Table of Contents Table of Contents Zyphire Relationships Rps & Adventures Inventory & Art Reqs
Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Posted: Sat May 23, 2020 11:33 am
☽☼☾
Name: Zyphire Stage: 4 - Assassin Race: Shifter Orientation: Bi-sexual, Taken by Sylvirah Gender: Male 3 Base Traits: Arrogant, Vain, Dedicated Personality: As a Prentice Zyphire was a pampered brat who had an arrogant streak in him. While some of his arrogance has tampered off from being completely bratty and into being just a little snarky, Zyphire still tries to do most things on his own. He is also very vain about his appearance, something bred from years of compliments, and so he still holds himself up as a handsome man.
He still believes that he can accomplish anything as long as he tries at it. Because of this he enters challenges without questions no matter what trouble may brew afterwards. If he fails he may sulk for a while but will eventually get back on his feet again - a notable trait as he works hard to master anything which escaped him before.
Which leads to the fact that he is not above lying to get his way. The boy has a smooth tongue and is quite charismatic when it comes to charming his way out of a situation. From his mother he has learned where compliments work best and is prepared to pamper another - as long as he doesn't have to put himself down of course - in order to wiggle his way into something whether it be a discount at the market or a free meal with a lovely lady.
His earlier years of dramatics and intense reactions have somewhat calmed down with age. He still will narrate an event or sometimes be a bit dramatic with his actions, but nothing as drastic as before.His dedication to helping others, especially those dear to him, has instead increased where he once was a brat. He has become more sincere and even heroic to a daring degree. If someone he cares about is in trouble then Zyphire will make certain to help them out and right any wrongs which have been done to them.
Description: A young man with lean muscles from years of training with the sword and from working at his cousin's animal sanctuary. Zyphire has similar forehead crystals to his cousins and also has several other gemstons including two long stones along his hip with a tiny center circle one in the center. Another trio on his hands - one long diamond again with a dot on either side. Accessories: Usually dressed in furs whenever he is in Zena while otherwise wearing light travel leathers when he is in warmer countries. He loves to try and be fashionable and often wears his hair tied up with braids or in a ponytail. He does have piercings and also wears jewelry featuring a crescent moon - including a brooch often clipped to a sash around his waist. History:
Zyphire was born between two shifters very much in love. Unfortunately his father, Tanyil, was tied to his family who ran a very dark business in Jauhar. Born and raised to kill the male was often valued for his good looks and efficient work while out on assignments. It was a shame then that on one such mission he ran into a rather promiscuous girl who didn't mind showing the rough shifter into her bed. Kylina was a blessing to him because her love took away from the stains of his past. Yet, his family was always against their prime 'worker' losing his trade for the sake of love and multiple attempts were made to separate the two once they were found out.
It became obvious that if he were to have a happy life with his woman that Tanyil would have to run away from his family.
Kylina had a younger sister, Akilo, who was spiteful and jealous for their mother's love -and inheritance- as Kylina was the favored child. (Mainly because Akilo was not truly the blood child of their mother, but rather the result of her husband's previous fling that came along with their marriage) Knowing this Akilo took her sister's confession of love and shoved her to do what was best - run away with the male and never look back. "What if his family finds out about us? Don't you just want to leave and save your family and yourselves?" Of course once Kylina's back was turned the girl grinned maliciously. She prayed that the lovers would be happy by either never returning or by dying in each other's arms by the male's vengeful family. This way she could claim all of her mother's lands for herself since her wandering sister would be out of the picture then.
Feeling that she had no choice Kylina fled from her homeland along with Tanyil towards the borders of Jauhar. It was out here that the two prospered and had their own little place outside of any village. A few years passed and they gave birth to a little boy who they named Zyphire...unfortunately trouble was brewing in Tendaji during this time and only a couple of years passed again before the youngling found herself without a father.
Tanyil had gone to help fight the extremists and in his attempt to protect his family the male found himself slain in battle. Devastated Kylina had no choice but to return home to her mother and very disappointed sister. As the years passed Kylina’s love for her deceased spouse turned to smother their reminder of their love – Zyphire – with affection. He was well groomed by his mother who taught him many arts, especially those of entertaining since she was a famous beauty and bard herself. While some of her entertainment may have taken place behind closed doors Zyphire always knew that his mother was just doing her duty and nothing more. It was a way to spoil him and make money – of course later as he grew he begged her to stop while raising his fists and tormenting any male or female suitor who attempted to do more than simply listen to his mother’s music.
Though as time passed other wounds did not heal. Zyphire watched helplessly as his mother began to drift away in dreams and illusions of her dead lover. Many said it was fatigue – from working so hard to give her son everything and more- that eventually killed her frail body. Zyphire’s frustrations grew because no matter how hard he worked to try and see a smile from his mother he knew that she had grown distant without his father’s presence to tie her down. No matter how many accomplishments he made he was simply just a reminder of his father and that was all. Eventually he ended up striking out here and there with rebellious actions – stealing, fighting, and etc- to gain attention. It was all for naught save for the day that he blew up at his mother for forgetting he was his own person. Running he didn’t even realize that his mother did finally worry enough to chase after him through a terrible storm. A storm that she became lost in and by the time she was found fever racked her body – something that she never recovered from and instead she found her wish granted as her spirit left to find its soulmate.
After losing her mother all Zyphire had left was his gramma and aunt. Despite his cold behavior and guilt over his mother’s death, his gramma showered him in love in place of her deceased daughter. It was obvious that the inheritance and love was his. Jealously raged through Akilo who wasn't satisfied with her small gifts from her gramma - as she wanted it all not just a tiny tidbit!- and plans began to form. Of course she looked loving and kind to the gramma who noticed the boy and aunt's relationship blossomed in public...but when the Grandmother began to become frail with age, Akilo started to plot even more.
She watched as lies and tricks spread the idea that Zyphire was a spoiled child who was truly wild. As the old shifter eventually passed away the youngling -almost apprentice- was left in Akilo's care as the Grandmother believed she would treat the boy well. In the end Zyphire found himself pushed out by his aunt who had taken control of the inheritance and without any witnesses to the truth of the situation claimed all was hers and chased the boy away in the middle of the night.
Zyphire lost wanted to fight back, but with no one to believe him found himself cast out in the forests of Jauhar. What could he do? He knew nothing other than to steal and live on his own. But even then his theft resulted in an encounter with a hybrid woman who strangely enough resembled him in slight ways. What he didn’t realize was that this woman had been searching for him for many months and that by the time she had found his village his aunt had already kicked him out. Thankfully his trail hadn’t been so hard to follow – due to rumors of a thieving boy with his appearance drifting from settlement to settlement and Talisia had quickly come into his life. Almost like fate that the boy had decided to try and rob from her pockets that day…
Still, when he was caught something remarkable happened. Rather than fighting or trying to pretend everything was alright Zyphire lost himself in eyes familiar to that of his mother’s…
"Please save me."
The words weren't normal for him, but something about the woman made him beg for mercy and soon enough he would find himself leaving Jauhar and heading towards the tall mountains of Zena were he would be raised with his mother’s remaining family.
