Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 26, 2021 20:38:43 GMT -5
There was always going to be that chance of one miscalculated step, the wrong person seeing even just a passing glance between them. There was absolutely no doubt about that, and despite the fact that they would have the wrath of two powerful families likely raining down on their heads, he didn't care.
Of course it worried him still, and the last thing he wanted to do was put her in any position she was unwilling to be in, but, as he said, he was all in. Now that he was fully aware that Aoife Lee Frye existed in this world, now that she was physically in his arms, he wasn't about to let her go. She'd have to want to stop this and mean it. Not the war, not their families- her.
"In a real fight that instinct would have gotten you killed." His brow furrowed a little, but Cian managed to keep a bit of mirth in his eyes. She was right, of course. "I know," he said in affirmation. "But, to be fair, you were very distracting." He was admitting this with a quiet chuckle. "That-" A brief pause, he corrected himself. "You...don't exactly happen every day to me." Fighting for your life was an entirely different thing from sparring with an attractive woman. He had always thought her beautiful, even when he wasn't admitting it to himself, but there had been that raw side of her that day which escalated it to a whole other level. Cian had seen it, he had sensed it, but he had been so caught up in the moment of heated adrenaline that it didn't click in his mind until the end.
How in all of Elysium was he supposed to handle a rematch?
With silent prayers, that's how.
The amused expression remained. There was that "if" again. "You keep speaking of these tricks, and I just don't believe you," he mocked defensively. "I don't have any tricks." Hell, maybe he did, but he was going to jokingly argue for the sake of it because he didn't want that somber feeling to bring either of them down again right now. Those were things they shouldn't have to worry about yet, not while up here away from it all.
He was careful holding her near the edge. Falling over wouldn't be too terrible- he'd done it before on a dare and it wasn't that bad of a fall. Just the water might still be a bit cold. Cian didn't think he wanted to find out how cold at the moment. Then, Aoife was speaking of sunsets in the morning and his heart nearly seized. If only it were that easy, if only they were that lucky. Fortunately, she kept talking, keeping the humor alive in this silly albeit wonderfully sounding dream. "Squirrels?" he laughed lightly in surprise. "Dear gods, woman, at least rabbits!"
Their conversation got serious when he dropped that honesty. Feeling her straighten in his embrace had him shutting his eyes for a second, wondering if he should have waited on that, or perhaps not said it at all. There was no need to rush this, and maybe it sounded like he had been trying to? From the very start, they had gone at their own pace so it never seemed like an issue. It was just natural, even now.
'All in.' Aoife was turning around, speaking, and resting a hand against his face. That was when he opened his eyes again to look down at her lovely face; the last remnants of concern beginning to filter away as a new warmth filled his chest. 'I want you.' Cian leaned forward to rest his forehead against hers, a gentle smile finding its way back onto his lips. "You have me," he confirmed quietly. "We just take it one day at a time, that's all." He paused before attempting a tiny bit of humor, but it was clear that he wasn't sure he believed it. "Maybe we're worrying about nothing, hmm?" Sure, their families would completely understand.
Too bad neither knew they were also fighting on different sides of this war.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 27, 2021 10:51:58 GMT -5
He might have been agreeing with her, that in another set of circumstances his ‘instinct’ would have been a dangerous mistake- but at the same time the humour hadn’t quite left his eyes. Aoife didn’t like how lightly he was taking this, but at least the quiet chuckle helped alleviate the dark turn her thoughts had taken.
Forcing a small smile to her lips, the woman looked at him- besides, she hadn’t exactly been distracting on purpose. But… it was good to know for next time that she could use that. Or was that technically cheating? ”So we have to spar everyday before you stop getting distracted?” Teasing, Aoife allowed the last of the dark thoughts to dissipate. It was much better to switch to this, the easy, gentle taunting than to imagine the guardsman down in the mud… only this time, not getting up again. ”Do you think you’d even be able to make it a week?” Quirking a brow, grey eyes sparkled in challenge. Though, she doubted she would be able to keep it up for more than a day or too- the mystic may not have been out of shape, but she was well and truly out of practice. Aoife had ached for days following their last sparring match, and some of the bruises had taken weeks to fade.
Was it bad she was looking forward to it? Looking forward to feeling the adrenaline surge through her again, mingled and mixed with a fluttering heart and the thrill being close to Cian DeGraff brought her? Excited to see who could win the upper hand?
It was an odd, conflicting feeling. Wanting to kiss the soldier one moment and throw him into the mud the next.He had looked so handsome in the rain.
”Well, for one-” The mystic began, the corner of her lips twitching into a lopsided smirk. ”- you do this thing, with your face, it is very distracting” Okay, so she couldn’t quite think of any actual tricks, but Aoife still maintained there had to have been something about the way Cian had fought. ”There were others too…”
Aoife didn’t quite look down, heights had never bothered her all that much… but it was spring, and even if the fall wasn’t too far, the water would be freezing- and the mystic much preferred the heat of the sun and the warmth of the guardsman’s embrace. ”Squirrels.” She echoed, her tone somewhat defensive even if there was still humour in it. ”What’s wrong with squirrels? They taste better.” Plus it was impossible to eat a rabbit without thinking of the one she’d had as a pet when she was a girl. But she wasn’t about to tell Cian that, she might have been becoming increasingly fond of the guardsman- but the mystic wasn’t about to share that information.
But the details didn’t matter. Squirrels, rabbits, hares, duck, boar… it wasn’t important. It was just a little fantasy. An idle dream. Even if they were eating roots and berries it would be perfect. They would be together, no families, no war, no responsibilities.
Eyes closed as the soldier leaned forward. It was so surreal to have this easy intimacy once again. Not only to share it, but to practically crave it. You have me. Aoife hadn’t expected her heart to skip quite so much when he said that. She hadn’t realised how much she needed to hear it, the relief that flooded through her was instantaneous and dizzying. ”One day at a time-” Practically humming the words as she echoed them, Aoife wondered what that would entail- they had their plan to escape to the mountains and little excuses to see each other hear and there. But for the most part, it meant more secrets. If that was the price they had to pay, so be it. It was worth it, he was worth it.
Maybe we're worrying about nothing, hmm
Aoife had to laugh at that, a short bark of laughter she couldn’t have contained even if she had tried to- ”Well, maybe-” the mystic said, once the laughter had subsided, - I mean, we’d be able to have a joint funeral at least?” Really, Aoife didn’t know how her parents would react… how her brothers would react… and that uncertainty was enough to make her want to keep this quiet. All in. Short of running off to the mountains or another kingdom, there weren’t exactly a lot of options going forward.
