Up in Flames And Other Misadventures -[Ell]-

[Amur]

Ace hadn’t been able to keep up with the conversation that his brother and the other elf-guy were having, mostly because he didn’t understand a single word that they were saying. So, that left him with some time to think on what he might have done wrong. But, no matter how hard he tried to find the cause of the outrage he had witnessed, he just couldn’t find it... Baldur had said that he hadn’t done anything wrong and that Niko was the one at fault, and even now, despite not being able to see what he had done to warrant such a reaction, Ace still had difficulty believing that he wasn’t somehow at fault.

When he heard a cough, he flinched and moved to put some distance between himself and Niko, largely failing to keep his eyes off of the ground. However, he kept quiet; he had nothing to say now... Well, nothing he wanted to say now.
---

Baldur slowly turned to face Niko as he spoke and could only narrow his eyes slightly in response at first. At least Niko could admit that there had been no excuse for his behaviour, but, was that really all he had to say on the matter? It was hardly an acceptable apology, the fact that Niko had made an attempt on his –and more importantly- on Ace’s life should have warranted nothing less than an utterly enthralling explanation as to why simply speaking in Nirvanian Common had prompted such a reaction.

“Is that all, Niko?”
Baldur asked in a measured tone, fully turning to face the elf as he spoke. He fell silent for a short while, simply taking the time to hold eye contact with the taller individual.

“You made an attempt on our lives; you don’t think for just a second that we deserve some kind of full explanation?”
He asked, his tone still measured and his expression betraying nothing of his rage. This time, however, he did not allow the silence to hang for too long.

“Though, I’ve managed to surmise so far that such a reaction originates with at least one unfavourable encounter with Master Hunter Latro. What? Did he harm you? Did he humiliate you? Bruise your ego? Do you believe your life to have been adversely affected by your encounter with him?”
He asked, his tone never once shifting from the calm, measured pace he had started speaking in. All throughout his speech, not once did Baldur break eye-contact. He didn’t allow Niko the time to answer any of his questions, he wasn’t done yet.

“It sounds to me, like, you and that dragon both need to grow up and get The Hell over yourselves.”
He said, maintaining full eye-contact as he spoke.

“The land we originate from, Empire Nirvana has had to live with the threat of his kind for well over four-hundred years. The two of you are simply another two faceless numbers to add to a much larger statistic, there is nothing particularly special to whatever he has put you through. And I can assure you, that nothing he has done to you can even begin to compare to the kinds of atrocities that others like him have committed over the centuries.”
He continued, as ever in his measured pace. He narrowed his eyes just that little bit further.

“And you have the nerve to think that such weak words would suffice as an appropriate apology for the insult of tarring us, and likely, every other Nirvanian alive with the same brush as him? Do you really think such ignorance is so easily excused?”

[Elloria]

It was almost immediately apparent that Baldur found Niko’s apology unacceptable. It was in the slightly narrowed eyes and unwavering gaze. The Rider merely raised an eyebrow in response to the man’s first question, his eyes never straying from Baldur’s. He had apologized and offered to make it up to them – that was ultimately all he really owed either of them. Any explanation would have already been made via Josk’s questioning, since Niko knew without even asking that Josk had demanded answers about the face that had been swimming in Niko’s mind. So what more did this demanding, civilized brute want? He let his own unspoken question hang in the silence that followed Baldur’s first question. The man calmly obliged to answer with a string of queries that made clear just how pissed he was.

Niko let the man calmly rant at him at length. He even prevented Josk and Tathar from interrupting when they made some small motion that indicated they were not okay with what Baldur was saying to him. If this was all necessary for this embarrassing affair to be put behind them, so be it. Being lectured was a simple penance to pay for his mistake – and one he was quite accustomed to at this point, given his history and what had just recently occurred with Solomon – but it was rather rich of this foreigner to be speaking at him like he was a child. Yes, he had acted rashly. Yes, he had acted in ignorance. But how was he to rectify that ignorance when he had known nothing at all about where Solomon came from – not even a name for the place – before today?

It took a bit for the man to finish his ranting, but Niko was back in control of himself. His patience was a well-known paradox among the scholars he still spent a great deal of time with. It was simultaneously infinite and short. Today, it was going to be infinite. So he let the silence that followed Baldur’s lecture hang for several moments as he gazed down at the shorter man and contemplated how best to answer. When he felt he had his ‘explanation,’ Niko slipped his hands into his pockets and completely relaxed his stance – as if this whole thing was just dull – and gave his answer with a glacial calm that matched Baldur’s. “I assumed that my brother would adequately explain both my temperament and what triggered my reaction – and by the sound of things, you understand my reaction at least on some level. Both explanations should have been more than enough for you, as the nitty-gritty details are not public knowledge and likely never will be. You will simply have to live with that, Vauxx. As for my attitude concerning Latro, it has little to do with what he has done to me – though I will admit that previous actions against myself and my dragon did begin the whole situation I am currently in. But largely, my attitude concerns what he has done because of me.” Niko paused briefly, considering how to phrase the next part. But there was not enough time for Baldur to give any reply. “You are correct in calling me ignorant, but you cannot blame me for that ignorance. Before today, I did not even know where that monster had come from, let alone that the place possessed a name. And I am certain that there is no record of this ‘Empire Nirvana’ anywhere in Alagaesia. As such, how am I to rectify my ignorance when you and your brother are the only other Nirvanians I have ever encountered – not to mention the fact that the only other source of information about your land and its people is a creature that has no business being called human?”

