Fantasy The Queen's Lament

[StarryKnights]

Spindel came into the world on a dark and stormy night, lightning flashed through the sky and the ground shook as thunder rolled. Rain pelted the kingdom as her mother, Queen Arcachne, held her tiny baby girl, who was carefully wrapped in a spider silk blanket. She smiled and kissed the baby's head, whispering softly to her child "You shall grow into someone magnificent".
Spindel grew up sheltered in the walls of her palace, her mother saw no use for nannies and instead opted to teach Spindel everything she'd learn to know herself. There was a lot to take in over the years, things such as good posture, handwriting, and governing as well as the basics of the troubled world the kingdom was apart of.
Seren was a safe haven for all matters of supernatural beings, and it existed alongside man and it's developing world. As future queen, Spindel had to learn all she could about the world of man and the people living there, as well as learn everything about the creatures that would be her subjects. It was a time consuming task, one that ate up nearly all of Spindel's free time, leaving her with little time to socialize and play with the other children, most of whom were the offspring of servants, who lived in and around the castle.

As Spindel grew, she began to take after her mother in both attitude, and appearance. Her light skin darkened to the usual gray that her kind had.Her hair was long, straight and flowed over her shoulders and down her back, it's light green hue grew darker as she aged. Her eyes remained the same, dark violet color she'd had in her youth, and she emulated her mother's grace and poise wherever she went. Queen Arachne was a beloved queen, fair and just, who had her people's priorities at heart. Spindel had large shoes to fill, and when her mother decided to step down, she knew it wasn't going to be an easy task. Relations with man were beginning to fray, as world governments worried about the isolated nation of "freaks" which operated under it's own laws and government. Some subjects had gone missing, presumed kidnapped by man and used for horrible, inhuman experiments. More disturbingly, there was an influx of beings who were hybrids of man, and beast.
These strange arrivals and the growing pressure from the outside has many citizens fearing for their own safety, and in these times of fear, they look to their queen for guidance.
Spindel took on the throne when she was around the age of 20, and was thrust to head the growing situation. Working tirelessly, she's been drafting agreements, expanding the kingdom and working with man in order to promote peace. However, peace came at a cost, and when diplomacy failed, the only remaining option was to fight.


Spindel sighed and rubbed her eyes, looking over the stacks of papers on her desk, she frowned. The pages were all reports, of vandalism and attacks supposedly organized by parties from the outside, beyond the mountain range which separated Seren from the outside. Some detailed simple vandalism, others were missing person reports. The people were growing restless, many were calling out for blood. Her attempts to speak with the higher ups in the world of man had been fruitless, as none of them seemed to trust the word of a spider. An insulting notion, but there was nothing she could do about small minded fools who were unwilling to consider peace. Spindel sighed again, leaning back in her chair she looked out the large, plate glass windows which overlooked her kingdom down below. The sun was beginning to go down, which meant the majority of her subjects would be coming out. The vampires especially, as they didn't care for sunlight.
It was time to address the new recruits... Many men and woman were being drafted into the guard, on account that it seemed the kingdom was heading for war. Many lives had already been lost, and Spindel wasn't keen on losing more...

Standing, Spindel straightened out the layers of her long, dark dress. he gown hung off her shoulders and sported a glittering, diamond shaped jewel in the center. The skirt trailed on the floor and made a soft whooshing sound as she crossed the room. Stopping in front of the mirror, Spindel straightened the crown which rested upon her head. A simple, silver piece of twisted metal which looked like the webs her kind was famous for creating.It sat atop a head of long, green hair that hung down her back. It framed her slender face and large, violet eyes. She remained here for a moment, collecting herself before having to address her people. It was something her mother did, and Spin found it helpful. In the privacy of her office, she could collect her thoughts. There was a knock at the door, followed by a voice. "We're ready for you my lady". Spindel took a breath, turned to the door, and opened it, revealing her personal assistant, a fire spirit naked Ignis. "Thank you Ignis..."
Ignis fell in step beside her queen as Spindel began to walk down the hall, she also closed he door behind her. "Have the recruits been gathered?" Spindel asked, without looking to the woman. Ignis nodded, and pulled out a file, within it, the names an information on the men and woman gathering in the great hall. "Yes my lady, they are arriving now, and waiting for you".
Spindel took the folder and started skimming the pages. "Very good then...".
She sighed. Most of these people were farmers and merchants, not fighters. She knew they probably weren't thrilled about being drafted, but desperate times called for desperate measures. And these, were certainly desperate times.

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finnian had been graced with a good start to life. He had hard working, farm owning parents who taught him everything he knew - from his manners and gentlemen's attitude to his skills in the trade of farming. Everything was going smoothly, looking like he'd take over his parents' farm when they could no longer do the job.

