Of Trolls and Homecomings Day 2

From Reydala

Contents 1 Of Trolls and Homecomings: Day 2 2 Scene 1: A Rude Awakening 3 Scene 2: A Will to Protect 4 Scene 3: Lesson Never Learned 5 Scene 4: Will 6 Scene 5: Holy Trolling 7 Scene 6: A Tiny Issue 8 Scene 7: Fabrawlin: Aelthir versus Ansr'onna!

Of Trolls and Homecomings: Day 2

Timeline: 25th of Chiarore

Scene 1: A Rude Awakening

The sun was bright in the early morning, Aelthir thought as he brought an arm up and covered his eyes. He was still rather exhausted from all the tailoring work he had performed the evening before. Add in all the torment he went through yesterday, it was no surprise that the paladin just wanted to get as much rest as he possibly could before someone roused him for breakfast.

He turned himself onto his side, away from the light which shined in from the window and removed the arm over his eyes. As he moved to rest it on the bed, he felt it drape over a large bump. Being as close to sleep as he was, he dismissed it as extra blankets and relaxed his body. His relaxation was short lived as he felt another body pressed up against his a moment later.

“Huh…?” He murmured and opened his eyes slightly. His vision became filled with white thread and he just stared in confusion. “White thread? Did I sew something in bed?” He asked himself quietly as he struggled to wake up fully. Then the white thread moved slightly and Aelthir’s mind clicked in. “That is not white thread!” he shrieked as he pushed himself away from the other person and fell back first onto the floor. He immediately knew just who was in the bed with him.

Aelthir jumped to his feet and pointed at the woman. “K-K-Katrin!? What the hell are you…” he paused and looked around. This wasn’t the workshop he remembered going to bed in. “What sorcery is this!? I did not go to sleep here!” he yelled out as he continued to point at the Den’an. A slender blue arm poked out from under the covers and threw a pillow at the elf. “H-Hey! What was that for!?”

She made a sound that sounded annoyed before she said “Shut up, and go back to bed. I’m trying to sleep.” The covers then shifted and the girl disappeared completely under them. “And paladins shouldn’t curse.” She murmured with a yawn.

Aelthir twitched as he tried to keep calm. Inwardly, he continued to freak out however and tried to sneak toward his closet. Then, the door to the bedroom opened with a crash. “What’s all the ruckus in here?” Vidar asked as he stared in with a narrow gaze.

“Like, dude. What are you doing in here?” Fal asked as he looked to the paladin and appeared beside Vidar. “Look, I know your sister thinks that Katrin is your wife, but seriously. That doesn’t give you the right to come in here while she’s sleeping. Oh, and especially in your lack of dress” Fal continued with a frown as he shook his head. “Really, really uncool, dude. I thought you had more class than that.”

“B-But… I woke up here. I didn’t go to sleep…” Aelthir stammered as he shook his arms. “And what do you mean lack of dress…?” he questioned as he looked toward himself. His eyes went wide as he realized he was next to nude. He quickly found his backpack and was dressed even quicker. “A-As I was saying, I went to sleep in the workshop, and woke up here. I didn’t do it, I swear!” he said as he stared the two at the door down.

“Likely story” Vidar commented. “Looks like the little elf is far more lewd than we ever expected.” Vidar turned his gaze to Aelthir. “Let’s go, paladin. Trolling is one thing, but when it goes this far… well, we need to protect the best interests of the party.” Vidar continued as he kept up his narrow stare.

“But I…” Aelthir started. “I didn’t…” he whispered as he took a step back. In turn, Vidar took a step forward. “I… woke up here” the paladin whispered once more before his legs gave out and Aelthir crashed to the floor.

“If you’re innocent, why are you so afraid?” Vidar questioned as he took another step toward the paladin.

“Seriously, dude. You’re just making yourself look really uncool right now.” Fal sighed and leaned against the doorframe and crossed his arms.

“I seriously…” Aelthir started, and then slumped over in his spot. Vidar made it up to the paladin and tapped the elf’s knee with his boot.

“Hn, he is unconscious.” Vidar’s face turned to one of amusement. “I don’t know how I kept a straight face for so long.” He said before he yawned slightly. “Mind if we leave him here, Katrin?” the Berserker asked as he glanced over to the bed. A blue hand appeared from the covers and waved him off as a reply.

“Man, I thought he’d never faint.” Fal sighed before he turned away and skated back off to his room. “Totally cool in the end, though” Fal finished and disappeared inside. Vidar remained silent and just returned to his room, so everyone could get a few more hours of sleep.

Scene 2: A Will to Protect

It had been a long time since Aelthir wore a simple black suit, and yet for the moment, he felt it appropriate as he stood inside the family tomb, where many a Baequi’via had been laid to rest over many years. With Syllae away for the day on a ‘personal business errand’ as had been explained, the group decided to take time away from one another. Aelthir decided he would come here first, for a reason he could not decipher in his own mind, but here he was anyway, nearby the final resting place of his parents.

He smacked his lips and felt himself swallow a couple times to try and remove the dry and pale taste that clung tightly to his throat, to no avail. Not a word was spoken by the fabulous paladin as he ran a hand through his hair and just looked around at the preserved bodies of his ancestry.

“Come to pay your last respects…?” an older voice asked from behind him, followed by the sound of slow, almost tired footsteps.

“Lady Ansr’esti…” Aelthir began; the voice was easily recognizable to the paladin. “You could say that, I suppose.” He continued as he finally turned to face the corpses of his parents. The look on his face was firm; solid as the steel which was used to forge his trusted armour. “I merely had to see for myself.”

“They cared about you; you know… even after they forced you to leave, they worried about you.” The elderly elf spoke as she stopped by the paladin’s side.

“Did they? All I can remember is the disappointment they both shared on their faces when it was revealed that I was a paladin of the beautiful Triana.” Aelthir chuckled in a dry and mirthless manner.