His gaze never leaving Baldur’s and the color of his pupils darkening with every second, he pointed at the man. “If your land can breed such a monstrosity as Latro – indeed, breed many that are just like him if what you say is true – then what does that really say about any of you in that land? There are undoubtedly some of you who are of decent stock, but from my limited knowledge it seemed and seems far more likely that most of you are dangerous to some degree. From how quickly you unsheathed your sword – and yes, Arashi and I were quite aware of it, even in our rage – my assessment is not inaccurate.” The Rider’s eyes narrowed slightly, but he did not pause. If Baldur was going to lecture him without allowing him to address the man’s concerns, then Niko would give the man the same courtesy. “Such behavior as Latro’s is taught from a young age. So imagine, for just one moment, if our positions were reversed. You have no experience with anything quite like a foreigner such as Latro and all you know of him is how vile a being he is. Given your limited experience and the fact that you have seen some of the worst that an entire society has managed to create, would you really risk giving anyone else from that same land the benefit of doubt? If so, then you are a fool readily inviting death into your – and your brother’s – life.” He crossed his arms, his eyes having long since gone from silvery to black. “I have already admitted, more than once, that my reaction should not have been blind rage but I highly doubt that my brother has not already explained the failings of my temperament to you. Do not preach to me about acting in ignorance if you cannot even begin to think from the perspective of the offender. I acknowledged that I was out of line and acted in haste. I have also apologized for it. I have even given you an explanation, though I feel that it should have all been apparent to one as intelligent and calculating as you first seemed to be – especially with your greater experience with the…best that Empire Nirvana has to offer. If that is not good enough for you, then you are most welcome to get away from my property and out of sight of me.”

For Niko, that was the end of things. He did not need to waste any more time on this, as he had plenty on his plate as it was. Josk, on the other hand, felt that a little bit more needed to be added. With barely a pause at the end of Niko’s explanation, both twins crossed their arms over their chests in perfect unison – making their resemblance almost identical once more – and Josk mirrored his twin’s cold tone. “The next time you think to make any kind of demand of a Rider – or any elf, for that matter – I will remind you right now that you are foreign here and whatever status you held in Empire Nirvana is meaningless in Alagaesia. You are little more than a potential threat or a potential ally to everyone you will encounter and until you prove your worth in this land one way or another, you will be treated with suspicion and great caution. You would be wise to begin reigning in your elitist arrogance now, Vauxx – if not for your own sake, then for your brother’s. Unlike Niko, many elves would probably not deign to give an answer to your demands beyond attempting to kill both of you for what would be perceived as insolence. As for the Riders, they would be somewhat kinder and merely ask what you think gives you the right to demand anything from the natives of this land. Grandmaster Almalexia in particular would not appreciate your proud attitude. And as she is the most powerful dragon in the order, I suggest you not incur her wrath. Her Rider, Anurin Sarethi, may not be able to save you from it. Their good will and grace will make life for your fellow refugees easier, as there are very few who would contest an order from the Riders.” The mage’s now-black eyes narrowed as he continued. “Furthermore, and as Niko pointed out, I gave you an explanation before we even left the estate regarding the type of person Niko is and given that you understand a good deal more about this Solomon than either of us, you should have been able to surmise the rest of the matter based on my initial description of Niko. If you did not consider any of the discussion prior to my brother’s apology to be adequate, you should have addressed that when speaking with me.” Josk arched a slender eyebrow incredulously. “Instead you choose to calmly bend yourself out of shape in order to lecture him on his ignorance and make demands of him when a polite request would have achieved the same effect, now that he is calm again? And before you say one more word or make one threatening move, I will also remind you that you are currently in the City of Dragon Riders and you rather owe me. Do not make me regret my decision to help you and your brother.”

[Amur]

Baldur allowed the silence to follow his lecture to hang, now giving Niko the opportunity to reply to his questions. His intention had been to provide the elf with a sense of perspective and then make his judgement depending on the answers he received. Of course, in part Niko also clearly needed lecturing on the value of self-control and restraint; he had of course noticed that the dragon had done a better job of exercising such traits. Regardless of reasoning behind that, it already spoke volumes to Baldur about Niko.

