Directory / Updates Yunan Relationships RP & Adventures Inventory & Art Growth Reqs Old Journal The Story So Far
⌛ Updates ⌛
Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Posted: Tue Jun 02, 2020 8:46 am
Name: Yunan Stage: 4 - Knight Race: Water x Ice Gender: Male Appearance Tall with lean muscle and noble features. Base Traits: Aloof, Studious, Vain Personality: Yunan seems to be a very anti-social man and in truth - he is. He's the type that while growing up would much rather explore on his own than go join the gaggle of children playing with the tides along the beach. Many would wonder if the boy was just shy, but as they get to know him they'll find that he just has a cool attitude towards life. Rarely ever does he seem to become too heated or attached to something and while it may worry others about how to tell what's truly in his heart it does mean the boy is a good negotiator. His poker face for lying is the best and he also has the type of mind that can easily resolve an issue without letting emotions rule his actions. On the downside if Yunan ever did find himself overwhelmed or struck by an emotion he treats it as a strange thing and perhaps at first -when he grows older and finds something truly of value or interest to stir his heart- the hybrid may be a bit selfish almost like a child in claiming it for himself.
Because he was such a loner, Yunan found himself attracted to books and studying. Anything that could be observed would be observed - even if it was simply watching the rise and fall of the tides. For him life is like a strategy game and in order to play your pieces well you must be informed. It may make him appear a bit sterner than intended at times as he will become quite serious when learning something new. He also is not beyond pushing his body over and over to learn new skills as well. For those seeking help or advice he would be a good ally to have (if you can get past his prickly exterior).
While being a bit more aloof than others and along with having knowledge from being such a studious spirit Yunan may indeed possess a bit of vanity. He believes that he can become the best as long as he pushes himself and more often than not he will look down on others. He finds many less like companions and much more like pieces to be moved according to his whim. One day he feels that he will achieve some great success or power and he must be prepared for it. Spending time playing around with others would only be a waste of his precious time and hinder his studies - unless of course he's simply spending time with others in order to gain knowledge or something else.
Notes: -He doesn't sleep too often now that he's older save for a few necessary hours at night. He much prefers to continue reading under candle light or walking along the beach so that he could study the stars.
-He actually can sing quite well as his mother did but no one ever gets to hear it save for the waves.
-He feels like being back in Matori is like like allowing his mother to watch over him, in a way the rolling ocean waves are like her spirit reaching out to say hello on occasion.
❋❅History❅❋
Yunan's parents met during the Oban war. Lyrias had been a slave to an Oban noble with dreams of a much bigger and brighter future. Her gaze they said was always like looking into the sunrise of a new day. It was brimming with so much light and love for the world that one simply couldn't look away. Separated from any family long ago the girl had no true roots to hold her into place and so day after day of tending to her mistress, of fetching supplies from market, of preparing meals, of combing the Oban's hair, and preparing her bed for the night the woman continued to dream.
She dreamed of a better future where one could roam freely and be whatever they wished.
It was silly and often she would be scolded by other slaves for such fantasies, but then one day her dreams shifted into reality. Tales of Besian and Frey leading rebels against Oba began to filter into the market. Many were punished for spreading such rumors - that the Oban Army was going to be defeated and that the Matori would be released by these strangers - but it was too late. Lyrias had heard enough. So in the dead of the night the young woman darted out of her master's mansion and across the sands.
It was then that she learned to fight with a bow. And it was there that she met him - Kynon. A ice warrior who had pledged to fight with Freya and the rebels. At first Lyrias had found him to be a bit stiff, but as they bonded together by training for battle and by protecting each other in battle a slow bud of romance began to form. In the evenings after a long day Lyrias would entertain him with songs and dances that she had learned from Oba and other slaves while he would tell her about the snows of Zena and how the mountains seemingly kissed the skies.
And eventually they would talk the nights away until they both woke up in the mornings with their fingers laced tightly together.
------------Kynon's Perspective---------------
"Kynon was raised in a more noble household of warriors. As the second son he had a bit more freedom to roam than his older brother, but he was still dedicated to the arts of fighting - hence why he became a sentinel. He had trained his body and mind to be firm and cool as ice so as not to lose himself in the heat of battle. He has the mind of a strategist for the most part and prefers to see battles as more of a puzzle - mostly he thinks about where can he strike next, what area does his opponent seem weak in, how the rest of the battle is shaping around him, and etc.
What he did not prepare himself for was the bubbly, light filled Matori woman who would find his stoic persona a challenge to overcome. At first he found her rather annoying and tried to push her off a bit. She was a Matori that was definitely not worth his time. Even if they were on the same side it did not mean that he had to spend time with her unless absolutely necessary. He had much better things to prepare for than keeping up with a strange woman, no matter how enticing her laughter was as it rolled across their encampment.
Originally it worked, but the man was not heartless and when she was in trouble he did have the habit of coming to her aid - despite race they were comrades in war after all. And it was the first time that Lyrias reached up to take his hand, after falling during training together, she realized that he was rather handsome. From then on the Matori woman sought him out and made certain that he would notice her. It turned out that despite his own stubborn pride her determination and energetic ways were far too much of a match.
First it started by her volunteering to bring food and water to those training - obviously during the time he was actively in the arena. So thus began her presence in his daily life as they brushed across each other while training and working. Eventually she began asking him to help train her in the way of battle so that she could be a better assist to the cause, then she began to slip into asking him more about his own fighting techniques and how he had learned them, to just asking simpler questions until he had gotten accustomed to her being there in the evenings with him to just simply talk of things. Her tender expressions and playful nature eventually got to him as well - he had never gotten much of a chance to be a dreamer himself and that stirred him. The vision that Lyrias had of the world as a peaceful place full of possibilities for all regardless of race seemed so much better than the icy realm he had been raised in. And the ocean the way she described it with her gaze sparkling well it rather caught his attention as well as her lips. The more she persisted in staying around him the more his guard slipped until it got to the point that if she wasn't nearby at a certain time he would be the one to seek her out."
