Fantasy Jewel of the Sea

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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hungover, disgruntled

Port of Call Brothel

[/tab]

battered and wrecked, i come to you, you first—

Cassian’s feet were tearing rapidly through the vast field, moving him faster, closer, to the figure smeared in the distance. His lungs seared with a white hot heat. Each breath stung with the prick of needles.

“Cassian, come on!” The figure yelled, a teasing lilt carrying their words in a harmony through the air.

Cassian’s chest heaved up and down in effort. “I am! Wait for me!” He called out, desperation clawing its way into the delivery of his words. Messy curls dipped in and out of his vision, pushed around in a dance from the wind. No matter how fast he ran, the distance between them remained infuriatingly the same. Their environment was a blur of earthy colors, jumbled together into a kaleidoscope of patterns with each forward motion of his body.

At some point, the figure came to an abrupt halt. The pause allowed Cassian to finally advance in distance, his feet swallowing the space between them until he could make them out in form. It was--Finlas. His back was turned to him, pointed gaze on the vast air encompassing the horizon. Cassian skidded to a stop beside him, rapid realization as to the reason Finlas had stopped at all like a jagged strike of electricity through his system. The ground gave way in an abrupt transition to a rocky cliff, waves lapping against jagged rock far below. His figure doubled over to gulp down large breaths of air.

“I know it’s out there somewhere,” His best friend breathed out softly.

“What?” Cassian asked, chest still heaving.

Finlas placed a hand on Cassian’s shoulder, firm grip squeezing his tensed muscle and rocking his body back and forth slightly. “I’m going to find it,” He smiled. “And when I do, we’ll both share the glory.”

Cassian straightened his body, eyes locking with his friend’s. His own gaze narrowed as he searched Finlas’. A numbness began to wash over his body that he soon recognized as dread. Something felt wrong here. The environment, the water laid out on the horizon before them. It all felt somehow off, somehow--not real. “Finlas,” Cassian breathed, the sound of his voice hardly above a whisper. “You’re not real are you?”

Finlas smiled, brown eyes softening in sadness. “Of course I’m not. You know that.”

“I miss you,” Cassian blurted out, fighting back the sting of tears that lined his eyes. “Every day, I miss you.”

Finlas shrugged, his figure turning back to gaze upon the horizon. “Yeah. I know.”

Cassian awoke with a heavy gasp to a cold, shocking wave splashing across his body. “Fuck!” He exhaled, form rocketing upright as he worked to smooth back the suddenly drenched hair from his face.

“Come on, my prince! Time to wake up,” A voice replied in mock respect, setting aside the bucket used to drench cold water upon the prince’s form seconds earlier. “Wake up call’s extra, you know,” The woman said, already settling into the habits of work. She moved around with efficient strides to begin tidying up the copious amount of empty bottles and tipped over cups scattered about.

“Yes, Zene, I know,” Cassian grumbled. He squinted against the blinding morning sun that seared heat into the room. A dull, pressuring ache was heavy in his skull. Each movement was sluggish with effort. “But was the water really necessary?”

“You’re a heavy sleeper, my lord,” Zene offered with an innocent lilt. “Well that--and you looked like you needed the refresh. Have a bad dream? You were already half drenched in sweat when I found you.”

“That’s out of your pay to inquire about,” He spit out, mood having soured at the memory of the sadness that had swam in the deep pools of Finlas' eyes. The dream had felt--palpable. Cassian let out a breath as he swung his feet down to the floor, figure rightening to a sitting position. He rested his elbows on his knees, palms pressed hard into closed eyes as if the pressure alone could alleviate the alcohol induced pounding within his head.

Zene let out a sharp scoff, tongue pressing into the side of her cheek while she processed the offense of his words. “Yeah. You’re right my prince,” Her words were suddenly laced with venom. She slammed the empty cup in her hand on a nearby table, the sharp clang of metal meeting wood causing Cassian to hiss in pain. “You know, great idea! Why don’t you find someone within that payscale to visit tonight? I’ll busy myself with things on my level to worry about.”

“Oh, come on Zene. Don’t be so sensitive,” Cassian groaned. Although late afternoon at this point, it was akin to early morning for the man. He stood from his position on the bed, gaze ravenous as it searched for any type of water.

“I’m not sensitive, Cassian. You’re just an asshole,” She said with a roll of her eyes, pushing past him to grab the pitcher of water lined very visibly within the prince’s sight. She pressed the container into his chest with a rough jab, a bit of the water sloshing over the side and against his naked chest.

Cassian rolled his eyes. He gave a lazy glance to the mess of cups strewn about the small room, and with a shrug, decided to drink straight from the pitcher instead.

“By the way,” She added over her shoulder, figure already slipping from the room. “Your sister stopped by this morning. Left that for you on the table.” Zene gestured with a nod of her head towards a sealed, pristine envelope set neatly atop the outcome of Cassian’s night time indulgence. He picked up the letter quickly, empty cups and broken glass chiming in harmony, their precarious balance at once shifted.

He tore open the letter with little care for the elegance that it had been penned in, misty eyes scanning over the familiar scrawling hand of his sister. His dark brows were furrowed, souring his features into a hardened look of disdain. Cassian’s parents were requesting his presence at dinner that night. A ruse to keep up the façade of their perfect royal family that at this point, was practically translucent. He’d be surprised if there was a soul left in Vinyamar that hadn’t heard the rumors that followed him like the whispered breaths of ghosts.

The prince scoffed, crumpling the letter to add to the disheveled mess of the room around him. He took another deep drink from the pitcher of water, dabbing at his mouth with the back of his hand while the thought of seeing his parents sunk deeper and deeper into his body. There was never a meeting with his father that wasn’t steeped in a taught awkwardness. He never knew when to let up, whether on the battlefield or with his family, ruling everything in his life with a cold, stoic apathy. Cassian’s lips downturned, burdened with the weight of his distaste. His father had never known what it was like to lose someone. Even if he had, it was unlikely that he'd grieve. Cassian wasn't sure he’d even know how.

He fished the wrinkled and wine stained fabric of his clothes from within the soft tangle of bed sheets. The clothes slipped easily onto his body, slightly dampened by the still soaked curls plastered against his head. Strands had begun to dry slowly, curling and sticking up wild into the air.

“Call my carriage round front,” Cassian called down the hall of open doors as he exited, situating the last articles on his person while he walked. He didn’t know who was in the rooms cleaning that afternoon, not that he cared. The workers there knew him well enough to know his voice. The carriage would be there by the time he settled his payments for the night and stepped outside.

In his hand, the prince still clung to the metal pitcher of rapidly depleting water. It felt like the night’s wine had been oozing from his pores in abundance, the cold water serving as a life raft in the choppy waves of the sea. He set it upon the brothel’s front counter while he fished through his pockets for any loose change he could find.

“This should be enough for the night,” He paused, expression twitching in annoyance as he added “and the wake up call.” Several golden coins were slapped lazily onto the counter, spinning and falling off the ledge.

“Wait, my lord!” The woman at the counter yelled hastily in an effort to halt Cassian’s fluid stride towards the front doors. “This is too much!”

“Just put it towards the next,” He called, unbothered to look over his shoulder. "and add this too," He said, holding up the pitcher of water. Cassian flinched back against the stab of the late afternoon sun upon stepping outside, rushing the few steps it required to duck into the lavish carriage that stood waiting for him.

Cassian sunk into the plush velvet seats, a sigh deflating his body in defeat. His gaze was trained outside the window at what little view he could see from his reclined angle, watching the buildings of the red light district shift and change. Dealing with his father was one thing, but dealing with Raegel was a feat of its own. He could already feel the piercing stare of his brother, cold and judgmental, wishing it could bore a hole straight through the middle of his chest. Cassian let out a groan, allowing his eyes to slip closed to the rhythmic rocking of the carriage over cobblestone streets.

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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Impatient, Motivated

Aboard the Sun Howler

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the sea speaks more honestly to those willing to drown.

A stark knock sounded on the door to the Captain’s Quarters, while the rays of late morning sun filtered in through the windows to rouse Nadia from her slumber. Without another word, the familiar voice of her Second Mate prevented her from falling back into a second round of peaceful sleeping. “Arise fair maiden and face the day,” The man sauntered in with a grin on his face. Nadia sat up, stretching her arms far above her head with a sigh. “Awfully late for you, Captain. Stay up drinking yerself silly or something?”

Nadia ignored him for a moment, kicking her legs off the bed and standing. Never in her life had she spent so much time so close to land. The familiar sway of the ocean and her ship was nothing but a memory, kept three weeks behind them. She missed the jaunt and rock of the Sun Howler on the ocean. Was it possible to get reverse sea sickness? Looking at Averett, she pursed her lips. “Any word from Eithe or Erin? It’s been a week. We cannot keep waiting. The more we stay, the more we risk.”

Averett groaned, pushing further into her room and throwing an arm around her shoulder. “Lighten up, Nadia. We have access to all the booze a person could ever want! Hot meals every night– That don’t have Krist’s hair in ‘em. This is the closest to paradise we’re gonna get for a while. One more night in port won’t kill us.”

“Unless it does.” Nadia shrugged off Averett’s arm as she raked a brush through her hair, making quick work of dressing herself. “Did Aquilia suspect she’d be arrested seven years ago? No. Did Nicholas think his hand would be stolen from him at sea? No. The closer we are to them, the closer we are to our deaths, Averett. You should know that better than anyone else. Leniency is a kiss away from mistakes. And mistakes will lead to our demise…” Buttoning her coat, the sound of quick footsteps, yelling voices, and an unhappy Katia urged Nadia to work faster.

“If I have to spend one more bloody night cawing at some insolent, impudent, idiotic Vinyamarian–” Nadia looked at Averett, shaking her head. “This is what I’m talking about.” Without another word, she quickly made her way to the door where Katia was standing, clearly intoxicated off her arse, and with a bone to pick. “I’m going to lose my fucking mind, Cap. I can’t do it! I’m meant to blow things up, not blow people of–”

“Katia.” Nadia said sternly. “I think you need to lie down.” Katia squinted, taking two uneven steps towards her before grabbing fistsfuls of her jacket and pulling her in. Nadia could taste the liquor wafting off of her, making her face contort in disdain. Those behind their beloved Powdermonkey, Buck and Aquila tensed, waiting in silent anticipation for the reaction of their Captain. “I don’ wanna do it anymore, Cap. It ain’t fun. Why don’ you go in there and flutter yer eyelashes at em? Hmm? Too good for the untouchable Queen of the Sea?”

Nadia rolled her eyes, placing her hands over Katia. She was always like this when she was drunk. Nadia had dealt with an overly intoxicated Katia to know she didn’t mean anything she said. Still, she sympathized with the woman. While she would never make her crew do anything they didn’t wish, this was crucial to the success of their mission. Without their people in Okoris, they were hopeless. “Lie down, Katia.” Nadia ripped her hands off of her coat, giving Aquila a look. The woman moved in without another word, quickly and gently taking Katia’s shoulders and leading her away to pass out elsewhere.

She was not scared to go into Okoris and work side by side with those she’d sent out, but part of her worried the hefty reputation she had acquired would haunt her even inside the city. She was faceless, only known by names and rumors, but paranoid as ever, she worried somehow, somewhere, someone would identify her and strip her of her freedom. Still, impatience had begun to infect her. Eithe and Erin’s communications were sparse, but from what Nadia could gather… Their success had been low. Apparently, the Prince was very selective with the women he took away.

“Aquilia, wait.” Making her way onto the deck of the ship, she eyed Katia with curious interest. “Katia. Do you know the name of the escort the Prince has been favoring?” Katia perked up, a look of annoyance and delight filling her eyes. “Ay! That… She was…” She gestured wildly, before giving up on whatever she was trying to say. “He keeps ‘er up real nice. Pays waaay too much.” She hiccuped, pounding a fist on her chest to stop it. “Z… Zo… No, that’s no right… Zeeee… Zene! Zene C-Somethin’-- She works at the ole Port of Call. He really likes her.” Katia smiled, looking at Aquila and letting her head rest on the woman. “Reaaallly likes her.”

Nodding to Aquila, she let the two disappear below deck. They were at a crossroads, all of them left with two options: Let Eithe and Erin continue attempting to seduce the prince and stay for weeks in port… Or, send someone else in. Aquila was off the table, her face was easily recognizable by any authority in the city and she was too closely tied with the Sun Howler. Katia was… Well, the way she was. Mary and Ekko were both a bit too old to be believably infiltrating a brothel. Humming lowly, Nadia crossed her arms over her chest, a cloudy look of contemplation filling her features.

“You can’t possibly be thinking of–” Averett began but Nadia threw a hand up, to silence him. Don’t even dare speak it. Her eyes said, with nothing more than a darkened gaze. “Buck, fetch all the gold coins we have below deck. Osmond, you will take charge of the Sun Howler while I am gone. Averett, Big Red, and Miller. You all will follow me into the city. Keep your distance and do not act until you are signaled. Krist– Make sure Katia can be conscious by this evening. I need her tonight. Tell her it will be much more fun than flirting with scum.” Mary leaned against the mast, watching as Nadia worked to dole out orders. She gestured at her younger, giving Nadia a look of skepticism. “I’ll take care of this,” She said, referring to Nadia’s appearance.

Averett clearly had some thoughts, lips pursed and eyebrows furrowed. He and Nadia had been attached at the hip since she arrived on the Sun Howler– He was the closest thing she had to a brother– But sometimes, he advised against certain actions. He didn’t need to speak for Nadia to know what he thought. “When your Captain gives you orders, you follow them. Time is of the essence, people. I want this done before the sun reaches its crest in the sky!”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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hungover, reluctant

Ubrosia Palace

[/tab]

like a spider, these days i eat my own heart

“My lord,” A hesitant voice sounded. Cassian felt a hand on his shoulder, rocking his form gently back and forth. “My lord, we’ve arrived,” His carriage driver announced. The heavy blanket of sleep began to lift from his form, and in its place slid the haze of late afternoon air.

“Where?” Cassian asked.