As he had done during his lecture, Baldur maintained full eye-contact with Niko as he spoke. Giving Baldur a lecture of considerable length in return, narrowing his eyes just that little bit further, Baldur took note of the slowly darkening eye colour as Niko continued speaking –likely the result of some kind of extreme emotional stimulation- and saved the observation for another time, right now, the more important task was simply to listen to what Niko had to say.

Some of what Niko began saying to Baldur had indeed been explained to him by Josk, being naturally short-tempered was not a sufficient explanation in Baldur’s eyes. But he remained silent, and simply continued listening. He arched an eyebrow slightly as Niko mentioned that his current attitude was down to what Master Hunter Latro had done because of Niko. What could The Hunter have possibly done to make Niko believe that he was responsible for whatever action Master Hunter Latro had taken... It sounded to Baldur, as though Niko had already lost to Master Hunter Latro, if he believed himself to be responsible for Master Hunter Latro’s actions.

He continued listening, wholeheartedly disagreeing with Niko’s assertion that he could not be blamed for his actions against Ace and Baldur due to his not knowing that Empire Nirvana had even existed. He would have understood a measure of wariness and perhaps even mild distrust based on the fact they originated from the same land as Master Hunter Latro did, but, Niko had made no effort whatsoever to restrain himself, he had just lunged forward without so much a single thought outside the clear hatred he held for language based solely on the fact that Master Hunter Latro spoke it.

He made a mental note of the sweeping generalisations that Niko made of Nirvanians as a whole, already working on a suitable rebuke of such reprehensible, wilful ignorance whilst maintaining a straight face... Already piecing together a very clear picture as to why, as individuals Niko and Master Hunter Latro wouldn’t get along anyway...

So far, it seemed to be the case that the two of them were both extremely alike.

As Niko continued speaking, Baldur had started making it a point to keep detailed mental notes of every piece of wilful ignorance that Niko was spouting just so he could somehow shatter it somewhere down the line... Not that he knew how just yet, since making him take an extended “break” among Morona’s people was very clearly out of the question. But, he knew that he would be able to create a plan, given the time.

Baldur was just about ready to reply to what Niko had, had to say when Josk suddenly saw fit to add his thoughts to this little conversation. Baldur simply maintained a straight-faced expression and arched an eyebrow as Josk spoke, however, he allowed Josk to say his piece before he worked toward any kind of response.

“Do not patronise me, Josk. I am very well aware of our current location, position and situation. I have absolutely no intention of becoming a threat, do not assume me to be such a quick tempered fool, especially not when I still have the wellbeing of everyone I have travelled here with to think about. My aim was merely to provide a sense of perspective to the so clearly aggrieved mind of your brother, I made no demands of Niko, nor do I intend to. What I wish to judge, is just how much of a threat he may pose to the wellbeing of those people I wish to see settle peacefully. Considering they’re likely to have increased interaction with the natives of this land over the coming months, I will need to judge a similar reaction will not happen should he chance upon a group of traders all talking amongst themselves in their native language.”
He stated flatly, lowering Findinokhind so that the tip of its sheath was touching the ground, he then planed both of his hands on the pommel of the weapon and assumed a more neutral stance as he turned his attention back to Niko.

“I drew my sword because you were undoubtedly a threat at the time, not out of an assumption that you were something I thought you to be, nor out of a sense of misplaced malice. Your intentions were clear beyond any reasonable doubt and I acted accordingly, the lives of my brother and I come first, you instigated the assault, ultimately your death would have been your own fault had Josk not been present to restrain you.”
He began, letting it be known in no uncertain terms that if someone wished to harm either Ace or himself that he would fight back, and if the aggressor happened to die in the conflict, then that was the result of their own insistence and nothing else.

“Had you been wary, or even distrusting of us, I would have understood that based on your past encounters with Master Hunter Latro, however, you made absolutely no effort to even try and discern us. You immediately assumed us to be the same type of person as the individual you had already faced and acted with conduct that I am certain one of your position would usually be reprimanded for. Wilful ignorance is not forgivable ignorance, Niko. And the way you’re still trying to paint Nirvanians in general as vile creatures without hope of redemption, makes me think you’re going to continue living in wilful ignorance.”
He continued calmly, it was true that there were a large number of people within Empire Nirvana that were dangerous. Just the same way as Baldur was certain the same could be said of this land, however, when the numbers were compared to those of everyone else, the number of good people trying hard to live an everyday life in Empire Nirvana was far greater than those whom lived life as the proverbial “monsters”.

And he was certain, that on some level, Niko was also –now- aware of such a possibility.

“You are fortunate, however. That I am likewise very well aware of the effect that Hunters can have on people and am capable of remembering my own experiences with those like Master Hunter Latro. I stand by everything I’ve already said, but I am willing to forgive and forget.”
At this he finally broke eye-contact and looked back down at Ace, whom was still looking elsewhere and quite shamefaced by the looks of it, too. He had made sure that The Hunters that had tried to use Ace as a means of manipulating himself had died in fear due to the way they believed themselves to be above all other living things... Perhaps there would be a way to salvage something amicable from this mess after all... But, not just yet...