Notes:
Zyphire is actually the son of Kaleo's cousin (his mother) and as such is connected to a pair of ice/shifter twins -Kian and Talisia. Talisia was determined to find out more about her father's family and after hearing the last relative was Zyphire she became determined to find the boy. Villagers who lived near Akilo told the truth to her - one little girl had noticed the plight of aunt and nephew and it was her soft whispers that allowed Talisia to track down her younger cousin.
Zyphire has since then lived in Zena with his cousin while in his later years going off and about the whole continent of Tendaji bringing messages back and forth between their family members in Jahaur. Now he has become a father and despite everything still has a relaxed, playful manner to cover up the more serious killer side of his personality.
Posted: Sat May 23, 2020 11:33 am
☾Relationships☾ Family:
☾ Sylvirah - Significant Other - An iceling huntress who Zyphire kept running into, the more time they spent together the more their lives became entangled until the pair fell in love and started a family.
Class Quest Solo:[X] Physical Description: Similar hairstyle but with a couple of braids with wooden beads and a feather here and there. heart
I would love for his new outfit to be mostly inspired by this. (Maybe cut the sleeves, keep the fur edges and have gloves like stage 3?) He's up north a lot so needs to keep a little bit more warm. You can keep some aspects of stage 3 if wanted, like the gloves and the moon charm, and also maybe embroider a chiavi on the coat instead of the other sigil or nothing at all, CC.
Dual Blade Handle/Color Inspiration with blades inspired by any of the silver weapons (1,3,5 or 6) Body Type: Similar to before - lean, muscle. Preferred Artists: Kana or Scar [Full or Collab] WIPs: Sure~
Studying the parchment on his desk, Zyphire frowned. He had spent so much time cooped up because of a random snowstorm that he couldn’t find anything else to do other than writing. “I’m so bad at this.” He muttered as he jabbed his quill back into the ink. His cousin, Talisia, had made certain he learned to read after moving to Zena and the Shifter had quickly picked up on the writing styles of Zena. Even now he had learned several different dialects and worked them well while he traveled through other countries. Gathering herbs, running errands, bringing creatures back and forth the mainland for healing and release had given him plenty of experience in other cultures and their native tongues but it still did nothing to stop him from pouting about learning. Of course his cousins’ noble heritages from their Zenan roots just had to make them more reliable about such things. Blowing a stray strand of hair from his face, Zyphire simply sighed as he pulled the quill back from the ink jar again and placed the tip on the parchment paper.
“Artic eventide. A feisty raptrix leaps In spite of distance”
Okay so maybe he was having a bit of fun messing around with poetry. It wasn’t as if he ever expected anyone to read them so Zyphire often played around with words. It was how he had managed to learn at such a good pace in his earlier years as the creativity inspired his knowledge of different languages to grow.
“Chiavi Amazing, unbelievable Flying, darting, devouring Stronger than I, perhaps? True hunters.”
A faint grin crossed his fine features as he doodled each creature next to the short poems. Perhaps one day he would be bold enough to share his little writings with the rest of the family but for now they solely served as his own amusement. A way to pass time other than in the kitchens whenever the snow outside proved too much for the Shifter to bear. Though speaking of which he probably should go back to the kitchens and prepare for dinner. Giving one last glance over the words he wrote, Zyphire let out a soft chuckle before closing the leather journal and tucking it back away in his desk for safe keeping.
[382]
Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Posted: Wed Aug 26, 2020 5:31 pm
☾Growth Quest to Stage 3 - Growing Realizations☾
On rare occasions, Zyphire found himself back in Jahaur for errands. Despite his years in Zena, the landscape was still familiar to him as it was where he had spent his childhood and several of his teen years. He had traveled into Neued and was in the process of gathering supplies when a commotion caught his attention. Quirking a brow, the shifter glanced across the way and noticed that a trio of shifters were surrounding a foreigner. A Zenan to be precise. Zyphire paused as he studied the scene, his fingers wrapped around some beaded necklaces, and after a moment he slowly released the jewelry so that he could instead investigate the ruckus.I’ll come back for you later, my pretties.
“Oiy boys. What’s the matter?” Zyphire chirped as he leaned forward with interest. Like usual the cocky swordsman had his typical smirk which only grew as each shifter noticed the blades held in his hands. Not that they were the smallest of fellows either but he could tell that it was a different story bullying some fragile looking merchant boy instead of an actual swordsman like Zyphire. “Well?” Quirking a brow he glanced between the trio of young adults and back to the fourth who was already looking a bit rough for wear.
“We didn’t get the discount we wanted.” Gruffed one of the Shifters, “Foreigner is poaching on our marketing territory and didn’t even pay the fees.”
“Aaah.” Zyphire nodded his head slowly before giving a wide grin. “So you’re telling me that he has to pay a fee just for setting up a stall in an open street? What are you the constable of the area?”
“What?” Another of the shifters spoke out. “He’s a little rude p***k and you’re telling me that you don’t find it fair that some foreigner comes into our area and we want compensation for him taking from our home business?”
Zyphire paused and pursed his lips. “Yeah...yeah kinda.”
“Seriously? What is wrong with you? Shouldn’t you be on our side?”
Oooooh. Of course they would point that out. A chuckle left Zyphire’s lips. “Looks like I’m going to be disappointing you three but nah. I’d rather stick up for the smaller party here. Why not go along with your business and we’ll call it a day?” Perhaps when he was younger he would have gladly stood his ground with the other three shifters. He had a deep hatred at one point for merchants, especially foreigners, and wanted nothing more than to protect his home turf. Those days, however, were gone and Zyphire was almost surprised at how he didn’t hesitate to step in to help out the Zenan. It was almost as if he felt more kinship with the iceling than with the shifters who shared his features.
Despite their surprise the trio did not give up that easily. A few curses and swipes later, followed by some punches and a broken crate or two, the trio found themselves retreating. Wiping the blood from his chin, Zyphire glanced back towards the Zenan merchant. “Here.” He offered his hand and pulled the young man up to his feet. “You alright?”
“Y-yeah.” The merchant swallowed and slowly moved to dust off the dirt from his tunic, a rather futile attempt considering some of the muck and grime that had stained the material during his fall. “Thank you….but why? Do you want gold?” He finally offered as he studied the mess that Zyphire was already moving to try and clean up for him.
“Nah. Just didn’t feel right sitting back.” Zyphire replied. “Surprising, right?” He couldn’t resist teasing, a playful laugh leaving his lips. “I’m just one of those idiots who likes to jump into trouble and help out. Plus, it’s not like this area is much of a home for me….I’m more familiar with your lands.” The confession left his lips in a tumble and actually made him pause. Did he truly think of Zena as more of a home than Jahaur? Wow, how things have changed. Before when he had been basically dragged out of the gutter by Talisia from Jahaur and into Zena he had thrown such a tantrum. He still gruffed about and acted like Zena was such a cold and bitter place but now it seemed that he preferred the snows to the afternoon rains of Jahaur. The mountains to the forests and the crackling of a fire instead of a rushing waterfall. “By the spirits I actually think I would consider Zena home.” He admitted as he looked towards the Zenan who was just staring at him. “Weird, right? Right.” Chuckling he simply went about helping the merchant set his shop back up and after pocketing some coins as thanks, something which he tried to push away but the Zenan continued pushing back until he relented, Zyphire made his farewell.