And thus began their evenings spent together and the budding romance -
When the battles were over and Matori was free again the two of them wed. It had been a hard decision for Kynon at first, but then again the idea of leaving behind the woman who had taught him joy again was far more torture than the judgement of his own kind. So he stayed and settled down in Matori where they both could experience her homeland for the first time together. A couple of years passed and along with it came the birth of a little one - Yunan.
Lyrias treasured her son as a token of their love, "Look he has your proud nose and your judging eyes." She would tease lightly as she held their youngling for the first time.
"Are you certain? I think he reflects his mother's tender smile the best." For the next year after they were truly blessed and happy. But happiness only lasts so long. When the extremists rose to fight both parents refused to deny their warrior blood. Yunan was left with a close family friend in Matori and together, hand in hand, his parents ventured off to fight against the threat to their peaceful world.
However, only one came back.
Lyrias had sacrificed her life to save her beloved's and in the heat of battle Kynon could only watch as the Matori fell. Those watching that day say that his loss fueled his blades and he cleared a whole line of extremists in his pain.But whatever the truth one thing was truly noted - the man was absolutely heartbroken.
At first when he returned he came to take Yunan back to Zena. He needed to recover and to get away from the waves which taunted him with memories. For a few years they lived together, father and son, in a quiet place. His father would leave Yunan with piles of books to entertain himself while going out on his own ventures. Then when he came back in the evenings he would ask the boy what he had learned and they would eat dinner together before going to bed. Some nights Yunan would find his father crying in his sleep and the boy would crawl over and slip in the furs so that he could hold the warrior in place of the woman that they both had lost.
Seasons passed but memories continued to linger. Eventually his father gave up on hiding from his love and instead the man shifted them back towards Matori where he felt that Yunan could live more freely than in the stiff region of Zena. Yet even then the boy opted to stay with the books that he had learned to cherish rather than playing. Even though he had been but a youngling there was something that felt strange about running through the beach with others his age. Not that many would since he was often made fun of for being such a strange creature, but Yunan kept his head held high. His logic was that they were just jealous of him and any bullies could quickly be outwitted by the boy who loved to use logic to spin minds around. Of course sometimes this meant a black eye for the boy, but even he eventually learned how to use his own fists or to dodge in turn.
Currently, he's just settling into his life back in Matori while his father flickers in and out of his life on missions to earn coin for their family. When he isn't with his father he is with Maloni - his mother's friend who had watched him during war times. And Yunan is content with that. His silent friendship with his father as they watch the waves crashing against the rocks and keeping his bubbly 'aunt' on track while helping to figure out her small trading business is enough to satisfy him for now. Though there are days when he glances up at the skies and wonders what could be next. After all he is someone who feels as if there is more out there for him, but he is also a patient boy. When the time comes he feels that he will know exactly when and how to act.
Posted: Tue Jun 02, 2020 8:48 am
⌛Relations⌛
♥ Nicosia "Nyko" - A Matori bard who Yunan picked up originally to help with his growing business, but strangely enough Yunan grew an affection towards the man and developed a deeper relationship. ♥ Aaricia - A developing relationship that has Yunan wary. Is she trustworthy and capable of pulling off a plot with them even though Nyko knows her? ❄ Aurick - A Belrean baker who made delicious treats, but seemed a bit...absent when it came to other things. ❄ Kaimana - Some annoying Matori who made one too many assumptions when he ran into him in Belrea. ❄ Nasrin - A fellow healer and herbalist that Yunan met in Belrea, they had a pleasant meeting and he would gladly exchange more notes with her in the future especially since he works with her family for Belrean medicines. ❄ Koril - Another person from a long time ago, he helped Yunan when he was injured in Matori. A good hearted person even if Yunan didn't quite tolerate his chatter. ❄ Kyril - A lovely girl he met a long time ago in Matori, she was interesting enough to spend an afternoon with. ❄ Seriza - Someone who Yunan met a long time ago, a simple enough acquaintance even though she definitely frustrated Yunan.
Character Name: Yunan Class Promotion: [Sentinal] Current Location: Going towards Belrea Journal:[X] Growth Point Links: 80/75 [Oh No] - w/Nyko - 10 pnts [Made with Love] - w/Aurick, Nyko and Kaimana - 5 pnts [Oh yes] w/Nyko - 5 pnts [Back to Business] w Nyko - 5 pnts A Local Disaster w Aari - 5 pnts Discussing the Plan w Aari & Nyko - 5 pnts Potions WE w Aari & Nyko - 5 pnts Digging Up Dirt w Aari - 5 pnts The Informant w/ Nyko - 5 pnts Hello Darkness my Old Friend w/ Nyko - 10 pnts The Seamstress Solo - 4600 WC - 15 pnts Family Solo- 5 pnts Growth Blurb: Yunan has secured his business in Oba and has given over his shop to his aunt in Matori. Emotionally he has grown to care more for others, giving power over his family to instead pursue happiness in Belrea where the next chapter of his life awaits. Physical Description: Yunan is keeping his braided hairstyle and can have similar or different new accessories (including the hair piece) to last stage in either gold or silver (CC). His outfit can be based off of the following inspirations - colors should be cool tones or like outfit 1. Colorist choice. [Outfit 1] // [Outfit 2] // [Outift 3] // [Outfit 4] // Extra Inspiration Sword is slender and can be like the below reference // the one he already has. Note: Yunan is very extravagant at times and anything fancy looking (gems, etc) are fine by him. Also still super haughty. [Weapon 1] // Body Type:[this] (facial inspiration too) Preferred Artists: Scar or Kana Full [Kana, Scar, Ely colors] WIPs: Sure!
