The New Girl (open)

The day following the Gala while Kora was reading peacefully in the garden, she found herself summoned by her mother and Father to the family sitting room. She had expected a reprisal for her behavior last night, but upon arrival she found her aunt Bethany, who looked very cheerful, waiting along with her parents. Her father was also smiling, though when mother looked his way the smile vanished. Her mother of course, was as stern faced as ever. After several minutes of tense silence, Tessa deigned to speak. "Koranna, I've considered your request to go and join the order." She said looking doubtful. "After much debate, we have decided to allow it, on a trial basis. You may go for one month, and you prove you can handle yourself, you can stay as long as you like." Her mother continued.

"Bethany has volenteered to join along with you, to keep you in line and out of trouble." Kora looked at her aunt who smiled. "Your welcome kiddo." She said. Kora smiled and turned back to her mother. "Thank you. I promise I'll be good. And safe." Her mother nodded. "I hope so." She said quietly. Markus squeezed Tessa's arm reassuringly. "You'll be fine Kora. I'm taking you and Bethany there on the Wyverns. I've also extended the offer a free ride home to the commander, so you'll have time to chat with them. Pack light dear."


Two days, and several hours of flying later, Kora found herself standing outside the hold, watching her Father and the family Wyverns flying back towards Edia. Bethany stood nearby, while Arthur and the commander headed into the hold. Kora steeled herself, then turned and followed them in. Bethany joined her. "Odric told me it'll be a while before he can get back to you and sort out everything with you joining the order. In the meantime, I'll introduce you to Kairi. She'll help you get settled." She said. Kora nodded, then looked at Bethany. "Wait, dont you mean us." She asked. Bethany smiled. "Oh, not at all. I'm joining the order, as a liaison to Edaria. Where I'll be going in a few days time. Once you're settled."

Kora frowned. "But you told my parents you'd watch over me. You lied." Kora said. Bethany shrugged. "Not at all. I told them what they wanted to hear. If I told your mother I'd be leaving you under the capable watch of Kairi Thorne, she wouldn't have let you go, now would she?" Bethany said with a smile. "Besides, you don't want me watching you're every move. You need space. And I doubt Arthur will make a move with me constantly watching." Kora's head snapped around. "What?" Kora asked with a slight blush. "Don't give me that. You like him, I've seen how you get around him. He might like you too. Wont know with me here. Now, wipe that look off your face, and come meet Kairi." Kora didn't have a look. She glowered at her aunt, then followed her into the hold.

Kairi was in Sunshield Hold's small library enjoying a short break in training when she heard the alert that wyverns had been spotted approaching the hold from the east. Kairi replaced the book she had been reading on Eldari social etiquette and headed through the keep towards the entrance hall. A young messenger who had been on his way to find her skidded to a halt and informed her that Knight-Commander Mantell and Arthur had arrived safely with the wyverns. Kairi nodded and headed out towards the front gate. The gate was slowly opened and the Hold was reunited with Odric Mantell and Arthur Ferrum Aurora. Kairi smiled warmly and approached the two Humans, bowing politely to both of them in turn. "So either things went very badly and you two were forcibly escorted home for your own safety.... or things went well." Odric chuckled. "Luckily, it was the latter. We were very graciously provided transportation by the Asentari, along with two new recruits."

Kairi's expression changed to visible confusion until Odric gestured at the two new figures that had come through the front gate. Kairi recognized Bethany immediately, and offered a handshake to her Asentari friend. "It's good to see you again Bethany. I knew you liked us too much to not be back. Joining the Order though I didn't expect." Kairi then turned to the young brown-haired woman beside her, and bowed politely with a warm and welcoming smile as she introduced herself. "Hello there. I'm Kairi Thorne." Kairi offered a handshake to the young woman. "May I ask your name?"

Nichol was around and spotted the two wyverns. Like usual, he was shirtless, though his cloak hid everything, and had on brown trousers, black boots, and his goggles on his head. He also had an earring on his left ear, a blue jewel, and a black band around his neck. The boy had a small facial scar in his right cheek, and a dark red/brown diamond tattoo on his forehead, hidden by his near platinum blond hair. The five foot tall boy hopped down from is perch and greeted his brother with a nod. The kid stood next to Kairi as she and the Knight-Commander conversed. Looking at the new people with interest, he looked at the one with the scarred face.

She was the one that came in injured before Kiari left to help her with...Aline? Was the name? He gathered that her name was Bethany. But apparently didn't know who the other one was. If any attention was given to him, he'd introduce himself. "Trainee Nichol Shard. Arthur there is my half-brother." It would be in a quiet voice, probably barely audible to the two woman. His dead, very dark blue eyes just kind of switched between the two women. "At least these two seem normal...not at all like the weirdo mister Aratris brought back with him..." It was an off hand comment made mostly to himself. That guy was very peculiar, but Rowan wanted that one and Odric to meet.

Aether Favonius, for his part, was in the training area, taking on everyone that stepped in the ring with a wooden sword and quickly dispatching them. The odd blond was giving out small pieces of advice here and there to the soldiers/trainees around.

Arthur walked a little behind Odric, as they entered the Hold. He stretched his arms, happy to be back. As fun as it was to be one of the few humans let into the Asentari's floating city, he missed the Order. He saw Nichol, and offered a wave to the boy's nod. He then stood next to Odric, as Kairi and Nichol both walked up to them. Arthur chuckled at Kairi's question, and as Odric answered, he turned to Bethany, and Kairi, who seemed to be talking amongst themselves. 

As introductions happened, what Nichol said peaked Arthur's interest. "Rowan brought someone new here? I'd like to meet him, I think." Arthur then motioned back at the Hold. "After I get my things back into my room. I hope you all don't mind if I go." Arthur then made his way to the barracks, a smile playing on his lips at the thought of meeting this new recruit.

