middaeg | [ Open ] Iuneril Catch-All

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[ Open ] Iuneril Catch-All

Who: Yona and OPEN!
When: Early to mid Iuneril
Where: Aefenglom, the Wilde
What: Catch-all for the month + Quests + Litha
Warnings: TBA as neccesary

A. Making Magic

[ Practicing her magic has become a daily habit for Yona. Outside of her classes - which she's been attending faithfully - she's dedicated many hours of late to extra practice hours and honing her understanding of these strange new abilities. Magic such as this was never something she'd encountered in her lands and she feels like she has to work twice as hard as some of the others to keep up.

Fortunately, she's made several friends among the other witches - as well as some far more accomplished than she - who have been willing to help her out, showing her what to do and offering helpful advice as she learns. Today, she's settled down in a park - or is it a magical garden? she's not sure - not far away from the Coven. Settled beneath the spreading branches of a large tree, she's alternately immersed in reading from an old text in her lap and occasionally attempting to cast one of the spells she's currently studying.

Assisting her is a fat little squirrel who is perched on the grass in front of her, surrounded by a mound of nuts she'd gathered from beneath the tree. The squirrel seems quite content to entertain herself with her treasure trove, although she does occasionally dart around the tree in pursuit of some fun, but always returns when Yona seems to need her presence again.

Which would be right now, as she focuses with great determination, points a finger at the squirrel before her and attempts to cast her spell. ]

Sleep!

[ ... The squirrel just cocks her head at Yona in confusion a moment before chirping at her and popping a too-large nut in her mouth, making her cheeks puff out. Yona just sighs, her shoulders slumping at the spell failure. ]

B. Home is where the Heart is

[ She's been here several weeks now and the temporary rooms she'd been staying in the barracks had been... alright, but ultimately hadn't been someplace she felt comfortable relaxing and calling home. So, after speaking with some of the other witches in her Coven about what to do, she ended up selecting one of the available cottages elsewhere in the Haven. It still feels a little large to take up with just her, but for now it would do - it was much more familiar to her than the tall buildings holding "apartments", even though some looked down on these as being a little more worn and rustic. She liked that, though. It felt familiar. Comfortable. Homey.

It was going to take a lot of work to make it into an actual home, however. For several long days - upwards of a week, almost - she can be found busily at work around the place. Cleaning, dusting, sweeping, scrubbing. She paints the outside with a fresh coat of paint, makes the shutters and frames around the windows a bright, cheerful green. The gardens around the little cottage will be an endeavor in themselves, but for now she does her best to clear out the overgrown weeds and shrubs so there's a clear path around the little home once more - uncovering cute little paving stones in the process that match the winding stone wall wrapped around the cottage.

Anyone frequenting by this area over the span of a few days will start to see an actual home finally beginning to take shape - although Yona does get herself into trouble a few times by trying to tackle some projects a little too much for her level of skill - despite her determination. Getting to the roof does not happen, resulting in her landing in a bush instead and very much not where she'd intended to end up. Trying to right the sagging front gate might need a more skilled hand than hers as well, because she can't for the life of her figure out how to unhinge the thing - and if it's broken or merely wobbly.

But she's doing her best - for someone who's never had to put a house of her own to rights before, she's not doing too badly for herself, or so she thinks. But she certainly won't turn down a helping hand. Or maybe even just a friendly visit, as she flops down on the grass of the front lawn one afternoon, a little dirty and rumpled and a smudge of dust across her nose and cheek. ]

C. Candle Crafting

[ Yona can't say she's ever crafted candles before. She knew, in theory, how they were made, but when she spots an advert inviting those in the city come and help prepare them for the Litha celebrations, she decides it sounds like it might be a fun outing - and a way to pitch in and help. A simple way, maybe, but that's not a downside to her.

She listens to the instructions of the shop workers and artisans on what to do, but when she comes to her own candle-making station, she can't help but steal glances to the person working next to her, mimicking some of their actions as she starts on her own candles. ]

[ Some of her candles come out better than others - a few come out a little... hmm, misshapen is putting it kindly. But she's taking that as a challenge! Maybe she can find something interesting to carve these ones into instead!