Until he was 18. Until the kidnappers came. They were working for a small group of human scientists. Scientists that were devoted to learning all the secrets behind the growing world of supernatural beings. This lot were specifically interested in vampires and werewolves, aiming to create the perfect hybrid for god knows what - probably just to say they had done it.Finn was their first real breakthrough. They had inserted within him the DNA of both creatures, and he had been the first of their experiments to live to tell the tale.

Agony. That was all he could remember from his years in captivity. Agony and death. Finn had been forced to kill more than his fair share of humans to escape the facility he was being kept in - and he ran. Far and fast. After a few days on his own, running through empty space, he stumbled across a town, Seren.

It was a nation he had heard of back on his farm. A small nation of supernaturals, run by a monarchy who aimed for peace among both their own kind and humans. He guessed he was now one of them and set up home here, working as a farm hand on a small piece of land on the towns border.

Finn believed he was finally living a normal life - as normal as one can be when living with a mixture of unnatural DNA within their body. Sure, he had been left with unusual facial scarring, but the 24 year old had kept his good looks with his ashy blonde hair and his now red eyes - a result of the vampire in him - and he had managed to get by. He was doing well and he was happy, looking after the stables, breaking in the horses, coming to grips with life outside the facility. And then the Royal Guard arrived.

Apparently the Queen was recruiting, fearful of the possibility of an impending war. Things were tense, and he was asked to join the struggle. Not one to back down from duty, Finn had agreed and was whisked away to a formal gathering of all the many recruits. These people were like him - regular folk with regular jobs. Well, this should be interesting.

And so, they waited...

 

[StarryKnights]

Spindel paused when she came across one specific file. "...Finnian Randall...". She scanned the file, which was rather brief. Ignis looked to her queen, curiosity written all over her face. "Something wrong my lady?". Spindel shook her head as she moved onto the next file, it was just interesting, Finnian's file was short. It simply stated he'd moved here not long ago from the human world and was working as a farmer. She couldn't help the curiosity that flared up, Spindel had never been outside her kingdom before, she'd never traveled to the world of man. She'd sent ambassadors, not all of whom had returned, but she had never gone herself. A small part of her wanted to, but she had her kingdom and people to look after. There was no time for such a trivial matter. She handed the stack of papers back to Ignis as they came to a pair of large, carved wooden doors. On the other side was the meeting hall, where the new recruits were waiting.
Said recruits were fidgeting nervously, they'd all been called in, and "asked" to volunteer their service to the crown and army. They were waiting in a small wing of the castle, where Spindel would meet with advisers.

Like Finnian, they were average people, living average lives in the city. One woman, a vampire, worked as a daycare provider, another man, a shape shifter, was a baker. Some were less happy than others, but all had heeded the summons. "How long are we going to have to wait?" the vampire woman said softly with a sigh. "However long her majesty deems fit". The shifter said with an eye roll. In recent years, as the world grew more modern, some citizens of Seren had grown tired of the old ways. A monarchy seemed out of date, and there was a growing force within the kingdom seeking change. This coupled with an unstable relationship with the humans was making the usually peacefully kingdom unstable. Hence the need for more security.

The talk stopped as a pair of door opened, revealing, Ignis, who stood to the side as Spindel walked in. The recruits all stood and bowed their heads respectfully as she entered the room. She was a vision of loveliness, as she always was when seen in public. Her dress fluttered about her feet as she seemed to glide into the room, making hardly a sound. Her violet eyes jumped from face to face, Spindel liked to remember the faces of those who served her. She liked to ensure that her staff felt important and that their work, and sacrifice, mattered just as much as any noble or soldier's contribution.
She took a seat, and spoke. "Please, sit".

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finnian had been taken to a large meeting room, along with the other recruits, and was asked to wait patiently for Her Majesty to arrive. Looking around at the others, Finn realised that most of the folk here were like him - just ordinary towns folk with ordinary lives - you could tell from a simple look at them. Only a select few - himself included - had the build to suggest potential strength.

The air was tense, with many getting restless. He'd heard complaints that many no longer saw the need for a monarchy, and yet here they stood, ready to fight for it anyway. He himself simply saw no need to draw attention to himself by being the first to say no, along with his sense of duty to help protect his home. He may have only been here a short time, but he like the life he was building for himself and he wasn't about to let it all go away. Finn reckoned it was similar reasons that drew in the others, whether they approved of the monarchy or not.

Everyone stiffened as the large doors opened, revealing the Queen and her escort. Following the lead of the others, Finn bowed his head in respect, only sitting when they were instructed to do so. He risked a look at their queen - she was an elegant looking woman, dressed for the occasion and carrying herself the way he supposed all queens were taught. He watched her look over them carefully, eyeing up her chosen subjects, spotting the returned respect in her eyes, and he waited in anticipation of her next words.