“Just, clarify to me one thing, Niko. How could you possibly be held responsible for anything Master Hunter Latro has done?”

[Elloria]

I am going to rip that calm look off his face.

It would be a waste of your energy, brother.

Hardly. A few words and a little energy pulled from my ring or brooch and I could easily obliterate the arrogant wretch.

There would still be the other refugees to think about. They would undoubtedly wonder what had happened to their ambassador and send out others in search of answers.

And they would never find those answers.

Niko shook his head slightly in amusement, a very small and very wry smile creeping onto his face as his eyes steadily lightened to a neutral grey. It seemed that Baldur was going to adamantly believe that the Rider was willfully ignorant and intended to remain so. It was just so…laughable. Few hungered for knowledge quite like Niko did. But Baldur had only just met him and the experience had, thus far, not been particularly favorable. He opened his mouth to correct the man’s assumptions when his words were halted by Baldur’s final question. The Rider’s mouth closed with an audible click as his teeth forcibly crashed together. His eyes became distant as he once again saw the gently swinging body of young Sophia, heard the heart-rending cries of her parents and felt the vice-grip of her brother Iaison as the boy clung desperately to him. His entire body tensed up, but there was only a sense of indescribable sorrow emanating from Niko in an almost palpable aura. There was very little that Niko regretted in his life; letting Solomon get the best of him in that manner was the biggest regret and he doubted that any other would ever match it.

Josk touched his brother’s shoulder gently, his own gaze dark and morose as he caught the memory that danced across Niko’s mind. There were no words between them now as one brother sought to comfort the other. The warm gentle contact broke the Rider’s concentration, causing him to shake his head slightly. The sadness did not leave him entirely, but it was no longer so overwhelming and he could now respond to Baldur. Niko’s voice was quiet and pained, as if a knife was twisting in his gut with every word he spoke. “Because I am a young fool, Vauxx. Take that as you will, for you will receive no further explanation on the matter of Latro and me.” Niko took a deep steadying breath before continuing in a much less aggrieved and quiet tone. “However, I would like to address something you have said about me. I did not mean to imply that all Nirvanians or Nirvanians in general are monsters beyond redemption. In fact, I said quite clearly that there are undoubtedly at least some Nirvanians who are of decent stock – good, moral individuals who surely just want to live their lives in peace. I have no way of knowing how many such people live in the empire, as I have no experience with the land. But I never said that I am uninterested in learning about the empire and its people. Quite the contrary, actually. I would like to better understand the land that you come from, that I may better understand you and your people. If you were perhaps willing to teach me, you would find that I am a most apt and eager pupil.” He smiled at Baldur and Ace. It was slightly strained, but genuine and warm nonetheless. “But regardless, let us finally put this horrible experience behind us. I am sure it has been a very trying day for everyone involved, so perhaps a little refreshment is in order? You are welcome to rest at my estate for as long as you are in Ilirea. And I swear that as long as it is within my power to prevent, no harm shall come to your brother or you while you are in the city,” he added in the Ancient Language, binding himself to the promise.

Josk gave a quiet snort, letting his hand fall to gently clasp the younger twin’s hand. Niko was an idiot. But the elf was his idiot, even if he did have to share with Arashi.

[Amur]

The reaction that Baldur’s question got from Niko had been unexpected, it was clearly painful for the elf to think about, and, likely still deeply pained him to some level on a daily basis. Especially if the look in his eyes along was anything to judge; the brief explanation to follow simply served as confirmation. He had no tactful way to respond to such a vague answer, so he simply remained silent and nodded once. If Niko did not wish to divulge any further details, who was Baldur to try and force him?

Any Nirvanian would respect whatever sanctity one found in their own personal history.

... However, he would have to curb Niko’s referring to him as Vauxx; he disliked it when people called him by his family name.

Baldur simply blinked slowly as Niko continued talking, this land was indeed just full of surprises. With Niko actually seeing sense, Baldur’s original perception of him had been altered almost drastically. Not that such an alteration was a bad thing, as long as it meant that Morona and their people had fewer issues to consider while settling here then Baldur was only too happy to give the elf another chance.

He nodded.

“If you say you are willing to learn, then I am most definitely willing to teach.”
Baldur replied calmly.

“And, please. Call me Baldur.”
He continued. He had already had to talk Morona out of calling him Warlord Vauxx, and, in Baldur’s mind simply being called Vauxx was no different. It made him feel uncomfortable –not that he would ever allow that to show- and served as little more than a painful reminder of his father, and it was not a reminder he needed every time he met someone.