Turning to someone nearby, she holds the strangely-shaped candle up with a hopeful smile for their opinion. ]

D. Berry Picking

[ She'd somehow missed the warnings for any side-effects to this berry-picking adventure. Oh, she'd heard that it was safe enough and there were likely no predators to be worried about, and the double pay was a very tempting enticement. Besides, it felt nice to get out of the city for a bit and do something relaxing and fun like this. Something that reminded her of home.

So here she is with a large basket at her feet as she works her way through the plants, picking iunerberries and enjoying the sunshine. And the pretty scent these bushes give off. She's not sure if its the berries or the bush itself, but she finds herself growing more relaxed and cheerful as she proceeds. Until she almost feels downright giddy. How strange...

Giggling a little to herself, she reaches a little too far for her next handful of berries, overbalances, and goes tumbling down among the grass and leaves. Blinking in surprise a moment, she can only burst into laughter at herself, since that strikes her as the funniest thing that's happened all day! ]

E. The Silent Tree

[ Yona had not yet arrived in the city the last time anyone ventured out to this location, but when she'd heard of another venture here to heal more of the forest, she'd been eager to join them - and to see this progress for herself. Anytime people ventured into the Wilde was a risk, she knew, but it sounded very much like a worthy cause and she wanted to assist, if she could.

Her own venture to infuse some of the leylines had been carefully guarded, although she might be considering another try at it. Or, failing that, she keeps an ear out for others heading out to inspect or donate some of their magic, offering to join them as additional protection.

Or perhaps you find her not far away, not too deeply into the more dangerous areas. She's crouched beside a cluster of bright yellow flowers, leaning down to tend them with diligent care. She doesn't know who these might have sprouted from - she's not even sure what kind of flower this is, actually - but that doesn't seem to bother her right now. She carefully clears the snow away from their roots, giving them room to grow. Should someone approach, she'll glance up with a smile. ]

F. Wildcard

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[ She helps Caster set up the table in the garden - all the while admiring its beauty. She doesn't even recognize half these flowers and plants, and secretly feels a pang of loneliness for Yoon, who she's sure would be delighted to explore this place. And probably pick over Caster's brain for every piece of knowledge he possesses.

Still, she settles down in a chair as Archer carries out a tray loaded with food - her eyes going a little wide at the sheer amount of it. Maybe dragons in this place eat a lot?

But she offers them both a bright - if a little shy - smile as they settle in for a meal. ]

Thank you. And thank you for inviting me - maybe I should have sent word ahead, but... [ Then she would have been embarrassed if she had lost her nerve at the last moment... ] Your home is beautiful, by the way. These gardens are lovely. Did you two do all this yourselves?

[ She's well aware Caster is curious - and impatient - but she's also working up her courage. Yes, again. ]

[ There's a hit of strange nostalgia. This garden has been tended to for a year already. It wasn't as lush or well-kept initially. Hell, Cú avoided giving it his best in first months because it was supposed to be just a temporary place to stay—

Things have changed. ]

First, it was just two of us, but along the way, we had plenty of help. Myr's hand and heart are also in it and then— [ He gestures at the other cottage visible nearby, which the gardens seem to be connected with. ] —there is also Everett's touch.

[ When he didn't try to blow it up. Granted, Caster pranked him right back. And Yona is right. He is damn curious, but he also knows how to behave himself and not press... just yet. Then he notices the tea leaves arranged into a flower submerged in the glass teapot and his jaw drops as he inspects it closely ]

Did you— [ —made this, he wants to ask, but it comes as a mutter. Dammit, Archer and his secret projects ]

[A lot of work has been put into making their cottage and garden so habitable. If here and there some greenery creeps inside the cottage it can be blamed on the garden war, fauns, or some druid research. Granted Archer doesn't mind (much) and has cracked a joke about plants guarding the garden.