If they wanted to be together, they would have to come forward eventually.
”But let’s find out later? I don’t know about your family, they must be so worried about Dunstan… and my family… my brother, something happened and he’s fine but my mama is going to kill him when she finds out. I don’t know.” She had rambled a little, but it was a lot to process- there was a lot going on- this would just be pouring petrol onto that particular fire.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 27, 2021 17:48:04 GMT -5
If he didn't make light of the situation, there wouldn't be smiles or laughs anymore, at least not for awhile. He couldn't go down that road right now, he couldn't risk thinking about not being there for his sister, or how he couldn't get to Dunny. Cian was an entirely different person in battle because of this, and sometimes he wasn't sure if it was a good thing. Sure, he made less foolish mistakes and didn't let a pair of pretty, albeit sometimes glaring grey eyes distract him when it was a fight for his life, but what he was fighting for wasn't always for the good of the kingdom. To him, it was that hate he carried for those with magic, for what they had done, and it was dark and frightening.
That was something he'd only allow to come to the forefront of his mind when he was alone. Not here, not now.
Oh yes, she would be cheating. Cian realized the moment he confessed that was the moment he possibly lost every match if he couldn't keep his head on straight. To be honest, it wouldn't be ridiculously easy for her to distract him, but she had a good chance of it. Okay, a very good chance of it. The one thing he had going for him was that it was likely going to be at the barracks where so many people often frequented...and the last thing he needed was Dunstan or Lillia catching wind of any of this. They would just escalate it into a blazing fire, negatively or not.
'So we have to spar everyday before you stop getting distracted?' That humor remained and his lips pursed while he struggled to find words to answer that, unable to look her in the eye for a second. He would just think about those distractions all over again. Well, she was distracting a lot of the time without meaning to be.
Cian supposed that was what happened when someone invaded your thoughts more often than not.
When she asked if he'd be able to make it a week, he dared to shift those blues over to her and catch the spark of challenge. Dammit. He should be rising up to that challenge but he felt like he already dug his own grave with this. "No," he finally admitted. Although the soft amusement was still evident in his eyes, his voice had dropped an octave; gaze dropping to her mouth in thought. "Probably not..." He decided not to elaborate, because he didn't know what would happen if she went down on her back again.
Slowly snapping out of it, he regarded her with a questioning look. "What thing with my face? It's just my face," he pretended to be offended again; on the verge of laughter but he managed to suppress it. Maybe he did have some tricks, maybe even some tells, but all he knew was that he was going to have to try extra hard next time. Aoife had a bigger advantage now, and he already embarrassingly admitted it. Still, he knew the former soldier in her didn't want special treatment, and he didn't plan on giving that to her. Not in the arena, anyway.
"Do they?" Cian had never actually eaten a squirrel before (unless his father had lied to him during one of their camping trips), so maybe he shouldn't judge. Even if he was now chuckling again at the thought. And, should they be lucky to sneak away on that little trip, he would be sure to have some provisions...so hunting poor squirrels or hares shouldn't be an issue.
They would probably worry about someone finding out, but other than that, there shouldn't be any other concerns. It would just be them and no one else for a couple of days.
Aoife's sudden laughter caused a smile to spread wide across his face. Alright, so that had been a really dumb thing to say. He knew it the moment the words left his mouth, but it had been foolish, hopeful thinking. It also made her laugh, so he didn't take back the idiotic comment. But hey, maybe the unnecessary feud would end and they'd have nothing to worry about.
That was wishful thinking, probably. He wasn't going to voice that thought.
Later. Cian just nodded at that, not wanting to know nor was he in any rush to find out what anyone would think. Cami's support was nice, but he didn't think that girl could truly hate anyone without reason even if she tried. The mention of her brother, however, had him curious. He wasn't going to pry, but she brought it up and he couldn't help but ask, "Why is she going to kill him?" Aoife didn't have to answer. The guardsman knew by now that she didn't easily open up about things. Still, he couldn't help but wonder, and which one of her brothers she was even speaking of. Cian didn't know them all, but he was quite aware that she had a handful of them...
Why was it only dawning on him now how very scary that was?
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 27, 2021 18:56:43 GMT -5
Would she actually cheat? Use that distraction to her advantage? Probably not. At least, not at first. But if they reached three or four sparring matches without a win to her name… then, maybe then, she might consider it. The mystic wanted to win on her own merit, but she wanted to win even more. The competitive streak ran in the family, and she imagined it ran in his too. There was however, one downside to that plan- Aoife wasn’t sure she’d be able to keep her head in the fight if she started to try and distract Cian. It was all too easy to get lost in those blue eyes at the best of times, too easy to get carried away with him.
No, Probably not…
Maybe it was the way his gaze met hers briefly before dropping to her lips, maybe it was the way the guardsman’s voice lowered… but Aoife felt her cheeks flush at the unspoken suggestion. She had been trying to goad him into a challenge, and with just three words and a glance- Cian had gained the upper hand.
Aoife came out of the spell a little quicker- grey eyes watching as Cian slowly returned to his senses. Laughing at the questioning look, laughing more at the question itself, and even more at the feigned offence which then crossed over the soldier’s countenance: Aoife did her best to mimic the grin Cian so often wore, the one that made her heart skip and guard drop. She failed miserably. ”The thing!” She exclaimed quietly, ”It’s annoying and attractive and, yeah, distracting.” Very distracting. And Aoife adored it.
”They do.” Aoife confirmed, head bobbing sharply in affirmation. On more than one occasion Aoife and her brothers had been turned loose in Namyca and left to fend for themselves in the name of ‘toughening up’ and ‘building character’. Now she was older, the mystic had learned their father had never been far away, and they were never truly alone in the woods: but it had felt like it at the time. Sometimes their snares only caught squirrels… so squirrels were what they ate. Even if it hadn’t been true, the mystic would have argued the point further to encourage another low chuckle to escape from the soldier.
Laughing was the only thing she could really do, otherwise the mystic would have to consider the consequences of being caught out. There was a slight chance that they were worrying over nothing. But there was a slightly higher chance that the sun would rise in the West tomorrow morning. The feud had been going on for so long, it seemed as though the oceans would turn to fire before it ended. Maybe they could change that.
