[Video | Open to Anyone | After Feast]

[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]

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

[Action]

[wildgift]

I suppose I can't fault that.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I'm glad. [Something inside of him relaxes.] Hopefully I can become Vanyel instead of Herald one day.

[Action]

[wildgift]

You don't actually believe that. You'd never give up being a Herald.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

That isn't what I meant. [Oh Stefen.] I would rather you say my name.

[Action]

[wildgift]

Oh. I suppose if you wish, I could oblige, Vanyel.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[He grits his teeth, fighting back the damnable shiver that climbs his spine.]

...thank you. [Well this is an awkward pause.] May I call you Stefen, Master Bard?

[Action]

[wildgift]

You may. I think I prefer that over "Master Bard." I've had more time to get accustomed to answering to it.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

When you put it that way, I almost feel like using the title excessively.

[Action]

[wildgift]

Then you may remain "Herald" forever.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

There's that silver tongue. [He pulls out a white handkerchief and throws it.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

You deserved it.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Clearly I did. Forgive me, Stefen.

[Action]

[wildgift]

Don't let it happen again.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I tremble to think of what punishment awaits me if I do.

[Action]

[wildgift]

I'm sure I can come up with something horrible.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Please show me mercy. [He raises his hands, palms out.] I come before you unarmed!

[Action]

[wildgift]

I may be convinced, I suppose.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[He bows gallantly, one arm across his chest.]

You have my eternal gratitude!

[Action]

[wildgift]

You're welcome. Try not to abuse my leniency. [Now if only he could remember anything... God it hurt to play this game.]

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Your Highness, how could I abuse anything you give me? [It feels good to play with court etiquette, but he soon sobers.] Truly, you have my gratitude, Stefen.

[Action]

[wildgift]

I'm sure that's a wonderful thing to have. [Even if there other, more wonderful, things he'd rather have.]

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Only if I rank high in your estimation. [Why does he want that to be the case? The young Bard is having a strange effect on him.]

[Action]

[wildgift]

I'm sure if you work at it a little, you'll get there.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[Something to look forward to - even if the way his heart leaps confuses him.]

Would you like to get a drink? I want one before I go to bed. Someone named Felix is supposed to visit me.