“Ubrosia Palace, my lord,” His driver responded. He gave a curt bow before leaving the door of the carriage to begin tending to the horses. Cassian let out a long exhale. He had intended to go back to his apartment first, but knowing Zinyra, she had most likely slipped a plea and a very enticing golden coin his driver’s way. In all honesty, he couldn’t blame her. If not, it wasn’t very likely he would have made it on time for the dinner, if at all.

Cassian hauled himself from the carriage, limbs burdened in their movements as if lined with lead. His feet dragged through the pale gravel that lined the grand, pristine landscape surrounding the palace. Cream colored dust followed in his wake. The thought of seeing his father or brother with the absolute hammer of a hangover in his skull was enough to make him want to roll over like a bloated fish and simply fester in the sun. Luckily, his parents didn’t believe in scaling it back, thus each member of his family could go days within the palace without ever seeing each other. It was doubtful they’d be stalking the halls in the hopes of bumping into him.

Regardless, Cassian opted to play it safe. He turned off to the left once cresting the gleaming stone staircase that lead to the entrance of the palace, his path leading him through the open air walkway that connected to the grand building with stone pillars.

A sigh escaped him to feel a soft breeze kiss along his skin. He could hear the rhythmic lapping of waves in the distance, their sound carried in the hands of a fluid wind that ghosted across the surface. Cassian did have to admit this feature was an aspect to life within the stone walls of the palace that he missed. Having the bay to look out upon whenever he wished was a lifesaver when he needed to clear his head. Lately he had grown too used to the chaotic sounds of the docks during their daytime swing, or the lustful calls emanating from the red light district at night.

Cassian stopped before a set of double doors that stood slightly ajar. Pressure from the air outside pulled at the end of a sheer white curtain, enticing it to venture further from the interior of the room. He peered inside for a brief moment before slipping the full way in, pushing the door open further as he passed it. If he was going to be locked in this prison for the rest of the day, he might as well enjoy the ambiance of the bay wherever he could.

The prince meandered with a wandering stride for a moment, as if unfamiliar with the area of the room. He drunk in the surroundings, noting what small aspects Zinyra had changed since the last time he had made a visit. Cassian draped himself like a fainting heroine over one of her chaise lounges, body sinking heavily into the plush velvet cushions. He let his eyes slip closed for a moment, fully indulging in the airy calm the castle was infamous for.

“I see you had fun last night,” Zinyra commented, her gaze only resting on Cassian’s limp form for a moment as she entered the room. “You look like they just fished you out of the port.”

“You can thank Zene for that. Apparently I’m a ‘deep sleeper,’" Cassian scoffed, air quoting with his fingers to emphasize his exasperation.

“Sounds like you did something to deserve it,” She noted, focus trained on her desk while her hands worked to scour the objects at rest upon its surface.

“Me? Never. I’m a saint,” Cassian gasped mockingly, causing them both to chuckle lightly.

Finding the object she was in search of, Zinyra maneuvered over to Cassian’s side. She sat on the edge of the chaise, pushing his feet out of the way to make room. “Nevertheless, it’s good to see you,” She smiled, large eyes softened as she gazed at his form.

“If only it were under better circumstances,” Cassian mumbled, gaze growing shy and taking refuge on the floor. “I’m sure Raegel’s had plenty of time to sharpen his swords in anticipation of my return.”

Zinyra scoffed. “You know he’s too busy being our father’s shadow to have time for that. As if that alone could gain him the crown.”

Cassian grumbled. “Would that be such a bad thing?” He titled his gaze upwards, pale neck bearing itself fully to the lazy air. “Would save me from the wretched curse they’ve disguised as my birth right.”

Zinyra’s eyes searched Cassian’s expression. It was sunken, defeated, like a feather that had given up on its buoyancy and had sunk further and further down to the muddied earth. “Oh, Cass,” Her words were soft. She reached forward, pressing a hand to the side of his face. He turned to her, grey eyes full of a silent plea. “You know I would bear this for you if I could. But this destiny, it’s yours to carry alone. Not even Raegel can take it from you--as much as he fantasizes.”

He sighed, gaze falling back to the glossy tile of the floor. “Yes I know,” His voice was fragile, barely making a space for itself between them. “Cassian Airendil. The heir. Has a charm to it don’t you think? It's existed even before I have.”

Zinyra smirked, rising from the chaise. “Go--you should get ready. Raegel and Father are attending meetings with the advisors, so the halls should be free.” She paused by the door, looking back at him to toss a sly wink his way. “It’s a good thing I had the servants set out clothes for you--you look like a drunk.”

“I am a drunk,” Cassian retorted, but Zinyra’s form had already slipped from the room. He gave a final sigh, eyes passing to a delicate clock hung among the many extravagant decorations in Zinyra’s room. Well--he supposed it was time to prepare for the show.

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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Alert, Tense

Port of Call Brothel

[/tab]

the sea speaks more honestly to those willing to drown.

“Nadia.” Mary’s stern voice broke through but Nadia didn’t want to hear any of it. She understood the necessity in this, of course. If she waltzed into Okoris looking like a swashbuckler, she’d be arrested within minutes of leaving port. But this felt like this was a bit. “You’re the one who volunteered to go in place of Katia, might I remind you. If your discomfort surrounding the Vinyamarian attire is what makes you hesitate…”

“It’s not.” Nadia snapped quickly, taking a deep breath through her nose and allowing some of the tension in her shoulder. “I just–” She shook her head. “There’s no place for knives. And what if someone attempts to stab me. There’s no sort of protection whatsoever.” Nadia wandered from the corner, flailing the silky fabrics that hung on her for emphasis. “It’s impractical.” Despite how much of her skin was covered, Nadia found that the sheerness of the fabric made it unsuitable.

Mary shifted her weight in the chair she was comfortable lounging in, eyeing Nadia with a look she was all too familiar with. Nadia only tolerated that kind of skepticism from Mary, and she hated that she did. “My dear,” Mary began with a soft sigh, pushing herself off the chair and approaching the smaller woman. She smoothed the ornate sleeves of the dress. “You are not going to battle. You’re seducing a man.”

Nadia’s face curled in response to that, acutely aware of what her task was. “You needn’t remind me.”

“And you needn’t act so prudish. Now, gather yourself. Time is of the essence, remember?” Mary grinned, turning the woman around and nudging her towards the door of the cabin. Nadia couldn’t leave without something… Walking into a Lion’s Den empty handed was foolish, and Nadia was no fool. Snagging a sheath and a dagger, Nadia haphazardly fastened it below the gown and out of sight, snugly situated on her upper leg.

Gathering the gold Buck had deposited in her room, she stowed them safely into a satchel which she slung over her shoulder. It wounded her heart a bit to know she was losing so much coin over one man, but it would be well worth it when her people could reclaim what was rightfully theirs.

Stepping out onto the deck once more, Nadia felt like an ant in the sun, slowly burning away and unable to move. She did not like it. Clapping her hands, she quickly focused the attention of her crew. “This is strange, I’m aware. If any of you mention this ever again I’ll have your tongues. Understand?”

“Got it, Captain!” Several of them shouted and straightened up. This was going to be the most demeaning thing she ever did. Might as well get it over with.

“Miller, Big Red, Averett. Let’s go.” The boys had changed as well, wearing something much more suited for the streets of Okoris. They would serve to escort Nadia to the brothel Erin and Eithe had been staying at. And from there… It was up to her to deal with the rest. The trap was slowly being laid for the Prince of Vinyamar. All things would come together sooner or later…

∘ ☽ ∘​

They made quick work to arrive at the Port of Call brothel. “I don’t like this, Nadia.” Averett spoke truthfully, as he always did with her. “You don’t have to like it. You just have to do it.” She offered him a small pat on the shoulder– It wasn’t much, but she hoped it would soothe him. Nadia was no damsel, nor was any woman aboard the Sun Howler. They were fighters, strong and vicious. She may have resembled a flower, but even the most beautiful flowers could be deadly. Lowering her voice, she pulled the three in. “Should the Prince visit again… He will be a guest aboard our lovely ship by sunrise, do you understand me?”

Nadia had no doubt in herself. Despite her discomfort, she was determined to complete her role in the mission they’d all set out on. This was a crucial piece in the puzzle, one that could not be missed. Entering the brothel with her head held high, the light of day seemed to scare some people away. There was no cacophony of sound coming from the main room, nor were there any unseemingly noises coming from back of the building. She hoped the familiar faces of Eithe and Erin would grace her sights soon– Unfortunately, instead, she got the unpleasant and gravelly voice of what she assumed to be a well dressed patron. Considering the status of this brothel,it was likely close to the right answer.

“Whatcha lookin’ for darlin’?” Gods be with her, it was going to take all the strength, patience, and willpower to get through this. Nadia took a deep breath before turning, and offering a quaint nod. There was no way in hell anyone would get a fluttered eyelash from her– Not yet at least. “‘Cause I’ve got a pretty penny to spend on a girlie like–”

“Horith.” The commanding voice of a woman beaconed from a few steps away. “Alea is waiting in the Swan Suite.” That certainly got his attention. The man looked over to Nadia with one last look, before disappearing down the hall. Good riddance. “How may I help you, dear?” This was the woman she was looking for, Nadia thought. Although, Syvis Ralolee had far much more charm and presence than Erin and Eithe’s reports could justify.

“Ms. Ralolee.” Nadia began, bowing her head politely. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. I am a friend of Ithronel’s.” Eithe’s Vinyamarian name was a bit much, she had to admit, but Nadia was relieved she could remember it. “I’m here in Okoris for a few weeks and will be traveling to Dunmar soon… I was simply hoping I could offer my services to Port of Call, if only temporarily.” Nadia produced a small coin pouch, which pulled Syvis in. Even if she was a courtesan looking for a room to stay in at Port of Call, coin was coin.

The woman hummed pensively. “Something like that could be arranged…” Nadia smiled, offering the pouch to her. “We have several open rooms. A few of our girls have gone overseas as well, so we have more than enough vacancies…” Syvis waved Nadia back towards a room that was situated in the middle of the building– It looked like a place where money and documents were kept. “Now, what is your name my dear? I’ll have Eerodi set up a room for you.. Once you get settled in, have Ithronel give you the grand tour and make your way out to the floor. Now– That name.”

Right. That godsforsaken Vinyamarian name. She didn’t hesitate for long, however the momentary stall shot her nerves for a moment. “Imra.” Nadia started with a smile. “Imra Aedi.”

“Well, Imra Aedi. It’s a pleasure to meet you…” Syvis began scribbling a few things down, flipping through stacks of paper. Nadia didn’t know what she was looking for, but she could only assume it was for her documentation. “Ah. Here it is.” Slipping a heavy key out of an envelope, she handed it over to Nadia. “Eerodil will escort you to your room. Both of them, at least. Business suites are in the front and your living quarters will be in the back. Eerodil!” Syvis exclaimed melodically. A woman quickly appeared in front of the entrance with a head full of red curls. “This is Imra. Please show her to the Peacock Suite. And please join us for dinner this evening. I assure you there will be much more business then.” Syvis winked, before exiting. “I have other matters I must attend to, if you’ll excuse me."

Eerodil waved wordlessly for Nadia to follow, and she did, staying close to the redhead and not attempting any small talk. She studied the halls of the building, what each door looked like, the way the tiles of the floor felt uneven in some places. She would only have a few hours to find Zene and convince her to leave… but it was a task Nadia was up to.

The Port of Call was clearly a beautiful building, ornately decorated with expensive silks, and marble floors. Beautiful dark wooden doors and golden door handles. The embellishments alone were enough to convince Nadia she was in the right place. “Here.” Eerodil gestured towards the door with a peacock carved into the door. A prideful, yet graceful animal… How curious. “Use your key to open far door.” Woman of little words, Nadia supposed.

She took that as her cue, taking her leave from Eerodil and the Peacock Suite and making her way towards the living quarters. If she was lucky, she’d find Either, Erin, and Zene all back there…

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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exasperated, frantic

Ubrosia Palace

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i, in my corner, with my monstrous needs

The rich hallways of Ubrosia palace had the fascinating effect of feeling immensely full with decadence and luxury, yet as Cassian drifted through them in the direction of the dining hall, they felt so--empty. Full of nothing but air and cold apathy. He let out a soft breath, feet dragging on the floor a bit.

The heavy doors of the dining hall stood gleaming before him, an alluring facade beckoning him into its poisonous embrace. His pace faltered, feeling an itch at the back of his neck that whispered with warm breath to turn round and bolt down the hall. The night’s husky aura was beckoning him from a cracked window.

“Having second thoughts?” A voice sounded from behind him, one that, when registered, ate through the hesitant calm like acid through steel. “I’m sure your absence at dinner would be as brief a note as, say, the sides being served,” Raegel said as he brushed past Cassian. Their shoulders grazed each other, and Cassian’s figure was pushed forwards a step.

Cassian smirked. “Yeah, well lucky for me, the title of crown prince will always carry notability, present or not.” He clasped his hands behind his back, following a step behind Raegel as the younger man stalked his way towards the dining hall. “Unlike you, I don’t need to cling to our father’s leg, mouth open, in the hopes that you’ll catch the drippings of his reputation.”

Without turning, Cassian could sense the rigid tension that spread across his younger brother’s figure. The anger exuding from Raegel’s person was near electric, vibrating the hairs on the back of Cassian’s neck.

“Careful, Prince of Vice,” Raegel spit, “A sullied reputation is no less damning than none at all.” Raegel glanced at his brother through his peripheral, dark eye burning. He picked up his pace then, heels nearly slamming themselves into the floor.

Cassian rolled his eyes. Raegel’s hatred had grown from the moment his mind could grasp the concept of being the second son, and once it did, he never let go. He couldn’t remember the last time they had a conversation that wasn’t tinged with bitterness, if any at all. Cassian’s disregard for the crown only worsened the animosity. He furrowed his brow as he watched his brother’s form disappear through the doors at the end of the hall. Every day he became more and more like their father. Even in stance alone, Raegel was absorbing the very essence of him. Maybe it was a weak attempt at tasting what it was like to bear the crown.