She sighed, held like this- there weren’t exactly a lot of places Aoife could look. So, somewhat strangely, she found herself focusing on a loose curl that had fallen across Cian’s forehead. ”It’s a long story-” The mystic began, speaking slowly as her mind raced ahead and tried to find the words. There wasn’t any harm in telling Cian, right? He hardly knew her brothers, and there was no way he would even be in the same room as Catriona Lee Frye to let the metaphorical cat out of the bag. Besides, she did trust him. Completely and utterly. ”-he kept a secret from her, a big one.” Aoife paused then, biting her lower lip. Her skin was crawling. In the guardsman’s embrace: she couldn’t squirm or fidget or even idly toy with her hair. Aoife should have felt trapped, even constricted. But somehow, the gentle pressure of his arms around her was reassuring- giving her the slight push of confidence she needed. ”He’s still keeping it, but if I found out then Mama will and she’s going to- well- I don’t know what’s she going to do-” Another sigh. ”-but I do know she’s not going to be happy.”
Just like she wouldn’t be happy if she found out about this particular secret.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 27, 2021 21:04:04 GMT -5
His brow furrowed, watching her apparently attempt to show him some sort of distracting thing he did. If he was being honest, he really had no idea as to what she was talking about. Was it some weird squinting smolder? Was it some sort of smile like she was doing? Granted, the emotion behind any grin that crossed his face when he was looking at her or even thinking of her was entirely different from any other he shared. "The...thing. Right," he echoed before she was saying how annoying, attractive, and distracting it was. Well then... Again, without even realizing it, that stupid grin found its way to his face.
Well, now that he seemed to have some sort of "secret weapon", he might have a chance to win again next time.
Cian wasn't going to argue about the squirrels. It certainly wasn't something they were going to have to worry about, nor should it be something to be concerned about. The idea made him softly laugh, nearly shaking his head at himself as he knew he had to let the little fantasy die off. It wasn't ideal, it wouldn't exactly be possible, and he truly would miss his own family. As much as they could drive him crazy and would likely be reeling in anger to know he was here with a Lee Frye in his arms, he couldn't so easily part from them. Not completely. Just as he wasn't very keen on letting Aoife go either. His world was a far better place with her in it.
He wouldn't admit to it out loud, but the DeGraff had briefly wondered if this between them- whether it blossomed into something more than the current mutual trust and comfort- could change things between their families. Cian didn't want this to go away, and he realized he was beginning to crave the woman's attention and company far more as the minutes ticked by. And he didn't take these things lightly, he didn't go and trust someone like this so easily. He was told Aoife was an "enemy", to avoid her family at all cost. Why? She'd done nothing but prove the stupid feud was pointless and gave him something more to look forward to than just revenge. She was the very light he needed in the darkest part of his world. In the entirety of it.
Remaining quiet and patient, Cian let her decide on what to tell him (or to not tell him anything), and was content to stand there with her in his arms. She was right to feel like she could tell him whatever it was- there was no one for him to tell, even if he wanted to. This wasn't some ploy to get Lee Frye secrets, because he genuinely liked her. A lot.
"Oooh...you never keep big secrets from your mother," he began as if in understanding until he visibly cringed. Right, like what they were currently doing? Was this worse than whatever her brother was hiding? Cian almost wanted to question her further on it if only to see if it would make him feel better. Not that he regretted this, but the conversation was just drifting right back to the looming issue, and he hadn't meant for it to.
Aoife continued to speak, and his arm around her waist subconsciously secured her closer against him. "Maybe he'll come around?" Cian wasn't really sure what to say, considering he didn't know what could be so big as to keep it from your own mother. But, he wasn't about to judge either.
Oh no, he really couldn't judge.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 28, 2021 7:11:37 GMT -5
”The thing.” Aoife confirmed, mirth sparkling behind her eyes. Her eyes lit up further the second the exact grin she had been trying (and failing) to mimic took hold of his features. ”That thing!” She chimed brightly, pure joy taking hold of her own features. The grin that had caused her so much trouble already, and would doubtlessly cause her even more in the long run. Still, despite the trouble, the mystic knew she’d act like a complete idiot as many times as she needed to just to keep it on his lips.
They let the fantasy fade, the little clearing was just that once again: a little clearing. A tiny peaceful oasis away from Ethion. Still, it had been nice to imagine: even if it had just been for a moment. The mystic didn’t understand the feud, didn’t understand just why Cian and his family were considered enemies- she would have understood a rivalry, after all, they were both such prominent military families. Rivalry was natural, blind hatred was not. Despite the curiosity, Aoife knew she couldn’t ask without stirring suspicion… her mother would know instantly, her father would be suspicious of her sudden interest. Maybe she could ask Lee, or Niall, maybe even Eoghann. But that would be another question for another time. Even though neither the mystic nor the soldier wanted to dwell on it, to let those dark thoughts cloud over such a perfect moment: the feud and the shadow it cast seemed big enough to reach them even here. Inescapable.
His quiet gave her the space to think, the space to speak. It was a rarity in a household as busy as the Lee Frye’s. Somehow Cian had already picked up on what she needed. Was that why she had begun to trust him so quickly? Why the mystic found herself needing his company as much as she needed air in her lungs- Cian was the quiet amidst the chaos, a safe place in the middle of a storm. And Aoife hadn’t realised just how much she needed that until he interrupted her at the docks, but since that day she had only needed it more and more.
’Oooh...you never keep big secrets from your mother’
As he visibly cringed, Aoife managed to crack a small smile at the irony of the whole situation. Really, the only secret Aoife had kept were the letters. None of the servants had questioned her when she came home covered in mud and on the cusp of tears- Robert Lee Frye had been occupied with his work. So Aoife had soaked in the bath until her skin was an angry shade of red and she was exhausted enough to sleep. ”No,” She agreed, the smile faltering a little. Not that Catriona often allowed them the opportunities to keep secrets- that woman often seemed able to read minds. ”I don’t even know if she’ll be more upset over the secret or the fact he kept it.”