⌛ The Story So Far...⌛ Yunan was raised between Zena and Matori. In his later teenage years he settled completely in Matori to live with his mother's sister while his noble father continued to spend most of the year in Zena. Yunan was fairly antisocial and preferred to spend most of his younger days studying and practicing swordsmanship. He had sharp intellect and a good sense for business, mainly in playing others for profit, so his Aunt often went to him for business advice. They are currently working on securing a thriving pharmaceutical business chain, with shops throughout Matori and Oba. Around three years ago, Yunan agreed to go to Belrea to learn more about the new continent's medicines and to also set up a new shop in the city. With the help of a popular singer the shop has been secured and connections made in Belrea. Perhaps now it is finally time to return home....
Yunan had spent the last two days simply researching Belrea. The new continent was vastly different from the other countries that Yunan had grown up knowing back in Tendaji and he found himself fascinated by the technologies and the layout of the cities. Everything here seemed more focused on knowledge and they even had built an academy dedicated to expanding their society with even more experiments and technological advances. Already the hybrid had picked up on the styles and how despite not having nobility there were classes and ways of going about things based on sectors and one’s talents or birthrights. It’s basically the same just covered up with a hierarchy of sectors and giving others something of a choice. He mused with a small huff of amusement as he flipped through the pages of his journal which held days worth of notes written in his own elegant script. It was in Zenan so thankfully even if someone did decide to snoop through his belongings they would be highly disappointed by the strange language unless by some strange twist of fate they somehow knew the icier Tendaji language. If they know my home language then truly I will be more astonished than insulted that they browsed through my belongings. Perhaps it was a bit of a lie considering how short his temper truly could be but Yunan would nonetheless be somewhat impressed if not intrigued by why they would know Zenan. After all Belrea had been open to Tendaji for a few years now but not long enough for someone to truly get immersed in the culture of Zena. Even in Tendaji the country was mostly avoided by others considering its harsher climate and dangerous mountains. If it hadn’t been for the war with Oba then Yunan doubted his own existence could have ever occurred. Why would a Matori venture towards Zena after all?
Just the thought of his Matori mother made the merchant’s heart ache. While he had a colder appearance to most the loss of his mother was still something that tore at his insides. Losing her had been a blow to his family and Yunan knew that something had broken in both him and that father when she left this world. “Tsk.” Yunan’s lips curled into a sneer as he shoved away the journals in frustration. Why would he think of such things now? “I truly need to get this business open so that I can leave.” He muttered to himself as he leaned back in his chair. It was even more frustrating to realize that perhaps it was his mother’s influence once again making him do irrational things like taking time to actually acquire this bard’s contract. Out of all the advertisement schemes he could concoct why did he have to decide on something so bothersome like this one? A pain in my a** for certain. His thoughts were not the most elegant but there was no one to impress so Yunan felt more like being himself. He was short tempered and vicious in reality with little room for pleasantries save for acting with those who benefited him the most. His aunt had ingrained the attitude of a businessman into him during his teen years and Yunan had proven a quick learner. It was hard to truly see what he was thinking behind that mask and only a few could see how calculative his golden gaze could be when he was pulling puppet strings. He had worn such a mask for only the briefest of moments with the bard during their breakfast the other day but truly it was not so unpleasant a facade. A flutter of interest had stirred within him when he thought about how enticing those lips had been. He had nearly leaned forward to capture them with his own but had taken hold of those physical attractions within a split second before ruining his own game. He would use the bard to help advertise his business and then consider how arousing his presence could be for Yunan’s hidden feelings. The Matori was surely a brat but when he had mistaken Yunan for someone else and held him that night there had been something. Some warmth that Yunan had long ago forgotten in that simple, stupid embrace that taunted him with its temptations. The thought made the hybrid frown even more as he pushed away his notes.
“Focus.” He spoke the word before glancing around the room he had rented out at the inn. After his encounter with the bard, Yunan had changed to a different room with a better view of the city and a single large bed in the center. His books and scrolls covered the writing desk beneath the window and a large wardrobe was rapidly filling up with Belrea attire for his stay in the city. It was only fitting after all to wear the finer clothing of the country in which he was currently residing. Yunan tugged at the sleeves of his jacket with a soft huff. Some of their clothing was pleasant enough but sometimes he had to wonder if there truly was a necessity to having so many buttons on everything. Style was as style was he supposed. “I have the outfits, the language and now just to get the inside connections.” He had studied Belrean before leaving Matori even and had a slight grasp on the basics of the language, enough to hold conversations and to make certain no one was saying anything inappropriate or against him. It was fun enough to act dumb so that he could truly obtain a good idea of how his impression was with the potential investors, more so if someone tried to taunt the hybrid before he surprised them by replying. The thought made Yunan smirk before he leaned forward to unlock the windows so that he could swing them open and enjoy the evening air.
“I’ll need posters as well once the opening happens.” He already had a building, things were starting to fall into place as medicines were being made and staff being hired, so now all that was left was getting a successful opening with the help of some music. Just a few more years of this and then I can see the shores of Matori once more. Would dealing with Oban nobles be any better than negotiating contracts with Belrean merchants and investors? Better the devil you know than the one you don’t. Though he was confident that he would know them well enough within the next couple of years. For now he could just write to his aunt about what he had learned and how things were going. Yunan reached over for a piece of parchment paper and after dipping his quill into ink began writing about his past few weeks in Belrea.