They found Kairi just inside the gate. She exchanged a quick word with Odric about their new recruits, before Kairi approached Bethany and Kora. Bethany nodded in way of greeting and shook Kairi's hand. "I don't know why I keep coming back, I never get paid." She said with a grin. "As much as I love seeing you're lovely head healer, I only joined so Kora's parents would let her join too. When things settle down here, I'll be taking up a permanent position in Edaria as the Order's liaison." She said. She'd discussed it with Odric the morning they'd left. "Speaking of.." She said as Kairi turned to Kora.

As Kairi introduced herself to Kora, the girl gave a bow in reply. Bethany was still surprised by how formal her niece could be. She watched as the girl realised Kairi had offered her a handshake, and she stood up straight and shook her hand, mild embarrassment on her face. "Koranna Merciallus, Ma'am. Most people call me Kora." She said as she stepped back slightly. "Bethany's told me allot about you. I look forward to working together." She said. Bethany smiled and patted her shoulder. "Relax a little. So, Kairi, how are you? What about beefcake?" She asked, wiggling her eyebrows. "If I were into that kind of thing, well-" Before she could finish the sentance, the male in question appeared and approached the group.

He gave her a look that suggested he'd heard her, before examining Kora. Bethany noted how he took up a respectful distance from Kairi, but it seemed a very calculated move. Bethany smirked. "Welcome back commander. I found a new recruit, but his situation is rather interesting." Rowan said to Odric before returning his gaze towards Bethany and Kora again. "Welcome to the hold, ladies. You're looking better, Miss Merciallus." He looked to Kora who bowed slightly and introduced herself again. Rowan contemplated her. "Kora? You don't happen to be the same Kora who trained with Mariel Shor and Merlin?" Rowan asked.

Kora nodded. "That's right. You know them?" She asked. Rowan chuckled. "Mariel is practically family." He said. Then his attention was drawn away as Arthur mentioned he was going to change. "Actually, there's a matter I need to speak to you about, Arthur. Tristan too. Have you got a few minutes?" Rowan asked, joining the man as he left. "He's.. big." Kora said as the pair vanished. Bethany grinned and elbowed her. "You're drooling." She said, earning a glare from her niece. Kora's eyes darted around for something to change the subject, and spotted a small boy. She took a few steps towards him.  "Hello there, I'm Kora." She said, extending a hand to shake.

The boy introduced himself as Nichol Shard, a trainee, and Arthur's half brother. This surprised her, because Arthur had neglected to mention Nicol when they were talking about family, or perhaps she had misheard him. Eitherway Kora didn't let it show on her face however and nodded. "Nice to meet you Nichol."

Kairi smiled when Bethany greeted her with a joke complaint about not getting paid. "I always considered the contents of our liquor store to be your payment." Bethany then mentioned her reasons for joining, followed by the revelation that she would be later moving to Edaria to act as the Order liaison to the city. Kairi beamed with pride. "I take it you've patched things up with Lady Aline then? That's good news Bethany. Though I admit I'm looking forward to seeing what the other politicians make of you." Kairi's attention then turned to the young woman at Bethany's side. After Kairi had introduced herself, the young woman became flustered when she realized she hadn't seen Kairi's offered handshake, and took it quickly before introducing herself accordingly. Kairi smiled warmly and disarmingly and raised a hand. "At ease, Kora, before you pull something." Bethany echoed Kairi's sentiment before asking about Kairi, mentioning a beefcake. A look of confusion crossed Kairi's face, before she realized what Bethany was talking about when the Asentari stopped talking suddenly at the arrival of Rowan.

The Eldari greeted them all respectfully, informing Odric of a new recruit he had found. The Knight-Commander smiled warmly and raised an eyebrow in appreciation. "It appears we may have to expand the barracks sooner than I thought. Well done, Rowan. I look forward to meeting him." The Commander beckoned to a passing page. "Can you please ask Mister Favonius to come to my office at his earliest convenience please?" The page bowed respectfully before leaving, then Odric turned to the group behind him and bowed respectfully himself. "On that note, I'm afraid I must be excused." He looked at Bethany and Kora with a warm smile. "Kairi will help you both get settled in. If you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask either myself or Kairi. Take care." Odric then serenely walked towards the keep, leaving Kairi with the rest.

Rowan welcomed Kora and Bethany before noting Bethany's improved health since the last time he saw her. Kairi noted Bethany's strange smirk, and narrowed her eyes at the mischievous Asentari. Rowan looked to Kora as the young woman introduced herself, asking if she had trained with Merlin and Mariel Shor. Kora confirmed, before asking if Rowan knew them. Rowan laughed as he mentioned that Mariel was like family to him. The Eldari's attention was then drawn away when Arthur then excused himself to his quarters, and Rowan followed him away in deep discussion. Kora noted Rowan's stature, before Bethany poked some fun at her poor niece's expense. Kora became flustered again, but gathered herself enough to introduce herself to Nichol, who had been standing at Kairi's side when the party arrived. Kairi looked at Bethany enquiringly. "We can go to the barracks first and help Kora settle in first if you like, unless you had something else in mind?"

Rowan came by not long after. But Nichol still turned more towards his brother. "He's in training area 2. Wiping the floor with everyone, but giving advice." Nichol raised his voice some as Arthur headed back home to change and relax a little bit. But it was still his standard monotone. He hadn't realized the odd guy's situation was interesting...which usually meant bad. And couldn't handle it by himself. He just stuck around, but stayed quiet. He wasn't the social type. It wasn't uncommon for him to just be a fly on the wall or off on a rooftop.