Of course the beads he had been looking at were already purchased and Zyphire let out a loud groan of disappointment. “Seriously?” Leaning his head back he shook a fist towards the skies. You do one nice thing and lose something else. Ya bastards. Still, he had seemingly found something even more precious than some random jewelry - a true realization that he had finally accepted his new home in Zena.
Guess I should go back there soon enough. A true, genuine smile of happiness crossed his fine features as he shifted his traveling pack on his shoulders and started back through the market. Just a few more errands and finally he could begin the trek back to the animal sanctuary he had accepted as home.
[940 WC]
Zyphire finds himself in a situation where he protects a Zenan merchant from some local Shifter bullies. The fact that he stood up for a Zenan over Shifters shows that he has become more accepting of the iceling races whom he had constantly fought with when younger. Even more surprising is the realization that he considers Zena his home more than Jahaur. It’s a growth point for him personally as he was always hesitant to really consider a place and a family his own after losing his mother and his place in Jahaur so many years ago. Now he realizes that he has someplace else he cherishes in Zena.
Posted: Sat Aug 28, 2021 12:38 pm
☾Reflections Solo☾
Who knew that someone could catch him lazing about so easily? Surprise, surprise.
Zyphire groaned as the light from the sun was once again blocked by the shadow of one of the local hunters, a burly man who had lost an arm but refused to allow that to slow him down over the last year since the relocation. Like the others he was born to push through any obstacle in order to fight for his survival. That was how they had lived for decades up in the northern mountains with nothing to rely on other than their own grit and adaptability. Lose an arm? You better learn to deal with just one or you would lose your life in the wilderness with only the mountains as witnesses to your untimely demise. No one could afford to slow down for another or else they would freeze alongside them. Thankfully things were going better now with the village since they were closer to the capital and not in the icy wilderness up north where few creatures even dared to roam but there was still a lot of work to be done with the rebuilding process. Or rather was it just the building process in general? Could one consider it rebuilding if the area once housed a grand manor of a council woman, the estate so vast with elegant gardens that it had stretched over this whole clearing at one point? Or was it more of a reconstruction? Repurposing even? But at the same time there was no longer that giant manor so Zyphire could assume that they were indeed building from scratch minus some of the raw materials they had found upon arriving at the area. Even now Zyphire could vividly remember the details of the area when he first saw it several years back while traveling with Talisia to the capital. His cousin had been resistant to the idea of returning to the area of so much pain but the growing piles of letters from Zidel demanding that she do something with the vaste estate had finally forced her to visit the area as there had been potential buyers at the time. Or rather pushy buyers...so why not sell it? Zyphire had been eager for the extra coin to help out the animal sanctuary and to give him a good bonus for all of his hard work over the years and so he had volunteered to take care of any necessary exchanges with those interested in the property. However, despite his eagerness to see the area it had been surprising to see how much destruction waited for them. The great stone manor that he had envisioned was scorched, an inferno having claimed most of the building years ago when Kian left the area to study magic. At least that had been the story they told him though Zyphire felt a bit more suspicious of the reality of the fire upon discovering an old basement with rather unsavory aspects to it. He made a note not to tell anyone of his suspicions of course, but it was fairly obvious that Kian froze whenever the area was mentioned and only Talisia had the nerve to travel there so far. Now maybe Kian would be more willing since the building itself was completely destroyed with no evidence of the luxury that had existed here decades before. Anyone from the past would probably be more shocked to see how many humble homes dotted the landscape now. Zyphire could only chuckle at the reactions from the potential buyers, the rich who he had robbed of an ideal location for their own homes right outside of the capital. Now barbaric hunters lived here instead of some snobby rich Zenan. Imagine that!
It was surprising how much the area had changed from when Zyphire first saw it when he visited with Talisia just two years ago. Honestly though he could understand the appeal to others that wanted to purchase the lands for themselves. When he first saw the area it had been a cold day, but the forest they traveled through was full of lush trees of silver-blue and nature that had gathered after years of being left to its own devices that showed plenty of life despite the touch of ice decorating the landscape. The cold of Zena still reached here most assuredly but even Zyphire didn’t automatically feel like he had a layer of ice stretching across his skin when he walked through the clearing. They came from the western border where a small stream from the mountains cut through a corner of the estate’s acres of grounds and there were plenty of rolling hills for one to wander outside of the main clearing area, just beyond the forest. The area itself was truly beautiful save for that scorched area of stone ruins in the clearing. The only salvageable thing had been a stable, which still needed a new roof and vines taken from the siding, some storage sheds and a stone cottage that must have been used by the gardener at one point to the southern area of the clearing. It was that building that Zyphire had later decided to turn into a home for Sylvirah and their baby. It was a bit of an upgrade from other huts set up around the clearing and a little walk away from the rest but Zyphire didn’t want to let a good building go to waste. If anything, it meant that he had more time to help set up houses for others, something that haunted him now as the hunter hovered over him. “Yes?” Zyphire blinked lazily from the makeshift hammock he had strung up between the two trees near the cottage. It seemed his time for relaxation was over for now and work was pulling him in once more.
“You said those roati are fairly well behaved.” Grunted Birger with a frown. “But they keep escaping the pens.” His golden eyes studied Zyphire, no amusement visible as Zyphire rolled out of his comfortable position and finally stood before him. If only the guy could lighten up a bit! Was it because Zyphire constantly made jokes about getting a hand from the man at their first meeting? Nah, surely not. If anything he just knew the guy looked grumpier than he actually was. Zyphire had already caught him helping his own toddler grab fruits here and there when the youngling ran over to him while the rest worked about the village.
“That’s because the gate needs to be fixed. They keep slinking through the corners but shouldn’t have gotten far. Honestly the little guys are not brave enough to venture outside of the clearing.” Zyphire promised Birger as he strode past the burly man and gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. Finding the roati would be fine but fixing that gate would take at least an hour which he had purposefully tried to avoid doing for a bit so that he could actually enjoy his day. Apparently, some twine and hopes for the best was not the most viable solution. At least he had managed to convince others that roati could be helpful, their fur and milk profitable for the villagers rather than just devouring them, and that much Zyphire considered a good victory. Jumping over a fallen log, to be cleared away probably by Zyphire this afternoon, the Shifter made his way towards the center of the small village that was under construction. Mostly made of the sturdy wood taken from the northern areas of the forest, others had taken some of the salvageable stone from the ruins to use as their foundations with some of the rocks used to make sheds and cellars. The dark basement that had given him unpleasant shivers upon first sight had been filled in that particular area with new stone walls and wooden support beams leaving the rest of the far less creepy basement fit to be repurposed for storage, mostly shelves and more shelves full of jars of fruit preserves, grains and vegetables that they could rely on during the harsher winter months. It was more sustainable than having to constantly barter in the capital which was still a few days away by foot, a day or so for most riders with flight being the quickest within several hours. Another area that Zyphire had helped dig with several of the others had been tightly packed and protected by sturdy wooden beams and cemented stone that would allow them to hang some meat to dry out, the abundance of summer and fall keeping them throughout winter during the worst of the snow and ice storms.