“Oh, trust me. If it were not for the ways of the world back then… you may have been regarded as a beacon of hope.” Ansr’esti quipped almost jokingly, which earned an amused snort from the Paladin. “Oh, I jest not. You are an elf that had embraced a human religion and was well regarded between both the humans and the elves; this city needed someone like that.”

“No one single human or elf can play the role of a catalyst.” Aelthir retorted as he kneeled before his parents. “Just like a group of adventurers, everyone needs to take part to find a path to victory. The light of trust and faith has to come from all if we ever want to come out of this alive.”

“Mmm. You’ve grown wise.” Ansr’esti crossed her arms. “You still seem a little dense, but you grown at least somewhat wise. I remember when you were just a wee little one, you always wished to take all the pain, all the punishment, and do everything yourself.”

Aelthir smiled lightly as his right hand touched the freshly engraved names of his parents. “Ah, but that has not changed much… It is my role to be at the front of the group and take the most of the hits in danger. I still want to protect everything I can.”

“I remember when you were young, and some elven boys were picking on a human child.” Ansr’esti began and Aelthir nodded his head.

“I was what, eight, maybe?” Aelthir asked as he tried to remember.

• ~*~*Flashback*~*~*

“Lord Aelthir, remember now. Keep your back straight at all times while marching.” A much younger Ansr’esti spoke to the extremely young paladin with short hair. “A head of the Baequi’via must always act proper, whether they are entering a room, traversing the town with your significant other, or carrying the banner of your family crest; honour above thyself.” She continued in a teaching tone. “You may only be eight years old now, but time grows quickly.”

Aelthir did as the lady instructed and kept his back straight as they walked, until a shrill cry was heard from nearby. The young boy stopped and looked toward the source of the voice to see a young human child being pushed around by several elves who looked only slightly older than Aelthir himself. Ansr’esti looked and frowned. “See that, Aelthir…? You should never treat anyone like those children are treating that human.” She spoke with a hint of sadness as she looked down to where the paladin was supposed to be. “Young Lord!?” She said in surprise as she watched him charge ahead as fast as he could toward the children. “Aelthir!” she shouted quickly to try and stop the boy, who simply ignored her pleas. She knew that she should stop him, but she stayed still and wondered just how this would play out.

The young Aelthir stopped running as he got in between the human and the three elves. “I command thee to stop harming this person!” the young Aelthir demanded as he stared down the other elves.

“Look at this.” The first elf spoke in Leyandran. “A hero; Run along kid. Leave this human to us, or we’ll beat you up.”

“No.” Aelthir replied simply. He would not budge. “I will not let you harm him!” the young elf continued as he stared down the trio. Ansr’esti was shocked, to say the least. She was even further shocked when the three elves attacked Aelthir, who simply stood there. “Run away and get to safety!” he spoke in common to the human and continued to allow the elves to beat on him. At that point, Ansr’esti stepped in and broke up the fight.

“Aelthir… why did you protect that boy?” She asked after they had left as she kneeled down to wipe off the blood from his lip. “You could’ve gotten yourself hurt.”

“Honour before myself… isn’t that what I’m being taught?” the young elf asked with an innocent stare. “The motto of chivalry is to serve all and love only one. All people are equals, so prejudice is childish?” He continued, as if he read it from a textbook.

Ansr’esti smiled lightly and placed a hand on his chest, where his heart would be. “You’re right, but you are missing something. Something that only comes from in here through experience; one day though, you’ll understand it completely. Now let’s go home and get you cleaned up.” She laughed before the elf and his caretaker returned toward the Baequi’via estate.

• ~*~*END FLASHBACK*~*~*

“The motto of chivalry is to serve all, and love only one. However, there are many kinds of love in this world. The love for one is not the same as the love for many. It matters not whether you’re human, elf, denan, dwarf, even gnome or troll. The only way to properly attain harmony is to accept everyone as the same.” The elf explained quietly. “However, even if such a lofty goal was to be obtained, sometimes one must lay down their compassion and wield their weapon to protect those they love.”

“Ah… you really do understand more these days. You’ve had many experiences, it seems.” She smiled as the paladin rose to his feet. “And you’re still young, so you’ll have many more and only grow wiser.”

“Yes, and I have made some wonderful friends along the way.” Aelthir smiled as he turned to Ansr’esti. Funny how the dry taste in his throat had vanished by now, he figured; but he didn’t question it. “I wish to protect them from harm… but don’t ever tell them that. I'd be teased forever.”

“Yes, especially that Den’an lady; she seems nice. A perfect wife for a traveling paladin,” the elven lady smiled gently as Aelthir blushed and waved his arms in defiance.

“Not you too! I mean, first my sister, now my former caretaker?” He said as he continued to wave his arms in defiance. He stopped when the elven woman burst out in laughter.

“Do not worry, Little Onna told me everything last evening. She and your sister are having a picnic today for Onna’s birthday, so I figured I’d go for a walk. I saw you come in here.” She pointed at him and continued to laugh, as if Aelthir’s expression was simply the funniest thing ever. “Well, Lord Aelthir, are you satisfied?”

“Just Aelthir these days” the paladin responded as he walked toward the elven woman. “Verily I am prepared to leave this tomb. Nor do I intend on returning here for a long time to come, if ever.” He continued as he started up the stairway toward the land of the living.

“Have you found any peace in coming here, Lord…” she paused as Aelthir shot a glance toward her. “You should get used to it, many elves who knew your family may still regard you as a Lord.” She smirked and he shook his head with a defeated sigh.

“Yes, I believe I have found some peace, and another time when I have found more, I would like to know more about my parents after I was forced out of the family.” Aelthir responded in a solemn tone before he marched his way outside.