With a heavy sigh, Cassian moved the rest of the way to the dining hall. Ambient chatter wafted through the air, as did the metallic clinking of silverware while servants rushed around a long table to add finishing touches. His eyes roamed over figures glittering with expensive jewelry. Finlas’ voice echoed in his mind, reciting important features and names of those in attendance. He winced after making eye contact with his mother.

“Cassian,” She called. Her voice was smooth, regal, easily projected. The voice of a Queen. “Why, we were just speaking of you, how convenient.” She held out a gloved hand to him languidly, eyes filled with a language only he could speak, glaring daggers at him as her expression screamed Come. Now.

Cassian swallowed down the heavy nerves that began to simmer in his stomach. These events had only been bearable with Finlas at his side. Reputation had a habit of sucking the air out of the room. Every expression, movement, hell even his thoughts, were monitored with the utmost scrutiny. People expected much of The Crown Prince of Vinyamar. Thus Cassian had to perform. The white heat of the spotlight was on him.

“Pleasure to meet you, my lord, my lady,” His words were like silk, completely unrecognizable from the hungover mess that had stumbled from the carriage only hours earlier. A looming figure soon joined them, gravitating towards them as a magnet to the sound of his name. It was General Lanthir. Finlas’ father. He smiled at Cassian grandly, familiarly. He had not known the General was going to be here. His mother looped her arm through Cassian’s in a gesture of affection, but he knew it was nothing of the sort. It was a noose, and it was tightening rapidly.

----

Dinner with the royal family was always an extravagant affair. His mother made sure to exemplify the grandeur that a successful kingdom such as Vinyamar could afford. Each course was a symbol of their strength, each bottle of wine a cocky display of their bottomless resources. Cassian pushed around his food, busying himself with his plate so as to seem unavailable for conversation. He could feel the stare of his father on him every so often, hear the confident tone of Raegel battle its way for importance at the table. He took a heavy sip of wine, adam’s apple bobbing as he relished in the bite of it. What he needed was an out from this. Every second in the presence of General Lanthir was a second closer to the mention of Finlas, a second closer to the topic of his disappearance. And that was a topic that Cassian had no interest in hearing play out.

Dinner was being swept away by the invisible hand of ghostly servants, in its place stood too many options for dessert. Another display of power, indulgence. Cassian was beginning to feel hopeful that he would make it through this night without incident. The wine had already flooded his system, filling his cheeks with a heavy flush and his mind with a relieving quiet.

But it was among the dying flames of conversation that the question on everyone’s tongues that night was finally spit out. “Any word from Finlas?” Qinrel asked, her tone balancing the perfect notes of optimism and sensitivity. Cassian’s head snapped up, locking eyes with a panicked Zinyra.

The general sighed. “Ah--well, I’m afraid not,” He let out a soft chuckle before leaning back into his seat in thought. “Knowing him, he’s probably out there somewhere, too busy unraveling loose threads to think of his old man.” The look in his eyes was softened, but glittering, as if the man truly believed it.

“Oh, I’m sure he is General. He was always so dedicated to his studies. So much so that he even rubbed off on Cassian,” His mother responded with a chuckle of her own.

Cassian’s jaw tightened as he listened to the party go on with conversation like nothing, the topic already swept from their minds. “For fifty years?” He spit out after a moment, unable to hold back the anger that rose within him like acrid bile.

Every eye turned to him at once, each gaze reflecting back a different emotion like a hall of mirrors. “You think Finlas has been just out there,” He gestured loosely with his hand, “chasing loose threads for fifty fucking years?” He pushed his plate away from him with a flick of his hand, glass and silverware clattering obnoxiously. “What he’s probably doing is rotting in the ground somewhere.”

“Cassian!” His mother gasped, hand clasping at her chest.

“Oh like you weren’t all thinking it,” He bit back, words burning like venom in his throat. His appetite festered and turned over into something repulsive. Everything reeked of extravagance, of hollow displays of power, of waste. “Nothing he did would have ever been good enough for you would it?” He suddenly asked General Lanthir, cutting through the silence. The table held their breath with rapt attention. “He was constantly living in a shadow that you had no intention of letting him step from, instead, allowing him to go on a suicide mission chasing fucking shadows on the wall--”

“Enough!” Cassian’s father boomed. It was the first words he had said to him all night. The air seemed to have been sucked out of the room in a vacuum. It was hard to breathe, move, even blink in the thick tension that had frozen everyone in place. “Cassian. I think it’s best you leave,” Joran’s jaw was rigid.

“Yeah I think so too,” He said. The legs of his chair groaned against the stone flooring. Zinyra flinched at the sound, watery eyes following the retreating form of her brother as he stormed from the room. The only sound strong enough to break the spell that had been cast over the dining hall was the sharp slam that indicated Cassian’s exit.

Joran was the one to break the silence first. “My apologies. He just needs time. Luckily it is something we can afford. It was not a luxury I had at his age.”

The general sighed, eyes still glued to the space where Cassian had exited. “He has a right to be upset. You forget, Joran, I knew him since he was a boy. I raised him like I did Finlas. The two were bloody inseparable.” He fiddled with the silverware in his hand, watching the way the light danced in its reflection. “Finlas was the only thing Cassian really loved in this world. I figure he’s still groping around in the dark, figuring out how to live without him,” He glanced back up at Joran, offering the man a smile. “He’ll come around Joran. Just give him time.”

---

“Take me to the Port of Call,” Cassian ordered as he slammed the door to his carriage shut. His driver gave a curt nod, still rushing to ready up the horses on the heels of such a hastened departure. The prince glared out of the window, anger consuming every inch of his skin. Memories of Finlas washed over him again and again, unrelenting in an endless haze of noise. He needed silence. He needed distraction from the pain. The ride to the red light district was a haze, partly shortened from the numbing shock of his emotions. Cassian was suddenly standing before the doors, body numb, and then he suddenly found himself inside.

“Sylvis,” He called, “I need a suite and I need wine sent to it.” Cassian stalked towards the counter and tossed a bag of gold upon it. It landed with a heavy metallic thump. “Send Zene in about thirty minutes. I need time to drink first.” His eyes were a heavy storm of grey, and he bore his stare into Sylvis with an impatience that would hear no argument. The wine from earlier had felt as though it had been burned off in the flames of his anger, but with the heaviness of his limbs, Cassian knew he was still decently inebriated. But decently wasn’t enough. He needed numb.

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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Focused, Seductive

Port of Call Brothel

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let me sing you pretty lies while you rest in your bed of ruin.

The living quarters, while not as lavish as the Suite she’d just departed from, smelled of honey and vanilla and were decorated with silks and linens. Several pieces of artwork, which Nadia assumed was donated from any one of the girls or their clients, hung around the large area. Beds, piled with pillows and plush sheets were neatly pushed against the wall, with a plethora of women chatting, sleeping, or lounging. Nadia wasn’t sure what to expect, but it wasn’t this.

Taking a few pensive steps into the living quarters, she took note of the raised heads, curiously inspecting her, looking her up and down, boring holes into her being. The woman kept quiet as she continued further into the room, scanning for Erin or Eithe. From the corner, the short head of dark locks stood out and, admittedly, relief washed through her like waves crashing ashore a rocky beach. Silently, Erin turned, a look of recognition coming to her features. Though both women knew not to greet each other, they shared a look of comfort. “Which bed can I have?” Nadia asked gruffly to Erin, hoping she could get some information from her friend. “Any of the empty ones, lass.” Erin gestured loosely.

“Maybe you could show me?” Raising her brows, it was clear she was implying she needed to speak to Erin, but there were too many people around. “Ah, yes… Follow me.” Waving her forward, Nadia joined Erin at her side, walking towards the back of the L shaped room. “What are you doin’ here?” Erin whispered harshly, looking ahead. “It’s time.” Nadia said simply. “I’m looking for Zene.” Erin stopped in her tracks, frowning. “Why? What are you going to do to her?”

Clicking her tongue, Nadia shook her head. Erin of so little faith… “I need to get rid of her.” Erin’s eyes went the size of moons– She’d always been a dramatic one. Not like it was out of character for Nadia to do something drastic if measures called for it. “Not like that. She just needs to be gone for the next few days. Now hurry, I don’t know how much time I have to make this work…” Erin turned out again, her eyes following the moving bodies of each woman. “There. With the brown hair.” Nadia nodded, before taking a moment to address the plan as vaguely as she could. “Make sure Eithe is ready. We return by dawn.”

With that in place, Nadia began towards the woman, scanning through any idea of an excuse for Nadia’s request. It was rather odd that she came into such a lavish brothel and request a woman to leave for a few days… “Zene?” Lifting her hand, Nadia offered a small smile to the other. Her voice felt strange, as if it wasn’t her own. It meant she was doing the right thing, she supposed. Zene looked taken aback, to say the least. “You are Ms. Zene… right?”

Zene pursed her lips together, pausing where she stood. Her body was rigid, distrustful. Her arms crossed against her chest told Nadia she was closed off, even to her. “That’s me. Who are you?” Ah, this might be harder than the Captain anticipated. “My name is Imra– I was sent from Star Shooter in East Oleimar.” Thank the Gods Nadia was familiar with Vinyamar as well as she was. Retrieving three bags, she offered them out. “They’ve requested your presence. Duke Aegril wishes for your company for the Moon Festival. This is only for travels, of course. The rest will come at your arrival.” Well, it was certainly a story, Nadia thought to herself, looking in between the bags of gold and Zene. How well had the Prince kept her up? And would a gross amount of gold lure her into a small trip to East Oleimar?

“Duke Aegril?” Zene picked up the bags, inspecting them closely. Nadia’s stomach was in knots, trying to tear her up from the inside out. She was not a conwoman, she was anything but it… “Yes miss.” A few moments of bloated silence went by, Zene opening the bag of gold and shifting through it. Withdrawing a piece, she bit into it. It satisfied her. “Well, I must thank him for the request… What day must I leave?” Nadia straightened up, trying to conceal her smile. “Before dusk, miss. I assure you he will pay you handsomely for your time…”

“Then I suppose I must begin packing…” Luck was on their side that day, Nadia could just tell it. Smiling politely, she bowed her head. “I wish you safety in your travels…” The trap was slowly being laid, like a web built of lies and carefully crafted planning from Nadia and her crew. All that was left was their sweet Prince to waltz in like an unsuspecting fly. Taking a seat on an empty bed, she laid back, letting out a small breath. The uncomfortable silk dress would be worth it sooner or later…

∘ ☽ ∘​

“Your highness,” Sylvis began, smiling. The older woman was always happy to see the Prince. After all, he made money for her girls and for Port of Call. He looked especially upset… Which meant more wine and more time spent.. Of course, it was a bit selfish of her to think so shallowly about the future ruler of their Kingdom. But he would never know. Besides, she was providing a service to her Kingdom afterall. However, she likely didn’t hold news he would enjoy hearing. “Prince Cassian–” Sylvis hesitated, recalling Zene’s fleeting figure as she departed mere hours ago. Would disappointing the Prince in such a volatile state be wise? She thought not.

“Yes, of course, your highness. Eerodil!” Sylvis called and out emerged the woman. “Please escort the Prince to the Peacock Suite. Bring him our best reds. Understand?” Eerodil nodded, addressing the Prince with a bow of the head. “Your Highness, you may follow me.” Wordlessly, the woman began down the long hallway, silently escorting the Prince to the Peacock Suite. “Your wine will arrive shortly.” Eerodil closed the door behind him, quickly disappearing to retrieve the bottles Slyvis requested. Eerodil may have dragged her feet a bit as to give the Prince time to settle in. Anyone with eyes could tell the man was clearly riled up about something or the other. Best to give someone a few moments to themselves before sending in alcohol.

But, soon enough, she returned wheeling a cart full of their best wines. Removing one glass, she skillfully uncorked the bottle and delicately poured the wine in, leaving the bottle beside it. “Should there be anything else you desire, Your Highness, you need but call and I shall provide it.” Eerodil bowed her head respectfully before exiting once more, hoping Slyvis would find a solution to their… lack of Zene problem.

∘ ☽ ∘
​

The living quarters were far emptier than when Nadia first arrived. All the other women were busy attending to their clients, which left Nadia to her lonesome. She’d traced the patterns of the ceiling at least fifteen times, and was beginning on her sixteenth when heavy footsteps quickly approaching drew her attention. Pushing herself off the bed, Nadia’s body tense. Quick footsteps were never good. Had anyone recognized her? Should she make her escape? Her mind rushed through the millions of possibilities, but quickly settled when Sylvis burst through the door in a panicked search. “Where is everyone?!” She demanded quickly.

“I– Occupied in the Suite’s.” Nadia answered stiffly. Syvlis sighed heavily, clearly annoyed at that answer. “This is not good… You.” Sylvis pointed a finger at Nadia's direction, calling her over. “Listen closely. The Prince has requested another girl, but you’re all we have. You will go in her stead. Make sure not to displease him, or you’re out. Understand?” Nadia quickly nodded. She hardly believed it. Things were falling into place exactly how she’d planned them too. “Good. Follow me.” Together, the two women exited the living quarters and began towards the Peacock Suite.

The Sun already set, which meant many of her crew were in their place or situating themselves in their positions. A strange feeling blossomed in Nadia’s stomach as she gazed at the twinkling lights of Okoris. This was the first time in so long she felt hopeful. They were closer than they’d ever been to finding what she’d been searching her entire life to reclaim… The only thing that stood between success was a wood door carved with the animal. “Good luck,” Sylvis pulled her from her thoughts, focusing her. Nadia followed Sylvis’ retreating form, turning back to the door.

Taking a deep breath, Nadia steadied herself.

It was time to perform. Her job was Captain of the Sun Howler, not a courtesan ready to appease the Prince of Vice. But for one night, and one night only, Nadia Damaris was Imra Aedi. And Imra Aedi was going to seduce the hell out of the Prince if it was the last thing she did.