”Maybe.” The mystic sighed, though it was clear from the sound of her voice that she didn’t believe it even a little bit. With the gentle pressure against her waist, Aoife found herself leaning closer- resting her head against the guardsman’s shoulder. ”I hope so though.” What was Ciaran going to do? He clearly hadn’t told Terra that she knew… the woman had seemed so surprised to see her in the cemetery yesterday, more so when Myra had seemed so familiar with her. ”He’s been hiding, well, they’ve been- okay, so there’s a village near Lasairdubh.” Despite tripping over her words a little, there was no note of hysteria in her voice- Aoife spoke softly, as though she was parting with a secret she wasn’t quite sure she should be sharing. But, ever since she had found out- Aoife had been struggling with the weight of it. Ciaran hadn’t just made her promise to not tell their mother, but everyone.
”He has a daughter.” She said at last, mumbling the words into Cian’s shoulder. ”Out of wedlock, and she’s big now- they live in Greyshollow- so right under everyone’s nose.” With every word, Aoife felt some of the weight lift from her shoulders. Talking was helpful. ”They’re all alone and with the Unseelie attack and everything else going on- she would be safer at home. But then on the other hand he’s worried it would ruin the family name and I don’t know- Mama is good with things like that.” Groaning, she knew she had probably skipped over a lot of the context- but still, Aoife felt as though she’d at least explained why Catriona was quite possibly going to murder her middle son.
Was that worse? Aoife didn’t know.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 28, 2021 19:59:06 GMT -5
Oh, she shouldn't have told him about "the thing", because he just confessed that Aoife had a big advantage in any spar, yet now he had something he could wield against her. Well, if it would be strong enough to distract her during a fight she was focused on, that is. He had only fought her once, but he had not been blind to the strong determination in her eyes and in the way she moved and watched him carefully.
What he saw just then, though, was that mirth instead of determination, followed by her joy. It was strange and wonderfully crazy how it changed her face, and for a moment, his heart did a couple extra beats; that grin widening in his own humor. He loved it, this other side of her, because he was hoping she wasn't letting herself drift into that fog again. She had been somewhat quiet and a little withdrawn when he first came across her at the docks, but it seemed as though the both of them had come out of their shells since. Cian, at least, knew he had her to thank for his better mood. Even when he had been worried and unsure of her response to his initial letter, there were the memories and hope that kept him out of a bit of trouble. Not that it stopped him from wasting away some hours looking over several maps, on a mission to find the Mystic camp.
Then, while he had cringed and thought about how his words had made him sound like a complete hypocrite, Aoife still smiled. It was enough to make him feel better about it, even if her grin faltered a bit after. Wasn't keeping this a secret about them probably a good thing, at least for now? Naturally, they couldn't hide it forever, but he didn't want to see this cut short, forced by either family to end before it could really get started.
And he didn't care how selfish that might sound.
Cian took note of the disbelieving tone in her voice, yet he wasn't going to ask more about it. After a moment, after trying to find her words, Aoife was explaining anyway. 'He has a daughter.' He couldn't keep his eyes from going a little wide at that. "Oh," he murmured in slight surprise, clearly unsure of what to say to that. Apparently, it wasn't something that just happened either. For a moment, he thought about how his own mother would react to him, or any of her children, having a baby out of wedlock...and it wasn't pretty. He could already imagine the rage in her lovely eyes.
'-he's worried it would ruin the family name...' A part of him couldn't argue that. The Lee Fryes were a very prominent family in Teronna, expected to uphold the rules of society, be a good model, and something like this wasn't ideal. However, at the same time, a young daughter being kept away from her kin, and likely not in a safe area? Cian couldn't get behind that. Were this his own huge mistake, he would have owned up to it immediately. It wasn't just shame on the line- it was a little girl's life.
Even if Aoife felt she glossed over a lot, she had said enough to get him to understand, evident by the soft, nervous laugh he finally shared. "Well, that's...yeah, that's a pretty hefty secret." One that she clearly knew also. Cian wanted to give her hope that her brother would come around, however, he didn't know the man.
"At least she has you to watch over her?" he said quietly instead. "Your mother doesn't need to know in order for you to be a protective aunt." Although, he didn't like the idea of her being out in the middle of nowhere, either.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 29, 2021 14:29:45 GMT -5
The switch had always been so easy to make. Emotions off, focus on the the task at hand. Nothing else mattered but making sure you stayed alive and your opponent ended up on the ground. Preferably staying there. It was easy to switch back too- how many times had the Lee Frye siblings tried to murder each other one moment only to be laughing and joking the next? Too many times to count. Too many times to even remember. Even that day in the rain, even with Cian DeGraff, Aoife had slipped almost effortlessly into that mindset. Only, her opponent hadn't ended up on the ground. She had.. Blinking up into those bright blue eyes and feeling the weight of every emotion she knew the name of crashing down upon her. Wounded pride, insult, and anger had seemed at war with the fluttering in her chest and the way the guardsman made her blood race long after the adrenaline of their spar had faded. Next time though, they both had new aces up their sleeves and a promise to give it their all.
The mystic was looking forward to it.
Just as much as Aoife was dreading their parting that afternoon. It was difficult to gauge the way time passed with Cian. What felt like a matter of moments to her could have been, in reality, the stretch of several hours. As much as she didn't want to worry about it, the mystic knew that their time together up by the falls was limited. Cian may not be expected home each night, but Aoife certainly was. She didn't want to leave. The soldier had done more for her mind in a matter of weeks than months of self-imposed isolation. The walks had helped, had cleared her mind long enough that she could see her old self through the fog. With a grin and his company, Cian had let her reach her old self again. And though the darkness was still there, the nightmares threatening to dig their claws into her the second she closed her eyes to sleep: with him, it was so easy to forget about them that the mystic didn't even have to try.
Gently breaking their embrace, Aoife kept hold of his hand a moment longer. Guiding, if he allowed, to one of the lower boulders and hopping up onto it. Relishing the warmth the stone had soaked up from the sun. "Oh," She echoed in a low chuckling, thinking how her own reaction had been just a little more volatile. It wasn't uncommon, Lords having children out of wedlock... There was a new rumour floating around the court each week it seemed. But Aoife had never quite expected it to happen to them, and even then- the bigger shock had been just how long Ciaran had managed to hide it. Still, dishonour aside, Myra was kin. She was blood. She was family.. And Lee Fryes looked after their own, at all costs.