He made a mental note on Niko’s promise and subsequently dismissed the threat evaluation he had for Niko entirely, given how hard he seemed to be trying to make amends for his earlier behaviour. That didn’t make what he did acceptable, of course, however, Baldur doubted that Niko would lose control so absolutely should he happen to chance upon a group of Nirvanian traders.

Baldur simply nodded in response.

“You may be interested to learn, that survivors of Wyvern attacks all invariably state that the eyes are the feature of the Wyvern that haunt them the most.”
Baldur intentionally stated in a tone that almost made it sound as though he were thinking out loud. Baldur, of course, understood the full nature of the previous situation, so he genuinely didn’t harbour any kind of contempt toward Niko for the way he had reacted.

“... Just to prove that there are no hard feelings on my end. Ace, however, you may have a slightly harder time with.”
He stated simply, taking note of how Ace was still looking off into the distance, shamefaced.

[Elloria]

Niko’s smile widened slightly as Baldur finally accepted his apology. The man was damn difficult to please and it was somewhat annoying, if the Rider was honest with himself. But he really did need to start treading more carefully. He was surprised the Council was not swooping down on him for this little outburst, but he was not going to question it. He didn’t need a lengthening of his sentence or some other punishment added to what he was currently dealing with.

“You may be interested to learn, that survivors of Wyvern attacks all invariably state that the eyes are the feature of the Wyvern that haunt them the most.”

Niko and Josk both quirked an eyebrow. The mage thought it was a rather random and bizarre comment. The Rider, on the other hand, suddenly felt the cogs of his mind beginning to spin nearly out of control.

Eyes…eyes…was that why Solomon…what color were…if they were like…that would mean…so then that ever-so-delicious…little to do with his size…how can I use that?

Perhaps you can start by being coherent and thinking about it later instead of ignoring your guests. Even I have standards when it comes to rudeness. They are hungry and thirsty after days of travel. Do you keep meat in your home now that you’ve got that great flying brute?

Do not be an ass, Josk-brood-mate. I can still hear you, you know.

Whatever. I ask because Baldur does not eat plant-stuffs. Something about not being able to digest it? I don’t know. I didn’t really pay attention. Just feed the boy and you should hopefully be okay with him. If not, I assure you it is no great loss. He is an absolute idiot, not to mention far too arrogant for his current level of ability.

Niko shook his head slightly. Ignoring both brother and dragon, he stepped slightly to one side and addressed Ace directly. “I am very sorry, Ace. You did not do anything wrong, I promise. It was my fault for not thinking first. I should not have attacked you because of a bad experience or three with a Hunter. Would you and Baldur like something to eat and drink? I believe I have some dried venison in my pantry, and apples and oranges and a whole host of other things to choose from.”

Have you not finished your apologies yet? I would like to hunt and I cannot do so until everything is all fine and dandy between you two-leg-fleshlings.

Arashi’s thoughts are quiet and snarky, but broadcast to the entire company. He is tired of this and his hunger is getting the better of his temper. If fleshlings could be a bit more like dragons, the whole affair could have been settled with a good clawing up and things would have been settled a while ago. Such is the curse of dragonhood – the only mar to an otherwise excellent existence.

[Amur]

Ace hadn’t really been paying much attention to the conversation happening between His brother and the other guys. Right now, his attention was elsewhere, trying to figure out exactly what he had done, his brother had assured him that it wasn’t his fault. And normally, Ace would have accepted that answer and moved on... But, why wasn’t that the case this time? He didn’t understand his own feeling of responsibility.

Was it simply down to the fact that he had seen much more than usual today?

He just didn’t know.

He paused and very slowly looked toward Niko as he spoke. What he was saying, for some reason made Ace feel embarrassed. However, he kept quiet and listened to what he was being told. For a brief moment, he felt conflicted, he wanted to shout something obscene at the man, but was already able to tell that things had moved away from that kind of direction. Eventually, Ace sided with his better judgement and nodded gently.

“J- ... Ye-yeh... I wew-wood... L-”
His line-of-thought was cut-off abruptly as he heard a voice come from somewhere. It was so unexpected that it was enough to make him jump slightly and look around absently for a long moment. Where had it come from? He looked up at Baldur, whom had simply looked over at Josk calmly with his eyebrow arched ever so slightly.

“I see what you meant.”
Baldur stated flatly, which caused Ace to pause for a moment, had that voice been from the dragon-creature-thing? Ace couldn’t be sure, but, judging by what his brother had just said, it was the only answer that Ace could come up with... Those dragon-creature-things were sentient!? Ace suddenly felt ever so slightly embarrassed with his original assumption of them.

[Elloria]

Arashi growled. Of course I am sentient. Did you think I was some dumb beast that existed solely for you two-legs-fleshlings to fly around on? I am not a four-legs-hair-tail-grass-eater, you dim-witted two-legs-round-ears.