Knocking three times on the door, Nadia didn’t wait for a response. She couldn’t care less if it wasn’t courtesy, it lined up with Imra’s character. At least, that was the justification she would provide should the Prince feel the need to point out. Pressing the door closed behind her, she bowed gracefully. “Good evening, Your Highness… Sylvis sends her sincerest apologies, for Zene is away on business tonight. She hopes I will be an adequate replacement, at least for the night.” Nadia stepped forward, delicately holding her hand out. “Imra Aedi. A pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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  sollie , Nadia

  
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distressed, inebriated

Port of Call Brothel

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who am i when i feel? what dies in me when i am me?

“Ugh--I don’t know how you do this all the time,” Cassian groaned, balancing his chair dangerously on two legs. The chair rocked back and forth in an uneasy rhythm while he eyed Finlas working studiously across from him. The two young elves were washed in a comforting orange light, the worn smell of printed books smothering every breath inward. “This library is so goddamn stuffy, too,” Cassian mumbled. He glanced at his best friend’s expression which was currently turned down and away from him. It was a fifty-fifty chance that Finlas had either heard him and chosen to ignore his whiny remarks, or he was genuinely entranced in the information being devoured by his eyes and hadn’t heard him. Either way, Cassian was one hundred percent being ignored. He rolled his eyes, breath coming out in a sharp sigh of displeasure.

“Have you ever heard of The Star of Isolde?” Finlas asked after a beat of silence, ignoring Cassian’s earlier commentary. His regal brow was furrowed in concentration as he looked up to lock eyes with the young elf across from him.

“What, the one in all those batshit myths? You know those are just illusions, Fin. Shadows on the wall cast by our fathers and their fathers before them to justify mindless expansion and slaughter,” Cassian rolled his eyes. Wooden legs returned to the ground with a violent snap as he rightened the chair to its original position.

“No--no I don’t think so,” Finlas retorted. His eyes fell on the paper in front of him again before spinning the book round to face Cassian. Confident fingers inched the book closer to allow Cassian to drink in the contents of the page. He tapped rapidly on a faded drawing of some type of jewel. When Finlas looked back up at him, his eyes were filled with a fire unlike Cassian had ever seen. “I think I have a good shot at finding it, Cassian.”

Cassian merely shrugged in response, brushing off his claim as one of the many obsessive ideas he toyed with in the hopes of finally being able to surpass his father. “Yeah--well, as long as you still have time to help me with this god awful tutor my father assigned to me then I don’t care. Go nuts.”

Finlas smiled broadly, the action striking a feeling of warmth within Cassian. “Of course, I’d never leave you, Cass. You wouldn’t know what to do without me,” He laughed then, the sound boisterous and contagious. Soon after, Cassian found himself laughing too.

Cassian’s head was down when three sharp knocks at the door of the suite pulled him from the wine induced haze of his memories. “Why did you leave me,” He choked out, hands fisted in the tangled mess of his curls. His inebriated state made the words strung together and muddled. “You said you wouldn’t leave me.”

It had only been half an hour since he had taken up residence in the suite Slyvis allotted to him, yet Cassian had already managed to finish off one of the pitchers of wine that had been delivered to him. The maid who was assigned to his room had accepted the empty pitcher with eyes widened to saucers. At the very least, she had been quicker with the refills after, which resulted in the mess of a state he was in now. Echoes of Finlas’ voice were loud in his ears, ghost traces of him that Cassian could feel hovering around his body. He didn’t notice the entry of another until she spoke. Her voice was husky and low, snaking around his body and electrifying his already nearly numb limbs.

“Good evening, Your Highness... Sylvis sends her sincerest apologies, for Zene is away on business tonight. She hopes I will be an adequate replacement, at least for the night.”

Cassian stared dumbly at the woman who was most certainly not Zene, processing the information she had deposited before him. “What business could she possibly need to attend to?” He responded after a moment. He tilted his head, grey eyes glittering with the glassy effect of alcohol. “I’m her only client.”

A heavy sigh slipped from his body, slumped figure shifting even further from the chair like he’d fall from it at any moment. His clothes were already in disrepair, jacket thrown somewhere across the room and unbuttoned shirt splotched with deep purple wine stains. Accessories worth more than most citizens could make in several months were tossed around the room haphazardly, like a strong gust of wind had ghosted through and swept away nearly everything on his person.

Cassian’s refined features were soured when he went to take another sip of wine. He swallowed hard, gaze narrowing as it raked over Irma’s figure, standing unobscured before him. “This isn’t the first time Sylvis has pulled this shit,” He spit out, slapping down the cup onto the table with a metallic clang. He wiped at his mouth with the back of his hand, the movement sloppy and using more force than necessary. “She’s so greedy for money she’ll usher me in and get me drunk so I don’t complain when the girl I want isn’t here,” He scoffed, head shaking in disbelief. “Usually she tries to push some weak substitute at me, thinking I don’t have standards,” His eye slid over to her in his peripheral, the look swimming within its depths dark and hungry. “But luckily, you’re my type.”

The man grabbed one of the cups added to a silver serving platter, sloshing a generous amount of wine into a second cup. He didn’t flinch when some of the wine leapt from the sides and dropped onto his hands, marring the flawless skin in a sticky red coating, nor when the chair he slid out next to him caught on the floorboards and nearly sent him toppling to the floor from its resistance. “Sit, join me,” He said with a grand flourish of his hands. “Probably the only night of your life you’ll get to drink with Vinyamarian royalty.”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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  *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

  
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level, confident

Port of Call Brothel

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you look lonely. i can fix that.

The first thing that hit Nadia upon further observation of the room was the strong scent of berries and fruit– wine. So much wine that she would’ve turned her nose up to it if she’d smelt it on her crew. It was indulgent, which was to be expected. She wondered now… How intoxicated was the Prince? Gods, if she’d known the Idiot Prince would drink himself silly so quickly… Quickly, the woman reminded herself that she did not dabble in the what ifs. She stood in the audience of the drunken heir fulfilling a false role. Things couldn’t be different, no matter how much she wished them to be. Still, that didn’t stop her from placing judgment upon the man.

He was distressed, drunk, and out of it. For her, that meant he would be far easier to subdue when the time came.

It took every fiber in her body to resist making a visible reaction to hearing his voice. The slur in his words, the way they sloshed and swayed like crashing waves on an uneasy sea. She hated it. The timbre of his voice told a million stories just in his inflection. He wasn’t used to not getting what he wanted. Nadia’s eyes were keen on the Prince, soaking up every detail she could as she stood attentively at the entrance until he offered her an invitation to enter further.

What business could she need to attend to? The business of being unloyal to you, your highness. “I’m not sure, Your Grace. I’m only aware of her departure earlier this evening.” The words slipped off her tongue like facts, solid truths that she’d witnessed herself. Afterall, relaying information was about all she could do. If the whole restoring her people didn’t work out, Nadia’s future in the theater industry was looking bright…

If Cassian’s physical display of intoxication was any indication of his cohesiveness, it might be possible for her to take him out herself. Though she would never change plans so last minute, she was appalled at how much she and her entire crew overestimated the man. It was appalling… The Prince of Vice lived up to his nickname, in every manner of the word. Nadia pondered a hundred times over what her first encounter with the Prince of Vinyamar would be. She imagined him to be insufferable, indulgent, indulged, and pompous… But it seemed only one word could sum up her initial reaction…

Pathetic.

Nadia did not pity him. She could not. But to gaze upon the mess of clothes, jewels, tousled hair and spilled wine… Nadia could not comprehend how his people triumphed in battle so long ago. Was Prince Cassian an anomaly? She’d read the history of her people, how the Eternal Elves of Vinyamar crushed her peoples, cruel and mercilessly destroying villages and homes, murdering thousands, burning crops… leaving an entire Kingdom for dead. The wine stains upon the fine silk felt far separated from the blood that stained the hands of all Vinyamarians.

Standing before Cassian, she became acutely aware of the hungry look which twinkled in his eye darkly. Nadia felt some relief thinking she would be the first and last member of her crew to be subject to such a loathsome gaze. She stayed unwavering, hands delicately clasped over one another as she soaked in Cassina’s words. Quite honestly, Nadia didn’t give a shite how greedy Sylvis was. In fact, Nadia relished in the knowledge Sylvis tricked and took advantage of the Prince and his endless wealth. Intentional or not, Nadia silently commended the women in her efforts to exploit the Crown's opulence.

“Your highness, I wish not to replace Zene. And I cannot assure you I will even be a substitute.” Nadia took a few steps forwards and away from the door which she’d lingered at for a moment. “But I can assure you I will be adequate… If not exemplary.” She offered a small smile that hinted at a few things– any sober man would understand, but considering his level of inebriation… Besides– Nadia was testing the field, vying for any sort of read of Cassian to figure out what he liked. While her crew would be enacting the plans soon enough, appeasing him until they did so was crucial for the success of her mission.

The graceful execution of his next actions threatened to amuse Nadia. She fought off a laugh, which built in her chest momentarily. Truly the essence of grace, this one was… “Thank you…” Nadia finally entered fully into the room, making quick steps to take the chair beside the Prince. She carefully gathered the fabric of her dress and tucked it underneath herself as she sat, angling herself towards the Prince intentionally. Her eyes dropped to his hands and she reached for the cloth on the serving platter, the white fabric dotted with red stains. “I must admit,” Nadia began, as she retrieved the cloth and reached out for Cassian’s hands which glistened with the fresh droplets of wine. “When Sylvis informed me where I was going tonight… I couldn’t help but be a bit excited.” She deftly soaked the droplets up, hands moving softly across his before moving onto the next. Such delicacy was uncommon for Nadia. She surprised even herself at that moment. "Anyone would be honored to be in your presence, of course... But to be in your presence like this? The Gods must have smiled down upon me..." Sweet words left her lips; the Prince would enjoy the stroke of ego Nadia was providing, she assumed. Sweet words quickly turned to attentiveness, as she turned her gaze up to him.

“Excuse me if I am out of line for asking this,” Nadia’s hands retreated from his, working to fold the cloth up. It sat atop the fine fabric and threatened to stain it. “Are you alright? I’m sure it’s not my place to ask such things but… you look rather troubled. Some drink to remember… Most drink to forget.” Reaching out for his hand yet again, Nadia clasped it between her own. They were rough hands, not that of a courtesan… And not that of a Prince. Smooth flawless skin met with calloused skin.

“Can I help you forget, Your Highness?”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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  Nadia

  
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impish

Port of Call Brothel

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i will do as devils do. fall.

The grey fire of Cassian’s gaze swayed side to side slowly, the man clinging to each word that slipped from Irma’s mouth as if it was the only thing keeping him conscious. It very well may have been. A wolfish grin splayed across his features from the woman’s sly innuendo. She seemed to match Zene's forward and teasing demeanor, not something he encountered often with the weight of his name trailing along behind him. He merely offered a satisfied hum in response before pouring more wine into his cup. The prince rightened himself in his seat in a poor attempt to recover whatever was left of his dignity, having not expected Sylvis to dump someone new on him, but judging from the hardened look hidden deep within Irma’s eyes, there wasn’t much to be salvaged.

His eyes slipped closed when Irma began gently cleaning up the spilled wine glistening on the skin of his hand, soft cloth and the occasional touch of her hand carrying him into the warm waters of sleep. Cassian would never admit it aloud, let alone to himself, but being tended to with such a gentle touch, like she actually cared--it was something he missed. With Finlas gone, there was no one left to look out for him. No one to check in with him to make sure he had eaten, no one to shove him off to bed if he was running himself to exhaustion. No one to catch him when he fell. And fall he did.

“When Sylvis informed me where I was going tonight… I couldn’t help but be a bit excited.”

Cassian’s eyes cracked open then, peering at the woman beside him with half lidded eyes. “Oh yeah? Think of me often?” He let out a husky laugh, lightly nudging her chin upwards with his finger. “I hope I live up to your expectations then.” Though he was doubtful. With the way his world was beginning to twist and turn, Cassian was sure the next time his eyes slipped closed, he wouldn’t open them again until morning. His body had gotten increasingly heavier just in the interim of time that Irma had greeted him, wave after wave of hastily drunk wine washing over him at once.

The prince turned fully towards Irma this time, leaning in until his lips were merely inches from her ear. He tucked her dark, silky hair back before saying, “If you can truly make me forget, I’ll give you more gold than you’ve ever seen in your life.” His voice was deep, darkened into something unrecognizable from the facade of the respectable crown prince that had chatted amiably at dinner earlier. Cassian’s gaze slid to his peripheral to take in her expression, an impish grin adorning his features.

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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triumphant, delighted

Port of Call Brothel

[/tab]

listen to my siren song and fall into the deep.

Even as her body betrayed her… her mind fought fiercely against it. Irma shared affection equally with her clients with no qualms or questions, freely caressing, touching, embracing– Nadia, however, abhorred the acts of intimacy like the gentle brush of fingertips on her chin, forcing her eyes up to his. Still, it would be difficult to deny, despite her loathing of Cassian Airendil, her body had been properly deceived into the act she was putting on. Had Cassian’s capture not been crucial to the success of her future and the future of her crew, Nadia would’ve withdrawn and ended Cassian right then and there, cursing him for plaguing her mind and decimating her people; But she held strong, a pleasant look of enamorment hiding the disdain which coursed through her being.

“Of course I think of you often, My Prince.” Nadia smiled an almost shy smile, batting her eyes away. Irma was terribly bashful about admitting her infatuation with the Prince. “You are the Prince of the people, our future King. How could one not think of you often, Your Highness?” She’d thought of him often over the months prior to their docking in Okoris. Late nights were spent studying anything Aquila had acquired on the Prince. She studied his life. At least, all that was public information. Nadia read everything about the Airendil family many, many times. For many weeks, she felt disillusioned by her fantasies of apprehending a member of the royal family for her quest to reclaim the lost land of Isolde. How would it be possible for the Sun Howler and the crew, as small as it was, to successfully steal one of the most important men in all of Vinyamar– In all of the world? But Nadia knew. Cassian was the key. He always had been.

And thanks to his injudicious nature, he was falling more and more into her devious trap. Like a spider drawn to the sweet nectar of a Sarracenia Purpurea, Cassian fell in so deep that escape was impossible. Still, the pride that swelled in her chest was stamped on by the humiliating act of seduction she was putting up. It almost made the woman sick to her stomach to see the hungry look that washed over his features at the implications of bedding someone that admired him so.