Hopefully you are doing well Aunt. Surely the business in Matori is holding up well and you’ve kept in contact with Ozai in Sulburi about our shop there. I left most things well taken care of with every shop staffed with a plan for the next two or three years while I’m absent. Please feel free to write to me should the need arise and I will make certain to try and respond quickly to help aid you with any situation. So far Belrea has been welcoming and I have properly introduced myself to the connections you prepared for me. I am working on establishing more and have already started on construction of the shop which should please you greatly. I have included a sketch of the design layout and hope that it is to your liking as well. With this letter will also come some herbs and samples of the medicines prepared specifically based upon Belrean herbs and medical knowledge. The tea I created for relieving headaches is particularly potent and I have used it already on numerous occasions after a day full of meetings. Please feel free to try it should you have one of your summer migraines as I believe it would be more helpful than your usual concoctions. Yunan paused as he contemplated what else he could include in his letter for his aunt. He had already included several recipes and notes taken about Belrea with the medicines so perhaps there was not much left to say in this matter. Mostly he just wanted to let her know that he was alive and well. Things were proceeding as planned and he hoped that she was taking care of herself back home in Matori. Yunan chose to leave out several other details of course simply because they were his issue and had nothing to do with his aunt. She did not need to know about his situation with the bard and his advertising plan. She simply needed to know that he had crafted new medicines, learned about Belrean culture and their medical practices and chosen a location in the capitol already. Surely that would suffice for his update letter. That decided Yunan folded the letter and placed it inside an envelope with his seal to send out in the morning mail. Now to just retire for the night and prepare for a new day. A sigh left his lips at the thought before he turned down the lamp and went to sleep.
[1554]
Posted: Mon Oct 26, 2020 10:24 pm
⌛ Defender ⌛
Yunan had endured yet another meeting in Belrea. The investors seemed happy with his progress and the promise of entertainment during the opening of the store had seemingly only spiked their interest in his business. It was all going well for him and despite his annoyance at always playing nice he was honestly eager to see what the next meeting would bring. So far he hadn’t let his temper slip and he hadn’t resorted to relying on any underhanded tactics to get his way so Yunan was confident in his success. He just had to keep up with appearances. The hybrid continued reminding himself of that until later in that afternoon when he witnessed two lightning teens picking on another geian girl. Normally he didn’t interfere with others but it seemed like the younger girl was truly distressed and seeing her like that twisted his heart. Perhaps it had been recent events in the city and even meeting Nasrin that had softened him a bit but Yunan oddly felt compelled to stand up for the girl. “I think she’s had quite enough.” He found himself boldly stating as he walked forward with Dusk at his side. The girl was obviously in tears already and the pair of teens were only laughing at her pain. Yunan should have simply sneered at her weakness before moving on with his life but here he was staring down the two teens.
“You think?” Replied the girl, her face twisted into a sneer of her own. “This brat was rude earlier so we were just teaching her a bit of a lesson. You should just leave us be.” She was identical almost to the boy next to her and Yunan surmised that they were siblings if not twins even. They oddly looked like someone else too and he tried to ignore the suspicion while he stood his ground.
“Hmm. I could leave you be or you could just be satisfied that you made her cry and leave.” He replied flatly without much amusement. “Can you walk?” He reached forward to offer the girl a hand. “They didn’t hurt you, right? As it is I don’t think she’s the bratty one.” Yunan quipped as he helped the younger girl up.
“Excuse me?” The lightning girl replied with a gasp. “Did you just call me a brat?!”
“Hey wait.” The boy finally spoke as he reached out a hand and touched his sibling’s shoulder. “Aren’t you that hybrid our father is working with?” His expression shifted as he turned his nose upwards towards them. “I could easily tell our father that you’re a rude a** and not worth dealing with. I think you owe my sister an apology and should then leave us alone with Bri here.”
Seriously? Yunan’s stomach twisted as he contemplated his choices. There was simply something about the brats that made him want to retch but the thought of having to explain the situation to an investor was frustrating. He should just turn away and leave so that there wouldn’t be any problems. That would be Yunan’s usual answer to the situation that he had done before in the past…..yet he found himself moving even closer to the teen. “So?” Yunan sneered back at him. “I would rather work with someone who doesn’t let their children bully others so easily. Don’t think that your connections make you invulnerable to dealing with the consequences of your own actions. Go ahead and feel free to tell your father that I stopped you from bullying this girl.”
The teen opened his mouth to say something sharp but Yunan was already done with the whole situation. “Let me walk you home.” He took the geian girl’s hand before looking towards his folmar and the pair of glaring teens. “Dusk, hunt.” Yunan smirked as both siblings suddenly found themselves learning to run through the alley and even Bri giggled next to him. “Glad to hear that you can laugh.”
“Thank you.” She managed softly. “Trevo and Prina thought they could just pick on me since I received a letter from the academy.” The young teen’s lips pursed in frustration. “They thought that I could just give up my spot so that Prina could take it instead but that’s just not how things work.”
Yunan let out a soft chuckle. “I’m certain that you deserved it far more than either of them as well.”
A flush decorated her cheeks. “I would like to think so but apparently saying that makes me conceited. Will you be okay though mister? I didn’t mean to cause trouble for you….”
“Don’t ever feel ashamed for your talents and hard work.” Replied Yunan honestly. “Don’t feel apologetic either. I chose to help you and if they tell their father then so be it. I can make connections with someone who doesn’t raise their children to be completely spoiled scum.” He gave a shrug of his shoulders, a rare sign of kindness and generosity in a typically selfish man. Perhaps spending some time in Belrea and meeting others had softened something within his cold heart after all. At least for this moment if nothing else. Yunan escorted the girl home before returning to his room at the inn. He had progressed with his work in Belrea and it seemed that even he had changed a bit personally. Yunan did not fear the consequences of his actions now and was fully prepared to face any trouble that lay ahead.
[917]
Yunan shows a rare moment of kindness and does something to help another that is not to his benefit for once. It's a sign that perhaps while he has been working towards opening a shop that the connections that he is making with locals is also softening his heart just a little bit.
Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
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Sabra Knight
Feral Galaxy
Offline
Posted: Sun Jan 14, 2024 12:37 pm
⌛ The Seamstress ⌛
Madam Zayn’s business was located along one of the upper districts of Sulburi, the store a towering three story building that also served as a home for the owner and workers. It was a well known establishment for keeping up with the latest fashions and trends, the place even acting as a home for talented seamstresses. The seamstresses that worked hard for the Oban woman were taken care of with smaller apartments along the second floor, the area divided up into almost a dormitory setting so that they didn’t have to worry about their own place in the crowded city. The third floor was a luxurious apartment of its own with arching doorways and large rooms with plenty of windows to allow in a breeze to cut through the desert heat, sheer curtains fluttering in those few winds whenever they did come past with wooden shutters that could easily block out any sand. The most important part was the area behind the rows of dresses and silks, the hidden doorway reserved for staff and special patrons used for certain situations that did not include the general public. There were nearby fitting areas to cover up the space on the surface, the designing and work rooms nestled above the curving stairs that went down into a cellar-like area below the building itself. Yunan had been escorted here today with Aaricia for fittings, the hybrid secretly not needing a fitting but rather coming along for a meeting with the Madam herself. So it was down these steps that Yunan walked after being greeted in for a fitting, the hybrid going into a fitting area before disappearing behind a row of silks after a petite Matori girl and down the stairs to where the Madam waited for him.
“I would have preferred to have you come into my apartment, but that’s not as subtle.” Mused the Oban woman in greeting as Yunan approached. As usual, she was dressed in the finest styles of Oban society with layered silks of crimson and indigo embroidered with golden dragons along the edges that were done with such detail and skill that they almost appeared lifelike and ready to fly away from the material at any moment. A darker sash was tied around her waist with a golden rope around it, strands of ropes interlaced with the main piece and tied at the ends with precious gemstones as she enjoyed showing off her wealth. Not that the stern looking woman was truly as menacing as rumored, Yunan knew much better thanks to her close relationship with his aunt. “It’s been a while since you’ve had to creep into my building, Yunan dear.”
Yunan smirked, the hybrid giving a slight bow in greeting towards his aunt’s childhood friend or rather the one who had owned her during the time of slavery. “It’s been a while, Madam Zayn. The last time I saw you, your hair was not quite that color. It seems I’ve been gone too long and the years have gotten to you.” Perhaps he was already pushing his limits with the vain woman, Yunan always feeling a bit more reckless with this woman who he knew enjoyed someone with more bite than politeness. It was part of why they got along so well, he had a sharp edge that she enjoyed especially when it came to verbal confrontations.
“Testing my patience already?” The Madam scoffed before waving her hand, “Stop it with the Madam Zayn as well. We’re in a safe space so please call me Kirsa, Yunan.” She frowned at the comment concerning her hair and twisted a stray strand, the curled ends shimmering almost in the flickering torch light of their underground meeting room. “You surely know about that pollen which affected so many. It wasn’t age which turned my darker hair this color, it was that pollen. Don’t you think it almost looks like a fine wine in color now?” It was that deep violet hue, no gray hairs to see in the mixture even though Yunan had teased her about the years. Somehow though Kirsa always managed to stay youthful, another aspect to how she attracted so many nobility while never taking an actual partner for herself in society. Rumors of how many lovers she had constantly spread while Yunan knew the truth, the woman only had eyes for a certain Matori who was completely immune to her charms as she was oblivious to such things. Not that it mattered. There were a couple of seamstresses that the Madam had taken in and raised as her own that would take over when the time came, the one Matori Oban hybrid rumored to be both her niece and heir. Kirsa didn’t like relying upon others and had proven many times that she could fight in this world on her own, that her life was hers and hers alone. She didn’t need someone to come carry her off into the sunset, she would walk herself there on her own. Though she had gathered a group that was similar to family, those working here willing to put their lives on the line for the Oban woman who had defied so many ever since she was a youth who supported the Matori during the war. It was the very reason that Yunan’s aunt was so fond of her and the reason that Yunan trusted her so much, even to the point of coming to her during this time when there was so much at risk. If there was someone he could finally relax around after weeks of playing this charade it would be Kirsa since even his visits with Nyko were tense when they were watched over by the nearby servants and others.
“My apologies, it has simply been too long.” Yunan had the hint of a smirk on his lips as he glanced towards Kirsa before settling in the seat that she gestured towards. The chair was a lot more luxurious than their current surroundings, the cellar more of an emergency shelter and meeting room which wasn’t meant for displays of wealth. The stone walls were plain, the stairs tucked away behind a simple locked door and any tapestries on the walls were not as much for decoration and only meant to help prevent any sound from reverberating from the room. The chair though was plush with an expensive wooden frame that was engraved with yaotl, Yunan realizing that even Kirsa wanted some comfort in this more oppressive feeling space. So he settled back, his legs crossing at the ankles as he stared down the Oban woman. Though his golden gaze held some warmth, the typical icy expression somewhat softer in the presence of someone he was more familiar with. “I should have visited earlier, but I’ve been a bit tied up in matters ever since arriving in Oba.” Matters which he wanted to finally resolve so that he could proceed with his own plans and go back overseas, the cities of Belrea far more appealing than this desert nation ever was.
“Tied up in matters while disregarding both your aunt and me, it seems.” Replied Kirsa as she settled in her own chair, the Oban leaning forward with her elbows on the sturdy granite desk with marble inlay. Yet another hint to her wealth despite the somberness of their current surroundings. “I’ve heard that you’ve gotten yourself into quite the mess. Are you certain that it's wise to stir the hornet's nest in Sulburi, out of all places?” Despite the sharp edge to her initial words there was a gentle expression on her face that Yunan recognized, the Oban showing that she actually was worried about him. Was it that she was worried about him or more so about his aunt and how heartbroken she would be if something happened to him?