Then Cu notices the flowering tea and Archer ducks his head with a bit sheepish smile. He thinks Yona may find it familiar and prefer a taste of home rather than all the oddities of this new world.]

I tried to replicate blooming tea that is quite popular in my world.

[ Caster draws attention to the tea and Yona's gaze drops to it as well. Blinking for a moment, she leans in as she realizes what it is, her eyes going wide with surprise and delight. ]

They have flowering tea in your world? [ Her smile bright and excited, she glances up at Archer before peering at the beautiful arrangement once more. ] Oh, Archer, this is lovely! I haven't had this in a very long time.

[ She's touched by the fact that he made this with her in mind, considering he'd brought coffee for the two of them. ]

I might be a witch but this man is a true sorcerer both in the kitchen and in the forge! [ Caster elbows Archer teasingly and then rests his hand on his shoulder with a wide grin. It's equally about praising his Bonded and putting him on display, as being a bit of a prick— he's a bully, a loving bully. ]

Look forward to enjoying that magic, Yona. [ The cooking magic or weapon magic? But yeah, she arrived here for a reason, so Cu allows himself to become a bit more serious ] But if I may— What is it that you wanted to talk with us about?

Hmph. I'm merely trying to recreate some recipes using available ingredients. [Archer doesn't elbow him right back, but closes one eye and tilts his head in exaggerated fashion. His fond tone belies his words, just like his warm smile. Here, in his own home, he's much more relaxed and open, his gestures more flippant. It may be because of his Bonded too, showing in how comfortable he is around him. Most notable, though, are his earrings, one of which matches exactly ones in Cú's ears, the other of similar shape but made from blue crystal.]

[His Bonded's question gets a reaction - a teasing tap on his nose.] Let our guest enjoy tea and snacks before asking, Cú. Besides, I'm sure that Yona may have some questions of her own for us.

[ She watches their banter with a growing smile - Caster is often like this when she's around, but it's the first time she's seen Archer act in such a way. He'd always been very serious when they'd talked - although warm, she'd felt. This seems so much more genuine, however, and she's touched that she gets to see it.

It makes her feel more confident in her decision to come here, at least.

Something she can see Caster is impatient for, which makes her laugh. He's asked after her purpose twice already and she suspects that's because he knows exactly why she's here, but it's also fun watching him be kept in anticipation for once. ]

Mmm, I suppose I could bide my time and keep Cú in suspense a while longer... [ She pretends to muse this thought over with great seriousness, tapping a fingertip against her chin, before giving in with a laugh. ] But I suspect that would just make him more impossible.

In truth, I... [ She pauses. Takes a deep breath. ] I came because I wanted to speak to you both more about what we spoke of the other day on the network. When you, Archer, offered a bond. And when Cú mentioned the temporary potions designed to try these out. I... I wanted to ask if you'd be willing to try such a thing with me? If not, that's alright, too - I don't want either of you to feel pressured, but both of you have made me feel so welcome here, even before I officially came through the Mirror, that in thinking to ask anyone... you are always the first to come to mind.

[ She looks a little flustered at admitting that out loud, cheeks a light pink as she stumbles to get the words out. ]

[ Oh, she'd do this to him, he knows! Cú follows her joking musing with making a face of his own, almost a groan followed with a chuckle. But his demeanor grows more serious as Yona speaks her reason. The slight smile never disappearing from his face, but hey, this is a serious thing he will approach it correctly. He might mock and tease, but he also has lines not to cross.

A strange nostalgia waves over him and he knows Archer gets to feel it too. It's going to be a year soon, huh? ]

Dear Yona, my offer still stands, and I am a man of my word. I find no pressure in your words, in fact, I am honoured that you chose me. I will drink that potion with you and introduce you to the concept. [ Obviously he can't talk for Archer, but he doubts if he would back off now. Really, he's glad to hear the old grump finally found someone he'd offer a Bond. People here... they are not tethered very firmly. Some stay for long but some... disappear. Cú never experienced the pain of losing a Bond like Berserker or Soren did, but he saw plenty of friends leave. He has no plans of going anywhere, but who knows what the future brings? And he'd prefer if Archer wasn't left entirely alone. ]

[Archer's expressions grows serious as she speaks. The sentiment he can feel through the Bond reminding him that it's been almost a year now.]