Aoife almost understood now, that keeping Myra safe had been what Ciaran was trying to do. That he had been just as concerned with protecting the name as the child. As far as Aoife was concerned, blood was more important than the name. Those who took the name took the blood with it, but even though Myra was not a Lee Frye in name... She was kin in blood. "Yeah... It's some secret." Aoife agreed, running her free hand through the length of her hair. She cast a sidelong glance to Cian, if he had opted to join her on the boulder, "She doesn't though... I'm all the way here in Ethion.". When the mystic spoke again, her voice was heavy with guilt. Guilt for telling Cian after she had been sworn to secrecy. Guilt for leaving Terra and Myra in the cemetery, not helping them. And guilt for walking away from Ciaran that day, leaving him with not only his own thoughts but the weight of what she had said to him. It wasn't fair. All of this over a name.
All of this over a name.
"Even if I went home, tried to look after her that way, it would take maybe three minutes for mama to know something was wrong-" I had barely left the house in months, she'd notice. Another heavy sigh. "I'm sorry, Cian... So much for getting away from it all." There was that guilt again, suffocating and heavy and inescapable. "Family drama, right?". Forcing a smile, small and almost cold, Aoife tried to think of another subject... Something happier and brighter and more suited to the day.
Or had she ruined it again? Sharing too much this time instead of too little.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 30, 2021 15:10:40 GMT -5
Cian knew he should probably ask when they should begin to head back into the city, but a part of him really didn't want to. He had spent the last couple of weeks wondering when he would see her again, what could come of it, what would happen, and having her there with him now was proving the impending departure difficult. If they could just run further into the mountains and disappear, he would have truly suggested it, as silly and quickly as that seemed.
For now, however, the vision of some little shack and roasted squirrels would be but a fun dream. They both had lives they needed to get back to, even if none of it compared to this simple moment right now. This was calm, this was peace, and his thoughts felt a little more clearer out here with her. He wondered how long it would last when he had to finally leave her side, and he was trying not to think about it.
As Aoife slipped out of his arms and led him away, he naturally followed. He climbed up onto the boulder to sit beside her, drawing in a slow breath of fresh air. Everything was always so much better up here- it was a shame it had taken him so long to return. At her laugh, his attention flickered back over to her, and he realized just how much better it was at the moment with her. It probably wouldn't be the same if he returned to this little oasis at a later date without her at his side.
The guardsman's face fell a little. 'She doesn't though...I'm all the way here in Ethion.' There was that dilemma again, that selfishness trying to rear its ugly head. Cian eventually shrugged a single shoulder as if he wasn't mentally arguing with himself and that the answer was simple. "Well...gives you more of an excuse to visit the family?" That wasn't meant to sound unsure or like a question but he couldn't exactly hide it now. Of course he didn't want her anywhere near where those magic users might be, but neither should her young niece. He found himself looking ahead again, over to the city while he refrained from a sigh. Why did it feel like things were going to get increasingly complicated, and not just this growing secret of their own, but the kingdom-wide drama?
Aoife explained how her mother would suspect and all he could do was nod in response. Well, that would make sense (he couldn't argue that his own mother wouldn't begin to suspect that something was amiss), unless her brother came out with this news sooner rather than later. Still, it would mean she would be further away again. He wasn't sure if this soft feeling of selfishness and attachment was a good thing or not.
"Hey-" he began when she apologized, lazily rocking to the side to lightly bump her shoulder with his. "It's family. As much as they can be insufferable, and...let's be honest, will make this between us rather interesting-" Or difficult, or feel impossible, but he wasn't about to voice that- instead, he offered a quiet laugh to lighten the mood. "We love them. We'll protect them from anything. So, don't apologize for worryingly speaking of them." Venting or talking about something helped; he'd never tell her not to, no matter the subject matter. "But...oh yes, drama. I don't think I can exactly top that, but give my siblings time. One of them is bound to mess up royally." Gentle humor began to creep its way across his face again, further lightening the mood.
Or, technically, he was the one "messing up". Not that he appeared at all guilty for it.
That probably wasn't a good thing.
So, as to not abruptly change the subject, Cian decided to stay on topic a little, keeping his tone light but curious...maybe to cover up the slight nervousness that was trying to slip its way out. "How many brothers do you have?"
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 30, 2021 16:27:34 GMT -5
It wasn’t too far back into the city, no more than an hour or so, which meant Aoife wasn’t too worried about lingering here. She would make it back, it was spring, which meant the sun set early- as long as the two of them began the journey back before it began to dip below the horizon, she would be fine. Part of her wanted to just stay up here and hang the consequences… make up some excuse about running into an old friend or visiting someone or other. Because that would work.
No, this would have to come to an end. The sun would set, and both Cian and Aoife would have to return to their families and their lives. Back to the life that Ciaran had described as dull. Worst part was, Aoife knew her brother was right: her life was dull these days. Every single part of her daily routine, save this- this stolen afternoon- seemed to blur together into one monotonous stretch. Was she turning into her mother? The ladies at court she had often pitied? The mystic would have to change that. And she intended to start by stealing more moments with Cian DeGraff.
Out of habit, Aoife pulled her knees up to her chest- bringing her entire body up onto the boulder. At ease, she lolled her head against her knees- grey eyes resting upon the soldier. Concern briefly flitted across the mystic’s features as his face fell, wondering what was passing through his mind. Lasairdubh was the better part of a day’s ride, faster if you didn’t allow the horse’s to rest, which was why she, her brothers, and her father didn’t quite visit as often as they probably should have. Aoife didn’t consider for even a moment that the guardsman might be concerned about the danger of mystics, to her or to Myra- though Unseelie raids were a threat, something that played at the back of Aoife’s mind from time to time: the bigger threat had always been the Wardens. All it would take was a whisper, a rumour that the little girl had magic, and there would be nothing Aoife, Terra, or Ciaran could do to protect her. ’Well…’ Cian’s words once again brought her back, back into the moments and out of her worries. ”I suppose, but I told him I’d stay away for a little while. He needed time ‘to think’. So… that’s what I’m going to do.” Though the woman rolled her eyes, she couldn’t help but smirk a little. Ciaran had two years to think… what else could he possibly be thinking of?