Aether was wearing his standard outfit, dark top that left his midriff open, a white and gold scarf/cape hybrid, dark gloves with teal highlights, dark brown trousers and boots. His blond hair was long and braided, had an ear ring on his left ear, and yellow eyes. It didn't take long for him to hear about wyverns and two women leaving off the Knight-Commander and his escort, plus said two women were staying by all appearances. Could be just staying for the night, since it was a long flight. They all decided to take a small break.

The runaway prince peaked over and saw Kairi with the two women, and a trainee, Nichol if he remembered right. He'd seen Kairi a few times, but he never talked to her in earnest or anything. He figured if he was going to detail his unique situation, he'd do it to all that needed to know at once. He ducked back inside, and the other trainees/potential recruits were ready for the next round. They'd seen him use the standard sword and the larger great sword. He took the training spear, which caused a few eyes raise. Aether was fluent in the usage of three melee weapons. Most were good with only one or two. He just smiled at them and asked for a challenger....

Listening to everyone talk, Arthur nodded at Nichol ,when he told him where the new recruit was. "I see. I'll visit after I change. Thanks, Nichol." Rowan then said that there was something that he needed to discuss with him. Tristan as well. "Alright. I don't see what could be so important that you need me, but we can grab him, and talk before I get changed. Let's go."

Tristan stood outside of the barracks, leaning against a wall, his arms crossed. His strikingly red hair was down, and his eyes were closed, going over everything that had transpired, making sure to keep notes about the more important bits. He heard footsteps, and saw Rowan, followed by Arthur. Tristan unglued himself from the wall, and nodded at them both. "Good. Thanks for coming Arthur." The young man nodded, before looking at them both. "So. What's this about?" Tristan sighed, before looking at Rowan, and back at Arthur. "Me and Rowan were out hunting some bandits, and came across one who looked quite remarkably like you, Arthur. So, I'll ask you now. Who is Gareth? And how is he related to you?" Arthur seemed very confused at this. "Gareth? There's no one in my family named that. Unless you misheard, and meant Gawain." His eyes narrowed. "But, Gawain isn't a bandit. He's been stuck in Mith Sylvanus due to his duties as head of our family." Arthur crossed his arms, and looked at Rowan, waiting for him to speak.

Bethany chuckled as Kairi mentioned that they had paid her with their liquor stores. "I went easy on them, thank you very much." She said with a grin. Kairi asked if she was back with Aline and she nodded. "Yeah. Turns out returning to Edia helped me allot more than I expected. Also put allot of things into perspective." Bethany said. She lowered her voice slightly. "I don't think I ever really stopped loving her. I just blinded myself with my own bullshit." Kairi wondered how she'd be recieved by other politions and Bethany grinned. "Oh, their going to love me. A very well connected Edia Noble. Long as they don't overstep their bounds, cause I'll tear them appart." She chuckled.


Rowan led Arthur over to where Tristan was waiting. He gave the heanta a nod by way of greeting. Things had become a bit more amicable between them since the mission they'd discovered the information they were about to confront Arthur with. Admittedly most of the tension between them was on Rowan's part, but the Eldari had relaxed slightly. Tristan came straight out with and asked Arthur who Gareth was, and the human was perplexed, wondering if he'd miss heard. Rowan considered it, and shook his head. "No, we heard right. Are you sure there's no one with that name? A cousin maybe? He looked far to similar to you to be coincidence. And he went by the Black Lion. Ring any bells?" Rowan asked. Hopefully Arthur would remember something. If not, they'd have to figure out who this man was alone.


Kora looked to the knight commander as he mentioned he had business to take care of and Kairi would show him around. Kora bowed. "Thank you Sir." She said, watching him walk away. Nichol didn't seem to have much more to say, so she turned her attention back to Kairi who asked Bethany what they should do stuff. "I would like to get rid of my bags, if that's alright." She said. "That seems like a good idea. Then lunch?" Bethany asked Kairi. "And maybe you could introduce me to the head healer. I've been studying the theory behind it but I'd like some hands on training."

Kairi smiled at Bethany's protest, then listened intently to her confirmation of Kairi's assumptions. A feeling of relief washed over Kairi as Bethany explained about the profound effect going home had on her, and acknowledged that the only thing that had been in Bethany's way was herself. She finished by assuring Kairi that she would be very popular with the politicians indeed, or else. Kairi chuckled in agreement. "I look forward to seeing Ambassador Merciallus in action." Once Odric, Rowan and Arthur left, Kairi was left with Nichol to show the new recruit around with Bethany. Kora expressed her desire to drop her bags off first, and Bethany nodded before suggesting food after. Kairi nodded in agreement. "As you wish. You'll have to stay in the barracks until we can sort you out a more permanent residence. It's small but you'll have your own room." Kora then suggested meeting the head healer, as she had an interest in training in the healing arts. Kairi nodded and smiled with admiration. "Is that so? That's very admirable. Marie certainly won't turn down any help and the chance to teach a talented mage like yourself. I'll see what we can do." Kairi turned to Nichol inquiringly. "Are you coming with us Nichol? Or did you want to go with your half-brother?" Either way, Kairi led the party towards the main barracks of the Hold.

Upon reaching the barracks, Kairi returned the salute of the young guards at the door before leading the party inside. The barracks common area was deserted, with most of the recruits either training or assigned to other duties. Leading the party upstairs, Kairi arrived at a wooden door near the end of one of the main corridors and gently pushed it open. The room inside was spartan, but it was cozy and had everything a young recruit might need. A simple wooden bed sat in the corner, with a desk and chair across on the other side looking out of the large window that overlooked the training yards. Kairi spotted a spar in progress in ring two, with a formidable looking man testing himself against various recruits. Kairi recognized him as the new arrival Rowan had spoken of, Aether Favonius. Kairi had met him in passing but had not had the privilege of speaking with him properly yet. She looked back to Kora and smiled. "I hope it's alright?" She then looked at Bethany inquiringly. "Speaking of which, there's a similar room down the hall for you if you'd like, or did you want your usual room at the Second Sun?"