I'm honoured by your trust. My offer doesn't change and I will Bond with you. [it's much easier for him to use formal language in such moments.]

[ Her gaze drops, a small wistful smile lingering on her lips for a moment before she glances up to meet their gazes and her smile deepens, turning more genuine.

She should have known their answer would be simple and straightforward. She'd been nervous over nothing, it seemed. ]

I collected the potions from the Coven, just in case you agreed. Should we... try them? Or is there something more ritualistic we should be observing for this?

[ She could have asked the witch she requested these of, but in this case, she prefered to learn and experience this with those she chose to share it with. ]

[ Well then. That's a surprisingly fast one. Guess she really would make a good option for Archer, both crazy prepared.

If— he understood right and Archer offered her an actual Bond, that's how it sounded when they talked about it ]

The actual Bonding is as much of a ceremony as you want it to be. [ He liked that part ] And so is this— we could raise our glasses in a toast.

[Archer indeed offered an actual Bond. He's been favorably impressed by her before, and her reaction to his silent vigil made him quite protective.]

It definitely requires a toast.

Temporary Bond feels weaker than typical one. You'll most likely feel Cú right away, I'm much more subdued.

[ She reaches into her satchel to retrieve the three potions she'd picked up earlier, passing two to each of them. She's still feeling a little nervous, but at least being here bantering with them is an easy distraction from her nerves.

Case in point, she can't help but laugh at Archer's words, casting a knowing glance over at Cú as she curls her fingers around the bottle with the potion she'd kept for herself. ]

I'm not sure it's all that difficult to be more subdued than Cú. But I think it will be interesting to feel such a difference.

[ That nets them huffed bark of laughter, almost a pout that quickly turns into a crooked smile. ]

What was that supposed to mean?

[ That's a compliment, he is going to take it as such and now one can convince him otherwise, thanks ]

When you figure out where exactly he sits, [ —in your head that is— ] he becomes clear like a lantern in the night. [ Cú says as he uncorks the bottle and swivels the liquid underneath. He raises it, should others give it a customary clank, before he drinks it. ]

[It is a compliment alright. Beneath the amusement hides warm affection. Archer raises the bottle for customary clank and drinks it, waiting for the connection to set in.

His own feels like ember lost in smoke, hidden deep within, warm and protective although subdued.]

You are Child of Light, bright and spirited. [he teases with a laugh.]

Edited 2020-06-27 21:06 (UTC)

[ She laughs softly, but clinks her bottle with theirs before lifting it to her lips. It's... cool against her tongue, and tingles strangely as she swallows it down. For a moment, there's a roaring in her ears as it slides down her throat and then...

She can feel them.

Archer had been right when he'd said they'd both have a distinctive feel. Cú is vibrant, bold, just as unmistakable a presence through this new bond as he is in real life. It makes her laugh softly, even as she searches a little deeper for Archer. He's quieter - subdued is the right word for it - but his presence is warm and reassuring. Steady.

They can no doubt feel her delight, her curiosity, but at the moment, she's too absorbed in exploring this to find any words to describe how it feels. ]

[ But there is no need to use word to explain. Even after spending so long here Cú still remembers how immensely fascinating to experience the first Bond is. It doesn't matter if full or temporary (hell his own were mostly temporaries for a few months).

Matching the boldness that appears over their link he reaches out quickly to catch Yona's hand. They're already close, making the potion work so well, but the touch always enhances the effect. Suddenly he can feel hear nearly as clearly as he does Archer or Lex, and he's aware that he must have intensified the experience for her too—

So he sends amused mischief, shrouded in caring warmth towards her like a gentle wave. One that ripples all of his Bonds, so Archer gets to feel that as well. ]

Does it live up to the stories?

