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[wildgift]

[This one looks rather ostentatious, though it isn't really through any choice of his own. He's red haired and dressed in Scarlets, muttering to himself and trying not to look too concerned. He's actually doing quite a good job of it, though the look in his eyes might give him away to anyone who knows how to read it.]

Safest Bard in Haven, indeed. [Never mind that he'd been the one to say that.] When Vanyel hears of this, I'll never hear the end of it. [Here he adopts a different tone, clearly imitating someone else.]

"Do you see, Stefen? I was right. My enemies will only use you against me." [Sigh.] Yes, he certainly needed another excuse to try and be rid of me.

Hellsteeth.

[He takes a few cautious glances around, but shakes his head. Apparently he doesn't like much of what he sees, but he does at least try to give an endearing, albeit self-deprecating smile.]

Would someone mind please informing me as to where I am? I'm afraid I've not much to provide in the way of a reward for your help, but I would certainly appreciate it. I'm sure I can find some way to repay you.

Comments

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

A small price compared to others. [His mind returns to Yfandes and then, helplessly, to Tylendel and Gala. The grey of his eyes turns silver for a moment, glowing faintly as he tests his channels. Nothing has been damaged, yet he doesn't feel right. It has been some time since he has felt so...caged.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

Fair enough. [He was right there in Court. He knew of the injuries, the deaths.]

Was there something else you needed of me, Herald?

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[The title brings him back and he grimaces.]

Am I keep you?

[Action]

[wildgift]

No. You seemed distracted.

[Action] ~keeping Good lord.

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I can't contact Yfandes and my connection with the other Heralds is...

Missing.

[Action] lol I knew what you meant <3

[wildgift]

"Missing?"

[Action] Thank goodness b/c I was meandering into the land of nonsense there. <3

[vanyel_ashkevron]

There's no sign of it. How can it be - ? [He's never been without it. Turning abruptly, he runs to the nearest door, pushing his way outside.]

[Action] Nah, you're good :)

[wildgift]

I don't know. I'm not a Herald.

[Action] <3

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[Even when he can see the sky, there's...no sign.

Only silence.]

Stefen... Bard...

[Whichever he pleases.]

We are well and truly imprisoned. I thought I could send a call of distress...

[Feeling helpless isn't something he will accept with ease. He strides back inside, expression stern.]

I cannot sit idly. As you said, Randy needs you. [And the kingdom needs him.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

[He's seen that look before. It's always just a little frightening, but this time there isn't anything to take it out on.]

What do you expect me to do? I'm barely more than ornamental.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I expect you to find a room, get some rest and do your best to trust me. [He pauses and gazes at Stefen intently.] I might be completely different in the future and, if that is the case, I apologize for making this more difficult on you. But I will protect you, so you needn't fear this place.

[Action]

[wildgift]

Yes, I don't doubt that. That isn't what I'm concerned about.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

What concerns you most?

[Action]

[wildgift]

[...damn.]

Never mind. It isn't important.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

It is to me. [He slips an arm around Stefen's shoulders - a friendly gesture.] Holding it in won't do you any good.

[Says the man who holds everything in.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

[He tenses at the contact and forgets to breathe again for a few moments, but he doesn't pull away, at least. Even if it isn't what he wants it to be, it hurts less than he likes being held. Which isn't to say that it doesn't hurt at all. It does that too.]

You can't possibly be certain of that.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Yet I am. [He gives him the ghost of his arrogant peacock smile.] Heralds are terrible liars. The ones with the silver tongues are Bards.

[That statement is followed by a wink.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

[Sigh.]

You aren't making this any easier.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Then I'm doing something wrong. [He arches a brow and glances away, licking his lips awkwardly.] I'll be honest, I'm exhausted. I was hoping to make it back to the Collegium so I could rest.

[Action]

[wildgift]

I imagine there will be plenty of time here for that.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Would you mind me finding us rooms close together?

[Action]

[wildgift]

[He just stares for a moment.]

I...I would like that.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

It would be better. I won't have a problem finding you if things change that way. [Though there is a rebellious color on his cheeks.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

Is that all?

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[He pauses and his voice lowers a notch.] I want to get to know you better.