[Video / Open to Both Courts]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[A scream begins this video, but all that follows is the sound of covers being shifted and someone walking, unsteadily, closer to the locket. Vanyel's face comes into view, his features washed out against his black hair.]

I must have... [His voice is hoarse, nearly cracking.] I am Gifted with Foresight. It has been...unreliable...since my arrival. Yet...

I fear what I see when I close my eyes. I fear what the fairies and imps say to us.

What becomes of this world may not matter, but what of our worlds?

[A shiver skates down his back and he clenches his teeth.]

Their magic could be interfering with my own. I pray that is the case. Otherwise...

[He glances over his shoulder before closing his eyes, pained.]

We deserve to see the future.

Comments

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

You've proven you don't.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

Good. But now I'm curious what they would have been like.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I've never been much of a teacher; it could be an interesting experience.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

You only make me more curious.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Alright, Bard, it's time for our first lesson.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

Instruct me, oh wise Herald.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Let's begin with your hands. [His voice lowers and he smiles seductively.] No one has more talented hands than a Bard.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

Mm. I imagine they're quite talented with other things too.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Even bodies need to be finely tuned.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

I suppose so. But do continue your teaching.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I was in the middle of it. Heralds are known for having atrociously tense muscles...

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

[This is totally an innocent face what are you talking about]

Why, whatever could they be doing to make that true?

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Nothing pleasurable, I assure you. [And therein lies the problem.] Each Herald could use a lovely Bard with strong hands.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

To keep in a corner and be pretty when you've no need of strong hands? I suppose we have earned a rather decorative status.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

No, love... [His teacher persona drops and he gazes at Stefen intensely.] A Herald's life is chaotic. We have no need for empty decorations. What we need - who we need - is someone steady, strong and with a beautiful heart.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

[Well, he was teasing...]

I suppose when you put it that way it sounds much nicer.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[That's a tease he can't leave alone - particularly with their current surroundings.]

I won't ever use you, Stef. Ask of me whatever you wish.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

I didn't believe you would.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

Maybe...

You haven't spoken of your worries and fears. I want to support you.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

The truth is I try not to think about them.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

I won't stop you from putting them out of your mind, but...

I am here to listen to you too.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

I know. Thank you, Van.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

[He curls his fingers around the back of Stefen's neck and kisses his forehead, his eyes closed.]

We're equals. I want to learn how to make you happy.

Re: [Action]

[wildgift]

That's easy enough to figure out.

[Action]

[vanyel_ashkevron]

At your age I thought I was the most complicated person in the world. I admire that you know yourself so well.