 

[StarryKnights]

Spindel folded her hands on top of the table and looked her potential guard men over for a moment before speaking. "I appreciate your coming here". Ignis was taking notes as the queen talked. "It is no secret that our home has been facing some...monumental problems, stemming from both within...and outside of our kingdom". There were some murmurs here, and though the people thought they were being quiet, Spindel could hear them. "Problems that stem from within? Yeah, as in within this room". The words didn't phase the queen, though it did feed into a growing fear she had. Her people were growing restless, and were beginning to believe that perhaps the crown did not have their best interests at heart. Such discontent lead to rebellion, and the idea of having her own people turn again her was a terrifying thought for Spindel, given she'd spent her entire life preparing to be queen.

Her face didn't betray what she was thinking, and Spindel continued. "As a result of these threats, the royal guard is in need of new...recruits". The would be soldiers all stared at their queen, some had a look of disbelief, but others were less surprised. "I realized that this a huge change, given many of you are merchants and the like...so I'm sure you can appreciate how...dire the situation is". She stood, and started walking around the table. "However, this is not an order, joining the guard is purely voluntary". One person scoffed. "If that's the case then why did you drag us up here?" They snapped indignantly, though their tone was quick to change when Spindel looked at them. There was no emotion in her stare, but somehow that made it all the more unnerving. Ignis coughed. "May I remind you, sir, that you are in the presence of royalty...you'd do well to watch you mouth".

"No no Ignis, he's fine" Spindel spoke as she continued to walk. "he has a point, why bring you here if I'm not going to force your hand?". She stopped again, this time, behind Finn's chair. "The answer is simple, I like to meet recruits first hand". Her gaze flicked down to Finn for a moment before she moved on. "As I said, the choice is yours. Joining the guard is a prestigious employment, one that pays well...and can provide for families..."
Spin knew many of her men had wives and children at home, which made sending them out to fight all the harder". . Spindel looked over the recruits one last time. "If any of you are interested, give Ignis your contact information, and we shall be in contact soon. Those of you who are not interested are free to go". Spin glanced at the window, and frowned, this had run on a bit longer than she'd intended. "Now, I have other matters to attend," she bowed her head toward the men before turning and heading toward the door she'd came in. It wasn't until she was gone that Ignis' spoke up. "Alright, those of you who are going...get going". Several people up and left, leaving a small number at the table. Ignis smiled.
"Well, at least some people are willing to serve their homeland".
She went around, getting the name address and other info on the recruits. As she finished, the men left, leaving Finn the last man in the room as Ignis walked over to him.

"Hello, I just need some basic info, and then you can head home".

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finn kept a steady gaze on their queen as she addressed them. Something told him she needed them more than she was letting on - why else stoop to their level for recruits. And it seemed some of them knew it, one of them even having the gall to speak out against her. Finn physically winced as the man did so, thankful Spindel was an understanding woman and brushed over the incident.

Finn had been one of the small number of recruits that hadn't been surprised to hear of troubles within the city. Working on the farm and dealing with many customer, his capable ears picked up many stories and exchanges that brought a frown to his face. How anyone could betray their own home was beyond him, but he figured they had their own reasons that made complete sense to themselves alone.

Finn was among the few that stood his ground, staying firmly in his seat. As Spindel had stood behind him, the hair on the back of his neck rose, confirming his suspicion of her need for these people - call it a wolf's intuition. So, he had made his decision to stay and help in any way that he could.

The day drew on as each individual passed on their information, eventually reaching Finn. He nodded to Ignis, ready to pass over whatever it was she needed. "Of course."

 

[StarryKnights]

Ignis smiled at the man, and handed him her clipboard. The sheet in question was a basic profile sheet, asking for name, age, birth date, species, any particular powers or weaknesses, all important factors to consider when one was facing potential combat. There was also a section where it listed different jobs that was available to guardsmen. Some of these included road patrol, castle guard, marketplace security, and Queen's guard. Only the best of the best were allowed to join the Queen's guard, these were the men and woman who were tasked with Spindel's personal safety. They were scattered throughout the castle, and recently, a position had opened up. Spindel's personal guard had stepped down, after he and his family decided they were moving out of the kingdom. Spindel was sad to see him go, but granted him permission to leave. Ignis didn't like the fact that Spin didn't have a personal guard, who was to accompany her wherever she went, but the Queen was hesitant to fill the position.

It was, in it's own way, the most dangerous job of all, given the fact that the queen's personal guard was expected to give their life in the place of Spindel's if it came down to it. Ignis knew that was why Spindel hadn't filled the job, she didn't like risking the lives of her citizens, even if that was their job. Looking to Finn, Ignis arched an eyebrow, he was a new face in the kingdom, he'd arrived a few months ago as far as she knew. She wasn't sure what he was race wise, though she figured she'd find out soon enough. "The Queen and I both appreciate your service". She smiled at the man.