[Archer huffs and bumps Cú's shoulder with his as he leans forward to rest his hand over Yona's. Time here mellowed him, taught him to share his feelings and his thoughts and allowed him to forget the old bitterness. He's protective of his own, while trying to not overstep.]

Hmph. Don't rush.

[ Cú's voice accompanies his amusement and it has Yona blinking out of her own thoughts and exploration as she glances up at both of them and then laughs softly. She can feel Archer's affection for him and that warms her smile as she sets the bottle back on the table. ]

It's... no, it's more than the stories. But I suspect you knew that. I can... I can feel you both so clearly. It should feel strange, but...

[ Somehow it doesn't. Which they might be able to pick up from her - that and a sense of wonderment. As well as the gratitude and affection she already holds for both of them - a deep well of it from her time here so far. ]

[ Everything is warm, feel good and mushy, and Caster plays with directing his own affection clearly. He's glad Yona is enjoying this, because—

—he can't imagine how it must be to have the first Bond with someone who isn't a stranger. That she's sitting here and having it be right. But this unconscious train of thoughts colours the feelings on their link with an old melancholy, one that could taste a bit bitter.

He stops himself and withdraws on the connection a bit, with an apologetic smile. Hoping that maybe it wasn't that obvious, and well given that he is himself, that hope is also there ]

But it doesn't— and that is the best thing I could hear. [ Despite that tinge of bitter coffee, he is genuinely happy for her. He's just not that good in keeping to himself. ]

[It's as it should be. Archer smiles softly as he feels Cú teasing through the Bond, and Yona's amazement. When he feels that tinge of melancholy Archer leans towards his partner, their shoulders touching, and stays like this.

They weren't truly strangers even when they met here.]

Cú's right. It's a rare occurrence, and a treasure.

[ She fully intends to treasure that feeling - because she knows how precious it can be, as well.

But she also gets distracted from that surge of emotion she feels from Cú - the affection quickly followed by something darker. Sour, almost. It doesn't feel like what she'd expect him and she can't help chase that sensation back to that source. She reaches out through the bond, brushing against it lightly with a warm touch. As if she could soothe that emotion just by wrapping it in warmth and carrying it far away.

But she still turns to give him a curious look. ]

But there's something dampening it, isn't there...? [ Her voice is soft, hesitant to tread where he's not comfortable allowing her. She casts a glance at Archer, searching for direction. ]

[ And the light clears the darkness, like a sun chasing the clouds away and painting the world in warm hues. Cú exhales slowly, as he levels his feelings and lets a simple gratitude wash over their link ]

I— remembered something that happened long time ago. I wasn't the easiest to be around back then— [ Pushed someone away too. Took things way too personally. Mistakes. Even if a lot could have been blamed on how irritable he had become because of the magic build-up, it was still on him for acting on it ] Feelings come and go, that's how they work. Bond is an unexpected window.

[ It's a bit of deflection too. Putting a dampener on Yona's first experience wasn't what he wanted. ]

Hmph. [Archer stretches his wing and wraps it around Cú's shoulders. He may have an inkling what his Bonded is talking about, but he tries to tell him that despite everything he's still here, at his side. The warm feeling he sends through their link is tinged with protectiveness.]

You'll have to excuse two old men for reminiscing ancient times. [his tone is light, but his eyes are serious as he tries to convey the message. It's not always possible to forget the cause of pain. Time can make it hurt less, but it won't be gone.]

[ She watches them and what she sees - what she feels - is enough to have her relaxing again, a small, wistful smile on her face. They'll feel a ping of her own loneliness, an ache for those she left behind - especially the ones they so remind her of on so many occasions. Even now, in their manner of deflecting and support.

But she shakes her head, her smile still warm and fond. ] You'll have to excuse me for prying. I know this will take time to get used to. But the last thing I want to do is be an inconvenience or troublesome to either one of you. I suspect we all have things that... [ She pauses, searching for the best way to express it. ] Hmm. Memories that may make things uncomfortable at times.

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futhark - 2020-07-09 23:05 (UTC) - Expand

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