”Interesting.” Echoing his words, Aoife also mimicked the soldier’s movements- rocking back into Cian’s shoulder (only with slightly more force). ”That’s one way to put it I guess…” Did she like the fact it was interesting? Maybe a little. But even without the DeGraff name and the feud that followed it, Aoife didn’t doubt that her heart would still race faster whenever she saw him. She adored the peace he brought her. Loved how he hadn’t held back, at least until the last moment, on the sparring ground. Most of all, she liked the easy company, the two might have known of each other for most of their lives… but only recently had they realised what they had been missing out on. ”You’re right, sorry.” The mystic shrugged, grinning at the fact yet another apology had passed between them. ’I don’t think I can exactly top that’ Laughing, Aoife was happy to have left that conversation behind- glad the atmosphere had lightened once more. ”Not everything has to be a competition you know… plus, it isn’t one you’re going to win.” Idly, she rested her head against the guardsman’s shoulder, wishing for a moment she could tell him just how chaotic their household could be. Stories of setting the rug, the curtains, the dog on fire… Eoghann literally electrocuting them just because he could… the list went on and on. Aoife wanted to share it all with him, every part of her… all in.
Only, she couldn’t… there was a very real chance it could get them killed. Be proud of your magic, but keep it secret…
”Seven, four older, three younger.” Aoife said lightly, she would have shrugged if she hadn’t been so comfortable. The mystic couldn’t understand why he might be nervous. Big families were common. Besides, as much as she loved her brothers and as much as she would have done anything for them- they could still be idiots. ”You have two, right?” Again, she matched his tone, light and curious- though Aoife was pretty certain she was correct, Catriona had been insistent that they at least try to learn the notable families of Teronna.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 30, 2021 19:56:00 GMT -5
Worse case, this little place was still close enough to the city that perhaps stealing away for just a couple of hours every now and then would be plausible. Cian would hang on to that thought, and it helped with the worry that it would be near impossible to spend time with her again anytime soon. But it would be- the world wouldn't be that cruel, not when they just found this together.
The day might have to come to end, but his hope wouldn't. That counted for something. And all Aoife would have to do from here on out was write him notes or throw more pebbles at his window, and he would meet her anywhere. It didn't matter where or whether it was for a few minutes to a few hours.
Cian had been, for the most part, fairly open and honest about his feelings towards magic. He hadn't outright been vicious about it, but it should have been clear about how he felt and how he blamed the Mystics for Cara's death, Unseelie or otherwise. If only he knew just whom he was speaking to, what she really was...and if Aoife knew what he was keeping a secret. What would happen? How dangerous would this situation get, would his views change?
While he thought and worried about Aoife (and her niece) being anywhere near magic, Cian couldn't help but wonder what she would ever think about him being one of the small amount that hunted Mystics. The Warden Order was secret, they were meant to be thought of as a myth...would he ever tell her? If this relationship progressed, how long could he keep something like this from her?
Would he want to keep it a secret from her?
He smirked when she rolled her eyes, explaining how she promised her brother that she would stay away. Cian nodded in understanding, idly wondering if the man would do the right thing. He figured, were he in this same predicament, that he would tell his parents immediately...but he wasn't in that situation, and really, he couldn't judge. There was no saying what would go through his head, no matter what he told himself now.
Cian swayed when Aoife nudged into his shoulder, his grin widening as he righted himself again. 'Interesting.' Yes, interesting indeed. It was certainly a unique challenge- and that was putting it lightly. Perhaps neither of them should like the fact, but he never expected something good to be so easy to obtain to begin with. He was always of the mindset that you had to earn it, and he'd do whatever it took to keep her in his life, whatever that meant. Of course, after holding her and kissing her, it'd be awfully difficult to go back to merely a friendship.
There came those selfish thoughts again.
Regarding her with a playful narrowing of his eyes when she apologized, she was "forgiven" when she rested her head upon his shoulder. '-plus, it isn't one you're going to win.' "Oh? Is that household that chaotic, or are you still sore about not winning anything yet?" he teased in return. Sure, he may not have the same amount of siblings, but he had his cousins who might as well have been. When both sides of the DeGraff family got together, it got loud. Sometimes it was a little too much, and he truly did love them all dearly. It was something he sometimes had to remind himself of when he couldn't find a moment's peace. Having both Lillia and Dunstan at the barracks certainly made it difficult, too.
Seven brothers. Did he cringe? He hadn't meant to. "That's, uh...a lot of brothers." Cian may have laughed in response to that, but the soldier actually sounded a bit nervous about it. "Two," he confirmed her question. "And one sister." No longer two, but it was one of those rare moments that thinking about Cara didn't hurt. "Also a handful of cousins."
After a pause, he turned his head so that he could murmur against her dark hair; that grin of his beginning to curl his lips which she would likely be able to hear instead of see, "So, just how protective are these brothers of you?" He couldn't help it, and at the same time, nor could he blame them. He was rather protective of Arya, but he was going to be a hypocrite at the moment.
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 31, 2021 4:49:24 GMT -5
It seemed as though they had a lot to worry about. Not just their families, the feud; but also the secrets they had been keeping… what would happen should they find out? Aoife had already lost someone she loved to that crusade, as had Eoghann, the fear was very, very real- she couldn’t lose Cian to it as well, not so soon after finding him. Had she known he was a Warden, fighting on what Aoife and the rest of the Lee Frye’s considered to be the wrong side of this whole war, she would only worry about him more. Was that selfish? To want to keep him safe? The Unseelie were dangerous, reckless even- it was easy to be when they seemed to have nothing to lose. The hunted animal was most dangerous when it is backed into a corner, and Allarick had done that with this war. Mystics, people like Aoife, were forced to either hide or fight. Whilst she, and most of her family, had chosen the former- the mystic was almost awed by those who chose to do the latter against the might of the crown. Almost. They had taken everything from her, and a few short days ago they could have easily injured or killed Rosemary- mystic or not, Aoife would have skinned them herself if her little cousin had been caught in the crossfire.
And how would he react? If she told him, or worse: if the guardsman found out? Cian hadn’t spoken fondly of mystics, hadn’t suggested there was some hidden or buried sympathy for them. They had killed his sister, his twin. He was actively looking for their camps. Something told Aoife it wouldn’t sit well if he knew she was one of them, sat here in easy quiet company. So she kept quiet. For now. It was such a huge part of her, of her family… there was no way Aoife would be able to keep this secret if they continued to spend time together- if this blossomed and grew. She would have to tell him. Cian would have to know.
For now though, Aoife pushed it into the furthest corner of her mind. Letting it add to the quickly growing pile of things she didn’t want to think about, didn’t want to worry about. Interesting certainly was a way to describe this. The deck seemed stacked against them, and yet, every second in the soldier’s company just reminded her that this was worth it. More than worth it. Like Cian, Aoife was willing to fight for this.