Cassian's voice and closeness sent a chill down her spine, her skin prickling with goosebumps. A look of determination flooded her features and a resolute grin tugged at her lips as she pushed herself from the chair he pulled for her. “I promise you, Your Highness,” Nadia stood in front of his chair, leaning in as she braced herself on the arm of the chair with her hand. Outstretching the other, she cupped his face. “You won’t remember a thing.” The woman, leaning dangerously close to Cassian’s face, brushed her hair away from her face, locking eyes with the heavily intoxicated Prince.

The cloth which she clutched in her hand, stained red from the spilled wine, had been damp with something else when she picked it up. Katia finally got her act together for once. The maid that served Cassian, reeling from the temptation of the plentiful amount of alcohol surrounding her, would likely give Nadia an earful for not letting her do the job. But the Captain didn’t care as she hovered above the Prince, baited breath and thick silence clinging to the air as Cassian likely waited for a passionate kiss that would never come.

Instead, the cloth slipped over his nose and mouth as Nadia’s free hand pressed the back of his head into the soft fabric which was soaked in some sort of concoction or chemical Katia made. From what she knew of the chemical, the effects would last, but it took a minute or two to go into full effect. Pressing her knee into the chair, Nadia pushed Cassian further into the chair, not doubting that she could overpower him, but wanting to ensure their escape– with the Prince– was imminent. “Goodnight, Cassian Airedil.” Nadia whispered as she felt his weight lull into her.

“For fuck’s sake…” She grumbled, tossing his body back into the chair. One more moment of that horrible charade and she would’ve been done. Making her way to the bed, she removed the top layer of bedding, she pulled the sheet out, ripping it into thin strips to restrain Cassian, should he wake up before anticipated. With the cargo secured, she went to the door, poking her head out. Her stomach felt turned upside down, as if anxiety clung to her being in fear of being caught. Instead, she faced the disappointed Powdermonkey, Eithe, and Erin.

“You clean up nicely, Cap.” Katia couldn’t keep a sullen look on her face for long. Although, the sharp glare she received quickly shut her up. “Hurry up. Where are the others?” Eithe offered a satchel of clothing, which also contained additional weapons she and Erin stowed away during their stay at the Port of Call. Nadia wasted no time stripping herself of the horrible silks the Vinyamarians loved so. “We’ve only got about an hour to get ‘em to the ship.” Katia told the dark haired woman, now dressed in dark linens like the rest of them. “Then we better make haste.”

∘ ☽ ∘

Though the city of Okoris never slept, the skill possessed by the crew of the Sun Howler greatly surpassed that of the watchful eyes around the city. Skills cultivated over years of training went to good use as they stowed the prized prince away aboard the ship, tossed haphazardly beneath deck. It was a scramble to leave port. Nadia figured that the Prince’s absence would be noticed in the morning, but they needed as much distance between Vinyamar and them as possible.

With clear skies, a resupplied ship, and their captive below, the crew celebrated with wine and fine foods, raising their glasses to the starry sky which guided their path.

“To our Captain, for her great success!” Osmond cried, mead sloshing from his mug. “And to securing our reclamation!” Cheers rang on the deck of the ship, instruments were poorly played and laughs rang about. It was a sound uncommon to hear on the ship and it swelled Nadia’s chest with warmth. She was closer than she ever had been to finally avenging the lost. A millennia after her people were massacred and she and her crew would lead them back to glory and enact great retribution on the foes that dared knock them down.

While she longed to stay for the festivities and hearth of her crew, more important things needed tending to. Cassian sat below deck, unconscious and holding answers to their long unanswered questions.

The Sun Howler sailed near aimlessly for all the years Nadia grew on the ship, but now, a destination was insight. No longer would the Great Ship of the people of Isolde sail to unknown Ports, struggling and suffering for direction and meaning. Their ancestors' glory was so close to redemption… The Prince of Vinyamar held the final puzzle piece in their great journey for retribution and reckoning.

And he only had two options. Cooperation or demise.

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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panicked

???

[/tab]

i am, i thought, a tragedy;

Nausea was one of the first things to lull Cassian out of the drug induced haze he had fallen into. He cracked open his eyes, blinking against the inky shadows that swarmed in and out of his vision. He tried to prop himself upright, failing once and thumping into the floorboards with a groan. Another heave and he was able to bring himself to a half sitting position. Nausea clawed at his stomach and closed up the muscles in his throat. The salty smell of seawater was overpowering, all encompassing. His eyes scanned the enclosed space he was in after his eyes had adjusted to the dim lighting in an attempt to piece together the broken memories from the night prior. It wasn’t unusual for Cassian to black out on certain nights, but--he never woke up with this little knowledge to his whereabouts.

Cassian pressed a hand to his temple to block the sharp pain that blossomed there. God his head pounded right now. He needed some water. “Hello?” He tried, throat raw and cracking in its deliverance of the words. “Can I get some water someone, please?”

He stood up this time, balance rocking unsteadily as if it was influenced by some other type of movement. Skeptical eyes turned over his surroundings with a much clearer view, the drug of sleep rapidly sloughing off his mind. Was he on a--boat? Panic began to seize Cassian’s chest, sweaty and raw. That--that woman. What was her name again? He grasped at the wild untamed mess of his curls. No, no no no this couldn’t be happening. What had she done with him? The last thing he had remembered was--what was the last thing he remembered? The taste of wine burned acrid on his tongue, mixed in with his sweat to ooze from his pores. His eyes widened when he remembered the flash of panic that had filled him the night before. Irma’s demeanor had shifted suddenly, something that, even in his inebriated stupor, had set off alarms within him. After that--it was nothing but darkness.

“Fuck,” He spit out through grit teeth. “No, no, no.” Cassian began pacing back and forth in the small space he was being held in. He looked over at the door, an idea bolting through him that sent all limbs into a scramble. Sweaty palms grasped the handle of the door. He jiggled it once, twice, three times before his chest began to heave up and down in panic. “Fuck!” He yelled suddenly, slamming open palms onto the wooden door with a loud crash.

Cassian let out a heavy sigh, body limping towards the corner as nausea began to bubble up in his throat. He sat down in a corner, head tilted backwards. His wine stained shirt stuck to his skin from splotches of sweat. He closed his eyes, unwilling to look at whoever would come to open the door, and what fate they had in store for him.

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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satisfied

Port of Call Brothel

[/tab]

destiny rewards those she smiles down upon.

Anticipation filled Nadia’s being from the tips of her toes all the way to the top of her head. She held the title of Captain of the Sun Howler– Why did she feel so anxious approaching the door? As if she hadn’t been planning and preparing for this movement for years. Steadying herself, she was accustomed to the soft way of the ship as waves crashed and guided the boat along. As she went for the door, the feverish motion that pressed the door let Nadia know the Sun Howler’s guest was awake, alive, and moving, likely displeased to find he wasn’t in a warm bed, but in a cold and damp holding cell. Makeshift holding cell. The Sun Howler didn’t take prisoners so Cassian had the honor of being the first.

Drawing her blade, Nadia hesitated in jamming the keys in the door. Would the Prince be hostile? Surely he would. But a sharp sword could discourage any sudden attacks. She hoped. Placing the skeleton key in the lock, the door clicked unlocked and Nadia slipped in, taking no time locking up behind herself and pocketing the keys. While Cassian had nowhere to run on the ship, getting him back down would be a hassle Nadia didn’t want to fuss with.

“Don’t tell me you’re still intoxicated…” Nadia grumbled when she took in his visage. Taking small steps forward, she clutched the hilt tightly. She feared nothing, but being aware and alert had saved her life plenty of times. “Are all Vinyamarians this pathetic…?” That was more to herself than the man slumped in the corner, she already thought he was a feeble excuse for an heir. Turning from his form, she quickly lit a lantern which illuminated the room revealing the menial inside. Wet. Barren. Miserable.

Finally, she approached, standing over the slumped Prince. “Look alive, Cassian Airendil.” Nadia smiled, a mean and loathsome smile. “Welcome aboard the Sun Howler. I’m your humble Captain, Nadia.” The woman mimed a bow, but her demeanor quickly changed as she squatted down to his level. “No one will be looking for you, and by the time they realize you’re gone… This ship will be long gone. Untraceable. You have two options, Cassian. You can refuse, of course, should you wish not to cooperate with my demands.” She straightened up, gazing at her blade which glinted in the dim lantern light. “But I must warn you; Should refuse to comply.. The only thing waiting for you on the other side is death.”

The lively sounds of the crew's festivities were a silent hum through the doors, waves crashing against the hull of the ship, and the small hum of fire from the lantern. But to Nadia… everything felt perfectly still. Her mind, for once, felt at peace. As if everything had led her to this moment. Nadia didn’t believe in silly things like fate or destiny… But in that moment, she could feel how easy it was to believe.

“You're going to lead us to the Star of Isolde.”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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disgruntled, incredulous

sun howler

[/tab]

i am, i thought, a tragedy;

A heavy sigh escaped him at the clanking sound of metal turning against metal. Someone to finally tell him what the hell was going on. He hadn’t been awake for long, but he had never awoken to anything similar to this in the many years of his life span. His nerves were hungry for answers. Cassian cracked his eyes open as a familiar voice wafted through the stale air of the room. His jaw tightened. Why was her voice familiar?

His half lidded eyes scanned the woman’s lithe figure as she approached him, then fell down to the sheen of the sharp blade grasped tightly in her hand. He studied her movements, her limbs stiffened with tension while she brightened the space with a lantern. When the orange light reached up to caress the side of the woman’s cheek, Cassian’s expression soured into a grimace. The bloody brothel. She had introduced herself as Irma then. Most likely some sort of snake looking for ransom money, Sylvis too desperate or too stupid to do a proper background check before she let the woman bed her most high value client. He scoffed. After all those years of providing her business. Should’ve convinced Zene to leave that shit hole sooner.

Cassian kept Nadia’s eye contact, even when she squatted down to meet him at his level. Her expression reeked of haughtiness, of superiority. It made his chest burn with the low, warm fire of anger. Some fucking human looking at him, the crown prince, with such disdain. He never would've imagined. Raegel would've had a field day with it.

The warmth of the lantern was a small relief to the throbbing ache in Cassian's skull. He stayed silent awhile after Nadia laid out his options, mind still reeling at how he even landed himself in this situation. He had been nearly comatose by the time she arrived, so it wasn’t like it was the hardest thing to pull off. Still, his pride shuddered at the impact of his drunken stupidity. For a moment, the thought of escape trickled into his mind. His misty gaze turned over her position, the sharp blade turned in his direction. Hearty laughter floated above them, her crew no doubt celebrating Cassian's very presence below deck as their prisoner. The thought of their joy at his misfortune only sharpened the rage inside of him. He could knock her off balance, maybe make a run for the door--his chest deflated. Shit. She locked the door. Cassian let his head hit the wooden wall of the room with a light thud. Alright then, he'd play her little game.

Mention of the Star of Isolde, its name carrying a heavy aura once breathed from Nadia’s lips, that was finally enough to spur the elf to conversation. “The Star of Isolde? Are you stupid or just delusional?” He squinted his eyes at her, gaze hardened and face incredulous. “It’s a fucking wives' tale at best. Only neurotic fools chase after such a blatant myth,” He spit out. He pictured Finlas, his back to the shore, glancing towards Cassian only once before his ship took wind and crept from the bay. He had stood there for hours, eyes fixated on the point in the horizon where the ship's outline had finally been swallowed, as if by him willing it alone would cause Finlas to change his mind and return. Cassian made a tsk sound, tongue sucking on his teeth when he finally broke eye contact with the woman. She had to be lying. “Tell me what you really want and we can be done with this,” he said with a sigh. “What is it, money? Weapons? The crown can afford whatever your blackened heart desires.”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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expectant

The Sun Howler

[/tab]

the heavy hand which holds the blade will not waver.

Nadia was certain she’d made clear in her tone her request was not up for negotiation with the Prince. There was no bargain he could strike with her that would satiate the hunger and desire that burned inside Nadia, and likely every member of the Sun Howler, to reclaim their lost home. This was more than money or weapons or anything their hearts could desire that manifested itself physically. What they craved could only be given to them through repentance and revenge of Vinyamar. Reclamation of the Star of Isolde could ensure their Kingdom, their people, and their pride once more. Cassian’s denial did not please Nadia.

The Captain reminded herself to keep her cool, regardless of how much she wanted to gut the Prince right then and there. How dare he sit there with such a look of judgment when his fate lied in the hands of people who despised his very being. Any person aboard the Sun Howler would happily slice and dice him whatever way they found fit, if they had the chance.

“Your crown means nothing to me.” Nadia spat out right back at him. “We do not desire money or weapons or women.” Taking a step closer to him, Nadia held her blade out, showing no signs of hesitation anymore. The point of the blade rested at the neck, daring to slice the delicate skin at a moment's notice. “There are plenty of ways you can leave this world, Prince. But there is only one way to ensure you might make it out alive.”

It wasn’t a surprise he was attempting to deny the existence of the precious jewel. It was highly sought out by man and elf and everything in between. The power it was told to possess could change the tides of war, bless the defeated, and provide great prosperity to those who possessed it. Blessed by the Gods themselves, the jewel was beyond priceless. It would be unwise of the crown prince to give away its location so easily. But Nadia knew better. Her ancestors and her ancestors ancestors had passed down, for generations, the true history of their once great Kingdom of Isolde.

Tilting her blade up, the soft flesh of his chin delicately pressed into the tip. “You cannot deceive me, Vinyamarian. Your people have scorned Isolde for centuries. Destroying our land, desecrating our history and filling it with lies. I know the truth. And I know you are no fool to the location of our people’s most honored piece of history. You lead us to the Star of Isolde or I can cut your throat. Or feed you to the sharks of Rïrthméral. Or perhaps you’d prefer to be weighed down with rocks and forced to drown in the depths of the Twin Sea? My generosity will not last long, you must understand that or you will be choosing death.”