“Lord Aelthir! Back straight!” the elder elf ordered and the paladin felt himself naturally stand more proper. “That’s better.” He could feel the smug expression at his back as he left the tomb. His next stop was the local temple of Triana.

Scene 3: Lesson Never Learned

When Aelthir left the Baequi’via tomb, the sun somehow felt brighter to the elf, or maybe it was that his eyes had become sensitive due to all the dimly lit, dust filled room that is the inside of an underground grave. There was something about it that made Aelthir just know that when he died, he didn’t want to be buried in such a desolate place; maybe that would change when he got older, but presently, he didn’t wish to think about his own final arrangements and chose to fill his mind with other thoughts that were as far away from the cycle of death as possible.

And before the paladin knew it, he had made it to the town square, or what could be referred to as such. As Aelthir remembered it, there were many ritzy places around here for both high class elves and humans, as well as a few stores which catered to both races, such as the Gyssebrar Textiles, which was owned by Ansr’esti and her husband as a side to the work they did for the Baequi’via family.

In the center of it all was a large fountain with a statue of two legendary elves who’s names escaped Aelthir for the moment, but if he had to pardon a guess, it would be the Queen of Leyandra and her consort; however, he hadn’t been in the country forever, so he didn’t even remember what they looked like. Nonetheless, he did remember when he was younger; he and his sister were brought to this fountain and acted as if it was a wishing well. Coins that represented the hopes and dreams of every kind of person in Allrevan rested within this fountain. It seemed like a silly thing, to entrust a wish to a coin, but the paladin couldn’t help but think that it was romantic, in a sense. Thus, he took out a gold terrem and closed his eyes. A few words left his lips to disappear into the afternoon breeze and he tossed the coin into the fountain.

To the north of him rested where the chapels of the elven and human gods and goddesses that were revered in this city rested, and to the south, was where he came from, which held the tomb and the estate as well as other upper class families in the city. He decided to head toward the chapel, but paused when he swore he saw the flash of a familiar royal blue robe. “Sir Fal?” the paladin wondered out loud as he quietly took a few steps toward him out of pure curiosity. Even if today was a day away, being courteous never harmed anyone. Although, he wondered what had the dragonborne’s attention so completely.

A moment later and Aelthir understood. The psion was for lack of a better term, flirting with two high elven women with luxurious dresses, definitely of Baequi’vian make, mind you the paladin knew that his family held a monopoly on all tailoring in this city, that’s why the family was so well off, but yes. The psion was flirting with two elven women, who at this point did not seem to understand just what the poor dragonborne was saying. Of course, this was a relief to the paladin, because that meant the man was safe for the moment. That is, until Fal looked toward him and called “Yo! Aelthir, come here!”

He then walked to the paladin and dragged him over to the two women. “Do me a favour and tell them just how cool I am.” Fal said as he gave a ‘seductive’ smile, if one could even call it that and looked to the two ladies; Aelthir tried his hardest to not burst out in laughter when Fal winked at the girls right after. “May Triana forgive me for this.” Aelthir spoke in common and sighed. He then gave a warm smile to the girls.

“Good afternoon ladies. I’d like to apologize for my friend.” Aelthir began in elven and laughed nervously. “His name is Fal, and he is, as you see, a Dragonborne.” He clasped Fal’s shoulder as if motioning to him. “He seems to be rather interested with you two.” Aelthir continued.

“Oh? Well, how can we be of service to Mister Fal?” one of the elves, she with a pair of glasses asks, seems to be an intellectual type. “And what’s your name, pray tell?”

“Aelthir, fair maidens” Aelthir answered almost like it was scripted to the ladies. “And Fal… he uh…” Aelthir pauses and whispers something in Fal’s ear. Fal responds with a single pelvic thrust.

“Ah…” and Aelthir went red. How was he going to tell the girls what Fal was asking them about, without getting poor Fal in trouble? This was not a question that the paladin had an easy answer to. “Ah, you see… he’s interested in… er… trying out Leyandra, as it were, and would prefer the two of you ladies as his beautiful escorts.” Aelthir stammered in the elven language he was fluent in. His face was flushed, and he was one step away from having a broken brain for the countless time during this trip. However, he seemed to have gotten past it, the girls almost seemed satisfied with his answer… wait, almost?

That didn’t seem to last long as the first one reached back and slapped Fal, hard across the face. The force of the slap was enough to jar Fal’s head to the side. Aelthir’s expression went deadpan at this, and he was so surprised he didn’t notice the second elf approach, before she slapped the fabulous paladin hard. The pair of girls then turned around and walked away.

“What did you say!?” Fal asked as he rubbed his cheek. “Man, that’s not cool.”

“I told them that you wanted them as your escorts.” Aelthir answered as he moved to sit on the fountain edge. He rubbed his face. “I don’t know why they slapped us!”

“Escort implies hookers for money!” Fal answered him. “Different words, Aelthir. Different words, man! Call them dates, or guides, but not escorts!”

“If I take a lady to a ball, I am escorting her! How is that any different?” Aelthir retorted as he stared down Fal.

“Simple, because you’re too feminine to ever actually date a girl” Fal teased with a smirk as he sat beside Aelthir.

“At least I’ve not been confused for a pet.” Aelthir answered as he reached under Fal’s chin and scratched. Fal simply glared at Aelthir and shoved him slightly.

“Knock it off, that’s totally not cool either. Man, today’s a bummer. I think I’m just going to go back to the manor. Maybe I can flirt with some of the common speaking people.” Fal stood up and dusted himself off. “You coming, bro?”

“No thank you, Sir Fal. I have business I need to attend to first.” Aelthir answered as Fal shrugged and waved as he left. "He'll never learn his lesson..." Aelthir sighed once more and rested on the edge of the fountain.

Scene 4: Will

When Aelthir arrived at the Temple of Triana, the paladin’s cheek was still sore from being slapped by the elven women in the town square. It was barely the afternoon, and the paladin already felt the exhaustion as it began to plague him.