"She doesn't always get a chance to say it, which is why she likes meeting with people like this...though not everyone is as thrilled to speak with her...". Ignis sighed.

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finn read over the form carefully, wondering what he should put for his race and such. Figuring honesty was the best policy, he told the truth, listing both his vampire and werewolf traits. Since his escape, he had always found this the hardest to explain away, always being judged for being a lab experiment. Finn didn't even know if his captors were searching for him so he usually kept his nature a secret anyway, but this was his Queen asking, and she'd get what she asked for.

Looking over the occupations, he wasn't overly sure which would suit him. He'd spent his life as a farm hand before and after the institute, though he'd received extensive combat training while he was there. They'd pitted him against other experiments, searching for the strongest of their successes, enjoying the brutal fights and deaths of their own creations.

Going with his gut, Finn made his selection, figuring he may as well go for the long shot and try for Queen's guard, it's not like he had anything to lose.

Finn began feeling a strong sense of duty at her words. Looking from his Queen to Ignis he stated, "I like to do my part to help, regardless of how short a time I've been here. This is my home now too, and I'll do what I can to protect it."

 

[StarryKnights]

Ignis took Finn's form and scanned it, ensuring that all the fields had been filled out. She arched an eyebrow when she saw what he'd put for race. Looking over the clipboard, she glanced at the man and then back down at his sheet. She and the Queen had talked of a small number of new arrivals who spoke of a group of humans who were capturing supernatural beings, and using them for inhumane experiments. Given a union between a vampire and a werewolf were unlikely, Ignis assumed this man was the result of some of these experiments. She wasn't sure he should be around the queen at all, but that was Spindel's choice. And Ignis knew Spin would be eager to pick the man's brain over the outside, given how curious she was about the human world.
Seeing he'd expressed interest in the Queen's guard, Ignis sighed. "Oh Spin will be thrilled with this..." she muttered under her breath.

Given she had all she needed, she took a step back and gave a polite bow to Finn, as she had to the others who had stayed around. "Thank you for you time, your dismissed for the moment". Ignis stood upright and looked to Finn. "After we review all these files, we'll contact you with an assignment, until then, your back to your daily life". She gave the man a curt smile before leaving him, off to tell Spindel about the new, strange man who had expressed interest in being her bodyguard.
However, Ignis didn't have to wait long, because as she opened the door to leave, Spin came waltzing back in. The queen seemed surprised there was still someone there. "My lady, didn't you have a meeting to attend?"
Spin's gaze moved from Finn to her aid, she nodded. "I did, but the vampires rescheduled, so I figured I'd come back and see how things were going...".

She looked back to Finn, her head cocked to the side, and curiosity shone in her eyes. "So...who do we have here?". Ignis sighed and handed Spindel the clipboard with the files, Finn's was on the top, Spin scanned it quickly before looking up to the man. "...I'm afraid you've expressed interest in a rather dull job". Spin offered the man a small smile.

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finn clocked the curious look that Ignis had given him, putting it down to his answer to the race question. He was all too aware that hybrids were very rare in the natural world, and that there was a growing fear of the rumours of scientists and experiments. He hoped to the gods these people wouldn't judge him like the others.

He nodded curtly as he was dismissed, however just as he was about to leave and get back to his chores, the queen entered. Finn never expected her to address them directly, figuring that was Ignis' job.

He stood there somewhat awkwardly as she scanned his form. He thought this would be done in private and he was all too aware of how exposed he was feeling in that moment. Finn returned her friendly smile, "Oh I'm sure that's not true. If anything it gets me out the stables." He gave her a small chuckle, unsure how to behave in front of a Queen. He knew most of it was common sense, but how many commoners had the privilege of making conversation with royalty?

 

[StarryKnights]

Spindel blinked, she'd never meta hybrid before. Most races kept to their own, those who chose to cross racial lines with their lovers didn't reproduce. Hybrids were next to unheard of in the natural world, so Spin knew odds were, this man wasn't born part werewolf, part vampire. She couldn't hide the fact she was itching to learn more, however, now was not the time for such things. She handed the clipboard back to Ignis, and offered the man called Finnian one last smile.
He also seemed a tad bit...nervous, perhaps that was because of her? Spindel tended to be a bit, off putting, even to her own staff.
The only person who didn't seem to be bothered by her demeanor was Ignis.
Ignis looked to the window, gauging the time, she knew Spin had other things to be doing aside from striking up small talk with a commoner.