So the scarred lady was going to be a politician. She...was going to be a force to be reckoned with, Nichol could tell. Odric, Rowan, and Arthur left, Rowan seemingly needed something extremely important to talk with Arthur about. Kora wanted a meeting with the healer...those were always needed. But some that kind of niggled in his mind. Then Kairi called her a talented mage. That made Nichol snap to her. He was interested in magic as well. Though he didn't think he was suited for healing at all.

The lieutenant then asked him a question. "What Mister Aratris wanted to talk to Arthur about seemed important, I don't want to interrupt." He was still quiet, and semi-took the lead in showing them the barracks. He was a guide at heart, and a scout in training. The room available overlooked the training yards. Yep, the new guy was still there, but with a training spear instead of a sword or greatsword. Frowning as he looked out, he spoke up. "Is it unusual to be proficient in three melee weapons?"

Arthur listened to what Rowan asked him, and placed his hands on his hips, and closed his eyes thinking. Tristan simply stared. Arthur grimaced, before looking back up at them, and muttered a name. "Gwyn." Tristan's eyes narrowed. "Who?" Arthur shook his head. "Gwyn is....my older sister. She's technically the oldest out of all of us." The aura around Arthur dissipated for a little bit. "I haven't even told Nichol this, but she.......murdered our parents. I'm not entirely sure why. If anyone of us became a bandit, it would be her."

He looked at the men in front of them. "That's the only person I can think of. You're absolutely sure it was a man?" Tristan nodded. But he tilted his head, and looked at Rowan, confusion evident on his face. "Wait. I didn't think too much of it at the time, but didn't he dodge your first strike a little too easily?" He pondered for a moment before saying, "Could this Gwyn have been communicating with him somehow?"

Kairi mentioned looking forward to seeing Ambassador Merciallus in action and Bethany grinned. "I'll shake things up. The order's going to be swimming in supplies and recruits, if I have to beat it out of the nobles around the freelands." She said. Kora frowned. "That seems counter productive to your goals, Aunty." Kora said, and Bethany smiled. "I'm not being literal, Kora. And I've already told you its alright to call me Bethany."

Kora nodded. Then Kairi replied to her request, and told her praised her for her decision to learn healing. Then they headed inside to the barracks. Kora was surprised she was getting her own room, though it was certainly smaller than she was used to. Her room at home was about three times the size and filled wall to wall with bookshelves, a veritable library. Still this was something new, and she wasn't disapointed. She turned to Kairi. "It's perfect, thank you."

The room looked out over one of the training rings, where a men were fighting. One particularly skilled individual seemed to be taking on the rank and file, and as they watched Nicol asked them a question, and while it didn't seem directed at her Kora instinctively answered. "It's actually very common for rank and file soldiers in Edia to be trained in multiple weapons. Spears are the go to because their easy to use, but our soldiers also use Gladius and are trained with maces, or pilum depending on their unit. I don't know if its the same everywhere but our military tactics were passed down from our human heritage, and haven't changed from that norm because while all Asentari can use a breath attack not all are capable of using other powers or breaking their draconic seals, which don't even appear until passing an intial barrier-"

"Slow down kiddo we dont all have brains with endless space for random knowledge." Bethany said with a slight smile. "I'm sorry I answered by instinct." She said. Bethany patted her on the shoulder and turned to Kairi who asked if she wanted a room in the barracks or the second sun. "I'll take one here. I think the second sun is sick of hosting my unquenchable tastes." She said with a grin.


Rowan watched as Arthur considered what they were asking, before producing a name. He almost asked who but Tristan got there first, and Arthur explained who Gwyn was. Rowan's frown deepened as Arthur explained that she was his sister, and also responsible for their parents death. He let out a sigh and placed a hand on Arthur's shoulder. "I'm sorry." He said. Arthur continued, asking if they were sure. Rowan nodded, but Tristan pointed out something Rowan hadn't noticed at the time.

"I didn't think much of it at the time, but you're right. The last time I encountered him he didn't dodge nearly as quickly." He said. "At the very least, someone warned him." He looked at Arthur. "What exactly can your sister do? She sounds dangerous to say the least."

Kairi chuckled at Bethany's vow to "shake things up" in the Free Lands. "Somehow I don't think the Free Lands will be ready for you. I like it." Kora expressed some concern at her aunt's plan, but Bethany assuaged her fears quickly. Kairi then nodded when Nichol told her he would go with them, as he didn't want to disturb the discussion between Rowan and Arthur, which seemed important. "Fair enough." Kairi thought for a moment and smiled at the young man. "Actually this is good. You might get to know the new arrivals and make a new friend or two. Let's go then." Once in the barracks, Kora seemed happy enough with her accomodation and Kairi smiled warmly. "Good, glad you like it."

Nichol then spoke, and Kairi noticed that he was looking out of the window at the training ring. She looked out a to see what had drawn the young man's attention, and she saw that he was riveted at the skill being demonstrated by Aether Favonius in the ring. Aether now had a spear, and was encouraging challengers to step up. Nichol asked if being skilled with three weapons was unusual. Kairi joined him by the window and stroked her chin thoughtfully. Kora piped up immediately, launching into a detailed and rapid answer, outlining the skills and tactics of her own people's armed forces as an example. Kairi marveled at the young woman's knowledge before she was cut off by Bethany, who told her niece to slow down a bit. Kairi smiled before turning to address Nichol's question. "As Kora said, it is common enough to see soldiers that are skilled in a few different weapons and styles. Skill with multiple weapons to the caliber that Mister Favonius is displaying? That is decidedly less common, though not unheard of." Kairi then looked at Kora and Bethany when the elder Asentari stated her preference for the barracks, as the inn had probably had enough of her, and grinned. "I'm sure Bartley will be relieved. I'll have it arranged. What would you all like to do now?"