He placed a hand over his mouth as he yawned quietly and looked around the chapel. It had not changed much since he was last here, just under thirty years ago or so. Maybe a few new prayer benches, and touched up paint, but nothing much had changed. At the front, a glass case with a number of urns rested; and Aelthir knew that his old teacher’s remains must be within one of those urns. After all, his master was one of the founders of the chapel in this city. He ignored the confused clergymen as walked toward the ivory altar and kneeled before it in reverence. “Oh, divine Triana, I am but your humble servant. Thy will is my own. If thou shall wish for victory, I will face all odds to deliver it to thee, so please bless my family, my comrades and myself in your divine radiance. I pledge my allegiance to you. May you also carry the dearly departed into your heavens above, where they may live in peace; blessed be” prayed the paladin as he held his right fist across his chest. It was a symbol of reverence and loyalty. It was the first prayer that Master Palmeiro ever taught the boy. A moment later, the paladin rose to his feet and sat at a prayer bench. He closed his eyes once more, and did not notice the presence of another, beside him. That is, until he heard a light munching.

The paladin opened his eyes in confusion and looked toward the source to see Alis seated at his side. “Ah, Lady Alis; a pleasure to see you.” The paladin said with a smile on his face. She nodded her head and continued to munch on whatever snack she had upon her person. “Ah, uh… I must apologize for my sister’s continued mistaking you for a young stable boy. I assure you, I’ve tried to tell her otherwise. Suffice it to say, you look as feminine as a fourteen year old lady coming into her new body.”

“It doesn’t bother me…” the avenger stated calmly, before the speed of the munching noise increased; which as Aelthir had learned, was a telltale sign of just how annoyed she was.

“Then why are you munching faster…?” he pointed out in a casual manner. He shut his mouth quickly after as a loud crunch was heard right after, followed with more speedy munching. “Ah, never mind…” he trailed off wisely after that.

“…I have a question. How and why did you become a paladin of Triana? I mean, that is not a common occurrence for an elf, let alone one of high class society.” Alis asked suddenly as the munching ceased for a moment.

“Ah, yes… I can see how that would look peculiar.” The paladin nodded his head. “It’s a bit of a simplistic tale, maybe even a bit childish. However, the story begins with a fifteen year old me training to become the head of the Baequi’via Family, and heir to their haberdashery, when a human with shined armour stepped into the building. He looked rather plain, like a face that would become lost in a crowd. Regardless, the way he spoke with such conviction and pride caught my attention. Justice and peace just resounded from his body. I just had to learn more; and so I followed him here… to this chapel.” Aelthir paused and laughed lightly.

“I snuck in through the back door and crossed through a priest’s private chambers to find him teaching a class. A group of young boys and girls sat upon these prayer benches as he spoke of Holy Triana’s beliefs, her will. How she was the goddess of victory and how faith in her would lead to being able to protect those we held most dear in our hearts in the end. I was enamoured with such a wish. The strength to protect my family was something I wanted. So, I approached him, after class.” Aelthir closed his eyes as if he had gone to visit a pleasant memory.

“I was originally turned down. He knew who I was. After all, the name Baequi’via was well known here, as was the name of the heir. I argued that this was where I belonged, and Master Palmeiro demanded to know if I really wanted this. That this path would have me exiled from my family. He demanded to know if I was prepared to take such a risk. My will to protect my family overrode that worry and I readily agreed.” Aelthir chuckled. “I trained with Master Palmeiro for a couple years and finally became a paladin of Triana. However, this was all done in secret, to protect me. I learned why about ten years later, when I was exiled. Exiled by the very family I became a paladin to protect. Devastated by this, I took Palmeiro’s final pilgrimage for me, and left to fight against Laviege… to become stronger. Even if I wasn’t wanted, I would protect them, or so I thought. I am not needed anymore, however.” Aelthir smiled lightly. “My sister has grown to be a strong woman, and she has Onna with her. I can live my own life.”

Alis simply nodded; Aelthir hadn’t directly answered her question, but she got the gist of what he was trying to say. “And yourself, Lady Alis, How did you become a follower of Holy Regial?” He asked as he looked to her. She tilted her head upward, from under her cloak as if she was deliberating, and then looked toward Aelthir.

“Basically, when I was a young, a Regal Knight ended up allowing me to stay in his home. He also decided to try and place me back upon the right path through any means necessary. Of course, as you can see; I did not turn out how he wished I did, but I am doing this in my own manner, and it suits me perfectly fine.” Alis answered him, and Aelthir nodded his head as he took in the information.

“And a wonderful job you are doing.” Aelthir reassured her happily. “I’m glad to serve by you, Lady Alis; as I am all our comrades.”

Alis nodded her head. “Of course, if you’ll excuse me, I have other business to attend to before tonight.” Alis stood up and bowed before the paladin before she left the chapel in a calm manner.

After she left, Aelthir closed his eyes and prayed for a little while longer before he himself left the chapel. As he crossed the gates, he saw Ansr’esti with a folded up package carefully in her hands. Aelthir raised an eyebrow as the elf stopped in front of him. “Ah! Lord Aelthir! Perfect timing; I need you to take this to the chapel of Mulinel, and deliver it to the High Priest. I need to run back to the store and tend to other customers.” She spoke and shoved the package in his arms before she turned and ran off hurriedly. “Thank you!” she called back.

The paladin in the black suit raised an eyebrow and looked to the folded package. It looked almost like a banner of sorts. The sewing style was very familiar, but from where, he had to think. A look at the seal upon the package and it had become all too clear. It was the Baequi’via family crest. The sewing technique had to be his mother’s, and by proxy, Syllae’s and his own. The Gyssebrar Textiles must have been the ones who put the protective coat on the finished banner. He had originally wanted to head back to the manor, however; it seemed he had little choice but to follow through on this small task. He yawned lightly and pivoted upon his heels. He quickly nodded and marched off toward the Chapel of Mulinel.