"My lady, we ought to be going. I'm sure Mr. Randall has things to be attending too as well". Spin blinked, as that thought hadn't occurred to her. "Yes, of course, I'm sorry for holding you up". She inclined her head and offered Finn another smile. "We will be in touch, until then, your free to go".
Ignis sighed, as she'd already told the man that, but that was neither here nor there. "Shall we then, my lady?" she looked to Spindel expectantly, and after lingering a moment longer, she turned and headed back toward the door she'd re-entered through. Once she was gone, Ignis looked back to Finn.
"We'll get back to you in a few days time...no longer than a week. I ask that you don't tell anyone that your being considered for the Queen's guard...such knowledge could put your life, as well as Spindel's in danger".

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finn watched as her expression changed, obviously noticing his race. Thankfully, no one asked any questions, they simply accepted it and moved on. I suppose there were some races out there that were considered just as unusual as his own - take their Queen for example. Most of the folk in town talked of how they'd shrink back from her kind. To him though, he couldn't see why. Sure she looked... different, but in a world of the supernatural he figured so what?

Finn smiled politely at her as she seemed to snap back to reality. "No need to apologise, I chose to be here." Bowing slightly as she took her leave, Finn was already looking forward to hearing from them.

"Thank you. And I'll be sure to keep it to myself," he said to Ignis before he made his way out, heading back to the farm to see to his chores. Finn spent the remainder of his day grooming and riding the horses, seeing they got their exercise for the day. Though he carried out his duties to the best of his ability, his mind couldn't help but wander back to his Queen and what it would be like to work as her guard.

 

[StarryKnights]

Spindel spent the rest of her day in meetings. The vampire council had requested an audience with her, no doubt they wished to increase their hunting activities. The creatures in the city were under orders not to harm living humans, so vampires had to turn to animals for the blood intake. A dedicated band of hunters worked for the vampires, bringing back semi-live prey so that they could be drained. The blood was held in a "bank" of sorts, and all vampires in the city had access to it, though many chose to hunt for themselves. The council had said as of late prey was becoming harder and harder to find when the hunters remained in the approved hunting grounds.
After this meeting, Spindel spent some time with her personal array of advisers, and they worked on navigating the ever changing field of the kingdom. Many citizens were growing satisfied by the crown's response to the alleged actions of the humans, including the kidnapping of supernaturals. Though there was no proof of any of this, only hearsay, Spindel knew there had to be some truth behind it. Her thoughts drifted to Finnian and what he'd filled out on his form. A vampire werewolf hybrid was technically possible, but highly unlikely. It just made the man all the more interesting, perhaps he could shed some light on these rumors.

It was a long day, by the end of it, as per usual, Spindel was exhausted, though she didn't let on. She was as regal and collected in the late evening as she was in the early morning, as she retired to her quarters for the evening, she went to her desk, looking over proposals and other important notices. It seemed the shape shifters were looking to build a new housing complex in town... Spin signed off on the building permit. She worked well into the evening, and though she doesn't remember when, she eventually fell asleep, sitting at her desk. She awoke the next morning to Ignis, knocking on her door.
"Milady, it's time to wake up", Ignis called, stifling a yawn herself. She knew Spin had likely fallen asleep at her desk, again.
The queen yawned, peeling herself off her desk she stood, and stretched.
Time to get ready for another day...

Around nine o clock, a messenger went to Finn's place, and gave him a summons, stating he should come in sometime today in order to talk about his new job. Given Spindel currently didn't have any guardsmen at all, Ignis and her other advisers were willing to give the farm hand a shot, at least until they found someone more qualified.

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finnian had risen at his time in the early hours of the morning. This was his favourite time of day as the sun wasn't at its strongest yet, allowing him to do his chores on the farm without the usual discomfort of the sun beaming down. He'd discovered after his escape that, while the sun wouldn't kill him like a regular vampire, it did cause him physical pain which he had learnt to ignore over time, though it did make his job a lot harder.

Whistling as he went, Finn tended to the horse's stables, cleaning them out and providing them with fresh hay, thankful for the clouds that began to roll in as the morning went on. When he heard someone approaching the farm, he jogged to the entrance, wiping his hands on a cloth he carried.

It was a messenger from the Queen, he'd been asked to go back. Despite himself, Finn smiled. He'd hardly expected them to actually consider him for the job, being a farm hand, but here was a letter asking him to return to discuss a position and he wasn't about to say no.

Finnian finished up his chores, showered and changed, then made his way up to discuss his application. Nerves began to set in the closer he got, but he tried to ignore them. No use getting nervous of the unknown, it wouldn't get him anywhere. Upon arrival, he gave his name and purpose to a servant who had opened the door to greet him, then stood inside the foyer, fidgeting, as she left to announce his arrival.