”Yes, no.” She said, feigning some degree of grumpiness. With her head on his shoulder, he probably couldn’t see the way her brow furrowed. ”Yes, it is that chaotic- even now we’re all grown.” Fondly recalling the dinner from a few nights ago… the topic of conversation may not have been sunshine and rainbows, but it had still been nice to have everyone in the same room for a little while. ”No, I’m not sore. My pebbles skipped further.” It was a small win, but it had been a win nonetheless and Aoife wasn’t about to let him forget it.
Aoife didn’t miss the nervous tone to his voice this time, and her hand found his almost by instinct- giving a light squeeze before idly toying with his fingers once again- thumb brushing over his knuckles. ”Just a few,” Agreeing with Cian, Aoife’s voice was soft, almost gentle. She didn’t know how her brothers would react if they knew about this, that their sister was not only spending time with the DeGraff- but that she was more than fond of him at this point. Part of her hoped they would just accept this was her decision and leave it at that, only the more logical parts of her brain dismissed that as little more than wishful thinking. ”How many is a handful?” She asked, Cian had mentioned Camille- and it was still reassuring to know she hadn’t seemed to care about the feud.
”They’re fiiine.” Aoife lied, humour colouring her tone as she lightly squeezed the soldier’s hand once again. Lee and Niall were busy with their own families, their own responsibilities. Eoghann, Ciaran, and Iain on the other hand.... It would be fine. It would be. Growing up, when she was trying to be taken seriously, it had been annoying. As an adult, it was somehow worse. As much as she had tried to tell them she could take care of herself, hold her own, they’d still always looked out for her. ”We’ll worry about it later.” Joking, mostly, grey eyes found their hands. ”Besides, I’ve seen Rowan- you’ve got the scarier brother.”
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Mar 31, 2021 12:15:31 GMT -5
It would certainly be a big test, should those particular secrets ever come out. Were someone to ask him in that moment if there was anything that could pull him away from her, and he would tell them no. Immediately say no. However, there was far more on both sides, life or death secrets just lingering in the dark, awaiting to strike. Perhaps it was naivety, but thinking Aoife could possibly have magic never seemed to cross his mind. He was blinded by her- happily and foolishly so. If this had been some sort of ploy to catch the DeGraff off guard, she would have had plenty of opportunities to take him out.
At the beginning, Cian had known the difference between the Unseelie and those who had originally been hunted, simply for who they were. The guardsman wasn't entirely sure how he felt about their king- he was their monarch and was to be respected, of course, but there had been things he hadn't agreed with. Had the queen seduced him? Was a Mystic capable of such power? It was the Vangelis bloodline, Vivian's bloodline that ran through this earth...and it had turned against her. The people had turned against her. That had been his original thoughts when hearing the stories as a child.
But then he grew up. Then he lost Cara. And so began the constant, vigorous training of his mind and body to become one of those mysterious warriors Allarick would continuously deny existed. Cian was different when he a Warden- he was darker, scarier, and he didn't often like how it left him. He just didn't think he had much of a choice. Not anymore.
So, how blind would he remain to find out the woman he was swiftly falling for was a Mystic?
What of his own brother?
'-even now we're all grown.' Aoife would feel his shoulder rise and fall rapidly as he laughed a little at that. Oh, he could believe it. That many people, that many siblings in the same house was likely never to be quiet, no matter how old anyone was.
When she reminded him of their time at the beach, how he had been horrible at skipping stones, he nodded slowly. "Ah, yes, of course. I suppose I could give you that one..." Cian trailed off as though he were contemplating it, but her hand was distracting him once again. He was simply content in that moment that he almost missed what she was saying. 'How many is a handful?' "Well-" He paused for a second, counting quickly in his head. "Five. My, uh...my aunt, she...can't have children, so her and my uncle adopted those in need. I wouldn't be surprised if they add more to the brood." She wouldn't be able to see how his smile had faltered, wondering if that was something far too personal to share with her, considering it wasn't about himself. Yet, it was admirable. Aunt Maeve was one of the strongest women he knew, and she managed to see the light at the end of a very dark tunnel in her life.
'They're fiiine.' Oh, she thought that was amusing? Cian lifted his head to look down as if he'd be able to see her face; and there was mock worry (okay, partial worry) on his own. "Yeah? I don't think you understand a brother's need to protect a sister. And here you are...with a whole-" He gestured with his free hand, trying to find a word for it. "-herd of them." There was clear humor in his tone, he was just being slightly dramatic. Maybe. "I don't even want to think about Arya introducing me to anyone she brings him." Would he be bad? Perhaps not, but he fortunately hadn't been in that predicament yet.
He laughed at her comment about Rowan. "Oh, he's a giant softy." Who could also be incredibly scary, yes. There was no doubt about that. Cian drew in a slow breath as he rested his head back against hers gently. "He had been married before. Muriel, she was...with Cara that day." Again, that probably wasn't his to tell, but at least he didn't elaborate. Aoife would probably know exactly the day he spoke of, though.
Blinking, he forced himself to backtrack a little, the smirk returning to his lips. "Rowan's not the one you should worry about, though. Lillia is the wildcard." You know, besides his mother, of course. She'd likely murder him first if his father didn't calm her. Cian wondered about Desmond- the man was so loving, a walking dad joke, and yet one of the fiercest Wardens that had ever existed considering he and his brother helped the king create the order. Would even he frown upon this connection to a Lee Frye?
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Pyxis
27
Increasingly complicated
Ex-soldier
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Post by Aoife Lee Frye on Mar 31, 2021 13:53:16 GMT -5
It was a miracle some of the Lee Frye’s had managed to keep their magic hidden. Some, like Eoghann, were subject to their emotions. Even Aoife to some degree, when she had been angry as a child… even as a teen and sometimes as an adult, the heart would suddenly go from a smolder or a flicker to a roar. But now, as a woman, her grief had seemed to sap the warmth from the hearth in her room. At the time the mystic had just assumed she was too detached to feel any comfort from a fire, that the cold was just something she would have to suffer through for the rest of her life- she hadn’t realised her magic was the culprit. If she had, she would have been much more careful to control it… or at least try to.
She couldn’t afford to lose control. None of them could.
And she wished she could tell Cian that. But no, being a mystic was the one secret Aoife was able to keep- the one she had been trained and conditioned to keep. Keeping that secret kept them all alive. If only she knew she was sitting next to a Warden, open and vulnerable and trusting. Her mother would kill her for the idiocy. Aoife had been foolish to get close to a Warden once without realising, and now she was walking right back down that path once more without even realising it.