Scene 5: Holy Trolling

It had been an even longer time since Aelthir had been in any of the temples of the Elven Pantheon, than he had been in the Triana Chapel. When he was training to become a paladin, he managed to convince his parents to let him go and worship on his time, and did more work with the cloth and thread to appease them as restitution for allowing such a selfish thing, or something that escaped his memory.

So, when the paladin entered the chapel, he felt his breath taken away from him by the pure beauty of the chapel. Everything was done in various blues and whites, and various murals depicting legends of Mulinel were painted high upon the ceiling and across the walls. Mulinel represented peace, so it stood to reason that a chapel in her name would also be a peaceful place where one’s spirit could feel healed simply upon entrance.

A moment passed and Aelthir remembered the reason of his visit. He took a deep breath and walked into the chapel. He simply prayed that his goddess did not view this as treason. Albeit, he knew that Triana was not a jealous goddess and thus he shook his worries from his mind and made his way to the back office, where the head priest was waiting. He was an older elven male with a long beard, who sat with a knowledgeable expression on his face. After a small conversation about the arrangements for the banner, and Aelthir inquiring about the banner itself, the paladin of Triana found himself back in the service room where he saw a certain pale skinned woman simply seated upon a bench to the left of a fountain which flowed gently. It was in front of the altar, on a slightly lowered platform, so Aelthir assumed it was used during services for blessings, or something of the like.

Without a word, Aelthir moved to the fountain and sat down beside the Den’an priestess. “Good afternoon, Aelthir.” Katrin said in a gentle tone as she continued to look at the fountain. “Are you stalking me? Because if you are, I may just forget how to cast a heal spell next time you get hurt.” she teased the man.

“No such luck for you today, Lady Katrin. I’m afraid your stalker is in another chapel.” He teased right back as he relaxed on the bench and yawned lightly.

“Almost a shame, however you’re here now.” She paused to turn herself to face away from Aelthir, face toward the door. “Would you be so kind as to brush my hair?” she asked him simply. “I just cannot seem to get my hair to work right today, and I know you seem enjoy playing with my hair, like you did this morning.” She had a smirk from ear to ear, only because she knew just how Aelthir would react.

“H-Hey!” Aelthir shouted as he flushed. “I have no clue what you are talking about!” His mind tried to think back that far. Had he actually done such an improper thing? Had the scare tactics from Fal and Vidar been warranted!?

“You were playing with my hair in bed this morning, before you fully woke up~ I tried to stop you, but it was just no use.” Katrin answered him with a smirk on her face. She leaned her head back and her smirk grew at the blank, lost stare of the paladin. “Since you knotted my hair, you need to take responsibility and fix it.” She continued after and looked forward once more as the paladin absentmindedly reached into his suit jacket and pulled out a brush. She’d apologize to the paladin for all her teasing, maybe even tell him that he didn't play with her hair, one of these days; or he’d snap out of his stupor and tease back. Either way, all is fair in war.

The paladin silently moved close to the priestess, so that he could get a good view of his work. Brushing hair, especially not his own was something that the paladin took very seriously. Perfect hair was essential to being fabulous, after all. He meticulously took a few strands of her hair into one hand and gently ran the brush through them with the other. “Your hair is so naturally straight” the paladin praised her quietly as he worked.

“My hair is straighter than you act sometimes.” She teased him lightly, which earned a chuckle from the fabulous one. It seemed like he was at ease once more.

“You’re just jealous because I’m just a pretty boy.” He retorted as his hands smoothed out the brushed hair and started the process over with more strands of hair. “A boy prettier than most girls, to boot~” he continued with a chuckle.

“You do more beauty work than most women I’ve ever met, Aelthiria~” She retorted with a chortle.

“Hey. I’m being nice enough to fix your hair.” He stuck out his tongue at her; not that she could see it from their present position.

“Only because you messed it up” she retorted as the brush left her hair and the process repeated from the beginning once more. “I’ve always wondered something. The way you spend so much time on your hair; the way you spend so much time on others’ hair… Do you have a hair fetish?” she asked in an almost innocent tone, and he went wide eyed again.

“Are you just trying to break my brain?” He asked as he twitched and stared intently at the back of her head.

Katrin shrugged and looked to the entrance, where two other girls were entering. Aelthir didn’t notice them and just returned to brushing Katrin’s hair. “If I was trying to break your brain… I’d do this.” She whispered before arching her back lightly. She then wrapped her arm behind her and pulled Aelthir’s face into the back of her neck. “Aelthiria! You shouldn’t do that in here! Not in my chapel, please… oh goddess!” she cried out loud in a melodramatic tone.

“AELTHIR!” he heard Syllae’s scream right after as Katrin let go of him. She then stood up and quickly moved away from the poor paladin.

“Oh, dear sister Syllae; thank goodness you’re here. If you hadn’t arrived, who knows what temptations he would have subjected me to~” she said as she practically retreated behind Syllae. “I asked him to help me brush my hair and he attacked my neck like a ravenous beast! I asked him to stop, but as you learned last eve, when my dearest Aelthiria gets into a mood, he is impossible to stop.” She spoke melodramatically as she clung to Syllae. Ansr’onna stood in the background, trying her hardest to not burst out in laughter.

“Aelthir! I thought we spoke about this yesterday, but no! You had to not listen once again and do this shameful act in poor Katrin’s chapel. Look, you’ve embarrassed your poor wife.” She scolded the paladin before she turned to the Den’an cleric and hugged her. “It’s okay, Aelthir will not embarrass you like this again…” she said in a soothing tone before she glared at Aelthir. “Will you!?” she snapped at him and glared. Aelthir’s only response was to put away the brush and take out his compact. He opened it up and pulled out what had to be lip balm of some sort. “Aelthir?! Answer me when I’m talking to you.” Syllae demanded of him; he still refused to answer and applied the lip balm aptly.