There was a brief breeze as the young dragon leapt into the air and gained altitude with several powerful beats of his wings. He was quite miffed at the assumption that he was not sentient or even intelligent. It was the first war with the two-legs-pointed-ears all over again, except Arashi could not raze the ground with fire and tear the fleshlings apart for their insolence. But things were acceptable between his Rider and the two-legs now, so he could hunt in peace…once he found Salien-ebrithil, of course. Stupid Council and its stupid restrictions. It was not his fault the vile-Solomon-two-legs was a disgusting example of why the fleshlings did not deserve the grace and good will of the dragons. He shouldn’t be punished for it, he should be allowed out to hunt it down and kill it properly this time.

Niko closed his eyes in exasperation. The boy probably had no experience with dragons – hell, most humans in Alagaesia didn’t know that dragons were sentient. And this one wasn’t from this land, so it was hardly fair to hold him to quite the same standards of knowledge and intellect that Arashi held others to. The dragon whole-heartedly disagreed with that assessment, but was too far away to properly broadcast his opinion on the matter. The Rider smiled kindly at Ace. “I am sorry about that as well, Ace. Arashi is…well, all dragons are very proud beings. Just…they are sentient and very, very smart and they are very good at hearing others’ thoughts. That is how they speak with others – with their minds. If you remember that and try to always speak to them respectfully, you should never have any problems with them.” Niko straightened up and looked at Baldur. “You both might also want to invest in learning how to create mental barriers to prevent others from catching…thoughts you would rather keep private.”

With that, he led the group back onto the estate and to his villa. He unlocked the door and stepped inside, holding it open to allow the rest in while Tathar unloaded the two horses. Josk paused briefly inside the house and looked around. A dozen tables of varying sizes were scattered about the open living space, each one adorned with several dragon sculptures. Each sculpture was so intricately detailed as to seem alive. Most were small enough to sit on the tables, but there were at least three that were as tall as Niko’s chest. In and around the tabled sculptures were rose-filled vases, giving the room a light floral scent. There was a couch and three recliners arranged in a reasonable imitation of a circle around a small coffee table that was thankfully not littered with dragon sculptures. It was about the only space aside from the seating, dining table and kitchen counters that could make that claim. On the walls were a few paintings of nature scenes – one of which included Niko sitting in a garden reading – and a tapestry of Niko and a dark-skinned child planting a small apple tree sapling. On the wall across and left of the door was a fairth of a young, beautiful dark-skinned woman. It was a mid-sized fairth, showing her from the shoulders up with a basket perched carefully upon her head as she gazed off in the distance to her right with a strange wooden necklace about her neck and a golden hairpiece resting against her forehead at her hairline.

Josk shook his head as he stepped in further to allow Baldur and Ace in. “How is it possible that there are more of these things here than the last time I visited? How do you have space for them all?”

Niko shrugged. “I enjoy the realistic portrayal.”

“Which completely ignores my second question, but whatever. You have a dragon now. Why do you need sculptures?”

“To be fair, most of these were a gift from a friend when he left for a while. He wanted them to go to someone who would appreciate them.”

“You should reconsider your friendships.”

Niko snorted and wove through the house to the kitchen, Josk following close behind. “Make yourselves at home, everyone. I’ll see what I have for you to eat.”

[Amur]

Ace recoiled as the dragon-creature-thing spoke again, and immediately he began fidgeting. He hadn’t meant to insult him, he just had very little experience with people in his own homeland, how was he supposed to know what was socially acceptable and what wasn’t in a foreign land when he wasn’t sure of how to act around other Nirvanians? And once more Niko was apologising to him, once more making him feel embarrassed.

He looked up at Baldur, whom, as always simply had an eyebrow arched and a curious expression upon his face.

“... And now I can see why he wouldn’t get along with The Hunter.”
His brother stated. Ace, however, remained silent.
---

The dragons, or at least, this dragon. Certainly didn’t do first impressions very well. From Arashi alone, Baldur could already see what Josk meant when he said that their kind were impossible to deal with. In fact, Baldur was strongly beginning to suspect that whatever struggles Niko and Arashi had, had with Master Hunter Latro had been down to the dragon being unable to take an insult in stride... He made a mental note to test the theory later.

After Niko’s apology and subsequent suggestion Baldur looked down at Ace. Of course, Baldur had been educated on how to defend his mind. As his father’s heir –at the time- it had only been right for him to receive the best that his education had to offer. Ace, however, had insisted blind that he had no need to learn such things. Very much the same way that his being a Pyromancer put him under the impression that he didn’t need to learn The Forgotten –Ancient- Language.

“Sehen Sie, mein Bruder. Deshalb sollten Sie auf mich hören, wenn ich versuche, Ihnen zu sagen, dass Sie bestimmte Sachen lernen sollten.”
He said calmly to Ace. His brother simply responded by looking up at him for several seconds and then looking away with an expression that Baldur recognised all too well. The expression that Ace normally wore whenever he had been shown that he was wrong but refused to admit to it, Baldur simply concealed a small, controlled smile. Knowing that Ace would actually listen to him the next time he tried to educate him in such things.

