searching his expression for the slightest change. Maybe she shouldn’t have pushed and pressed, but Aoife needed to know. At least she thought she did.
Aoife didn’t protest as she was encouraged forward, glancing upwards at the rock face. It didn’t seem like too far a climb- but Cian still had hold of her hand, and though the mystic considered herself an adept climber: she doubted that she’d be able to make it very far with the use of only one hand. But then his free hand was on her hip, his voice in her ear, and suddenly Aoife didn’t quite want to go anywhere. ”Just need to climb?” She echoed, turning her head ever so slightly so she could look at him; a grin on her lips. ”You might have to let go of my hand first.” Despite her words, the woman didn’t move to take her hand back or even turn back to face the stone in front of them: instead, Aoife cocked a brow at the soldier, as though challenging him to make a move.
When, and if, he released her hand, the woman would confidently begin the climb and continue until she was indicated to stop. If Cian hadn’t been with her, Aoife wouldn’t have noticed the path unless she was actively looking for it. She stepped forward, still clinging to the rock face until she was confident that the path was stable and she wouldn’t slip and fall. A few more steps, leaving room on the path for Cian to follow her, and she turned.
For a moment, the sight stilled her and Aoife felt herself being mesmerised by the patterns of light against the rock walls. This, this was why she loved Teronna so dearly. There was a kind of magic to the land, it was in the air and the water too, and it never failed to take her breath away. It was beautiful. She didn’t know what to say, there was nothing to say as she drank in the sight: committing every tiny detail to memory before allowing those grey orbs to rest on the soldier. In the ever changing light, the rainbows which danced across his features, those familiar blue eyes took on a multitude of hues. ”This-” She began, a contented sigh falling from her lips, ”This is-” Aoife once again searched for the words to convey how she was feeling and fell short. Instead she held out her hand to him, and if he took it, pulled the soldier closer.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 16, 2021 12:04:36 GMT -5
It was dawning on him that it might’ve been wrong to have mentioned anything to Camille. Then again, Cian hadn't known what to expect that day or even how to feel about any of it. He’d been confused, and his cousin had wanted to help. She was aware of what happened and why he had felt lost, but even Cian hadn't known what to make of this back then. Still, he quietly prayed he didn’t just somehow betray Aoife's trust. In all honesty, he felt like he was never going to get this chance.
She had been on the verge of apologizing to him, which caused his brow to furrow just slightly, but it was her questions that followed which made him a little surprised, perhaps a little worried. "Um, well-" Cian took a second to recall that day. He remembered feeling guilty and just exhausted while he had mulled over what those sudden feelings were. "I just...told her how I felt after...all of that, that I didn't understand, that I was sorry for...I don't know, overstepping maybe?" He wasn't technically apologizing right now, but perhaps a part of him secretly was. "She basically called me an idiot." There came a light huff of laughter before he continued. "Camille doesn't know anything past that day, but...she told me to do something about it, and eventually I wrote that letter to you. I just...had to know."
He had wanted to talk to Camille further about it, just to ease the slight anxiety of having to wait for any possible response from Aoife, but he hadn't, and he was glad he didn't. This was just them now, their own little secret. Still, his cousin was aware that the woman was a Lee Frye and she didn't seem very bothered by it. That had been a comfort he hadn't known he needed, yet he just wasn't sure what the rest of the family would think.
But they weren't here, so it was the last thing on his mind.
Especially when she turned her face a little towards him, that challenge in her words and expression. He stilled, and it took a lot of willpower not to kiss her again. Truthfully, the only thing holding him back was the reminder that they would have the perfect light for just so long; otherwise, they would have to wait until sundown.
Well, would that be so bad? The logical part of his brain was telling him yes, and he didn’t want to listen to it right now.
Cian was clearly contemplating it; his face lingering so close to hers before a sigh (more akin to an airy growl of amused frustration) escaped him, and he reluctantly let her go so she could climb. He wanted her to see this for the few moments that it would last before the sunlight was no longer in the right spot. And it appeared they were just in time, too.