“Okay, seriously.” Aelthir began as he put the case away in his pocket and walked up to the trio. “If I’m going to get in trouble for this, I may as well just do something worth getting in trouble for…” he said in a matter of fact sort of tone. With a smirk on his face, he took hold of Katrin’s shoulders, pulled the cleric close and pressed his lips firmly against hers; an action which possibly shocked Katrin as well as the other two women in the chapel. The kiss lasted only a few seconds before Aelthir pulled away and started to walk toward the entrance. “If you want to tell me off, I’ll be back at the manor.” He started to walk out of the chapel.

“Aelthir, come back here!” Syllae called out, and Aelthir flipped up his middle finger at the girl. Ansr’onna at this point had fallen into the pew, because she couldn’t hold back the laughter, Syllae’s expression of complete and utter shock and Katrin merely smirked at the event. Aelthir had accomplished his objective of silencing his sister, but he also instigated a bit of a game with Katrin. She’d get him back, and better.

Scene 6: A Tiny Issue

As Aelthir walked through the promenade of Allrevan, he realized that he had to stop to consider what consequences his actions a few moments ago would cause to fall upon him. Not only did he talk back to his sister, he defied her wishes and kissed Katrin, simply to get one over on the three of them. As he sat down on the edge of the fountain, he sighed as his imagination chose to play the possible results of his actions. Most of which, nay; all of which involved Aelthir suffering in some unharmful manner.

That action may have pissed off Syllae so much that Aelthir would find himself chained into his room for the rest of the reunion. Which in one sense, wasn’t a bad fate, Aelthir realized. After all, were he chained away, he’d have been given reprieve from the group’s continuous trolling. However, there was also Katrin to worry about. He really hoped he hadn’t upset the cleric too much at least. He’d overstepped a boundary and needed to apologize. A quick glance around the promenade and he spotted a flower shop. The perfect apology, he figured as he stood up and walked over.

A few minutes later and he have started the walk back home with a bouquet of apology roses in hand when he heard a commotion. A quick detour later and he’d come across a local tavern with a hole left in the wall and a few men being carted off by medics. “It was a giant, I tell you! A real good to honest giant!” the barkeeper frantically tried to explain to the local guard. “A real, live, good to honest giant came into my bar, ordered a drink, got into a scuffle with a couple regulars, threw them through the wall and then charged up toward the Baequi’via Estate!” the bartender continued and Aelthir blanched.

All other thoughts for the moment were cast away as the paladin shifted away from the crowd and moved quickly back toward the estate. “Vidar... idiot.” Aelthir whispered to himself as his walk turned into a jog back toward the estate.

Once he arrived, it didn’t take the elven paladin long to find the giant human Vidar who had been resting his eyes at the base of a tree. “Sir Jumbo! Wake up!” Aelthir shouted at the giant and frowned as he didn’t stir. “Sir Jumbo!” he repeated loudly and stared him down.

“What!?” boomed the resting giant as he opened an eye. “What the hell do you want, Aelthir?” he asked in a deadpan tone.

“What the hell are you doing, getting into bar fights in center town!?” Aelthir snapped as he pointed toward the main gate. “There are guards investigating the scene now!”

“Look, at least it wasn’t your sister I put through the table!” Vidar snorted and glanced toward the flowers. “…Flowers, for me? Aw, were you concerned? I’m sorry but I can’t accept them.” Vidar deadpanned at that.

“No, those aren’t for you, they’re an apology gift…” Aelthir looked away for a moment in embarrassment. “Don’t avoid the topic!”

“Seriously though, I’ve been here all day. I would get into a bar fight, but like I want to stir shit with two of you around here.” Vidar rolled his eyes and relaxed again.

“Do you swear that you’ve been here.” Aelthir demanded to know as he pointed toward Vidar. “Do you solemnly swear!?”

“Yes, alright!?” Vidar answered Aelthir as he smirked again. “What the hell did you hear that made you think I was a bar fight anyway?” inquired the not so sleeping giant.

“…The bartender was claiming a giant was inside his bar fighting with the customers, made a hole in the wall and ran this way. Now, the only giant I can think of in Allrevan is you. The only one who would throw people through a wall is you.” Aelthir said as he sighed and moved to sit on a different side of the tree.

“First of all, I wouldn’t make a hole the wall. Windows are so much more fun to throw people through. It’s like shooting an arrow at a bullseye. Got to get the person through the hole and all; secondly, like I said, I don’t feel like pissing off your family.” Vidar gave a small yawn. “Third of all, did you ever think that when a bartender mentions a giant, they may mean a real giant or a half giant?” Vidar asked him as he glanced over to where the elf sat.

Aelthir paused and considered Vidar’s testimony. At least the first two statements seemed viably true. “I highly doubt there’s an actual giant in Allrevan. I mean come on. People flipped out over you. I don’t think they’re ready for anything bigger.” Aelthir answered and nodded his head.

“Eh, who knows? Either way, it wasn’t me.” Vidar repeated. “Next time, give me something to do. It was either nap or hack this tree and I didn’t feel like getting a lecture on proper environmental safety, or whatever it is you hippie elves go on about.”

“I’m not a wood elf, thank you very much. High Elf Pride” Aelthir scoffed and waved the arm with the flowers around.

“So, who did you piss off enough to get flowers for? Should I be expecting a sisterborne shit storm?” he asked with a smirk.

“Yes, but… that’s not who they’re for; I’m sure you’ll hear the full story before the night is through.” Aelthir murmured to him. “Lady Katrin was there.”

“Katrin was there? I can only imagine what this entailed.” Vidar mused as he looked back toward the gate.