As Niko lead the way into his estate, Baldur followed behind Ace. Silently nodding his thanks to Niko as he held the door open, while Ace meekly muttered his thanks as best as he could given his limited grasp of the common-tongue of this land.

The sight he was greeted with upon entering was not one he had expected, looking around at all the sculptures and other various pieces of art Baldur could only come to the conclusion that, while Niko seemed to be appreciative of conventional art in general, he just left it around with no thought as to where he was placing it. Though, perhaps that was down to there being more art than there was space, this place was nowhere near as big as the family fortress had been.

He kept his peace on the state of the place; after all, it was hardly appropriate to speak badly of another’s home when they had been generous enough to invite him inside. And while he concluded that the detail on the sculptures was very good –not that he was an expert on such things- the pieces that really caught his eyes were what looked like large portraits of Niko and another being, one that Baldur could tell was female, and human.

After a brief look for Ace –who was sat in the first empty chair he had found, and was looking to be anything but comfortable- Baldur walked toward the portrait-like objects with an eyebrow arched in curiosity.

It was odd; the way these “portraits” looked reminded him of the portraits that lined the walls of the long hallway leading to The Master Bedroom of the family fortress. The portraits depicting his ancestors throughout the generations of the Vauxx bloodline, he had never inquired into how such portraits had been made, he had just known that they had been created through the use of magic. With Findinokhind still clasped in his left hand he moved it to be behind his back and then used his right hand to gently grasp at his left wrist.

The detail contained within was remarkable, very much the same way it had been with each portrait of his ancestors. And this human woman, had Niko had a close relationship with her? It was hard to tell from these pictures alone.

Nevertheless, he remained silent, simply observing, absently wondering just how much more Empire Nirvana had in common with this land.

[Elloria]

Tathar quietly entered the villa – the saddlebags for both Danta-ebrithil and Danta-elda floating in front of him, courtesy of a quick spell – and closed the door with his foot. Cradled in his arms was Danta-ebrithil’s gift to Danta-elda, wrapped safely in a thick blanket. With a murmured word, the saddlebags wove through the maze of sculptures with incredible grace and disappeared through an open door off to the right. As they went, Tathar moved towards where Ace was seated across from the coffee table.

Danta-ebrithil, do you want the gift on the coffee table?

It is about the only open space, so that is acceptable.

Nodding at his master's mental command, Tathar gently unwrapped the vase and set it on the table while the twins quietly murmured back and forth in the kitchen. It really was remarkable, in the elder elf's opinion. The gentle curve of the vase was taken up by the etched image of a cherry tree in full bloom, the tree's crown comprising the mouth of the vase. Petals seemed to float down to the "grass" of the vase's base while the handle was formed into the shape of a delicate, intertwined ivy vines. The whole affair looked remarkably life-like - as if the potter had simply taken a flowering cherry tree and the ground around it, miniaturized it and fused some ivy with it. Tathar smiled warmly before glancing around. It had been a while since he had visited Ilirea, let alone been to Danta-elda's home, but it seemed cozy if eclectically furnished and decorated. The paintings and tapestry, he had been informed, were the work of Danta-elda's now-deceased ward Mchumba - by all accounts a very lovely and exceptional young woman. But the fairth...that was most likely Danta-elda's work. The elder elf meandered over to where Baldur stood staring at it and joined the humanoid in examining the fairth. It was not of the highest quality - entirely too focused on the subject, leaving the background to blur away - but the emotion was strong and pure. Tathar nodded approvingly and glanced at Baldur, who seemed quite engrossed in his examination of the fairth. "It is a fairth of Danta-elda's ward, Mchumba. I did not think you would be interested something like this. You seem a very practical and analytical individual. Do you like fairths, Baldur?"

[Amur]

Today had just been one uncomfortable experience after another for Ace; he already knew that his brother would discuss what had happened with him at length later on. But, for the time being, Ace needed the opportunity to work through his thoughts. He fidgeted awkwardly on the chair he was sat on, ignoring the object that the elf-guy placed on the nearby table. Ace had never had an eye for anything artistic, so whatever beauty the piece may have held was most definitely lost on him. Looking down at his hands, Ace shifted his position slightly, crossing his legs and straightening his back.

He sat in silence, carefully considering his action before raising both of his hands to be level with his chest and turning them so that his palms were facing each other. Then, concentrating, Ace conjured a very small orb of fire in between his inward facing palms. And then, he remained as he was, gazing intently at the conjured flame between his hands, regulating the flow of energy carefully enough to prevent it from becoming any bigger or any smaller.

He was focused now; the flame wasn’t going to do anything he didn’t want it to do.
---

Baldur only partially turned to look at Tathar as he spoke, arching an eyebrow slightly as he listened to what the elf was both telling him and then asking of him. So, these things did have a name? Undoubtedly, had Baldur actually learned what these “fairths” were back in Empire Nirvana he would have, more than likely, known then by a different name.