As depressing as it was, their low numbers were a blessing when it came to having to build the village from scratch before winter hit. They could easily make decent enough houses for everyone to use without needing one solid lodge to support them during the first winter in the valley. Eventually Zyphire hoped that families could grow again within the community and that as new families came about more buildings would be built with far less rush than what they had felt their first eight months in this area. It was strange, even as he gathered supplies and started to work on the gate with Birger watching, but Zyphire felt almost satisfied knowing that he could help with this. It was hard work but something about it made his spirit feel warm, a bit of purpose to help satisfy his questions about existence and to ease the guilt from those that he had rather mistreated so many years before. He just hoped Sylvirah and their child could be happy here and that by giving them this new area that her community she treasured could flourish again.
Certainly, it was not exactly the same lifestyle as the hunters surviving in the frozen north had endured through but they could still keep their own government and customs here with a little less hassle than before. The mountains still surrounded them to the north and any hunter could easily go there within a couple of hours walk from the village while the eastern forest stretching towards the south separated them from the eyes of the city. There was even enough of a field for roati to roam about nearby which he had volunteered to help set up a small barn and a fenced area for, the very thing he was currently working on with Birger. Their snippets of conversation had allowed him to learn a bit more about their customs and the northern language still used by most of the older hunters. Zyphire especially enjoyed trying to surprise Sylvirah with what he had learned while helping out around the village. That was when they had time in between the baby and ahem other matters of dire importance that occurred fairly often upon both of their recoveries from everything that had happened.
“Finished.” Zyphire had been reflecting on things while working on the gate and now it swung without a problem, the fencing tight enough to stop any of the more mischievous roati from trying to wiggle out. Once he had gathered all of the ten roati back into the fencing area he handed the ropes back over towards Birger, “All yours.” He teased lightly with a wink before walking away. That did remind him that he would have to pick up more feed to keep the roati during the colder months since they hadn’t gotten a chance to grow and harvest themselves. Next year though Zyphire planned on clearing a bit of the forest so that they could plant more wild grains for the roati. There was a good area in the meadow and he just needed to cut down about five trees so that they could farm the area and also use the wood for building more structures if necessary.
But for now surely he should still focus on the cottage. Even if it had been in habitable condition there were still updates and repairs to be made to the humble building. Zyphire skipped back down the path, the cobblestone path of gray and white stones that had once weaved through the gardens somewhat visible now that he had spent time clearing out the weeds, and eventually the fencing came into view that marked the two-story structure. It was a miniature version of what he supposed the actual manor would have looked like design wise with cool gray stone walls and an arched doorway with a solid wooden door made out of the local trees, the silvery-blue color a testament to that. Inside there was a sitting room, small and cozy for a family, stairs leading towards a large space that had been converted into two bedrooms, Beneath the stairs was a storage closet and then a wash room and a master bedroom with Zyphire’s favorite area – the kitchen. It was big enough to cook in with a nice wood stove, a large counter with plenty of room for meal prep, hanging spices and an area that he had cleared out to place a table big enough to sit at least eight. The wooden table had been carved with the help of another villager who had helped keep the natural wooden rings in the design, curved benches rather than chairs serving as seating. The table itself had been pushed into the edge of the room against the large window with wooden shutters that overlooked a private garden that Zyphire had planted plenty of herbs and vegetables in for their family to use, mostly for his recipes whenever he spent time preparing meals for Sylvirah and the baby. While one half of the table was supported by the curved benches the window itself had a seat built into the wall that one could sit on while eating at the table as well, a smart way to save space and to allow Zyphire to keep one of his favorite seating arrangements even here. Once he had added some pillows and a fur to the window seat area the Shifter planned on having many future naps here whenever things calmed down and he could enjoy lazy afternoons again.
The familiar scent of freshly baked bread also greeted Zyphire when he waltzed into the kitchen and the Shifter found himself grinning as he glanced over the counter, the area mostly clean save for the recent addition of breads that he had made earlier this morning before his impromptu nap. “She didn’t know she was getting the best housemate of all times, did she?” He joked towards an all too familiar pair of beady black eyes that slowly blinked at him before disappearing once more into the silvery-white fluff that made up the parak’s fur. “Thanks for the vote of confidence there, Tiki.” Zyphire rolled his eyes before reaching over to pick the parak off of the counter once more and placed her on the piles of pillows sitting against the window. Perhaps the parak was a bit spoiled but she had her helpful moments, like when she chased out rodents and saved the garden from intruders, so it was worthwhile…and she was just too adorable. Zyphire chuckled before ruffling the familiar’s fur and moving away so that he could study the kitchen. The spiced breads were cooling on the counter, he had made roati cheese, butter, dried out some spiced meats, dried fruits and pickled vegetables and even their supplies of spices, especially salt, had been completely filled up in their ceramic jars in preparation for the winter. The biggest event he had left to accomplish was gathering all the berries from the forest over the next few weeks so that he could prepare some wines and jams to also store away for the winter months. Which reminded him... He had some vintage wines that he wanted to fly towards the sanctuary to bring back since he more than likely would stay within the village this first year, especially to help with the baby, and Zyphire was quietly going over a list of things that he could bring back for everyone before winter truly hit. Did he bring his favorite blankets? His journals and recipes? His collection of swords? Souvenirs he had collected from other countries during his travels? The list could go on and on. The Shifter did not want to overload the little cottage he shared with Sylvirah, but it would be nice to have a few things from the sanctuary just in case someone else decided to crash in his room while he was gone for the year.
Strange to think that he would be gone for so long…or that it was slowly becoming more of a parent’s house to him than his actual home. Was it truly time to grow up? Zyphire couldn’t help joking about it but there was always a part of him that would miss the days spent at the animal sanctuary. The busy mornings in the large kitchens at the stone manor preparing meals for the rambunctious twins and later on their younger cousins as Kian settled in with his own family. At least Zyphire had broken the curse of twins even though Ziya looked exactly like Talisia had she been a boy or Taaru had he shared the bi-colored gaze that apparently ran in their family line. He had always joked that the strange trait was from the iceling side but then here he was with a child that looked exactly like his cousin with the white floof of hair and pale blue skin and those lovely yet startling mismatched eyes. Though despite their similar appearances Ziya absolutely shared Kian and Zyphire’s own spirits instead of Talisia’s more reliable personality much to the dismay of Zyphire as he watched the toddler already stirring trouble around the village with his charming attitude.