Nadia scanned his face, looking for any indication of deceit on his sharp features. She, of course, felt highly distrustful of the Prince. There was no avoiding the discomfort she felt in allowing a Vinyamarian to lead her crew anywhere. But she hoped her sober proclamation of intent made him realize just how serious Nadia was. The Sun Howler did not take prisoners. Cassian could choose to help or he could choose to die. "What will it be? Death or the Star?"

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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impish

sun howler

[/tab]

my kind of rebirth tasted like blood

Cassian rolled his eyes at the captain’s hostile commentary back. “We do not desire money or weapons or women.” Such lies. Everyone desired one or a combination of all three, even if it was in the most hidden depths of their hearts. His eyes scanned Nadia’s face, her features soured into a look of disgust. At the motion of her cautious step forward, sword now pushing into the delicate skin of his neck, Cassian swallowed, feeling the sharp tip of the blade bob from the movement of his adam’s apple. Ah, so she wasn’t playing around. Shit.

A sour look furrowed Cassian’s brow, head forced to tilt upwards from the movement of the cold steel weapon pressed so snugly under his chin. The steel served as a sharp contrast to the burning blood that ignited his skin into a furious blaze. He was quiet for a while, opting to allow Nadia’s threats to air out in the room rather than offer the answer she sought after. An answer that he did not have. How the fuck was he supposed to know where the Star of Isolde was? For all he cared to remember from Finlas’ endless ramblings, the jewel had been long lost in the war centuries ago, when Isolde had first fallen to his ancestors. Who knew if it even existed at all? Time had a way of embellishing things, the mind forgetting and patching up the gaps with colorful designs in an attempt to make some kind of sense of the past.

He was sure a hunt for the jewel would simply lead them on a wild goose chase, but it wasn’t looking like he really had a choice in the matter. His mind raced for ideas, a small pinprick of a memory floating up towards the surface. Finlas’ letters. In the beginning of his journey, Finlas had written down detailed accounts of his travels in search of the star. Cassian had committed every word to memory following his best friend’s disappearance, so much so it was as if he had experienced the adventures himself. It would be the perfect facade for fooling the Captain.

An impish smirk washed the grimace from Cassian’s face, replacing it with a devious charm. “Fine. I’ll lead you to the star,” The elf leaned forward slightly, just enough to allow Nadia’s blade to knick his flesh. Warm blood ran a crimson streak down his throat. Cassian only smiled wider at the pain. “It won’t be an easy endeavor, though. Don’t blame me if you get your crew killed,” He said. Cassian’s gaze was dark and unreadable, a mischievous glint igniting them even in the dim light of the room. He had been wrong earlier, about the combination of three things that people wanted. It wasn’t weapons that got people to bite, it was simply an offshoot of a larger, more enticing goal. Power. He watched Nadia’s expression shift, laughing inwardly as he realized the hypocrisy of her earlier statement. When it came to money, sex and power, everyone wanted one of them. And it seemed like Nadia’s weakness was power. What lengths would she go, he wondered, to achieve it? The streak of blood had twisted its way down the length of his neck, wrapping down his partially exposed chest to soak up in a dark tint into the white fabric of his shirt. Guess he’d find out soon enough.

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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Focused

The Sun Howler

[/tab]

set sails to the land of imagination

The ship swayed from side to side in a sickening motion– Anyone unused to the movement would find their body moving against them, close to thrashing to balance the body and keep up with the movement. But Nadia, even as she loomed over her prisoner, with sword pressed against his throat, moved effortlessly in sync with her ship, as if each breath she took matched a sway. She watched Cassian in his silence, narrow eyes scanning his every facial movement, even down to the smallest twitch. The resistance of his body gave way to the tip of her sword as the boat rocked, but not once did the sharp blade pierce his skin. Not until the Prince leaned forward, the blade pricking his skin and blooming a beautiful red.

“I’m not worried about my crew being injured or killed,” She said simply, withdrawing her sword and wiping the blood easily on her pant leg as she returned the blade to its sheath. The words she spoke sounded cruel, heartless even. How could she be so willing to let her crew, the people she’d grown up with and fought and lived and loved with, her family, die so easily? Over something so seemingly small? Over the words of a deceitful, dirty, Vinyamarian? “I am certain this endeavor will be taxing. Dangerous, even. But I’m also certain you will ensure our safe return. After all, you’ll be leading the charge, Your Highness.” The words of respect dripped out of her mouth like venom.

It was settled. With the Prince in agreement, or at least acceptance, the Sun Howler could chart a course to their destination. The destination of their life’s work. Nadia almost felt giddy. She looked to the door, pursing her lips as she contemplated her next action. Cassian would not be free on the ship, of course. As slippery and sly as Vinyamarians were, letting the man run loose would be the cause for their downfall. But his assistance in leading them to their destination would need to occur above deck.

Letting out a soft sigh, Nadia grabbed Cassian by his elbow, pulling him to his feet. Her grip was rough, when just hours before the sweet caress of his hands had led him so beautifully into their web. Reaching into her pocket, she retrieved a stained piece of fabric which once might have resembled a handkerchief, and pressed it to Cassian’s neck, drying the wet blood and applying light pressure to the small, surface level wound. “If you try anything… Trickery… Escape– Anything of the sort.” Nadia began, pressing the handkerchief roughly into his neck. “You will be the first to die. Think wisely before attempting something clever.” Shoving the handkerchief back in her pocket, she pulled him forward, up the stairs and out into the deck.

Lively fiddle and flute played above deck, her crew likely much more intoxicated than she would’ve liked. Mary and Osmond were nowhere to be found, Katia looked as though she was concocting some sort of firework mix, and poor Edmund looked scared out of his mind. But at the sight of their mighty Captain and the scum Prince of Vinyamar, most seemed to sober up. “Captain…” Buck began, lowering his cup.

“The Prince has come to his senses. And you all must do the same. We will set sail for whenever Cassian advises. Vernon–” The Navigator pulled their head off a barrel, rubbing their eyes.

“That’s me.” Vernon murmured, raising their hand up. Clearly they were buzzed off their arse.

“We will set sail this evening. Big Red, rouse Mary and Osmond from their chambers. Erin, Aquila… Hoist the sails. We set a course tonight. We are closer than ever to reclamation. We mustn’t squander this chance. Your Highness,” Yet again used more so as an insult than anything. She looked to Cassian, who she’d left back with Miller and Katia. “Where is our destination?”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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begrudging

sun howler

[/tab]

in a sense, im the one who ruined me: i did it to myself

Cassian simply threw a lopsided smile at Nadia, the gleam in it full of knives. His head still pounded tensely against his skull, each pulsing ache deepening the furrow of his brow. He needed water, a hot bath, anything to expel last night's wine from his system. His eyes darted around the small room. He doubted the conditions would get much better than this, if the Captain’s earlier disdain was anything to go by. He let out a hollow sigh, chest deflating when she removed the sword from pressing into his skin.

He let out a hiss in displeasure when he felt Nadia grab his elbow. Her grip was rough, demanding, all but yanking the Prince to his feet. He stumbled rather uncoordinated, swallowing down the embarrassment with a suck of his teeth in her direction to express his objection. His eye slid to the peripheral while Nadia gently cleaned up the small wound her sword had inflicted upon him. An impish look snaked its way into his grey irises, darkening them with mischief. Cassian smirked, “The first to die, eh? Rather interesting choice of words, Captain.” He said, his voice dipping into a husky tease when it echoed her title. He gave a slight shrug, pushing a stray strand of hair from his eyes as he added, “Ah, but I digress. You needn’t worry about me.. I wouldn’t dare die before I had the chance to see you fail,” He winked slyly before allowing the Captain to drag him along behind her, his feet tripping several times as he struggled to keep up with her uncaring pace.

Now above deck, Cassian’s eyes ravaged the ship for as much information as he could gather. He let out a scoff at seeing the state of her crew. Half of them were as inebriated as he had been the night prior, the rest well on their way to join them. This was the crew that managed to sneak past all the checkpoints and security levels at the Port? His regal features soured into a mask of disdain. His father liked to brag from within the pristine walls of his castle, but when was the last time he had actually stepped within the Kingdom he thought so highly of? If the integrity of the city could become so tainted by this small group of nobodies, imagine what kind of real threat could slip in unnoticed? It was all one big fucking joke, and here he was, the walking punch line of it.

A rumble of discomfort vibrated his chest, Nadia’s grip having tightened against his arm in her demand of their destination. Her fingers were digging into the meat of his muscles, worming their way between as if by that act alone she could control him at will. Right. The jewel. He bit the inside of his lip, the fresh stab of pain pulling focus to the forefront of his mind. If he was going to be forced to follow in Finlas’ footsteps and chase after the ghost of this damn jewel, he might as well do it literally. In doing so, he may even stumble across a familiar form smudged against the horizon.

Cassian fiddled with the grass at his feet, pulling up short stalks of it periodically, only to twist the small blades between his fingers. The sharp smell of the crushed plant wafted up, overwhelming his senses with an earthy scent. Finlas sat beside him, motionless, gaze set on the horizon. His skin was ignited into a warm bronze in the light of the sinking sun. He almost looked otherworldly, Cassian had thought at the time. His determination had polished over his person with a finely tuned touch, leaving behind the image of someone greater; something more. The hero of the story. Cassian began picking at the grass roughly, ears filling with the rough sound of roots ripping from their home in the dirt. “Well--have fun I guess,” He muttered, jealousy digging its claws into his words.

“Fun, isn’t the goal, Cassian. You know that,” Finlas said. He turned then, fully facing Cassian now. His brown eyes were alight with excitement, almost matching the vibrant splendor of the sun. He set a hand on Cassian’s knee rocking his friend’s body back and forth teasingly. “Come on--I’ll send souvenirs I promise.”

Cassian rolled his eyes. He dropped the shreds of grass from within his grasp, leaning backwards to rest his palms in the earth beneath them. “Where are you even going, anyways?”

Finlas smiled. “I think you’d love it, I read so much about it. They’ve got a great night life if I’m not mistaken,” He laughed then, the sound boyish and innocent. “It's called--”

“As’veria,” Cassian stated, his tone firm. “We set sail for As’veria.” His eyes skimmed over the crew that sat scattered aboard the deck of the ship, their gazes heavy upon his flesh. Cassian shrugged Nadia’s grip from his elbow. He raked a hand roughly through his hair, the tips dampened from the nightmare he seemed to have woken into. “Now can I get some fucking water?”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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Concerned

The Sun Howler

[/tab]

she is not who she seems. he is not who he wants to be.

The Prince seemed to have a particular talent for getting under Nadia’s skin. Every breath he took was a reminder of the corruption Vinyamarian had pushed for hundreds of years, each step he took a step that could possibly crush her future brethren and kin… Every moment Cassian was alive, it was another moment Nadia was reminded of her desperation and hunger to return Isolde to her glory and rain fire upon Vinyamar. It was a feeling that ate her on the inside, like rain on metal, slowly turning her insides to rust. She hated feeling so controlled by his mere existence. It contradicted her beliefs and it compromised her stoney exterior which kept her afloat all these years and it reminded her of her remaining inadequacies.

Nadia wondered if Mary would react the same way, had she been presented with the same situation. Mary was fearless and level-headed and intelligent and everything Nadia wished to live up to. Nearly half the crew remembered her time, terrorizing Vinyamarian port cities, reclaiming some honor for Isolde, and making the mere mention of the Sun Howler a true warning of danger. As a child, Nadia remembered being in such awe of Mary, learning as much as she could from the older woman, who graciously took her under her wing. There was still much learning to do.. But no one to guide her through it.

“This map is our guide to the seas,” Mary told Nadia, the child sitting on the lap of the Captain and studying the map intently. “This is Vinyamar. And of course Isolde. These are the Unknown Lands of Cos Vora, and the Ocean of Rïrthméral and the Twin Seas.”

Her focus was engulfed with the vastness of the world, taking in every contour of the map, each torn edge, each line and symbol. “And what about here?” Nadia poked a small finger towards the top of the map, the small island mass in between the two large continents.

“Ah? There..? That’s As’veria. The land of a great warrior people, noble of heart and kind in spirit. They will grant you safe passage, should you ever lose your way. Our people have called them allies for many years and they remain the only Kingdom of people untouched by Vinyamars cruel hand.” Mary explained, smoothed her hand over As’veria. “Think of it as a safe haven from the rough seas and pursuit of fighting. Though… You must be wary of the great islands of As’veria.”

“Why?” She used to smile much more as a child, a curious and eager mind excited to learn everything she could. Mary’s tone indicated a story and Nadia used to love stories, especially her Captain’s stories. Filled with adventure and danger and victory and love.

“There’s a great darkness that lurks in the forest of As’veria. A keeper of the people. The legends say a beast lies in wait in the forest, waiting to consume anyone with ill intentions towards the As’verian’s.” Mary gently placed Nadia’s hand over her heart. “So should you ever wish to venture into those forests… You must be pure of heart and clear of mind.”

“As’veria?” Nadia murmured as Cassian’s proclamation. The crew looked to her, unwillingly to take commands from Cassian, waiting to confirm that they would truly sail to As’veria. “Set course to As’veria.” Nadia proclaimed, still muling the destination over in her mind. The people wished to help Isolde, even in their fragmented state… But Nadia’s memories served her well of the dangers that lay in As’veria, dangers only the people of Isolde knew of, Nadia thought. Would this be a trick played to escape? Surely Cassian knew As’veria would not harbor him alive. He would be better off sticking in captivity with them, than facing the wrath and strength of the As’verian people.

“Edmund, take care of our guest.” Nadia called to the boy, who couldn’t have been older than 15. He looked far less equipped for the sea, but like the others, clearly belonged aboard the ship. A misfit. An orphan. A criminal. Something of the sort that deemed him worthy to sail with them. He scrambled towards Cassian and Nadia, pulling his water from his side and offering it to Cassian. “Get him cleaned up. Don’t let him out of your sight.” A heavy task to put upon the youngest member of their charter, but Edmund would do what was necessary, Nadia didn’t doubt it.