“…Oh, and if anyone asks where I am; you don’t know where I am.” Aelthir stated as a matter of fact. “I have some finishing touches to do on a project… and after earlier, I’d rather not be seen.” Aelthir finished as he stood up and walked toward the manor. “Later Vidar.”

“Whatever, later Aelthir” Vidar said as he waved off the fabulous paladin and closed his eyes for a moment. Approximately five minutes later, Katrin, Syllae and Ansr’onna walked through the gate to the manor. The giant opened his eyes and looked at the faces of the three ladies. “Good afternoon ladies. How was your day?”

“Rather hilarious. Most amusing birthday ever” Ansr’onna said in a simple tone. “Although, a certain paladin needs to learn a lesson or two, I think.” The woman laughed lightly.

“My brother needs to learn how to be more respectful to people, especially in chapels.” Syllae stated as a matter of fact. Vidar glanced to Katrin and noted that she had a look of amusement, like a trolling gone perfect, or close to it.

“Well, he’s working on cloth stuff in his workshop.” Vidar said simply as he motioned to the manor. “Find him there.”

“Excellent, come forth ladies.” Syllae said as she started to the manor.

“Ah, dear sister, is it not better we let him stew a little while. Then when he’s least expecting it, we strike.” Katrin pointed out and nodded her head.

“Ah, yes! Good point!” Syllae said as she stopped. “I do believe that is a most excellent idea. Besides, darling Ansr’onna’s birthday is not over yet and I do wish to celebrate with her.” She continued before she took her retainer’s hand.

“Giant.” A fifth voice suddenly states from the gate. “What did you do at that bar?! The barkeep is raving about a giant who destroyed the place!” the voice continued as the owner of the fifth voice, Alis stepped up to him.

“Wait, what?” Syllae asked suddenly as she beelined to Vidar. “Sir Alis, explain, please!” she demanded.

“A bartender is claiming that a giant shoved some of his regulars through his wall!” Alis answered to the younger sister.

“Look, I didn’t do it. I may have thought of going to cause trouble but…” Vidar trailed off and looked away as he felt the gazes of the others focus on him. “I swear, I didn’t do it. I’ve been trying to damn well nap.”

Scene 7: Fabrawlin: Aelthir versus Ansr'onna!

It was near midnight when Aelthir found himself upon the rooftop balcony. He recalled that ‘balcony’ wa a term used loosely as the entirety of it was the length of one of the wings and the width of one too. As he recalled, it was used by the family during the summer for recreational activities or when his parents had small parties for staff or ‘treasured business associates’. It had only been about seven hours since the incident at the Chapel of Mulinel with Katrin. Holy Triana help him, even if she found the flowers left on her… well, his bed and forgave him for the incident, she’ll still be setting up an omni-troll for him when he least expects it. He knew that much already. It was just how Katrin was.

He leaned against the balcony and stared outward toward the city of Allrevan; it was a beautiful sight, and one that brought peace to the man as he watched. Old memories of the city lit up like this on days when he was young. There was a slight breeze tonight, and Aelthir smiled as it caressed his hair gently. However, the smile soon disappeared as he heard footsteps behind him and felt a serious pressure emanating from the source. Aelthir quickly turned around and choked back a gasp. In front of him, wearing what looked to be leather armour was the elven woman who he attributed to the start of this whole situation of him returning home. In her hands, a spear rested easily, as if the woman had plenty experience with it. “Ansr’onna…?” He asked as he raised an eyebrow.

“Lord Aelthir Baequi’via, son of Aris and Am’asha and beloved brother to Syllae. You’ve embarrassed your sister for the last time!” said the elven woman before she tapped the end of her spear to the ground. As she did this, energy began to crackle from the end of it. There was definitely something not normal about that weapon.

“I see. You are not merely my sister’s friend. You are her personal retainer.” Aelthir answered as he looked around; he was too high to jump, and the only way to escape the rooftop was to get past her. “Have you come to challenge me to a duel?” he asked her in a casual manner. “I am unarmed.” He continued with a nod.

He was rewarded with his sword, shield and armour landing in front of him. “Ready yourself, Aelthiria! I will teach you not to harm my lady’s honour; as the Lady of the Sylthi! It may be all fun and games to you, but I worry that she is more fragile than you make her out to be!” she spit at the man while she spun the spear quickly and took an offensive stance.

“You have got to be kidding.” Aelthir sighed lightly as he looked to the weapon and armour. “You know that it’s just the others making fun at my expense… come on, Lady Onna…”

“You should have told Lady Syllae the truth sooner then, instead of let these games they are playing go on! I don’t mind the games and the fun, but I worry about my lady and it’s time you take responsibility for this! Now suit up or I will be forced to attack an unarmed man!” She hissed at the paladin of Triana.

“…Very well.” Aelthir answered and quickly dressed in his armour. “If you will not listen to my reason, then I will make you listen with my steel!” He exclaimed as he picked up his blade, and his shield. “Have at thee!”

“Well said, Aelthiria! Come at me!” She spoke as she ran and thrust her spear at the paladin. As Aelthir rose his shield to defend the oncoming point, the only thing that ran through his mind is how the speed and poise of the attack was comparable to a lunging viper. He shook his head to steel himself after a brief moment and pushed forward as he swung his sword down at her in retaliation, while a soft glow emanated from the weapon itself. Ansr’onna was quicker than he was though as she spun her weapon to parry the falling blade.

She then quickly performed a backwards cartwheel to gain some distance, before she shifted her weight to lunge at Aelthir once more, this time, she brought the end of her spear down, almost as if the weapon was being used to tear apart meat. He quickly brought up his shield again to defend, but found it harder to hold his ground, this time around. It was almost as if she went from attacking with the speed and precision of a lunging viper, to the wild ferocity of a hungry wolf, maybe even a pack of wolves.