 

[StarryKnights]

The servant reported to Ignis, who was waiting in the private wing of the castle for Spindel. The servant, a young girl with dark hair and one big, brown eye, stood in the doorway, and reported a man named Finnian was waiting in the main foyer. Ignis blinked, as she hadn't expected him to come so early, given it was light out. Perhaps his hybrid status meant that he wasn't bothered as much by the sun? Ignis shook her head, as it hardly matter. "Very good, please tell him to make himself comfortable and we will be with him shortly". The girl nodded before skipping off to relay Ignis's message. The woman sighed and eyed Spindel's door. "Your majesty, your potential guard has arrived".
Ignis blinked, mentally she counted the seconds before the door cracked open. She got to thirty before Spindel emerged, looking about as put together as she could given she'd slept at a desk. "Already, but its so early?" Spin commented with a yawn.

Ignis stood. "That's what I thought, but, that hardly matters. He's here and waiting for us. I imagine you have lots of questions for him". Ultimately, it was up to Spindel who made up her royal guard, though her council did have approved her picks. Given the job was currently unoccupied though, they were willing to let anyone try,it was better than having Spindel unprotected. Though the farm hand was less than qualified, Ignis knew Spindel would approve him simply out of curiosity. Not that she blamed the woman, Finnian was quite the...unusual case.
He didn't have to wait too long, maybe fifteen minutes before Ignis stepped into the foyer, and announced Spindel's arrival. Any servant in the room paused their work and bowed as the queen entered.

Today, she wore a dark red dress, which popped against her gray skin and green hair. Her hair was tied up in a braid, given Spindel had been too tired to brush it. A small smile came to her face as Ignis walked over to Finn and offered him a hand to shake. "I must admit, I wasn't expecting you till this evening...as most vampires dislike the sun".
Spindel had been wondering about that as well, but it hardly mattered at the moment. She was just happy someone wanted to fill the position in question.
"Well, follow us, and we'll get started" Ignis motioned for Finn to follow the two of them as they lead the way into one of the many meeting rooms in the castle. Normally used for council meetings, today it was the interview room.

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finn had stayed put, not wanting to look around too much - his curious nature tended to have him wandering too far. He simply stood at the entrance, waiting their return. Once Ignis appeared in the foyer, he returned the handshake. "Yes, well, being a hybrid comes with its perks." He shrugged a little, smiling over to his Queen.

Finn followed the pair as he was led to a rather large room, which he suspected was used to hold their regular meetings. This one would be anything but regular he imagined. Finn knew he wasn't exactly qualified for this job, having never done anything like it before. He only hoped his training in the facility would finally have some use for him other than escape.

He was seated at one end of a long table, and he watched as the others seated themselves. He tried not to fidget, not letting his nerves get the better of him, and waited patiently for the interview to begin.

 

[StarryKnights]

Spindel and Ignis sat at the other end of the table, the queen watched Finn curiously as Ignis looked over some papers. Spin had so many questions for the man, but most of them had nothing to do with the job he'd applied for. He was from the outside the kingdom, a place Spindel had never gone, and would never go. Her place was here, serving her people. She had envoys to act in her stead in the world of man, mostly shapeshifters, as they were rather benign. It was Ignis who would conduct the actual interview, Spin could ask questions as she saw fit, but typically, the queen left it to her trusted adviser.

After a few minutes Ignis looked to Finn, and spoke. "Well Finnian, I won't lie to you. This isn't a job most people want...especially now...given how...restless the kingdom has become". Spindel just sighed. Her last guardsman had retired, citing he feared for his life. he had a wife and child, and Spindel understood that he needed to be there for them. Last she'd heard they'd moved out of the kingdom...
"The queen's guard is typically an elite unite of fighters, who accompany the queen wherever she goes, for the most part. Their job is simple, protecting Spindel above all else...including their own lives...".
Spindel watched Finn curiously, wondering how the man was taking all of this. She wondered why he'd even wanted to be on her guard, Spindel felt she could take care of herself. Arachnids were hard to kill by nature, and if someone were to get to close, Spindel could use her webs to defend herself.

It was more of a formality, a sign that the Queen trusted her people with her life. Or something like that...
"The position has the potential to be combat heavy. So, what training do you have that could be used to defend the queen?" Ignis looked to the man curiously.

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finnian sat patiently, looking between the two women as he waited to be addressed. When he was finally spoken to, he gave an inner sigh, unsure how to really answer. He knew most folk in town would run from this particular job with how nasty the world was turning out there, but he had never been one to run from his duties.

"I understand that the role will come with more than its fair share of dangers, but I feel like I can handle them." Finn took a moment to think about how he wanted to answer Ignis' question, not sure how well it would taken. "Well, as for the combat side of things - I received extensive training in close combat, focused around my strengths. That would include my enhanced strength and speed. It also seems to take a fair bit to bring me down - having both vampire and werewolf DNA creates a fairly robust body. I'd also like to mention that while the sunlight does bother me, it's in no way a hindrance to my abilities, and I rarely require much sleep so round the clock care is a possibility."