What a brat. An adorable, energetic brat who he couldn’t help but to cherish and perhaps would spoil just a little bit. Who would have imagined that Zyphire would be a father to a miniature version of himself? Or that he would fall for an iceling woman who thrived in the harsher areas of the north instead of some sweet, delicate dame? It honestly was funny how many surprises the future seemed to continue holding for him. Whatever could happen next? Yet, despite everything Zyphire was happy with life. He was content with the idea of traveling between the two areas and even traveling further south whenever the winter winds hit Zena. He was not like Kaleo who had been trapped up north all year to suffer in the cold and even though he had a deep love for the village and his new family, Zyphire still needed the warmth of the sun to keep him going. At least he could enjoy more time with the new area, keeping most of the bitter cold at bay until the middle of winter when very few areas of Zena could escape the powerful cold. And it was nice knowing that a place which had once caused so much torment finally had a chance to change and to offer lives for those in need. Finally the curse had been lifted and the sun could hit this area of Zena again as the village rebuilt itself and started to thrive once more.
[3232]
Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Posted: Fri Sep 03, 2021 10:37 pm
☾Growth to Stage 4☾
Zyphire was out and about shopping in Oba while the rest of his family was up north. The Shifter hated leaving them but he also couldn’t stand the cold for so long and it was for the best that he traveled during the harsher winter. It was also beneficial to everyone since he took the time to gather supplies in the Oban markets, mainly spices so that he could continue making his delicious meals whenever he returned. The spicier the meat the more Zyphire loved it and he also was fond of the amber sugar blocks and the rock salt that kept the meat lasting longer. “I could make some curry with that as well.” He added some dried peppers and seeds to his basket before tossing some coins to the merchant. Now that he had a good amount to bring home, a whole cartload of things to drop off at the animal sanctuary and to take to the villagers up north, Zyphire felt ready to travel again. He had already been in Oba for a couple of weeks so that he could fully gather information, supplies and enjoy the warm desert sands. Before that he had spent a couple of weeks in Matori and made note to take the children whenever Sylvirah felt like it would be okay for them to travel. He doubted the huntress would go far away from Zena but at least he could convince her to let him take the children one winter whenever they were a little bit older. It was still strange being a father and honestly there was a part of Zyphire that didn’t understand the role. He was still mischievous and perhaps a bit more playful than anyone else in the Ild'vann was accustomed to but it was simply how he was and he still wasn't completely certain he wanted to let go of his freedom.
Honestly when he was away for the summers it was almost tempting to just do whatever he wanted. Zyphire always shook his head at the thought but today was one of those days where it felt like the gods were truly out to test him. The Shifter had loaded up his cargo and was preparing to head out, his pair of Xaraan eager to run away with the cart, but a sudden scream caught his attention. “Oh?” Zyphire blinked, his hands going towards his swords, before darting across the sands and towards an alley. It seemed that there were a few thieves trying to gang up on a young woman. “You know for once it would be surprising to see you beating up on some giant dude or something.” Quipped Zyphire before drawing his blades and drawing some blood before chasing the thieves away. Honestly he had more daring rescues in the past, but at least he had managed to help someone before leaving the city.
“Thank you.” The Oban woman took him by surprise before grabbing at his arm when he turned to leave. “Can I repay you somehow?” She asked, her crimson gaze gleaming as she looked over the Shifter, “I don’t know how I would have gotten away if not for you.”
“Glad to help.” Zyphire began before she tugged him closer again. “I’m sorry?”
“I really would like to repay you.” She murmured as she pressed up against Zyphire’s chest.
“Oh, oh.” Zyphire blinked with surprise, an actual flush covering his own cheeks as he realized what she was trying to insinuate. How long had it been since he had taken his time enjoying everything in Oba? It was not uncommon for him to spend time here and there with others but now...now he found himself freezing even though a very attractive woman was trying to get his attention. The realization had him taking a step backwards, “I can’t.”
“Why not?” The woman frowned. “You rescued me and seemed very interested in the tavern earlier.”
Ah! Zyphire’s gaze widened. No wonder the Oban seemed familiar now that he got a better glance at her! He had been rather flirty last night while in the tavern, but he hadn’t….no he didn’t get that drunk. If anything he had been slightly tipsy and perhaps a bit too generous in his attentions while paying for some drinks and just enjoying the company of others while they shared stories. Maybe he would have been tempted before but now? Zyphire took a step forward as if to test the waters before finding himself stopping with a frown. “I really can’t.” He started again. “I’m sorry if I misled you but I had no intentions…”
“You seemed to have plenty last night.” She pouted as she trailed a finger along Zyphire’s chest. “I lost you in the crowd but it’s almost like fate brought us together again today. Why pass on such a fortunate meeting? On’os is surely on our side. My family is well off and we could enjoy quite the night of luxury together... ”
Zyphire would have jumped on that chance once before. Still, even as he listened to her sirensong the swordsman found himself suddenly thinking of someone else. A brazen huntress with a wild nature who wasn’t delicate like the girl before him and would much rather shoot an arrow or spear something than dance about. He also thought of two younglings and a small smile crossed his lips. “Thank you but no.” This time his voice was resolute as he took her hand from his chest. “I’m already claimed it seems.” Even if he hadn’t truly realized it until now. Not only had Zena become his home but he had grown his family there without ever intending to do so.
“Shame.” The woman let out a sigh before her expression became less tempting and more sinister. “It would have been a lot more entertaining to rob you after a night of fun.”
Surprise crossed Zyphire’s face before he let out a groan. “Of course.” Why wouldn’t she be a thief as well? And of course it had been too easy to chase those other guys away. They must have all been on this together. “Woo the guy, have your thrills and then take from him.” Zyphire chuckled before shaking his head. “Unfortunately for you I don’t discriminate between gender with how I treat others.” He warned before preparing for yet another fight.
Even if he came home with bruises and maybe a few more scars at least Zyphire knew in his heart that he was a changed man. He had grown so much more because of meeting Sylvirah and caring for the village and their children had matured him into someone far more responsible and less fleeting than before. He would stay true to them and continue working to become someone that his loved ones could truly rely on. Now the new road ahead for him had some vastly different adventures than his previously carefree sprees of traveling and just doing whatever took his fancy whenever and wherever he wanted.
And Zyphire was finally ready to leave such things in the past...for the most part.
[1186 WC]
[Despite some very lovely temptations, Zyphire realizes that the lifestyle he once lived is no longer fit for him. He has matured into a reliable man who cares for his family and puts them above his previously more playful and selfish desires. Even if sometimes it leads to a bit more pain on his part the Shifter is willing to do whatever it takes to stay true to his family and looks forward to his new journey as a family man.]