“The more risk, the better the reward.” Replied Yunan with a determined expression, amusement dancing across his features as he recited the very words Kirsa often said when he was younger. “I was admittedly more wary at first of this whole business but I have the feeling that everything will work out. My companion has gathered his connections and the names we found turned out to be quite the catch. We’ll have plenty on our side the day of the wedding despite me not inviting my own family to the affair.” There had been some rather risky moments, some even more risque than ever desired before, but at the end of the day Yunan was confident that their actions would be worthwhile. Still, the parchment that he slid across the table towards Kirsa would prove that he had put in effort for this endeavor and he had faith that she would quickly see that when she read over the list of names.
“This is…” Her brow furrowed as she read over the names and the notes written in script just beneath them. “That’s going to be more than a hornet’s nest. You truly have evidence for all of these accusations?” Kirsa’s finger lingered over a line, her gaze fierce as she recognized a name and Yunan saw a shudder go through her body. Kirsa and his aunt had lived through the war, just as his own parents fought in it, and had experienced the darker days of Oba when the Matori were chained and treated as less than beasts. There were a couple of merchants and nobles listed who were never truly caught in the act, somehow managing to navigate politics and keep their power until this very day. Others on the list were just vile, still escaping the law but now living in the underground for the most part after losing all that they had for picking the losing side of the Oban war. The notes beneath the names? All of the ledgers that Aaricia and Yunan had managed to steal from her Dazhiq's study, the lists proving that accounts were skewed and that special merchandise went through specific ports during the darkest of nights where patrols could not easily catch them. Dazhiq apparently handled quite a bit for his connections, the man being used as a scape roati in case things went sideways for the others. Yunan knew better though and thanks to Nyko’s help on the outside they had dug through to find more evidence, trails that went from Dazhiq and all the way to the source of the corruption.
“We have the original ledgers and confessions from some that were involved with the illegal activities, workers who were forced on the docks under the cover of darkness to transport the goods.” Yunan settled back in his chair, the hybrid crossing his arms as he watched Kirsa going over the parchment as if in disbelief that she was truly reading this. It would be like a dream for her, the woman having lived in Oba all of her life and working to make an information network to cut out the corruption in the city. “You caught several over the past few years which narrowed down on our lists, but the rest listed there will be invited to the wedding. A clean sweep which will also get rid of our companion’s father and allow her to breathe more freely within the city.”
“Amazing.” Kirsa shook her head as she looked away from the parchment and towards Yunan once more. “You truly are doing this then. I suppose I should do my best to support you. What do you need?” She studied him, her expression thoughtful. “Fighting attire? Your lady friend is upstairs, no? I can do fittings for you and your fiance, any staff that you may also need for the event, while making the most beautiful outfits that can also hold quite a few weapons beneath the layers of silk. I have a couple of seamstresses that I can spare for the day since brides often need someone to assist them with their attire, just in case there’s any final adjustments before the ceremony.” Both of them knew what that meant. Not only could the outfits be prepared for a fight, the outer layers ripping away to lighter clothing that was more akin to fighting leathers, but the seamstresses from the shop who attended such events were actually more akin to mercenaries who could easily kill or tranquilize a target with their poisoned needles. They would be ideal, especially if this was a capture mission to place these crooked Obans behind bars to finally face justice after so many years of doing as they pleased. If it were truly up to Yunan he would just take care of the lot of them, serving his own justice by covering the wedding hall in blood, but they were supposedly doing things the proper way and allowing the law to pick up the pieces with the evidence that they presented. The wedding would just be the easiest way to round up these names, including those who rarely showed themselves but would do so at the request of the host who they trusted to not betray them, and such an enclosed space would be convenient for any soldiers rushing in to arrest those on the list. It would result in a fight, Yunan not even doubting that, but it would at least give them more of an edge. Honestly though? He did wish a few of them would fight, preferring to use his blade rather than watching them get dragged away with a chance of survival if justice failed.
“We’re truly doing this.” Corrected Yunan with a small smile, his usually cold gaze dancing with amusement from such a positive reaction. It was hard to impress Madam Zayn, but here she was willing to dive into the situation with him because of the information that they had gathered over the past few weeks while trapped within that wretched manor. Seems like it was a worthwhile endeavor indeed. If someone who was experienced with capturing these corrupted merchants and the like was excited then surely they were on the right path to an exciting finale. “She could use the best dress that you have, one that’s easy to move in and use daggers with.” He acknowledged, glancing upstairs as he wondered how his fiance’s fitting was truly going. They had several dresses prepared for her to pick from, it was only a matter of adjusting it to her needs during the event. “Assistants would be great, I wouldn’t want to risk her dress not being perfect on the wedding day. My store is finally expanding in Sulburi since Dazhiq was too impatient to wait for the wedding day and already pushed for his friends to acknowledge my standing within society. I could pay you a good amount for all this help.” Normally a Zenan and Matori hybrid would never be allowed the privilege of a shop in the upper district, there were too many who would have fought him behind the scenes for such a location, but since Dazhiq thought he would inherit the business once something unfortunate befell Yunan after the wedding the Oban had gotten others to agree to the building. A medical business was quite profitable, especially in the middle of a busy city like Oba where the supplies coming from Matori and even Belrea now would be most welcomed. What Dazhiq didn’t know though was that the deed to such a store would not be in Yunan’s name by the end of this, he had plans for the business which would involve his aunt and potentially another instead of himself. A failsafe just in case the event did not go as planned so that the Oban wouldn’t benefit from Yunan’s assets in the city.