There was this wondrous thing about Teronna. Even he, as opposed as he was to the Mystics, understood that vein of magic which ran through the roots of this kingdom. It was as though magic gave the lands its lush green color, created unique displays such as this one in the most random of places, and he didn’t know if that bothered him. He could see it, he could almost feel it despite the fact that he didn’t possess gramarye of his own- not real magic, that is. Perhaps he would have truly loved it more if magic hadn’t taken Cara from him, even with a family full of Wardens.
Watching in awe as the colors washed against the stone, his gaze eventually turned to Aoife at his side instead. Cian had seen this a few times in his life already, but he never got to see it with her. This time, he admired the reflections of color as they danced across her face, across every contour, from the grey of her eyes down to the set of her lips.
"Beautiful," he finished her sentence. "Yeah…" Of course the display was beautiful, but he wasn’t speaking of that, evident by how he had already been watching her when she looked his way. When Aoife took his hand to draw him closer, he was pulling her back against him gently in a casual embrace; gaze back on the stone. "I found this place as a boy. I don’t...quite remember how, honestly. I just suddenly found myself here like I was drawn to it." Cian’s voice was steady and calm as he quietly reminisced. "It’s calming…" It was a wonder why he didn’t travel here more often these days.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 16, 2021 16:13:25 GMT -5
Did Aoife mind? She wasn’t sure just how she felt about someone else possibly knowing about them… on one hand, it could very well be the first step towards no longer having to sneak around, no longer having to stagger leaving the barracks or disappearing to the beach or the mountains just to have a moment alone. On the other, it could very well spell the beginning of the end. What they had was fragile, and had already almost slipped out of their grasp on more than one occasion. She didn’t want to lose this, whatever this was, before it even really began.
Still, they had both been lost and confused following that spar- and just because Aoife preferred to run from her problems rather than talk them out, she couldn’t exactly begrudge the soldier for seeking out advice. So many times she had been told that talking helps. That it might help her make sense of things, might help her come to terms with things, might even help her move on- it had taken months before Aoife had opened up to anyone and even then she hadn't truly told anyone everything, but they had all been right: it did help. It didn’t fix anything, or make everything fade away, or even make her feel herself again… at least not completely- but it had helped, it had given her some solid ground to stand on for the first time. From there she had been able to begin to heal.
Listening intently, Aoife didn't lift her full attention from the soldier as he told her about what words had passed between himself and his cousin. When he told her Camille had called him an 'idiot', Aoife chuckled a little: perhaps their families were more alike than anyone had realised. "Did it help?" The mystic asked gently, grey eyes resting upon his features. "Not being called an idiot, of course, but talking with your cousin?". She paused, as though trying to decide whether to even ask the next question. Though he had laughed, Aoife still felt a little uneasy: she couldn’t quite shake the feeling that seeing the DeGraff was wrong. "Did she call you an idiot because of the whole…?" Feud… did she call you an idiot for spending time with me?. Idiot was probably tame in comparison to what Aoife thought she would get if she told any of her brothers, Rosemary might understand- maybe. But seeing as Cian was here, with her, it seemed as though the 'something' his cousin had told him to do wasn't to end things… either that or Cian had ignored her suggestion.
With his sigh, the grin on Aoife’s lips quickly turned into something more akin to a smirk. For a moment, she considered doing what he hadn’t, but it was fun to have the upper hand: if only for a minute or two.
When she finally pulled her gaze away from the dancing lights, eyes falling once again on Cian and noticing him watching her rather than the magic he had brought her here to see: Aoife, out of habit, quickly glanced away. It was a silly habit, and one they mystic truly hoped she could quash quickly. Right now though, she couldn’t quite help it: the fluttering in her chest whenever she caught the soldier looking at her, or when he caught her.