Posted: Sun Oct 06, 2024 11:28 am
☾Closing a Chapter☾
“Ah, would ya look at that?” The older Shifter wobbled over towards Zyphire with a grin. “I think I remember this one. You have those family crystals that Kylina shared with ole Abbi.” The man looked nearly ancient with his silver gaze almost faded to gray from the passage of time while whatever color his hair may have had if it ever had been anything other than white was so frail that it almost looked translucent. What was even more surprising than the fact that the man could even hobble with the aid of that wooden staff was the fact that he had a cracked crystal along the side of his forehead, the once oval crystal now split and jagged from what looked like a nasty scar along his skull like someone or something had nearly killed him. At first Zyphire had to check over his shoulders, the Shifter confused that anyone was addressing him out here in Neued like this. Not that he hadn’t made some friendships with merchants and other travelers over the years, but it was actually fairly uncommon for him to come all the way out to Jahaur like this. Usually he gathered supplies in Matori and Oba, spending some time in Tale and Sauti along the way, before returning to stay at the sanctuary for the rest of the winter season and then heading up north to be reunited with Sylvirah and their family once the mountain passes thawed with the beginning of spring. So it would make more sense for him to know someone along those areas, not the main Shifter city where Zyphire would just run in and out of the area once in a blue moon to gather supplies only found here. Despite his bravado with bringing his family and wanting to show some of his children more about their Shifter heritage, there was still a lingering turmoil whenever he was in the area. It wasn’t as if he had the most blessed life here, after all, and that was why he had started living in Zena with Talisia in the first place. He had only been fourteen when his older cousin had found him and taken him in. Was Jahaur truly his home when over two decades of his life had been spent in Zena instead of in the actual place where he was born? Still, Zyphire wanted to try and teach his family some about this culture and Serin. The moon goddess was the one figure that Zyphire truly believed in since her guiding light was the only thing that had comforted him during those bitter years of abuse and neglect. The moonlight was the only thing he could see from the high corner room where he wept after his mother’s passing and it had been her light giving him hope at night when he was tossed aside by his relatives and left in the jungle to rot without a home. Even though he had been back to Neued several times over the past decade, Zyphire had never thought to check in to see if either his grandmother or aunt were actually still around. The estate in the trees, that damned house that his aunt had greeded over, had started fading from memory and rarely crossed his mind anymore. But now he had some ancient being staring him down as if he could read every piece of history from Zyphire’s life. It was unexpected and very, very uncomfortable for the Shifter who would much prefer to go unnoticed in the city while he was staying here and herding his children from any devastating scenarios. Maybe they should have just gone to Oba and Matori, leaving the festival of Serin for another lifetime? At least that was his thought when he realized that the name Kylina had come from the old geezer’s chapped lips. Seriously…out of all things. Zyphire was torn between being baffled that the ancient Shifter was actually functioning and surprised that he recognized him when he had left this place over twenty years ago.
But in typical Zyphire fashion, the Shifter simply flashed a grin as if not bothered at all by the recognition even as his hand itched to go towards his swords. Or was that even necessary? He could probably just twist the neck really quickly so that no words came out again and no one would question an old timer dying from a heart attack, right? Zyphire closed his eyes at the thought before opening them again and retaining his smile. That wasn’t his life anymore, he would not kill innocents even if they bothered him like this. It was like a mantra he repeated in his mind, the Shifter unnecessarily on edge in Jahaur in comparison to anywhere else. Truly, he would haven’t minded being recognized anywhere else…just not here out of all places and especially not with his mother being mentioned. “I haven’t heard those names around here.” He lied, giving a slight shrug. “So maybe you’re mistaken?
“No, no.” The Shifter wobbled closer to Zyphire, his pale gray gaze looking over the boy as he lifted a knobby finger and poked at his forehead where the middle crystal was slightly bigger than the rest. “I know that pattern far too well for you to say such a thing. Both Kylina and Kaleo studied music with me, you see? I was their instructor before they went out into the world.” His gaze softened, his expression dropping though after a moment. “They were both such good students, happiest when playing songs together, and now what? Do you really not remember your own mother, boy? I know Kaleo had a daughter, but Kylina was the one with a son. You’d be the right age…”
Spirits! Was he just cursed for bad luck because this was the first time he had brought his family to Neued? At least Talisia had the perk of being a hybrid so it would have thrown off others. Zyphire though? He was pure Shifter and favored his mother more strongly than his father, not that he had ever known the man to truly know. His mother at least would say that he had his jawline and that the slight dimple at the left corner of his lips came from the man. The rest of him though? Everything from his crystals to his coloring came straight from his mother, even the slight tilt of his eyes were from the beauty who had enchanted so many with her music. And for the man to mention Kaleo as well…even Zyphire felt bad for disappointing someone who his mother and older cousin would have gratitude towards. Probably best that I don’t snap his neck then. The Shifter realized, trying to joke away the situation to himself before finally nodding. “I suppose you took me by surprise then so I wasn’t certain how to respond.” He took a step back before looking around, trying to find a place outside of the lower markets where they could get away from the crowd. Zyphire had just gone out to get some snacks for the family, the man giving them time to explore the city before tonight’s second round of festivities, but now it looked like he would just have to get those snacks later. What was more important was finding a more discreet spot to speak with the old man before any of his children stumbled into them with any questions. And to think I thought the most awkward thing about this trip would be just seeing how Ziya missed all the cues from the performers dropping ribbons for him. Damn, if only that was it. Spirits, he would even take the twins causing a bit of mischief over this scenario. “Kylina was my mother. It’s just been ages since I’ve heard her name around these parts. Do you happen to drink? There’s a tavern back that way. I’m sure they have tea or water as well, on second thought.”
“I could take a seat.” The old man mumbled after a moment, gesturing with his staff for Zyphire to guide the way. Somehow he seemed capable enough to keep up with Zyphire as they weaved through the crowded market and up a side path of stones that twisted through the tangled roots of the giant trees with only glowing fungi and a few scattered crystals lighting the path once they got away from the main markets. “Perfect.” He walked into the quieter tavern after Zyphire and slowly made his way towards a place to sit. Thankfully the space was mostly empty, Zyphire having picked it because of how early in the day it was. Those who had lingered through the night had already stumbled out with their hangovers to either collapse into bed or try to face the day, while the barkeep had cleaned up a bit more for those few customers that would come in for a drink to take a break from the day’s heat and chores. It would close later in the afternoon, giving them time to take a rest, and then open up with the setting sun for the festivities that would crowd the tavern once more. The large wooden structure was built like others in the base of a giant tree and the wooden tables with their surfaces smoothed down nearly gleamed from the silver rings inside of the darker wood. It was probably taken directly from this tree or a neighbor with how nicely the rings matched the walls of the tree, the silver rings going all the way up to the roof of the tavern with only creeping ivy serving as further decoration for the quaint space. Not that the wood bothered the Shifters, both sitting on opposite benches across from each other at the table furthest away from the main bar. It was a perfect spot for Zyphire to relax a bit more, the man less worried about wandering eyes or his own family finding them here.
“So you never introduced yourself.” Began Zyphire as he waved over the one server in the building to ask for ale. “Ale for me and….?” He glanced back towards the elder, curious about how he would order now that they were actually in a tavern. But the girl was already walking away from them, having given a small nod towards the elder, and Zyphire just stared in disbelief after the colorful skirts as she disappeared from view to go into the back kitchen. “Either she was being really rude or…”
“I’ve been here before.” Chuckled the Shifter as he settled in on the bench, crossing his legs and somehow acting ten years younger now that they were out of the market. “It worked out that you were going in the same direction as me. She’ll be bringing me my usuals, I’m sure.”
“I see.” Zyphire frowned some more as he looked over the instructor, his expression more wary now that the features seemed to shift by the second. “You aren’t as ancient as you seem, sir.” The very thought made his hand drift back towards his waist, the blades there ready to be pulled within seconds if there was any sign of trouble.