“You can follow me, Mr. Prince Cassian.” Edmund said, waving his hand forward and gesturing towards the door opposing the one he and Nadia emerged from. As they began below the deck, with Edmund behind Cassian, the warm light of candles and the sleeping forms of a few crew members came into view. It was small, but filled with nicknacks, hammocks, trucks filled with personal belongings. “We don’t have fancy clothes like you're used to, of course, but something will do…” Edmund approached his own trunk, rustling around for a few moments before removing a stack of clothing. Pants, a clean shirt, a coat. One of his three pairs of clothing. Out on the sea, there wasn’t time for washing clothing often. What you wore is what you wore.

“I can turn around. I can’t leave.. Cap would kill me if I did that. For changing. Of course!” He offered a smile, turning his back to allow Cassian at least a sliver of privacy to change. Edmund felt nervous, that was apparent by his body language. He didn’t hold the same hate as many of the crew members of the Sun Howler towards Vinyamar. But then again, the subtle point of his ear gave away the nature of his lack of hatred. Half Vinyamarian. Half Isoldeian. It was quite the problem. “Captain Nadia isn’t all that bad,” Edmund explained, knitting his hands together. “She can be a bit harsh at times but… Maybe she’ll warm up to you. Who knows! I'm Edmund, by the way. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” The boy said positively.

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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begrudging

sun howler

[/tab]

in a sense, im the one who ruined me: i did it to myself

The muscles in his body had begun to stiffen after his bold proclamation, coiling in anticipation for the response that it would garner. Would they kill him right then, for announcing such a bold faced lie? Could they tell he was lying? Cassian didn’t know how much knowledge they had on the Star, but if it was even just a small amount less than what the royal library contained, he was sure they knew next to nothing. No one knew about the Star of Isolde beyond mere drunken rumors. It was shrugged off just as quickly as some mythical beast or whispered promises of sweet nothings.

As he had hoped, Nadia’s response was favorable. There was a brief flicker of skepticism that danced across her severe features, but its performance was cut short to allow for a hardened concentration to regain its rightful place. Cassian’s eyes followed the direction of Nadia’s next command, their destination falling upon a twig of a boy who sprang from his position like an obedient dog. His gaze studied the boy’s figure, taking in the odd sight of him among the crew. Out of them all, he seemed the least likely to have a home amongst the sea, but Cassian wasn’t one to question. He hardly knew what a ship crew consisted of, and Nadia herself was already a young and unlikely Captain.

His fingers clasped greedily on the bottle the boy held out to him on one, thin arm. The leather flask contained lukewarm water that had a bit of an odd aftertaste on his tongue, but Cassian wasn’t complaining. Anything was better than a pounding headache and parched throat. He eyed Nadia once more, gaze dark and unreadable, before following the young boy back below deck.

“Ah--that’s perfect then,” Cassian responded to the boy. His eyes darted around the small room, drinking in what information was possible from the soft flicker of candlelight. “Fancy clothes are the most uncomfortable, take my word for it.”

The clothes Edmund offered were soft against the skin of his hands, months of heavy use molding them into the comfort of something well loved. He opened his mouth to respond, but the fidgety nature of the boy and his rapid fire speech caught the words in his throat. Edmund was visibly nervous, the tension sloughing off his person thick and tangible. Did Nadia really discredit Cassian’s ability that much so as to throw him like a dog beneath deck with the weakest link?

“Thanks for the privacy but uh--” Cassian walked up behind Edmund, placing a hand in his hair to tousle the strands playfully. “I’m gonna at least need some type of bath before I change. New clothes won't be much use if I still reek of wine and sweat. You guys have anything like that on board?” He smiled down towards the boy. His eyes traced across Edmund’s profile, curiosity creeping along his neck at the subtle point of ear that lay half hidden within the strands of his hair. What was an elf doing aboard a ship full of--humans?

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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Determined

The Sun Howler

[/tab]

keep your friends close and your enemies chained to you.

A ghost of a smile flickered on Edmund’s face at Cassian’s words, visibly amused by his statement about fancy clothes. Nearly his entire life, he existed aboard the Sun Howler, fed, raised, taught below the deck, on the open sea. His clothing, which he’d just gotten the newest pair that year, often outgrew him before he could even wear it in. But hand-me-downs from his crewmates fit well enough, and were well loved to be comfortable. Cassian was curious to the boy, as it seemed the Sun Howler hadn’t had a truly interesting guest in forever. While Nadia quantified him as a prisoner, a tool.. Edmund saw him much more civilly because of his unique disposition.

Still, his heart remained loyal to his Captain. Like the others, it would not easily be swayed, even if he displayed a much more civil manner to the Prince. Edmund owed his life to the crew of the Sun Howler. Though he was just a simple apprentice, he took care of his found family. He remembered nothing more than the sea, the roughness of the waters, and the hearth of community the Sun Howler instilled in him.

Turning, Cassian offered a raised eyebrow, curious to know what the hold up was. Bringing a hand up, he adjusted the loose strands which fell on his forehead. “A bath?” A smile tugged at his lips. He couldn’t help but chuckle at Cassian’s apparent naivety. “I’m not sure if you’ve realized it yet, Prince.” Edmund began, a gentle tone still present in his voice. “But we are in the middle of the ocean. On a notorious pirate ship.” He gestured to himself. While his clothing seemed pressed and fresh, it was clear it wouldn’t stay like that for long. “We only bathe in port. And we’re days away from the next journey. Wine and sweat will have to do for now. You’ll have to get used to it…”

The Sun Howler certainly wasn’t a palace that Cassian was likely used to. His captors were not unnecessarily cruel, but they were forced to live a certain life that didn’t allow for bathing often, fancy meals, or luxuries that royalty likely afforded Cassian. “You’re on the Sun Howler now, Prince Cassian.” Edmund smiled. The Prince was in for a long journey…


. . .

The seas were rough on the voyage to As’veria, unforgiving and chaotic. Sailing the seas wasn’t for the faint of heart. Even in its heyday, Isolde’s navy suffered great losses from the wicked seas. The currents were unpredictable, the winds worked against sailors, and legends of what lied below the surface of the water often scared wary shipmen away. Despite all this, the experienced crew of the Sun Howler were the most capable crew on the seas, having sailed the passage from Vinyamar to As’veria hundreds of times or more. The sea was their home, and each angry wave crash was a reminder of the fiercity of the oceans that protected them from persecution.

Cassian was provided more freedom than Nadia would’ve wished. The Captain wanted sharp eyes on the Vinyamarian Prince at all times, but handling the ship was far more important than babysitting their enemy and unwilling ally. The shipmen worked to secure sails as the ship swayed right to left, Nadia steering their way to the island of As’veria. Many stayed below the deck, lounging in hammocks and attempting to keep their lunch. As it was, Edmund and Averett were tasked with maintaining their prisoner.

For the days of their voyage, Cassian was watched by the two, Edmund making much more small talk than the ever stoic and silent Averett. The Surgeon-In-Training enjoyed the conversation, and it was far better than surveying books with diagrams of the inside of a body with Horsley, who Edmund was convinced was half mad.

Nadia’s mind was consumed in desperation and anticipation for their arrival in As’veria. She was so close to reclaiming something that had been lost for many lifetimes, and she was reminded of her bedtime tales with Mary, the hint of her childhood resurfacing as she gripped the wheel of the ship with intensity. Times before the Sun Howler were scarce, as if her mind wished to keep her from reaching back to those memories. She appreciated it often, but there was something bothersome that beaconed her to look into herself and find what bothered her about everything that was going on.

In the late afternoon on their fourth day at sea, the bells of the port of Ne’brék. The Sun Howler finally docked, the sun shining brightly on the rain and ocean soaked crew. The town bustled with life, a breath of fresh air from the rocky sea. Nadia looked out as the crew prepared their exit, taking a deep breath. “My dear Nadia!” Called a voice from the dock. An older woman who looked to be at least a hundred years old greeted the young Captain with a smile. “How lovely of you to visit me! It’s been too long!” A smile cracked on her face, shaking her head.

“I suppose I could carve out time in my busy schedule to pop in, Nana Etók…”

“That’s my girl! You’re always welcome! And that crew of yours too! Don’t be strangers…” Nana Etók greeted those departing the ship with smiles and hugs. She adored the crew of the Sun Howler, and often ended up housing and feeding them when they seeked refuge from the harsh outside world. Unfortunately for Nadia, there was other business to attend to. Making her way below deck, the ship seemed rather quiet with the crew gone to pack up shop.

“Edmund,” Nadia began. “You’re dismissed.”

The boy stood up, offering a gesture of respect to her. With the boy gone, she was face to face with Cassian yet again. “Hold your arm out,” Nadia commanded, waiting only but a second before grabbing it herself. Clamping a metal cuff around Cassian’s arms, she quickly locked it, before attaching the other side to herself. “You stay with me. We head out after a meal to the location of the Star.”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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restless, haunted

sun howler, as’veria

[/tab]

its not a metaphor, this ache.

The four days it took the tenacious sun howler to crawl its way through the treacherous waters of the sea stretched lifetimes for Cassian. He had never been this long without wine or some type of indulgence, let alone a bath. Edmund did his best to abate the rapidly increasing restlessness that exuded from the Prince’s person, but it was just barely keeping Cassian unmarked from the sharp fangs of his indulgence.

In return for his company, Cassian offered Edmund wild tales from his various escapades over the years. Each astounded reaction from the boy fed into Cassian’s amusement, melting away the monotony of the never ending sea into something—a little more bearable. At night, Cassian lay wide awake in his cot, gaze trained on the ceiling as he mentally sifted through Finlas’ letters to weave the next addition in his lie once they docked in As’verian waters.

It was the most he had ever consciously recalled of Finlas in years, fingers reaching forward towards the smudge of his outline on the horizon rather than cowering away while the ghost of his memories breathed a chilling air down his neck. It didn’t take long for Cassian to remember why he never purposely brought Finlas to the forefront of his mind. Why he had never gone more than this many nights sober. The dreams—now they were something worth drinking to forget.

Finlas haunted him every time Cassian managed to slip into unconsciousness, his mind conjuring images so real that he could feel the heat of his friend's flesh under his fingertips. And they always ended the same, with Cassian left crumbling under the shocking weight of his friend’s disappearance, his absence, his abandonment. Every night without fail, Finlas would appear to him, as if he was somehow reaching out to him, fingers outstretched, from some other side.

Cassian often wondered if he had found the jewel, its mysterious powers allowing Finlas to communicate through some cryptic web of dreams. Though he never dwelled on that idea too long. No—it sparked too much hope in the dying cavern of his chest. So he would just drink instead.

By the time the crew announced their arrival in As’Veria, Cassian was nearly at his breaking point. His mind churned sickeningly with memories of times he could never relive, things he could never take back. It was taxing enough as it was to put on a confident façade under Nadia’s watchful eye, and with the added strain of a nightly occurring devastation, Cassian was beginning to wonder if the sharp sting of Nadia’s sword might not be such a bad thing afterall.

Cassian paced around below deck, the thrum of thick silence deafening in his ears. He ignored the sting of Edmund’s gaze following him back and forth, back and forth with an increasing level of alarm sinking into the boy’s irises. The crew had been gone for quite some time now, leaving them captive below deck to listen to the sucking sounds of dying waves as they crashed against the wooden sides of the ship.

He let out a sharp tsk when the footsteps thundering below deck belonged to none other than Nadia. He had been hoping for one of the other crew members, a cold hatred as compared to the fiery rage he felt each time the Captain glanced his way.

His momentary and innate desire to resist her commands led to the Captain snatching Cassian’s wrist from his side, and before he could even register the pain from her grip, the sharp clank of metal resounded in the small room.

“Oh you’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” he said, gaze locked on the iron that now adorned the smooth skin of his wrist. “Do you honestly think this is an ideal tactic?” He shot her an incredulous look, heavy brows raised in disbelief. “Sure, just go chaining yourself to an elf, the most hated species on these fucking islands. Almost every citizen here has some vendetta against me.”

He scoffed, crossing his arms over his chest, the action tugging Nadia’s arm with a sharp indifference. “Hope you’ve prepared some explanations, because I’m playing the mute here, princess.”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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restless, antsy

Ne’brék | Alleyway

[/tab]

he is the key to her salvation.

The click of the cuff was a satisfying noise to Nadia. Not only did it indicate Cassian’s inability to escape, but it also meant that anyone wanting his head would have to go through her first. As much as she hated to admit it, Cassian was far more valuable to her alive than he was dead. The warriors of As’veria, in their thousands of years of history, had never allowed a Vinyamarian– an elf– to step foot on their island. Many had tried, and many had died doing such. Even half-blood like Edmund had a hard time maneuvering through the island without scrutiny. Nadia assumed most of Vinyamar’s information on As’veria came from half-bloods, lucky enough to step foot on the grand island.

Rolling her eyes at Cassian’s over dramatic reaction, she scoffed. “I am definitely not kidding you.” She said flatly, looking at him with an unamused expression. “No shit everyone has a vendetta against you. Vinyamar’s reputation of pillaging and usurping anything and everything in its sight isn’t exactly doing you any favors.” Her expression shifted only slightly at his unpleasant nickname. Disrespectful, she thought. But then again, did she expect a Vinyamarian Prince to have any respect for those like her? Only in her wildest dreams.

Tugging her arm back forcefully from Cassian, her features were stern as she began to speak once again. “Listen here, and listen well, dumbass.” She grumbled, one hand on her hip. “Everyone and everything on this island wants you dead. You already seem to know that well enough.” Holding her cuffed hand up, she jingled the chains which held them together. “But guess what? I am the most respected Captain in all of the seas. You think anyone would dumb enough to fuck with me? I think not. And if they are?” Her hand rested atop the hilt of her sword. “It’s a mistake they won’t make again.” It was the most Nadia had spoken to her captive guest in their week together. But Cassian, perhaps because of his background, managed to get under her skin quite well.

His entitled attitude irritated Nadia. It was as though he was a horse with blinders on, only looking ahead and at his own two feet, disregarding anything or anyone he trampled in the way. She’d worked with many people with Cassian’s disposition, who sat above others, looking down through upturned eyes and an arrogant gaze. But each time she did so, Nadia was certain to put them in her place. Eventually, Cassian would learn the same.