“You are correct in your observation, so it should come as little surprise when I tell you that ‘like’ is too strong a word. They interest me, and always have done. This ‘fairth’, as you called it, caught my attention since it reminded me of the old ‘portraits’ of my ancestors back home. I never asked what they were called; I just knew they were created via magic. Undoubtedly, had I learned of these back in Empire Nirvana I would have known them by a different name.”
He answered calmly.

He fell silent for a short moment following his answer, further thinking over what he had just been told. He had called this woman –Mchumba- Niko’s ward. So, she had been under his care? His gaze moved to the painting of Niko and the child, and his eyes narrowed slightly. Clearly, Niko had not escaped the process of forming an attachment. He looked back at the fairth and ran through his thoughts for several moments longer.

“So, they were close, were they? I assume this is primarily to serve as a memento.”
He asked flatly.

[Elloria]

Tathar nodded in understand as Baldur explained his interest in the fairth. The art was often a source of fascination to those who had minimal experience with magic or its application in an arena beyond battle. Tathar was not personally experienced with the artistic side of magic – his talents had leant themselves more readily to other applications of magic – but he had a basic understanding of how fairths and could explain at least that much. He was about to offer an explanation when Baldur asked if “they were close.” He blinked once, as if slightly confused. And he was somewhat confused. How could Baldur not see the emotion in the fairth? It was pretty blindingly obvious that Danta-elda had cared deeply for his ward – the emotional traces were all over the fairth. Tathar gave a quiet cough, uncertain of whether or not it was really his place to try and explain the relationship that Danta-elda had shared with his ward. It was an innocent enough relationship, but he normally did not speak about his master’s family. The elder elf frowned very slightly, but was rescued from actually answering by Danta-elda.

“If I could have given her elven immortality, I would have,” Niko said as he came up beside Baldur. He handed the man a plate upon which were several thick-cut slices of smoked venison while passing a second plate filled with honey crisp apple slices and chocolate-dipped strawberries behind Baldur’s back to Tathar. He turned slightly, plucked two plain water-filled glasses from the air beside him where they had been hovering and handed those to the two as well. “My life was infinitely richer for having found her. But she always said, ‘It is harder to savor the miracle of your life when you have forever to enjoy it if something else does not kill you first’.”

Josk was over by Ace, trying to hand the boy a glass of water as well as a plate loaded with two venison sandwiches, honey crisp apple slices and several chocolate-dipped strawberries. This was slightly complicated by the fact that the boy was completely focused on the orb of fire that flickered gently between the boy’s hands. It really was marvelous magic to behold, but Josk did not want to stand here forever until the boy noticed him. He supposed he would play nice this one time. Stepping a fair bit back, he coughed slightly to catch the boy’s attention. The boy jumped and Josk couldn’t suppress a chuckle. He held the plate and glass out to the boy. “All for you. How about you take a break from pyromancer and eat something, hm?”

[Amur]

Baldur accepted both the plate of meat and glass of water from Niko with a silent nod to indicate his thanks –he moved Findinokhind so that he held it between his arm and the side of his torso, using his bent elbow to keep it in place- and listened to Niko as he spoke. He could clearly see the affection that Niko had for this Mchumba, both from what he was saying at the clear effect that she had, had on his life.

However, he did arch an eyebrow slightly as Niko quoted the woman he held in high regard. However, Baldur was unsure whether he should see her words as words of wisdom, or if they were down to the typical pride of humanity that most pure-breeds displayed. Having never met the woman he couldn’t make an accurate judgement, so, he tactfully avoided voicing his opinion on the matter and instead opted to comment on something else.

“By the sounds of it, even if you had the means to elongate her life that she would have refused the offer. Many pure-breeds back in Empire Nirvana actually have the option available to them, yet, few actually take it.”
Baldur stated flatly, outlining to Niko that such scenarios were not all that uncommon. Especially when one considered that the long-lived Non-Humans lived side-by-side with their human neighbours in a much less strained way than the elves and humans in this land seemed to, it was an odd situation for Baldur; as he had spent much of his youth after his tutelage simply wandering around Empire Nirvana.
---

Ace was lost in his task, his focus so absolute that he had forgotten where he was and that there were other people around. And to that end when that Josk guy coughed gently, Ace jumped since he had not been expecting it. However, due to his earlier focus, the flame that he had conjured was easily dismissed before he could lose control over it.

He gently took the plate of food and the glass of water that was then offered to him.

“D-danke...”
He mumbled distantly, while his brief mental exercise had somewhat helped him work through his thoughts he was still largely confused and overwhelmed by the events of the day. In fact, all he really wanted to do right now was sleep, but, he kept himself alert. For the time being he wasn’t going to allow himself to go to sleep, not yet...