“You pay me for something that benefits me?” Kirsa let out a laugh, a hand raising to her lips after a moment as she regained her composure. “Sorry, that was just too much of a ridiculous statement. Why would I charge someone who is basically like a nephew to me through Maloni?” The Oban leaned forward again, her gaze narrowing thoughtfully as she studied Yunan. “I’ll gladly help because this is something that I also want to take care of, not just for your sake but for others. If anything, you could pay me for watching over that animal instead. Do you know how hard it is to take care of such a beast, especially in the city?”
Yunan blinked, his brows furrowed in confusion at the sudden twist. While the laughter and comment about nephew was somewhat expected, the other part was not as much. “What do you mean by that?” He watched as Kirsa tugged at a rope, the thing connected to a bell upstairs in a backroom. One of the aids, her personal guard who did errands as seamstresses for special events that would potentially show up at his own wedding ceremony, appeared in the stairway less than a moment later. The younger Oban woman had a fierce expression with her amber eyes looking from Yunan and then towards her mistress as she entered, but even her confidence was somewhat frayed by the large creature that pushed past her and bolted into the room. Yunan wasn’t worried though. If anything he was excited to the point that he stood up from his chair, the pair of mismatched gold and blue eyes with that dark fur immediately recognizable to him even though he had no idea how the folmar had gotten to Sulburi. “Dusk, behave.” He commanded, not wanting to show a display even in front of Kirsa despite wanting to embrace the folmar that immediately stopped in front of him at his command. Even after weeks apart the creature was still as responsive as ever before, the very thought bringing another smile to his lips as he finally placed his hand on the folmar’s head to comfort the beast and silently praise her for listening to his command. “How did you end up with my familiar? She was supposed to be taken to Matori to stay in a safe place with my aunt.” Even if he had a feeling about what Dusk’s presence meant, Yunan was trying to remain calm and hope that it wasn’t the case. Not that such hopes would prevail especially when he noticed how Kirsa shifted her own stance at the question.
“Well, that was great until you worried Maloni to the point that she felt it necessary to come to Sulburi.” Kirsa answered, not even flinching as Yunan’s gaze narrowed and immediately hardened with anger. “Don’t give me that look. I tried to convince her to stay back in Matori where it’s safer, which is saying a lot for me. I want to see your aunt more often, but not like this.” The Oban sighed, twisting a curled strand of hair in her fingers which meant that she was truly fighting her own emotions while speaking with him about this. Yunan had recognized the habit from a long time ago, it only slipped out whenever his aunt was mentioned since usually Kirsa was collected in any other situation. “She brought Dusk because somehow she found out that you have a wedding planned soon. How could she not visit? First, you go to Belrea then barely check in with her upon your return before heading straight into Oba for more business which turned into something much longer than expected. You should give your aunt more credit, her heart is pure as a newly born babe but she’s not a fool. It was hard enough to keep her here instead of allowing her to rush directly to you.”
Yunan’s fingers dug into Dusk’s fur, the hybrid taking comfort from the presence of his familiar even as his chest burned with anger and other emotions. Frustration mostly at himself mixed with worry, guilt and then anger at his own aunt from not staying where she was supposed to be. He did so much to keep her safe and then for her to do this? How foolish! Sulburi was the last place she needed to be, especially if things went wrong and they found her name was on the deed for the store. Once Yunan was out of the picture then his aunt would be next…the very thought made his stomach twist into painful knots. It wasn't just Kirsa who lost her composure when it came to his aunt, after all. What did he do now? He would have to meet with her, but meeting with her would bring her closer to that damned manor and the corruption that would try to swallow her up if it could. “Dammit.” Yunan finally breathed, his curse more of a whisper as even he didn’t know what to say about this whole situation. Still, the feeling of the soft fur beneath his fingers and the happy thumping of the folmar’s tail against the ground made the tension lessen somewhat. He had missed Dusk and his aunt, that much he did admit. He just didn’t want his aunt to be in danger, that was all. “You’ll have to keep her from the ceremony. I can’t tell her everything because I don’t trust her to behave.” His aunt would rush straight into danger, trying to take everything on herself as she was prone to do especially after losing her dearest friend, Yunan’s mother, so long ago. That was why she had taken in Yunan in the first place, taking the stance of an aunt despite them not actually being blood related because of her dedication to his mother. “I suppose I’ll have to send that letter to Zena now.” He closed his eyes against a headache, trying to not think about his father who had over the last decade gotten swept back up in his family affairs back north. There wasn’t bad blood between the pair, they simply chose to go on their own paths when Yunan stepped up in the medical business to support Maloni without much interaction going forward between father and son. The frozen tundra had once more closed his father’s heart from the family, Maloni being considered a bad influence on the Zenan who softened the longer he stayed with her. But he was the one who could protect her the best, that much even Yunan acknowledged. His distant Zenan family members be damned, his father was coming back to Matori and they would have to move on without him once more. Maloni needed the help, not them.
“I think you should.” Kirsa let out a sigh that interrupted Yunan’s swirling thoughts, “Even I don’t like the sound of it, but it’s for the best. Kynon can talk sense into her, he’s held that sway for years where I can’t do as much.” She could fight for Maloni, but she couldn’t keep her from rushing into danger either. “That was part of your plan, no? To get your father out of the cold and back to Matori where he could watch over her? I know she misses him, but she’s too stuck on Lyrias to betray her dearest friend by asking for him.” The Oban’s expression was a mixture of emotion, both regret and desire showing there as she reflected upon the whole situation. She knew Yunan, had the paperwork from weeks ago where he had sent it to her in secret, and the plan would involve both his father and aunt in the end when he left to go pursue his next chapter overseas. Kynon could protect Maloni in Matori, help her to keep the business going since he could be as ruthless as necessary to fight off any poachers and Maloni could keep coming up with her remedies and keep heart for the business to care for its own without becoming completely merciless. Kirsa was here as Madam Zayn and not planning on retiring anytime soon which would keep her in Sulburi, the very city that Maloni felt so uncomfortable in after her history here as a slave. How could she be greedy and ask for something more from the Matori who had eyes for another and could never feel comfortable in her world here? “Just bring Kynon back. I’ll host Maloni here until he arrives, it should be in time for your ceremony.”