Tugging him forward, her patience with the Prince was up. “Move your feet, Prince.” Nadia snapped, beginning for the stairs. In some ways, Cassian was lucky. The first Vinyamarian to step foot into the great city of Ne’brék, and it wasn’t even on his own accord. They were making history, in more ways than just putting their hands on the Star.

Nadia pondered where in the expansive island the Star could be kept away. As’veria had many secrets, many treacherous mountains and cliffs and forests. Even the people refused to disturb certain areas of the islands due to the legends shrouding them. The As’verian people were an awfully superstitious bunch, Nadia thought. She’d never been the kind to believe in ghost tales. If she didn’t see it with her own two eyes she didn’t believe it– With the one exception of the Star of Isolde. But her connection to the jewel ran deeper than physical. The closest thing she had to religion was her belief in the Star of Isolde.

Guiding the begrudgingly elf to the deck of the ship and to the dock, bodies milled about, bringing in fish, lumber, and goods and supplies of all sorts. The ports of As’veria were famous for their efficiency in transporting things across the island. Nadia pushed through the busy crowds, keeping her hand locked on Cassian’s risk. “Keep your head down. Don’t make trouble for me.” She whispered to him, her grip tightening on him as the intense glances of the sailors bored into Cassian. Keeping his head down was the least Cassian could do. His ears alone put a target on his back. Thankfully, Edmund’s generous donation of attire kept his appearance low profile to the best of its abilities.

The pair weaved through the crowd, Nadia leading easily, as if repeating the moves of a dance she’d performed hundreds of times. The busy docks were home to her, and the bustling streets of the City of Ne’brék were as close to home as she’d ever gotten. Mary frequented the city for medicine, food, shelter, and the hearth of home people like Nana Etók provided the crew of the Sun Howler. Bringing Cassian to such a place… It felt almost disrespectful.

“Watch it.” Grumbled someone, brushing against Cassian. “Hey… Wait a minute.”

“Sorry about that sir!” Nadia exclaimed quickly, offering an apologetic smile as she shoved Cassian forward and in front of her, pushing him along with little regard for his comfort. “This way.” She instructed, nudging him towards an alleyway devoid of people. They would skip dinner, Nadia decided. Getting out of the city was priority number one. She already instructed Miller to meet them at the edge of town with supplies and weapons– This journey would be a scouting mission. And scouting missions needn’t risk the entire crew. They would enjoy a relaxing few days in Ne’brék.

Taking a small breath, she looked at Cassian now. “The Star.” Nadia began, always ever focused on her desire to finally locate it. “Where on As’veria is it? Lead me there. Today. I have supplies waiting for us with a map, food. Things we need. We leave immediately.” Gesturing to him, Nadia's lips tugged down as she gestured towards him. “You’re far too distracting to waltz around Ne’brék.”

/* ------ credit -- do not remove ------ */

© weldherwings.

 

[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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annoyed, impish

sun howler, ne'brek

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its not a metaphor, this ache.

Cassian swallowed the start of a yelp, the force of Nadia’s arm pulled back towards her body throwing him off balance. That, and the rocking force of the ship nearly sent him kissing the splintered wood below their feet. The hand not shackled to the ruffled captain beside him clutched his chest, holding back the hollow fright that echoed within it.

It was a battle not to roll his eyes at Nadia’s long winded monologue. Something about a respected Captain of the seas, people knew not to fear her--ad infinitum. Well respected his ass, Cassian had never heard a word uttered about her or her infamous crew before. The title ‘Sun Howler’ was foreign to him, unfamiliar with the way it sounded when spoken. The unfamiliarity with Nadia’s reputation most likely stemmed from Cassian’s shirking of the Crown’s responsibilities and updates regarding the health of the Kingdom, but the logic of that was lost on the Prince.

Intent on keeping his arm intact and too distraught from his four days of hell aboard her ship, Cassian begrudgingly followed along behind Nadia. His step was unsure of itself, lagging behind the headstrong Captain for the first length of their journey. The sea had infected his senses, reshaping them into the image of itself until all he could seem to smell was the salty mist that ghosted over the waves and his feet still braced against the rocking ebb and flow of a current no longer present. His bearings found their way towards him in due time, and the Crown Prince kept his gaze locked down on the cobblestone streets below them as Nadia wove them through the crowd. He could feel his ears burning, singed by furious glares of those traversing around the docks.

He let out a grunt of discomfort, Nadia’s sharp fingers jabbing into his sides until there was no choice but to dip off the main street into a cramped, shadowed alley. His feet splashed in puddles of gods knew what, wincing as he felt moisture begin to seep in through the fabric of his shoes. The rain of fire from Nadia’s interrogation had no day of rest, he supposed. As soon as the ambient sounds of the busy docks faded off to a dull roar behind them, she was once again drilling him for the location of the star. Her dark gaze burned as her stare bore into his flesh. Cassian let out a thin sigh, chest curving slightly inward as he moved to lean against the cool brick of a building behind him. The chill of the stone reached out to meet his skin with eager fingers.

“Is that just what you’re always thinking about?” He asked, cocking his head sideways as he regarded the Captain. “It’s all eat, sleep, and 'where's the jewel' for you, huh?” An impish smile carved its way on his face, a gleaming knife in the shadows that swarmed around them. “It’s not going to be easy, the location it’s been hidden. Hell, I mean if it was tucked in some tree somewhere convenient don’t you think it would’ve been found by now?” Cassian huffed, head tilting back on the stone as well. His eyes slipped closed, grateful for even a second of tranquility away from the bustling streets of Ne’brek or the chaotic chatter and jeers from Nadia’s crew.

Truth is, Cassian knew fuck all about As’veria and where the jewel might possibly be located. He remembered Finlas mentioning some kind of cave. It was a start at least, feed the Captain a little bread crumb under the guise of being cagey and let her make the deductions herself. “No, my ancestors wouldn’t hide it somewhere so easily stumbled upon. Think more--hidden, underground.” His eyes glinted with amusement as he opened them once more to regard Nadia as he added, “Cavernous.”

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[sollie]

nadia damaris

captain of the sun howler

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restless, antsy

Ne’brék | Alleyway

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venturing into the unknown to claim a forgotten prize.

Cassian reminded her of a lazy cat, meowing and whining for food and a warm place to nap. As he reclined against the wall, in turn pulling her closer to him, Nadia’s frown deepened. As soon as Cassian showed her the Jewel, she’d be glad to get rid of him; whatever that meant. Like a thorn in her side, he was a constant reminder that the Vinyamarian’s had no idea just how valuable the Star of Isolde had been to her people. A great relic, a reminder of power and strength, their prize possession. And Cassian, Prince of the wretched people, couldn’t be so bothered as to stand up straight for more than two seconds.

“Yes.” Nadia hissed. “It is all ‘eat, sleep, find the jewel.'” Tempted to say more, Nadia resisted, knowing that Cassian had a particular talent at getting under her skin simply because of his heritage and his arrogance. There was no need for her to spill her desperation and need to find the jewel, for it would meet deaf ears. Cassian couldn’t understand what it was like to be raised on nothing, to truly have no place to be called home. And it was no fault of his in reality. Being a Prince had its advantages, and being a pirate the same. Nadia supposed if she was a prince she would be easy to kidnap too… Nonetheless, she shook her head. “And your job is to help me find it. So hurry up and start talking. I can get my blade out again, if you need some encouragement, hmm Cassian?” While it wasn’t a jest, Nadia was lowering to his level, offering a taunt his way. Maybe that was the only language he really understood…


“No shite,” Nadia grumbled after his first remark, resisting the urge to roll her eyes now. Cassian’s way of speaking…. Was puckish and unbearable to her who spoke so bluntly and directly. Were all Vinyamarian’s like this? She wondered if Cassian was one of the insufferable, devious few she’d managed to apprehend? How convenient for her… A bridge troll with riddles and mischievous clues would be more helpful than Cassian with his sour and waggish attitude.

Finally, the man gave her what she wanted; a location. Although, by the look of concern that morphed her hardened features, it wasn’t something that would be easy. “The Caves of Ul’denia.” She repeated solemnly. Despite the hum of conversation and activity occurring a few paces away, Nadia felt consumed by the shadows of the alley, looking deep in thought. The Captain was silent, a somber and sobering silence that reflected her worries in getting near those caves.

Many knew of the legend surrounding The Caves of Ul’denia, but worst of all was the legends pertaining to the forest around the caves. Deep, dark, and unforgiving to any man that entered the woods, none were known to enter the forest and come out alive. Be it because an ancient evil lying in wait to devour poor souls that fell victim to the allure of the charming forest, or a creature so vile and monstrous that even the bones of its victims could not be found, something in the forest deterred travelers from entering. Nadia thought of what Nana Etók would say if she caught wind of Nadia’s plans to enter the forest and traverse to the caves. Disappointment, discouragement, and fear for her life would likely be Nana Etók’s response.

Still, Nadia’s life led her to this moment, chained to an impish elf with the key to her people’s salvation. Fear could not keep her away from her life’s work– from her destiny.

Letting out a shaky breath, Nadia sured herself, standing up straight. For a moment, she considered backing out, but with a mind decided, a mind determined, death or discovery were her only two choices now. “To The Caves of Ul’denia it is, then.” Taking one last deep breath, Nadia tugged Cassian from his relaxed position, now with a plan in mind. Of course, venturing into a treacherous forest came with its risk. And having two people armed was far better than one…

As the pair departed from the alleyway, twisting through the backs of shops, brothels and ins, trusting Cassian with something like a sword or a dagger could be dangerous… Still, taking her chances might serve her well. “Do you know how to wield a blade?” Taking hold of his wrist, the skin where she shackled herself ached from tugging him around so much. It would be far more inefficient to drag something movable, rather than hurting herself. As if on cue, the a tall figure emerged from an alleyway, carrying a blade and two bags that were clearly packed for overnight travel.

“Captain,” Miller began, his eyes finding their way down to the cuffs that kept Cassian attached to Nadia. “Miller.” She cleared her throat, offering her free hand out for the weapon, quickly fixing it to her side.

“How long will you be gone, Nadia?” Miller stepped in, offering one bag to Cassian and the other to Nadia.

“As long as it takes.” The woman said solemnly. “We will go to The Caves of Ul’denia… Should anything happen; Osmond shall Captain the ship. Give my regards to the crew….” She paused, looking at the ground. “And tell no one where I’ve gone. If I have not returned within a week, assume we’re dead.” She sighed softly, shaking her head with a wistful smile. “Wish me luck, good Miller.” Without another word, she passed the man, bringing Cassian along as they continued down the back roads and away from the bustling city. Soon enough, the cobblestone street turned into dirt, rocks and debris filling the street as they began the path towards the dark forest which lay ahead.

“The forest is treacherous.” Nadia began to explain, looking ahead. Her free hand fished a dagger from its place on her thigh. “You must be prepared to fight. Here,” Offering the blade to the other, they stopped in the road. It was a gift from Mary, ornate and beautiful, with stones of emerald decorating the hilt. Out of all the weapons she owned, it was her favorite. And she was entrusting it to her worst enemy.

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[Pepsionne]

cassian airendil

the crown prince

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daunted, complacent

ne'brek

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here comes death. how sentimental.

Cassian’s gaze was flat, observing the shifting emotions that danced across Nadia’s expression like a ribbon of light streaking across water. She had a tough shell, that was for sure. The only person to rival her sour moods in response to his own flippant attitude was Raegel. The two of them--somehow managed to remain hostile and bitter despite the casual jests Cassian offered them with open palms. It was one thing to hate someone, but if they were to spend so much time together, gods, did they have to be so miserable?

Soft lips twitched into a smile, the small spark of information he had fed Nadia thankfully caught and grew into a bigger flame of recognition. The Caves of Ul’denia. Now uttered from her lips, the name had a familiar ring when it chimed through the air. He had remembered reading something akin to it in Finlas’ letters, the name a slippery thing that had eluded his grasp the several days aboard the Sun Howler.

Something dark had crawled into the Captain’s expression, however, a worry weighing heavy on her brow that ignited a small spark of dread in Cassian’s chest. Was the forest--dangerous? Truthfully, the Vinyamarian curriculum didn’t like to cover the topic of As’veria, the pride of the Kingdom too sensitive to educate themselves on a land they could never manage to conquer, instead opting to pretend that land never existed at all. Zinyra, however, found the little cluster of islands fascinating. When they were children, Cassian remembered her having rambled on about some collection of books she had found depicting their folklore. He also remembered the sleepless nights when she had crawled into his bed, crying out of fear of some kind of monsters--ones that he had never pushed her to elaborate on further, small body trembling in fright under the sheets.

The Prince swallowed a yelp, lax body jolted forward from where he was tethered to Nadia. He winced in pain when the bite of metal pierced its fangs into his flesh. He shot a dirty look at the Captain’s back after she began leading them from the shadowed alleyway, but otherwise bit back any sign of reluctance.

“Of course I know how to wield a blade,” Cassian rolled his eyes. “I’m royalty, after all. Comes with the weight of the crown,” He said, misty eyes flickering over to the emergence of an intimidating figure before them. The rest of Cassian’s witty reply died on his tongue, the heavy stare of Miller subduing him into an uncanny state of silence. His hands wrapped around the bag handed to him willingly.

“If I have not returned within a week, assume we’re dead.” The words rang in Cassian’s ears, distracting him from the blur of tight alleyways and back roads of the city that eventually gave way to an increasing amount of vegetation. He could feel the chill of the forest, a silent pull, licking around his ankles with tendrils of cold air.

He opened his mouth to respond to Nadia’s statement, maybe to suggest an alternative route, maybe spin another lie, but his words dispersed when she held forth a small dagger. The gemstones on its hilt were dulled by the dark aura pooling from the edge of the forest, and Cassian accepted it wordlessly. He raised an eyebrow, eyes raising to peer at her from under his lashes. “You fear what’s in the forest more than you fear turning your back to me with a weapon?”

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© weldherwings.