Nichol barely gave Kairi a glance at the mention of making a new friend or two. Whatever. He just listened and hung onto every word that Kora spoke. Until her aunt interrupted her. His eyes narrowed almost dangerously at the scarred woman. "Don't interrupt her. That's rude." Quiet and monotone, it had some weight. He was not happy that someone stopped Kora. Kairi picked up immediately afterwards. It was common enough, but to the degree that weirdo was is less common. Though not unheard of. Interesting. Unfortunately conversation started up again about other things. Crossing his arms and pouting a little, he looked off to the side. "We can continue later..." He wanted to listen more about the Asentari...but he doubted that's what Kora or her aunt wanted to do...

~

After several more rounds, and some advice given, someone told Aether that Knight-Commander Odric wanted to speak with him. Nodding, he headed towards the man's office. Knocking twice, he waited until permission was given. The blonde walked in and took a seat, semi-nervous. The guy was fairly unassuming. But you never know. "How much did Rowan leave in his report about me? And I guess where do you want me to begin..."

When Bethany interrupted Kora, she recieved a dirty look from Nichol as he told her it was rude to interrupt. Kora gave her a smug look causing Bethany to grin. "Sorry kiddo. There'll be plenty of time for lectures on the Asentari armies later." She said. Kairi took over answering Nichol's question. "It is impressive, but can he use all of them at once?" Kora frowned. "He lacks the required limbs to do so, unless he happens to be capable of telekinesis." She said. "Or grow more arms." Bethany replied.

Looking back to Kairi as she asked what they would like to do next. Nichol said something, and Kora did looked at nichol and nodded. "Yes. I can tell you more later." Bethany wanted to say food But she looked at Kora, who seemed hesitant to answer Kairi. "Well, I'm starving, but I think we should go pay a visit to my favorite healer first." Kora looked at Kairi. "I would like to do that. I do want to see if my skills can be applied elsewhere, but I'm not really a fighter, and I wouldn't mind speaking with the healers before I work with them." Kora said.

Kairi nodded at Bethany and Kora's suggestion, though she did spare a warm smile for Nichol before looking back to Kora. "Alright then. We'll go and visit Marie. You can leave your stuff here if you'd like." Kairi strode to the door serenely and waited for the party to ready up. "She should be in the infirmary as we speak. If you'll follow me?" Kairi led them out into the main concourse of the barracks before entering sunlight that gently covered Sunshield Hold.

Once at the infirmary, Kairi led the group inside. The healing wards were relatively quiet today, with a few soldiers getting minor wounds seen to in a one area. At the entrance to that ward in deep conversation with a healer was a familiar face. Kairi's eyes brightened as the familiar warm features of Randalla Thorne turned to see what had drawn the gaze of the healer. Randalla nodded to the healer before approaching them. Kairi grinned and hugged her adoptive mother before turning to the rest of the group. "This is good timing. Kora, this is my mother and the Captain of our Military Division, Randalla Thorne." She turned to Randalla and gestured to Kora proudly.

"This is Kora, our latest talented recruit, and I believe you know Bethany and Nichol." Randalla nodded respectfully to Nichol with a warm smile, before offering a handshake to Kora. "Nice to meet you Kora. It's always good to see new faces around here." She then looked at Bethany with a sly smile and offered another handshake. "Though I hear you're not the only recruit we've gained. Order Liason to Edia, hmm? Well done Bethany." Kairi looked at Randalla. "Have you seen Healer Marie? Kora wants to see if she can help out here at all." Randalla nodded and smiled warmly at Kora. "Indeed? She'll be delighted for the help for sure. I'm actually waiting for her myself, she'd gone off to run an errand for me. She'll be back any minute now."


Odric looked up as he heard the knock on his door. A figure he had been waiting to meet strode in. Odric stood and offered a smile and a handshake. "Ah, Mister Favonius. Thank you coming to see me. Please have a seat." The young man sat and Odric returned to his seat. "My apologies for not meeting with you sooner, but I was away in Edia on a diplomatic arrangement." The young man asked how much Rowan had left about him in his report. Odric steepled his hands together in front of him and looked at Aether with a patient but curious gaze. "Rowan gave full account of the circumstances of your encounter in the Harodiel, but he wished to leave the details of your background to you to explain." Aether asked where Odric wanted him to start, and the Commander sat back in his chair, gazing thoughtfully at the man in front of him. "Why don't you start at the beginning by telling me who you are and where you came from?"

Kora seemed to take great pride in Nichol's wish to learn more. But things swiftly changed into meeting the local healer. Luckily, most he was ever in to see her was for small scrapes. And even that wasn't very often. Instead, they ran into Kairi's mother. Someone he knew mostly by rumor and rare glances. He returned the respectful nod. It seemed Marie was out for the moment, but should be back any time...

~

Aether waved it off. "Don't worry about it." Duties and all. Besides, he was rather interested in that diplomatic arrangement. Though it did kind of confuse him how Rowan could give a full account of the fight without mentioning his history. But nevertheless, he went ahead and dived right in. "Well, first, let's go with a very brief geography lesson. To the east of this continent is another, with three main nations. The Kingdom of Treyvatya is where I'm from, and is the human nation. I'm the fifteenth child of the ruling monarchy there. When I retired from the military, it caused a bit of a stink. I was evidently under more pressure than I thought. So I left. We knew of this continent, but that was about it, since we were more worried about more direct threats and the like than in exploration. I assume it was the same with the other two. Though Rowan did hint that maybe the Eldari's Golden Council might know of us too.