Finnian stopped to take a breath. He had decided to keep it simple, unwilling to reveal too much about his captors unless asked. He had been judged before for it and he wasn't about to receive the same treatment from his Queen.

 

[StarryKnights]

Spindel listened intently, she was insanely curious about how Finn had come to be what he was. Hybrids were not common, and it didn't seem he had occurred naturally. She worried what sort of people could creature such a union, and how they had managed to do so. If someone was experimenting on supernatural beings, it was apart of her duty to find out who and put a stop to it. However, this was a difficult task, given she wasn't permitted to leave the kingdom. Lost in thought, she only half listened to Ignis's response.
"Well, you certainly are a strange one...". The fire being looked the man over. "We will need t test your combat skills so we can better understand them...but I have to be honest with you Finn, no one else has applied for the job, and our queen is too kind to...contract people into these positions".

She looked to Spindel, and then back to Finn. "...Basically, so long as you understand the risks, know how to fight...and are willing to die in defense of our lady...then you are hired...assuming she approves of you". Spindel looked to Finn, and seemed to study the man for a minute or two. "...I believe Finnian will make a find guardsman, and as you said Ignis, it isn't as if we have people jumping for this opportunity...".
Ignis sighed, she looked over some paper work before looking to Finn. "Right then...I suppose that means your hired. How soon can you start?"

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finn could feel Spindel's eyes burning his skin as she listened curiously. He knew the pair would be curious to know more, however, he had run from his past and he wasn't sure he was finished running just yet.

Listening to Ignis, he nodded in response. "I figured you'd need to test my skills. Can't have just anyone protecting our Queen, right?" He had to admit, he was a little surprised that Spindel didn't contract a bodyguard - surely it would be less hassle than waiting around for an unlikely volunteer. Though he supposed it worked out in his favour this time round.

Finnian kept his surprise at the lack of willing participants to himself, and gave his simple answer. "I agree to all terms. I can start as soon as you need me." The farm on which he worked had been informed of his application, much to their dismay. They were among those that were... Less helpful when it came to the recruitment requirements, keeping to themselves and tending to their land as normal. They weren't about to stop this crazy kid from throwing himself at death's doorstep.

 

[StarryKnights]

Spindel watched Finn curiously as he spoke. So many questions, none of which really related to the task at hand. She knew that despite the unknown variables, Ignis and her advisers were pretty desperate for her to have at least one personal guard. Though Spindel was capable of defending herself, it wasn't proper for the queen to fight, even if it was in her own defense. That being said, Spindel was far more interested in Finn's personal life than she was in his qualifications. A fact Ignis was well aware of, however, for the time being they were going to have to make due.
Standing, Ignis nodded. "Well Finnian, if you'll follow me...we can get this little test over and done with". She looked to Spindel, who spoke.

"A simple combat exercise...against a few of the other guardsman..." The queen stood. "And myself".
In a world with supernatural entities, there was a wide variety of abilities and powers which could be used against Spindel and her staff. Mind altering abilities were a dime a dozen, and it wasn't unheard of that someone could attempt to manipulate Spindel herself. Such an attack had never been attempted, but it was better safe than sorry. Not only would Finn have to be prepared to fight any sort of assailants, he'd need to be prepared to fight Spindel herself if it came down to it. Though ideally, this would never happen, but it was better safe than sorry.

"It's a rather simple exercise, I'll explain more once we arrive at the training grounds". Ignis spoke, once the group was ready to go she lead the way through the halls, with Spindel walking between Ignis and Finn. They entered a large, spacious courtyard through a set of large doors, where there was a squad of men, dressed in training armor, sparring with swords. Practice came to a halt once the lead guard shouted.
"Halt!". Swords were sheathed and all eyes moved to Spindel and the group. Spindel looked to Finn, and spoke.
"I don't suppose you've ever fought a arachnid before, have you?"

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finnian's nerves began to set in once again at the thought of having to spar with this woman. He knew it was just an exercise, but he was taken off guard by the notion of fighting his Queen. Finn reckoned this was just a precaution - there was any number of supernaturals out there that he himself had no idea even existed, and thinking about it, he realised this meant that there was a potential danger of one of these creatures having the ability to control even Spindel. And to control Spindel meant controlling the Kingdom. "I didn't expect to have to fight her directly, but I can see why it would be necessary. Better safe than sorry I suppose."