“I’m still your elder, so don’t panic. I might just be a decade or two younger than you originally thought.” Commented the man, leaning back now so that his hair took on more of a healthier blue sheen and his gaze suddenly burned a lot brighter than that faded gray from before. “Never seen illusion magic before?”
“Sorry if I didn’t expect it from some hobbling elder who approached me out of the blue…who looked like he should be on death’s door instead of able to walk to a tavern….which he did so quite easily now that I think about it.” Zyphire winced at his own words and let out a groan. “Yep, I’m an idiot. So are you just messing with me about Kylina or did you truly know her? If we’re going to throw hands, can I at least have my drink first? And musician or magician? Both? Do you play the fiddle or do you just play others? Like is this just some sort of kink for you? Bringing younger men into taverns out of their pity and then jumping them later when you shake off decades of age? I hate to say it but I’m happily married and my more flexible days of playing around with others are over now.”
“You really are a talkative one.” The man laughed and waited for the girl to drop off their drinks, a glass of amber liquor for his own drink with a twist of cinnamon added in for extra spice, and he passed along some coins to her. “You can tell your father to close now, thank you for serving us.”
“Anytime sir.” She pocketed the coins and nodded to the pair of them, the girl scurrying away to close the front door and place up the sign before disappearing into the back once more.
“So you paid off this tavern and still haven’t even given me a name.” Zyphire took his drink, nearly raising it to his lips for a swig before deciding against it. “Care to trade so I can try out whatever deliciousness you ordered?”
“Have at it.” The man chuckled. “My apologies for not giving you a name either. I couldn’t openly share it in a market, but I had caught sight of your arrival yesterday and wanted to speak with you. My name is Indus and I did teach your mother music, but I was more of a partner to your father before that. Kylina was a great student, but I was not her original mentor. I was just a fellow student who taught her a few more tricks and hung out with her and Kaleo before making the mistake of introducing them to Tanyil.”
“Indus?” Zyphire frowned as he tried to recognize the name, the Shifter swapping their glasses in the meantime even though he didn’t take a drink just yet. Not until the man drank from the plain ale glass, giving Zyphire some relief though he still didn’t touch his own. The name Indus was bothering him far too much. In the far reaches of his memory there was a whisper of that name, his mother mentioning it before to someone passing through their home back one dark night. He was supposed to have been asleep at the time, but had felt restless since his mother had seemed off that day and when a guest snuck into their house in the dark of the night the boy had crept towards the door to try to listen in. There had been an argument, his mother refusing to go with the man and whispering a harsh Indus, no! We can’t! after much pleading and then in the morning Zyphire had woken up to his mother sipping tea as if nothing had happened. His father had been gone that week, taking care of something about loose ends, and when he returned they moved again as if fleeing from something. And then years later it was too late to find out anything more, his father had passed and his mother’s mind had slipped away along with her desire for life. Any signs of Indus had faded since they ran away from their original home to disappear into a new area of Jahaur, the pair hoping to not be bothered with their small family until the war with the Extremists ripped them apart. “You visited our home before we moved further away. You worked with my father?” He barely knew the man since he left when Zyphire was just a child, the few faded memories being the only thing he had of the man was a musical laugh and a rough, calloused hand that had held a sword most of his life. His own pendant, an amulet of Serin, was from his father and it was the same one that he touched now.
“I did.” Indus watched the movement and a small smile crossed his lips. “I see you kept Tanyi’s pendant. We have matching ones, did you know?” He pulled out a similar one from beneath his tunic for Zyphire to see. “Protection amulets since we worked with a dangerous family.”
“I never knew much about my father’s family. I’m assuming there was a good reason for it.” Admitted Zyphire as he looked over Indus, the Shifter torn between curiosity and apprehension. “Either way both of my parents are gone from this world now and unless you’re wanting to be nostalgic, there’s not much I can offer.”
“Me take from you? I would rather give you things.” Indus replied after a moment. “I’m getting older, perhaps not as ancient as it first appeared, and I have a delicate situation with your father’s family at the moment. Still, I wanted to take care of his child if I ever got the chance.”
“You do know I’m a grownass adult, right?” Zyphire chuckled with amusement. “Your timing is a bit off so I don’t think I need that help now. Maybe if you went back a couple of decades…there was a starving boy who was lost, but no longer.” Thank the spirits that Talisia had found him. It seemed like his life could have gone drastically different had this man or someone from his father’s family found him instead. His grandmother and aunt had whispered about blood being on his father’s hands and how they couldn’t trust Zyphire to not follow the same path, at least that was what Akilo kept pushing since his aunt wanted him out of the picture. It was not hard to guess, not when Zyphire had felt natural holding blades as well and found the stash of weapons and poisons once owned by his father before his mother passed and he went to live with his grandmother and aunt. But then again maybe it would have been more satisfying to know that he could use those tools to punish others back then, even if it meant getting blood on his own hands like his father had. Finding another path though, one that allowed him to choose guarding others over killing them without reason, that had been a blessing and Zyphire was thankful for it. It had allowed him to find Sylvirah and help bring life back to the Ild’vann, something that made his life feel meaningful instead of feeling like he was someone’s tool for destruction.
“A fine adult. One with a growing family though.” Indus took another drink, finishing the glass of ale and then reaching for his own again. “If you aren’t drinking then allow me.” He smirked towards Zyphire, taking a drink when the Shifter didn’t protest. “Smart, to be wary of things. Not that I would poison you, but you never know if others in the family might learn about your presence and try to take matters into their own hands. You have a rather handsome son, one that they would have loved to train if they had caught him earlier. Your youngest girls though, they have potential...”
Dammit! Zyphire frowned, his gaze burning with anger at the very suggestion. “My family belongs in the north, they would never settle in Jahaur or find that part of the family. If you could even consider my father’s family, people I’ve never even dealt with before that he didn’t want anything to do with either.” So he would do his best to keep things that way, if he could. No one out here would be taking his family, not if he could help it. “What do you really want, Indus? Do you need me to go fight someone for you? We can work something out, if you’re that desperate for help. Don’t threaten my family, not if you want me to keep playing nice.”
“Don’t mistake me.” Indus shook his head. “I didn’t intend to threaten your family, I’m just warning you of the possibilities. I tried to convince your parents to come home to Tylin’s family, they would have taken care of your mother if she didn’t take your father away from his work, but they fled instead which hurt some feelings of those in power. Their desire for freedom cut out people like me who would have fought to keep them safe, you know. And then just for him to go and die in a stupid war against some greedy Aishans…it was a waste.” Even Zyphire couldn’t keep up with the feelings he was seeing dance across the expression of the older Shifter. Indus seemed angry, upset and honestly disappointed with each word spoken as if he truly might have held affection for Zyphire’s parents.
“Sounds like you’re just being a jilted lover. You know haunting me won’t bring back my mother or father, whichever one of them you favored. Or did you like both?” He couldn’t help taunting the man, Zyphire’s cheeky side showing as usual despite his better judgment. To be fair, he had brought Zyphire’s children into the conversation which made the Shifter want to turn the focus back on him. If Indus wanted to fight someone then it was best that Zyphire took the punches and left the others out of this mess. And so he continued talking, his mouth moving without hesitation. “Wanted to take turns sharing the bed while sending my father out on dangerous missions? Then greet him with a big kiss when he returned home or share some moments with him if you went on that same mission? Guess them having a kid together kind of ruined that, right? Or should I call you pops? That make you happy?”