Anyways, since I'm a runaway prince, even if I'm really low on the totem pole, they sent Harbingers after me. Well, two Harbingers, and four Junior Harbingers. The Harbinger program is probably more exclusive than the Eternal Watch, Knights of Mondolin, and the Oculi Draconis. Every member has magical abilities, and ninety percent of them were taken as soon as their powers were discovered. There are some exceptions here and there, but generally they were raised to be weapons, and that completion of the mission is more important than their lives. Chi-Chi is, sadly, probably the most rational and willing to at least talk of the current Juniors. Razagul is the tracker, and his abyss wolves probably already traced me down to here. But they won't move without further instruction. Strong as they are, they can't take down a fortress of this size, even with a Harbinger at the helm. And who they are is a good question. There are two Harbingers, and four Juniors running around this continent.

For the record, I was already on my way here to see if I can do more good with you, or if I'm better off being a freelancer, doing what I can and being an ally to you. As much as I don't want to burden you guys with protecting me...I'm not strong enough to handle this on my own. Seeing a little bit of what Rowan can do, I do have confidence that he can take on a Harbinger on relatively even ground. It all depends on who they sent. I can scratch off several names, but it still leaves too many to accurately guess." He did look down, somewhat ashamed to admit his own weakness. But he can at least help settle his own problem. He won't stand back and let everyone do it for him.

"I will thank you." Kora said, then put down her belongings and had a quick look around the room. "I just need a moment." She said before placing her hand against the wall in the corner, and etched out a set of markings. "Aer'nir." She said, and a 3ft long staff appeared in her hand, which she placed next to the wall. The runes there glowed briefly then stopped. If anyone asked what she had just done she would explain. "I attuned my staff to this location. When I send it away, it will appear here, as opposed to my room in edia. Oh and don't worry I can remove the markings. I didn't just vandalise the wall." She said.

Once she was done she followed Kairi and Bethany down to the Infirmary. She took in everything as they walked through the building, between the healing wards to the soldiers getting minor wounds treated. At the entrance of the first ward, Kairi greeted a woman with a fond hug, before introducing her as her mother. Kora could tell by looking at her that they were not related by blood, so she had adopted Kairi. She opened her mouth to ask about it but changed her mind at the last second, deciding it was probably not something Kairi or Randalla would want to talk about. "It's nice to meet you too, Captain Thorne." Bethany grinned. "You're as radiant as ever, Randalla." Her aunt said in reply. "I'm glad Odric found a way to let me join, and also work from Edaria."

Kora looked up as a young woman joined them. She carried a small parcel, and looked at the healer who had been speaking with Randalla with authority. "A soldier just came in with several broken fingers. Fix him up and remind him to wear his gauntlets next time he goes into the sparring ring." The healer nodded. "Yes Ma'am." She said, before heading off to do as she'd been told. "Sorry about the wait Randalla. Everything you need is here, just brew it like you would tea. It will help with the headaches." She said as she handled her the parcel. Then her keen eyes drifted to the others. "Oh, I see you're back miss Merciallus. And you don't appear injured. That's a surprise." She said. "I figured I really need to stop hurting myself just to have an excuse to see you." Marie sighed. "And you're still a hopeless flirt." Marie looked at Kairi and Nichol. "I hope you two are doing well." She asked, before looking at Kora. "Now, you I don't know. A new recruit I take it." She said. "Yes Ma'am. I'm Kora Merciallus. I'm Bethany's niece." Marie nodded. "Ah, I see. I hope you don't have you're aunt's penchant for getting injured."

Kora shook her head. "I'm not really a fighter. I'm actually hoping I can help out here." She said. Marie looked her up and down with a critical eye. "You're a healer then?" She asked. Kora shook her head. "No ma'am. I'm a mage. I know some of the basics of healing though. And I'm a quick study." Marie watched her silently for a moment. "I'm generally to busy to be training in fresh faced healers." Marie said. "So I hope you are a quick study like you say. Meet me here tomorrow morning, I'll see if you've got what it takes." Kora nodded. "Yes Ma'am, thank you." Marie nodded and looked at Kairi. "I'll speak to Odric about it. I'm sure you'll need to run Kora through orientation tomorrow so you can have her when I'm done. Now, I must get back to work." She said, and turned on her heel and strode away.

Randalla smiled wryly and raised an eyebrow at Bethany's remark. "Thank you, that's very kind of you." Bethany then expressed gratitude that she could be offered a position with the Order that would allow her to remain in Edaria. Randalla nodded in agreement. "I knew he'd find someway to bring you on board. I'm sure you'll have no problem shaking things up in the diplomatic scene when you get started." Kairi turned when she heard a familiar voice coming from the corridor where Randalla had been. Marie Elanesta, head healer of the Order, had arrived and was carrying a small parcel. Marie stopped to talk with the healer that Randalla had been talking to, before approaching the group. Marie handed the parcel to Randalla and instructed her on the preparation of its contents. Randalla nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Marie." Kairi looked at Randalla with concern. "Headaches. Everything alright?" Randalla smiled sheepishly and held up her forearm which was sporting a neat dressing. "I just got back from a mission. Turns out those Red Fangs near Karem have got their hands on poison for their weapons. Got nicked with a poisoned blade." Randalla chuckled at Kairi's look of concern. "I'm fine. Just some lingering side effects. Mild headaches."

Kairi nodded slowly before looking to Marie, who had just called Bethany a shameless flirt. The healer asked Kairi and Nichol if they had been keeping well and Kairi nodded with a smile. "I am well, thank you." Marie then asked about Kora, and the young woman introduced herself. Kora then explained about her desire to help around the infirmary. Marie studied Kora for long moments, before agreeing to train Kora as a healer beginning the next morning. Marie told Kairi that she could run through Kora's orientation after that, and Kairi nodded. "Understood. Thank you, Marie." The healer then excused herself, before Randalla also spoke up. "I must go too, I'm afraid. Have to write up my report for the mission I was on. I'll be in my office if anyone needs me." Randalla smiled warmly at Kora. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Kora. I'm sure you'll be a great help to us." Randalla bowed politely to them all. "Take care, folks." Randalla put a hand on Kairi's shoulder before heading out. Kairi looked around at the crew. "Alright then. Now that that's done, I'd say getting a bite to eat is in order, what do you reckon?"