It’s calming…
It really was. Humming in agreement. Leaning into the embrace, Aoife watched the lights against the stone wall for a little while longer. Contentment grew even as the lights faded away. It seemed as though they had arrived just in time. The mystic wasn’t a great believer in fate, but the chances of anyone stumbling upon this place at the right time seemed so small… it was difficult to just put this down nothing more than luck. Perhaps the man was drawn to magic… or even had gramyre of his own… though, as curious as she was, Aoife knew better than to query it. Even if she trusted Cian, questions like that would inevitably lead to someone’s head in a basket.
She didn’t want to think about that now, ruin the moment with thoughts of the mad king and his war. So Aoife tried not to. ”It really is beautiful-” Even without the lightshow, there was a certain tranquility to this place. ”-I can think of worse ways so spend a day.” She practically hummed the words. With the lights now faded, Aoife shifted a little, turning to face him without moving to break the embrace. After he had shared something so special with her, the mystic couldn’t quite find the words to express how she was feeling. So, instead of speaking, Aoife leaned closer, resting her head against him- should the soldier allow it- and whisper: ”I’m glad we did this, that we had the chance too.”
It wouldn’t be long before they had to leave, to return to the castle and the city and the lives they lived within it. For now though, they could just be this
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 17, 2021 13:47:19 GMT -5
There was that wondering again- unsure of how to handle their situation and where they would go from here. Cian kept telling himself not to dwell on it, only to focus on the present (in which she was making it very easy to do), yet every now and then, he couldn't help it. It was that hope, not wanting anything to interfere, not wanting some ridiculous family feud to split them apart. Maybe it was wishful thinking, needing this woman in his life so much so soon, but he couldn't seem to deny it. And because of it, Cian wasn't so keen on sharing any more of this with anyone, even if his cousin had helped.
"It did," he answered her, echoing his thoughts. Then Aoife was asking the very obvious question that was weighing heavily between them: did Cami disapprove because of their families? His expression softened, the corners of his eyes crinkling in slight amusement. "No, actually. She didn't seem to care about that." Although he had been unsure about telling her any of this, maybe that would ease some of her concerns if they mirrored his own. Camille hadn't cared, she still told him to do something about it. He knew he would have written that letter regardless, but his cousin's prodding just forced him to do so sooner.
Yet, they both knew not everyone would share Camille's sentiments, and he didn't want to voice that.
He couldn't help it- he kept grinning every time she quickly glanced away. Maybe he was watching her too much, too obvious with his stares, but there was something endearing and, dare he think, cute about how she did it. All it did was cause him to do it more, and that was the excuse he gave himself. That, and he didn't know how long it would be until they would see each other again.
He was smiling still, happy to have shared this secret little place with her. Now that she knew it existed, she could visit it whenever she wanted, whenever she needed to. For him, it was solace, and he could sit there against the stone for hours just watching the water fall in front of him. It immediately cleared his head, and yes, calmed his nerves. Aoife just so happened to make it a bit impossible to calm his heart down right now.
"I am, too," he told her, comfortably holding her close as she rested against him. His gaze idly watched the waters, feeling the cool mist every so often while the landscape beyond was contorted into a multitude of colors. Cian wanted to ask when they'd get another chance, but their time now wasn't even up yet. Instead, he quietly spoke of other things. "I've heard this story about a cave, somewhere further east...supposedly, there stands a single tree on its own tiny island inside, ever so slowly growing taller and taller towards the sun." It sounded like a myth, a child's tale, but it was an interesting one nonetheless. "Maybe I'll search for it one of these days." You should come with me, he wanted to add. Cian would need a couple of days away from Ethion, but maybe it was just the kind of vacation he needed.
The soldier was quietly speaking out loud. She just seemed to draw these simple memories and ideas out of him, perhaps because she was one of the first he felt like he could share them with. He was curious about her own childhood, her dreams and wishes, everything, but he was also quite aware that she didn't easily share things about herself. And he'd respect that. Didn't mean he wouldn't ask. "Is there somewhere you've wished you could go?"
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