“Ah, I see you inherited your father’s charismatic nature.” Replied Indus after a moment, the Shifter simply finishing his drink instead of reacting to Zyphire’s words. “I’ve been playing this game far too long, you can’t bait my anger so easily.” The glass dropped to the table, his tight grip not going unnoticed by Zyphire despite the calm words, and Indus stood again. “Just come with me, leave a note if you need. You’ll be visiting someone with me and that way I can stop haunting you, but be warned about your family. I promise you that I’m not a threat, but there are others who may want something to do with Tanyil’s heirs. Your uncle never did forgive Kylina for seducing your father and stealing him away. I would recommend keeping your token of Serin beneath your clothing or tucked away in your luggage somewhere until you’re outside of the city, and avoid any mentions of shades.”
“Fair enough.” Zyphire let out a sigh as he stood and followed Indus outside. “Let me leave a note that I’ll be back later. I can’t simply disappear from hunters, not when my oldest could track us down before you even sneeze.” They would just have to watch over the youngest two for the day and Zyphire hoped he would return by the festivities or at least by morning. This was the consequence of him lowering his guard after years of being away from home, Zyphire not even thinking to worry about his father’s family while it was only his aunt who haunted him. His grandmother had passed away about ten years ago and he didn’t even want to think about the awkwardness of stumbling into Akilo. Though speaking of Akilo…“You have to be kidding me. Why are we here?” Zyphire crossed his arms as he looked over an estate at the edge of the city, the sprawling treehouse its own building with elegant twisted tree limbs holding up the multi story home. That was almost as fancy, if not fancier than the inn that they were currently staying at with freaking stained glass windows and crystal beaded curtains and everything.
“Because it’s about time you received your inheritance.” Indus smirked. “You’d rather have this one than the other, right? Kylina made quite a fortune with Tanyil’s help before it was stolen away by your favorite aunt.”
“I left this behind on purpose.” Zyphire replied bitterly. “Are you telling me Akilo owns this?” She had chased him out, keeping the fortune that his parents had left behind, and even keeping him from his grandmother’s lands that should have belonged to him one day as well.
“Akilo is on her deathbed.” Replied Indus, glancing over towards Zyphire. “I came to take care of her myself, but she was already sick and rattled. I suppose Serin decided to give her some karma, a poor marriage and miscarriages resulted in distress and frail health. She has no direct heirs and not much time left to live.”
“A fitting end for such a vile woman.” Zyphire frowned at the thought. “So why bring me here?”
“She has no direct heirs, remember?” Indus grinned. “You’re the one left to take this estate. I found out about it when I came to take care of things once I found out more about you and your whereabouts.” The Shifter chuckled. “Coming to Neued a couple of years back allowed me to get a glimpse of you in the market. I spent some time with a merchant to help track down more information about you since you slipped away before I could reach out. Going to Zena wasn’t possible at the time but I had faith you would return so I settled down in the area and kept some merchants on the lookout until then.”
“You truly are haunting me.” Zyphire grumbled before shaking his head. “Let’s get this nightmare over with. As long as you leave my children alone, I’ll deal with this mess on my own.”
“Fair enough.”
“I’m serious, Indus.” Zyphire stared the man down before going up towards the connecting bridge, taking the path into the estate. The porch of the structure wrapped around the house, the elegant pillars all hand carved and twisting up to keep the area stable. He could tell that his aunt wasted no time in selling his family’s lands and investing a lot of money into this estate. Of course she would want to be in the city to flex her wealth and live in luxury instead of being in the smaller village where she could help out by running the estate and trading the fruits raised there. “What a waste.” He allowed Indus to guide him through the house, ignoring the stairs that twisted up into another level of living where there were probably more bedrooms and some sort of grand dining space, and the pair instead went to a smaller room that had been converted into a bedroom for the dying Shifter who could no longer go upstairs easily. A maid flinched at the sight of Indus, moving out of the way and bowing her head to both men as she left the room.
“Vyin? Is that you?” A weak voice called out.
“What do you think?” Zyphire asked, moving the canopy aside so that he could show his face to the frail Shifter there. The cursed woman looked miserable and it was so bad that even Zyphire couldn’t delight in her pathetic appearance, even after all the pain she had caused him. “Hello, aunt.”
“Zy-zyphire?” The woman coughed, his appearance completely catching her off guard and throwing her into a bit of a fit. “How are you here?” As she settled, Zyphire handing her a glass of water that was sitting by the bed, the woman started crying. “Is this a blessing? A final chance to say I’m sorry before Serin takes me?”
“Oh? You want to apologize.” Zyphire let out a laugh. “Don’t think you’ll get forgiveness that easily. You made my life hell, after all.” His gaze narrowed thoughtfully. “But I suppose you paid quite the price for your greed, didn’t you?”
“I made…mistakes.” Akilo wheezed, turning her gaze away. “Is it not enough that I’m going to die here alone?”
“Maybe, who knows? Either way it’s not my place to bless your spirit and tell you that everything is all love and forgiveness.” Zyphire smiled. “I’m not that much of a saint. But you can take some relief in knowing that I’m still alive and doing well. I’ve grown on my own, gotten stronger and have plenty of heirs if you’re looking for the line to continue on through someone.”
“I’m glad.” Akilo managed, tears running down her cheeks. “I always wondered, but I’m so glad.”
“Be glad then and enjoy your remaining tidbit of life, I guess.” Zyphire shrugged, his heart still aching at the sight of the woman who had tormented him for so many years and did nothing to help save his mother’s life before ruining his own. “Maybe I’ll keep the estate, maybe I’ll burn it down. Who knows?”
“Either way, it’s yours. I wanted to leave it to you since it’s only right. I should have never taken what belonged to my sister…it was yours.”
“Only because you didn’t have heirs.” Quipped back Zyphire. “Don’t try to act like you’re all golden hearted now, not after everything. I’ll take it only because it was part of my mother’s hard work, but not because I forgive you and want to make amends.”
“I truly am sorry, Zyphire. If I could…”
“If everyone could redo their awful decisions, we’d all say something different after knowing the results. But you did what you did, not caring about those you harmed along the way, and so it’s too late to act like you care now.” Zyphire replied. “Say your apologies, feel better that you managed to say it to my face because I did survive and then prepare to face Serin’s judgment. I’m curious to see if you’ll be able to join the stars with the others.” And if she did, may she never cross his parents’ constellation in the night sky. Their stars deserved to have eternal peace together without any trash littering their area of heaven. “As it is…may you pass peacefully and never worry about me again.” It was the best that he could give her, Zyphire turning his back on his aunt and walking out with Indus trailing behind. He would have quite a few things to sort out later, including the treasures that his aunt had hoarded which were supposed to be from his mother, but at least part of an old chapter had finally been resolved though the presence of Indus did make Zyphire extremely wary for what else could be coming next.
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