Odric studied the young man in front of him as Aether launched into his story. The young man explained about his homeland, his position in their hierarchy and his current situation. It was all startling news, and Odric had no doubt that this information was taken before any of the other courts in the land, it would be met with heavy skepticism and in some cases even instant dismissal. But Rowan had fought these so-called "Harbingers", and the Eldari had noted their unusual fighting styles and attire. Odric waited for the man to finish before peering over his half-moon spectacles directly into the man's eyes. Odric did not possess any psychic powers or the ability to read minds, but he did possess a remarkably intuition about people, and indeed he was renowned throughout the land as a remarkable judge of character. Aether definitely seemed to believe what he was saying, so Odric decided to take a balanced approach. He steepled his hands in front of him and spoke calmly. "I see. In a way it is fortunate for you that you ended up here, as a lot of the other courts in the land would most likely have just dismissed your tale. However..." Odric took a deep breath and considered his next words carefully. "However, I am compelled to take your information seriously. I believe that you believe what you are saying, and I also believe in the judgement of Rowan Aratris. So then, how would you like to proceed? If you are simply looking for asylum, we will of course do our best to help. But if you are looking for someone to deal with your pursuers, well that is a different matter. The Order is a peacekeeping organization. We are not bounty hunters." Odric watched the man to see what his response would be.

Marie came back and had asked about them all. Nichol simply nodded. He was hardly ever injured. If he did get hurt, it was always just a little cut or scrape, hardly anything to fuss over, and usually something that can wait if someone else was in more dire straights. After the introductions and goodbyes, Kairi wondered about a bite to eat. His stomach grumbled obnoxiously loud. Ears and face turning red, otherwise face still stoic, he sped walked towards the local tavern.

~

Aether listened. Including the howevers. And it all made sense to him. "I honestly never expected them to send anyone after me. One of my older brothers and sisters, maybe...I would even guess the two younger ones than me would have higher priority. Hence I never even mentioned it to anyone aside from Rowan and you. Asylum is probably the best option right now. Bounty hunting goes against your organizations' directive, so it wasn't an option in my mind. Unfortunately, depending on who they sent, the peacekeeping part may come into play and force a confrontation. It's not uncommon for groups of them to wipe out whole villages with few survivors to spread the tale just to lure in a specific target. Though again, there's a fair amount of if's. Of course, I do intend on helping sort out my own mess however I can.

Until then, I will do what I can to help out around here. From training recruits to simple menial tasks just to help the ship run smoother if you will. I'm not one to just lay around and be protected...if I can help in any way, I'll help."

(Joining back in now)

Arthur nodded, when Rowan said sorry. He listened to the two men talk, before he was asked what exactly his sister can do. "I'm not entirely sure. Gawain and Leona would know better than I could. They actually fought Gwyn. I can send a letter home, but I doubt that would be fast enough." Tristan shook his head, clearly irritated. A rare occurrence to those who knew the Heanta. "So. We are stuck with an opponent we know basically nothing about, who can seemingly communicate across an unknown distance to her underlings." He looked at Rowan. "Odric should know about this, at the very least. Leaving something like this to the three of us is not a good idea right now." Arthur took a step forward. "I'll come with you. This involves me now, whether I want it to or not." Tristan nodded, and they both awaited Rowan's move.

Arthur explained that he didn't know much about his sisters' abilities, and asking his other siblings would be the best option to find out. Tristan shook his head in irritation and complained that they faced an enemy they knew nothing about who could communicate across unknown distances. Rowan had to agree with the heanta, it was troubling. They would likely struggle to catch the woman if they didn't know how close she had to be to her blonde lookalike. "It's problematic, but it is what it is. Besides, she doesn't know she's dealing with two of the best trackers in the land." He said. Tristan suggested bringing it to Odric, and Arthur agreed to go with him.

Rowan also nodded, and then he remembered something. "I agree, but I just remembered, you just returned from Edia with a mage, didn't you Arthur? I've known magi who could send a message long distances in a short time. Maybe you could go ask young Kora if she's able to send a message for you? Even if your brother's reply is going to take a few days to return, at least its not going to take an entire week. We can take what we found to Odric, Tristan."


When Marie departed, Kairi suggested finally going to get food and nodded in agreement. "Finally." Bethany said, gave Kora a wink and took off with out another word. Kora followed her aunt out of the infirmary and over to the tavern, noting that Bethany had no trouble finding the place. Or a table. Kora joined Bethany as a waitress spotted them and came over to take their order. Kora ordered a dish of roast vegetables, and Bethany ordered beef stew, along with a mug of ale.

Kora remained quiet while the others ordered their food, staring pensively at the table. She was excited for tomorrow, but she couldn't help but wonder if she really was ready to be here. Maybe her mother was right. Or maybe she was just feeling a little home sick. That hadn't taken long.


Lilian had never run for so long in her life. She was fit and fast, but as she approached the hold, an unknown threat facing her friends back in mandolin, she couldn't help but feel relief at the approaching chance for a rest. But dead tired or not, she didn't slow as she approached the gates, only stopping when guards by the large wooden gates barred her way. Panting heavily she pulled her insignia and raised it to the gaurds. "Knight Lilian Toral." She managed to get out before taking another heavy breath. "I bring urgent news from Mondolin. I need to speak to Kairi Thorne, or a commanding officer." The guards continued to eye her. "Now!" she snapped with steel in her voice. They looked between them and nodded. One took off running. "Just a moment." The other said.