“You’re decent, Lady Onna… however, I know you can do better than that. Or you would not be my sister’s retainer. So face me with all your might, or I will crush you underneath my heel.” Aelthir spoke to her as he pointed his blade in challenge. He then ran at her, his blade aimed for her legs as he struck out. Once again, her speed and agility outmatched the paladin and she parried his blade with the lower half of the long spear.

She immediately swung at the paladin before he had time to properly recover from his attack and let out a mighty cry of “ONWARD, TOWARD VICTORY!” The far more experienced paladin however anticipated the attack and barely brought up his shield in time. The force of his shield caused the spear to merely graze his cheek, instead of strike him through. It was all that was needed however, as the paladin felt the electrical power of her weapon as the energy coursed through his body and surged into bolts around him. He screamed out in pain as Ansr’onna scoffed; “You speak of me limiting myself? Well, speaketh thou, who doth act the same, Aelthiria!”

The paladin tapped the ground quickly with his left foot and made a motion to leap back as he disappeared from sight. A moment later, and about twenty five feet away, the paladin reappeared. His cheek had clearly been cut open and was bleeding. His hair was frazzled from the lightning attack. Ultimately he did not look too pleased. After an uncharacteristic grunt, the Triana paladin cried out as he charged forward at the warlord. Radiant light seemed to pour from both the body and the weapon of the paladin as he charged, no; more like Aelthir became part of the weapon he prepared to strike with. “DEFEND YOURSELF, FEEL MY CONVICTION!” He cried out as he aimed to strike the woman with the flat side of his weapon.

The woman was almost too shocked by the pressure coming from the paladin’s aura that she barely brought up her spear in time to parry the blade. However, parrying the weapon was not enough as she felt a burning sensation wash over her, which she knew was the effect of the radiant energy flowing from Aelthir’s form. She quickly kicked her feet into the air and disappeared from sight, much like Aelthir had done a moment ago. Aelthir stood up as this happened, and felt his energy renewed slightly. He smirked as he felt the wound on his cheek close up.

She reappeared behind him and quickly struck at the paladin’s back with the point of her spear. More electricity coursed through the paladin’s body, but it was easily less painful than the previous burst. He quickly pivoted his body and noted the combat rush like expression in the face of his opponent as he swung his blade wildly at her. He barely caught the side of her armour and she cried out as another burning sensation filled her senses. The paladin then stood straight up, as though a true second wind had washed over him as well. He didn’t notice the small pained smirk grow on her features, however. A split second later and Aelthir backed up as his second wind was replaced with a sickening, almost necrotic feeling. It was almost as if her armour had lashed back for having taken a hit.

Ansr’onna quickly shook off the burning sensation and leaped at Aelthir once more to strike. Aelthir quickly raised his shield and blocked her oncoming attack and lashed out with his own. The woman raised her spear and parried the blow, and struck again. Rinse and repeat, the attacks and defences continued on for several minutes before the pair backed away from one another. Both struggled to catch their breath before the other so the fight could continue on. Neither paladin nor warlord, were ready to admit defeat to the other. However, instead of the normal battle hardened expressions that champions wore, the pair smiled broadly; as if this whole fight had been nothing more but a game that friends had played for amusement. A few more seconds passed and the pair resumed their ‘dance’ of expertly blocked thrusts and decisively parried slashes. Neither heard as the door to the rooftop balcony opened and the head of the Baequi’via family stepped outside; followed by Katrin, Vidar, Alis and Fal. Katrin was covered by a blanket; Alis was in her cloak, as to be expected; Vidar was as he always slept, without his armour, and Fal was as Fal does.

Neither of the two elves noticed as Aelthir’s four companions yawned in exhaustion. “Dear Brother, Ansr’onna. I demand you both to cease this duel at once!” Syllae commanded of the pair, who seemed to ignore their pleas. Syllae then turned to Katrin; “I apologize for any injury that may or may not result due to this.” She spoke as she murmured a few words in Leyandran and an orb appeared beside her shoulder and waited for the surprise that most people had when they found out that she could use the basics of arcane magic. When none came, she gave a sigh of relief and pointed her hand out toward the combatants. She recited a few more words in Leyandran and the orb glimmered in a myriad of colours. Aelthir and Ansr’onna responded in turn as they swung their weapons at each other once more in a sluggish motion, and then both fell backward, fast asleep.

Without a moment of hesitation, Syllae yawned and walked over to the pair. “I trust I can leave my brother to you all?” she asked as she kneeled down by him for a moment and pet his hair softly.

“Of course” Katrin said in a near sickeningly sweet tone. “I cannot leave my poor husband out here freezing.”

“Good.” Syllae murmured as she kissed the top of her brother’s head and yawned. She was obviously too tired to bother acting angry. She then moved to Syllae and murmured a few more words. A tray of arcane energy formed underneath the elven warlord and lifted her into the air. “If you’ll all excuse me, I have to put my retainer to rest.” She continued and walked past the group with the sleeping Ansr’onna in tow.

Once Syllae was gone, Katrin walked over to Aelthir and smirked. “Alis, help me” she requested. Alis raised an eyebrow and walked over to Katrin. “Help me push him.” The cleric said in an amused tone.

The pair then rolled the paladin over to the railing of the balcony and left him as he usually slept; on his stomach. “We’ll leave him here to freeze. It’s not over there.” Katrin nodded her head, a job well done.

“One finishing touch…” Alis interrupted as she reached into her cloak. She pulled out a few empty alchemic bottles, which suspiciously looked like bottles for ale and placed them around Aelthir’s body.

“Brilliant!” Katrin cackled. “Now he’ll think this was all a drunken nightmare.”

Alis nodded her head and stood up. “I’m going back to bed now.” She said and marched off.

“Good night, Sir Alis.” Vidar quipped as she passed; surprisingly, the avenger didn’t even dignify his comment.