With these thoughts racing through his mind, Finn followed along the others as they made their way to the training grounds, stopping in awe at the number and command of soldiers already occupying the space. Things began to get very real very fast for Finn, though this seemed to give him a confidence he didn't know he had. Seeing the other men here training to defend their Queen and Kingdom, Finn felt a sense of pride in being part of it all (even if he didn't technically have the job yet).

"I can't say I have, no," Finn replied with a chuckle. "I only have real experience with vampires and wolves, it was all my... facility had to hand at the time. I'm sure this will make for an interesting learning experience though." Finn was trying to stay as positive as possible, unsure how well this was going to go.

 

[StarryKnights]

Spindel smiled. "Worry not, the exercise is fairly simple". She spoke as the field was cleared and prepped. "All you have to do is place a single scratch here". She pointed to a spot on her cheek. "Just to show that you can actually reach me...it's just a precaution, as I'm sure you guessed".
Just in case the worst happened, and Spindel herself fell under the control of an enemy. Something like that had never been attempted as far as Spindel knew, but all members of her royal guard had to be put through this test.
Once the field was prepped, Ignis moved so she was standing about the halfway point, and Spindel walked to the opposite side of the field. The other soldiers bowed their heads as she passed, and she smiled at them in return. How could she show anything less than the up most respect for those willing to lay down their lives for the sake of her people?

Ignis waited until Spindel was across the field before turning back to Finn. "The task is simple, lay a single scratch on the face of the queen, and the exercise will be over. If she manages to incapacitate you...you fail, and you'll be disqualified from the position". Least, that was what normally happened, but Ignis wasn't sure if they could afford to be picky.
The woman raised her hand, as she did Spindel closed her eyes. Thin, black threads rose off her form and unraveled from her dress, they hovered eerily in the air around her.
"Alright...ready...and...BEGIN!" Ignis threw her hand down, Spindel opened her eyes.
They were pure black, akin to a spider, but rather than attacking, she stood perfectly still, waiting for Finn to make the first move.

 

[PanOtterPus]

Finn watched at Spindel moved to the other side of the field, impressed with the respect shown to her by her soldiers. "Understood," he simply stated to Ignis. He had to do this, he had to prove himself capable. Shaking the memories of the innocent men he had been forced to kill while captive, Finn readied himself, allowing only his nails to shift to resemble a set of well sharpened claws. It was all he could afford - a full shift was much too painful and would hinder him during his task. He only ever used it as a last resort.

A cold shiver travelled down Finn's spine as he watched his Queen transform. It was definitely a site to behold, but he'd have to behold it later as Ignis had just commanded their fight to begin, and Spindel was waiting. He had expected no less - it was in her nature to allow her prey to come to her, even he knew that about arachnids, supernatural or not.

Finn began to circle, looking for an opening, a weak spot, knowing it wouldn't be so easy to find. This was a Royal, not just one of the subjects in the village with little to no experience. He figured he'd have to just put his best foot forward and gauge her reactions. Finn could feel her black eyes burning through him, watching his every movement, daring him to move. And so he did.

Finn suddenly leapt forward, giving way to his enhanced speed, hoping it would give him some kind of support. He kept his claws by his side until the last second, only stretching forward to try and land a scratch once he was within reach. No use in exposing his arm to damage well before reaching his target - he'd made that mistake in the lab and had the scar to remind him of this lesson. He knew he would be blocked, but at least he'd begin to learn her movements.

 

[StarryKnights]

Ignis watched as Finn circled Spindel for a moment, she wondered what he was thinking. Was he going to charge her head on, threads and all? Would he attempt to deal with the webs before making his approach? Would be burrow under the ground, honestly that was far fetched but one man had done just that during a trial. It was always interesting to see how candidates approached the Queen, and it always revealed what they knew about arachnids. It seemed Finn was taking a more guarded, but head on approach.
"Interesting". Ignis crossed her arms and watched, waiting to see how Spindel would react as Finn charged her, faster than any human could move.

The queen stood perfectly still, her webs hung in the air like a web blown in the wind, waiting for any sort of movement to trigger a reaction. In truth, in this form, arachnid's vision was poor, Spindel could only see a few feet in front of her, and it was in a sepia, monotone color that made it hard to distinguish features. However, her webs surrounded her on all sides, and she was able to extended her senses through them. The moment something touched them...
As soon as Finn brushed her webs, which spanned a good three feet around her, Spindel tensed, but she didn't move otherwise. It wasn't until he was within strike range before her attention snapped to the man.
Finn would find himself stopped dead as the webs wrapped around the man, holding him in place for a moment before he was pushed back.

He'd gotten close enough that his claws had been mere inches from his face. Spindel blinked, and then smiled. "...A Direct approach, how bold".
Truth be told stopping him hadn't been as easy as it had looked, manipulating each individual thread as she was, while still focusing on Finn was taxing.