Kairi smiled wryly when her suggestion of food was met with exaggerated relief from Bethany. "I had no idea you were so hungry. You should have said something earlier." Then she heard a stomach growl and turned to see Nichol turning an alarming shade of red, and nodded in understanding. "Sounds like we had better hurry. Let's go then." Kairi followed as Bethany led the way out, certain that the Asentari would have no problem finding their next destination.

Upon reaching the tavern, Bethany led the group inside to a table. Kairi stepped back to let Nichol and Kora through before following to a window booth that look out into Sunshield Hold's busy main concourse. Bethany ordered stew complete with mug of ale, while Kora ordered a dish of roasted vegetables. Kairi let Nichol order his meal before Kairi concluded the order with her customary soup, which happened to be leek and potato today. She told the young waitress to put the whole order on Kairi's account before turning back to the group as the waitress sped off to fulfill the order. Kairi noticed Kora was staring a hole through the worn oak table they sat at, and she put a reassuring hand on the young Asentari's shoulder. "Kora? Everything alright?"


Odric listened as the young man continued, hands steepled patiently in front of him as he spoke. Aether seemed to accept Odric's conclusion and decision, which was good. Odric was still not sure what to make of the young man's predicament, but he at least seemed to be earnest and level-headed. Aether mused out loud about the possible reason's for his people's pursuit of him, before agreeing with Odric's offer of asylum. Aether did note, however, that confrontation might be unavoidable if these Harbingers decide to attack villages to try and lure Aether out. Odric pondered this for a moment. To him, such acts of banditry inflicted on a settlement, with the sole purpose of spreading word to a potential mark, seemed rather... barbaric. Not to mention inefficient. But then again, if this land of Trevatya did indeed exist it was possible then that they had ways and customs that would be considered alien to Ka'Lesa. Still, Odric felt the need to express his concerns, and he fixed a steely gaze on Aether.

"They would really attack a neutral settlement, just to lure you out? I concede that I know little of your land, the bits that you've told me just now in fact, but I cannot believe they would be that reckless? The ramifications of a foreign party infiltrating Ka'Lesa and attacking settlements would cause political uproar amongst the nations here. I have no wish to antagonize your people, but they risk bringing all out war on themselves if they pursue such a course of action." Odric took a breath and looked at Aether with concern. "I would hope your Harbingers would have enough awareness and foresight to avoid this scenario. The consequences could be catastrophic." Aether then offered his services to the Order, and Odric appreciated the young man's willingness to work to earn his keep. "That is very kind of you, and I would appreciate any help you could offer us."


Randalla strode serenely across the entrance square of Sunshield Hold, medicinal parcel firmly in grasp. She looked across to the main square and saw Kairi's group heading into the tavern, and smiled as she went. Then she heard a stern but young voice coming from the direction of the main gate, and saw a young woman talking to the guards. The woman was distinctly out of breath and looked panicked. Randalla approached the gates as the woman demanded to see Kairi or another commanding officer. One of the guards turned to fetch somebody, only to see Randalla and salute. "Ah, Knight-Captain Thorne, your timing is perfect." Randalla nodded and returned the salute. "Thank you, Stimmons. As you were." Randalla approached the woman and saw the insignia that the woman brandished, she was a Knight of Mondolin. Sudden recognition dawned over Randalla's face as she recognised the young woman. "Lilian? Are you okay? What's wrong?"

"Doesn't even have to be a neutral one. Half the wars the country had been in were caused by the assassination, or rarely an attempted and failed assassination, by the Harbingers, or destruction of a city or town. Let me give some context about them. Eighty-five to ninety percent of the Harbingers, juniors and fully commissioned, were taken and drafted into the program as soon as they showed a hint of magical abilities. They're indoctrinated that they are expendable, and are weapons, and the trials they go through molds them into such. The mission is all that matters, and achieving it, no matter what it is, is their only goal. Failure to do so...well, I could go into graphic details, but it's speculation and there is some leniency on how many times they're allowed to fail, but you never see them again should they fail too many times. There are some exceptions to not getting drafted, mostly due to noble status, otherwise I would be a Junior Harbinger, but generally speaking they are viewed as weapons by everyone. There are a few that do have that kind of awareness...but that still leaves too many names to narrow down who they sent, though I could still scratch off a few more due to...other reasons. 

Much like the other two nations that share the continent with us, we don't shy away from war, no matter how catastrophic it would be. For the Harbingers, that kind of thing is for leadership to decide and deal with. Their job is to make sure their will is done, no matter the cost and no matter who gets in the way. It should be telling that Chi-Chi is one of the most reasonable of the Juniors, and tried to convince Rowan to step away. They do tend to get big egos, though. And only a select few actually have some respect for the Imperial Knights, and vice versa.

I should probably note that if the other nations, Mondolin, the Heanta, Eldari, or even the Asentari, should go over there to retaliate against Trevatya, the Gnoll would take it as an invitation as well, and even an added food source. The Archons would be worried as well. Funnily enough, it may be the only time all three of them would band together. And the Gnoll and the Archons had been at each other's throats since before human colonization.

Either way, the fact they hadn't leveled a town yet is telling. Destroying bandit outposts or camps would be something to do if they need to release some pent up energy. If there is some reports of that, depending on the damage done, you could at least get an idea of their abilities. The Harbingers are, oddly enough, mostly elemental magic users. Despite the wide variety of human powers that had shown up. Razegul might be one of the extremely few that isn't necessarily an element user..." Even Aether's abilities were mostly elemental based. Though unlike others, he didn't focus on a specific one. Still, Odric seemed appreciated that Aether intended to earn his keep.

~

Nichol ordered rice and chicken, and just sat there. He did look at Kora, and noticed the expression. Furrowing his eyebrows, he was about to comment when Kairi already did so. And so he stayed quiet and just waited for his meal...he was kind of starving.