Would things change, if they knew?
As much as she hated the Warden order, she didn’t hate the individuals… even the Inquisitor… as far as Aoife was concerned they were just pawns in the king’s game, the king’s crusade. But then again, the mystic had never (much to her mother’s disdain) had a head for politics. She was a better soldier, able to follow orders rather than be involved in making them, or at least Aoife had been- once upon a time. Aoife would feel the same towards Cian, had she known, but the question was… would he feel the same towards her?
Time would tell. For better or for worse.
His shoulders shaking, rising and falling in quiet laughter brought her back to her senses. ”Suppose?” She echoed, trying to sound offended but failing as a laugh slipped through her lips. ”Suppose? You barely even made four or five! And even that was with help- you were hopeless.” It would have been a good moment to rock back into him- but that would have involved lifting her head- and Aoife was more than comfortable where she was. ”That’s-” Aoife began softly, not quite sure how to describe it. ”-very kind of them, it must have been difficult for your aunt.” In truth, the mystic couldn’t even imagine such a loss. Her own mother had been so adamant that her children grow up and marry and have families of their own, it hadn’t even occurred to Aoife until adulthood that there were other paths. Other circumstances. Though it wasn’t the forefront of her mind, wasn’t a future she saw clearly for herself (if at all)- she couldn’t imagine the heartbreak Cian’s aunt had faced.
”Probably not.” She confessed, though the humour hadn’t quite deserted her voice just yet. ”But, it’s not as though I need protecting.” Aoife had tried to make them see this over and over again, and she had always failed- the brotherly instinct Cian was describing seemed to trump reason each and every time. ”Really though, what have they got to protect me from? You seem to keep forgetting that I’ve seen you fight.” Okay, she was teasing again- but that was much easier than imagining just what the Lee Frye brothers would do if they found out about this. Found out about Cian and the way she felt. Yup. She didn’t want to think about that. It would be fine. ”What would you do? If you went home tonight and Arya has a suitor to introduce you to?”
Aoife hadn’t known that. She had known of Cian’s brother. That he was a military man. And that had been where her knowledge ended. A name. A face. A career. That was all. ”Oh.” Breathing the word in an exhale, she almost moved to look up at the guardsman- instead allowing her gaze to fall back to their hands. It seemed as though the DeGraffs had suffered just as much as her own family in this war. For a moment, Aoife wondered how many other families shared in this grief. It must be countless. On both sides.
”Got it, avoid Lillia.” Her lips, still hidden, turned down into a grimace. It was remarkably simple to joke about this, which members of the family to watch out for- which ones would be welcoming, which would tease, and which might even be dangerous. ”You know, I’m thinking it might just be best to avoid everyone apart from Camille at this point…” How would they tell their families?
This was impossible.
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Lunari
28
Complicated
Warden Centurion/Guard Elite
Tier 1 Character
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Post by Cian DeGraff on Apr 3, 2021 17:54:39 GMT -5
Perhaps if he wasn't so blinded by the loss of his sister and the cruelty of the Unseelie, he'd be able to see past everything. Maybe he wouldn't be as oblivious as a lot of people thought their king was, how oblivious he thought Allarick had been once. Would finding out that he was willingly spending time with a Mystic change his views on this war? Would he be able to understand what such prejudice was doing to this kingdom, what careless hatred led to, that there was evil on both sides? Would he look at her differently and not in this new, adoring light?
For better or for worse was right.
Cian was laughing again when she was acted offended. It was true, he had been horrible at skipping stones. He failed miserably at such a simple task, but that was alright. His foolery had brought a smile to her face, and that was something he was rather fond of seeing now. Specifically when she laughed and her entire expression softened and lit up. "Hopeless? You're so very encouraging, Aoife. When I need a pep talk, I know exactly who to go to." He shrugged his shoulder again just to tease a little further.
"She pushed on," he told her of Maeve with a gentle grin. "And she seems perfectly happy with her growing family." His aunt was a marvel, for sure, because he could only imagine how difficult that must have been. Especially when, in some instances, birthing a family was what a woman was "expected to do". Cian believed all the women in his family proved to be better than the system and defied such dumb expectations. The DeGraffs were stronger for it. Perhaps it was why he was immediately drawn to Aoife.
'But, it's not as though I need protecting.' No, she certainly didn't, and he almost teased otherwise to remind her of their spar, but he didn't bother. Aoife Lee Frye was quite capable, and yet, as a man with sisters, he also understood that need to protect. It had little to do with whether or not his sister was able to protect herself- maybe it was a silly, manly impulse, but he'd do just the same for his brothers and parents. A family's bond was perhaps one of the strongest.
And then, she was teasing despite him holding back. It took a lot of willpower to remain where he was, but while he was struggling to suppress another grin, his voice had dropped dangerously low again. He spoke slowly, words half muffled by her crown of dark hair, "And yet...you still found yourself on your back." He really needed to stop reminding himself of that. It was not only a tease to remind her that she had lost by a hair, but it was also taunting him.
With the mention of Arya, however, his demeanor shifted. "It would depend upon my mood," Cian began. "I could either ask a million very important questions and ensure they remained six feet apart, or I'd tease her mercilessly." His mouth quirked up in amusement. Cian could hear her whining now, telling him to stop embarrassing her.
'Oh.' Cian realized he was just dropping dark bits of information here and there, but in truth, he didn't mind her knowing. He wanted her to know and to understand him more, and she didn't need to share anything in return. Merely speaking of such things casually helped him further cope. He said nothing more on that, though, just bringing their hands up for a moment so that he could place a kiss against her gloved knuckles.
A light, almost inaudible chuckle, she'd feel him nod slightly. Lillia wasn't exactly a mean spirited person by any means, but she was just as protective of their family as he was, and she could be a little "much" sometimes. Cian really didn't know what she would think of this, despite what her twin already told him.
'You know...' "Oh, I'm avoiding even her at this point," he said. Although he sounded amused, he was still partially serious. It wasn't that he didn't trust Cami, but he really didn't want to risk this getting out right now. Even still... "Unless, at some point...you ever wish to meet her." That was a risk, certainly, and he was in no rush to mention this to anyone, but regardless- family feud aside, Aoife was very easily the kind of woman he would gladly introduce to his family.
It just felt impossible right now.
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