Yunan was quiet for a long moment, the hybrid relying upon Dusk to support him more than he ever intended. The folmar didn’t move her body much the entire time, only moving her head to press against his hand more as if silently offering her own support. “Let’s pray that he replies then.” It was a good test to see if his father still truly cared, Yunan willing to accept whatever relationship the man wanted with Maloni as long as it protected her. He had the feeling that his mother would say the same, her own spirit resting for over a decade now and probably saddened at the thought that she would be the reason that her dear friends suffered so. They were all interconnected, Maloni and Lyrias from childhood as slaves bought together for the Zayn household where they connected with Kirsa who was the daughter of the lord there, then Kynon who fought in the war and bonded with Lyrias during that time to also meet Maloni shortly after announcing his intentions to wed Lyrias. How did the best friend know that she would fall for the knight eventually as well? It was a cruel fate, one that turned even more so when her best friend died and left her with Kynon and Yunan. Guilt kept her from ever expressing herself and pushed her to instead care for the child that Lyrias had left behind. Was it cruel that he was going to do the same as his mother by leaving Maloni with Kynon like this? Maloni would never leave Matori though, especially not with the medical store there. As much as he would love to drag her to Belrea, show her the cities there and take her to the theater while letting her try out the Belrean style dresses and enjoy all the cakes that they could find, even Yunan knew the offer would be futile. Maloni hadn’t even left Matori to go to Oba where Kirsa would have taken care of every need she ever had nor had she chased Kynon to Zena despite her feelings for him. In the end her dedication to her herbal business won, along with her memories and attachment of her childhood home in Matori that she had recovered with Lyrias after the war. “Give me parchment and I’ll write a letter for you to send out for me. It’s best if he coordinates his return with you and I’ll also write a note to my aunt. I’ll have to see her later this week when it’s safe to go back out, I will come back on my own because of an issue with my clothing. There’s too many eyes on us today since Aaricia is here with me.” Yunan expressed, his mouth pressed into a line of determination even though worry knotted his stomach still. He had to regain his composure and focus on the task at hand, time here was limited and he was already pressing his luck by speaking so much with Kirsa when he needed to at least have a bit of time in the fitting room since he would need actual clothing to prove that he was upstairs instead of somewhere else during today’s affairs. So with that in mind Yunan quickly penned what needed to be said, handing over the letters to Kirsa and leaving Dusk with her once again until he could come back and reclaim what was his.
[4628 WC]
Posted: Mon Jan 15, 2024 3:18 pm
⌛ Family⌛
For the final fitting, Yunan found himself once more at Madam Zayn’s establishment. This time though the hybrid walked into a backroom on his own, the curtains pulling apart to reveal not only Dusk but his aunt as well. While he had spent days trying to figure out exactly what to tell Maloni, the sight of the petite Matori woman with those kind but worried amber eyes always made him feel guilty. “Aunt.” He greeted quietly, his body tense as he waited to see what type of reaction he would receive from her. Though rather than a slap the woman moved forward so that she could wrap her arms around the hybrid, Yunan blinking in surprise before slowly placing his arms around her in turn. “I’m sorry to have worried you.” He murmured quietly while giving her plenty of time to adjust to the fact that he was truly here and in her embrace.
“Kirsa filled me in on what she could. Why are you taking such a risk?” Maloni finally managed, pulling her head back so that she could look over Yunan with concern. “Is the business truly worth it?” She had helped him start the business in Matori, the pair of them taking her remedies and interest in medical supplies to the next level, but Maloni had never intended for the business to grow this large. Yunan had truly mastered making connections and pushed them from being simply comfortable enough to afford a meal each day to something so much more. Maloni still wasn’t certain how she felt about it, the comforts were nice but she just wanted her family to be safe more than anything else.
“Everything is worth it. I enjoy a bit of justice here and there along with some riches.” Replied Yunan cooly, pulling back from his aunt so that he could study her. She looked like she was doing well which was his hope over the past couple of years apart from where he had visited Belrea then come straight here with only a worker taking some supplies and Dusk to his aunt in Matori. “But speaking of the business…” His voice trailed off as he heard someone else coming down the steps, the hybrid stepping in front of his aunt as if to guard her. “Who?”
“Your father.” Maloni stepped out from behind Yunan so that she could go and open the door herself. “I had already sent notice to him before I arrived in Oba.” Her expression was calm even as the taller iceling came into the room, the nobleman looking a bit worn from the years but just as stoic as before. “I thought that more than speaking only with me, you should be talking to him about your plans.”
“I see.” Yunan nodded his head, his heart twisting in his chest even as he recognized his father. “Father.”
“Son.”
“It’s already cold enough in this cellar.” Protested Maloni as she watched the two awkwardly greet each other. “Don’t make it any chillier. Please just talk amongst yourselves, I’ll go grab tea.” And just like that she was gone, leaving the two men to be awkward around each other. Yunan even looked around for Kirsa, hoping the madam would appear but she was surely upstairs hiding away and comforting Maloni even as she made tea.
“I know you’re not one for idle talk.” Yunan began, gesturing towards a chair so that his father would sit across from him as he took Kirsa’s chair for himself by the desk. “So I’ll jump into it.” And so he quickly gave an overview of the business, how it had been stopped by those from the shadows and how Yunan had grown tired of dealing with their antics and decided to cut them out from Oban society completely. It would simply take a ceremony, some intelligence gathering and the help of Oban officials who would be coming to the wedding in secret to arrest the attendees with charges before the oaths were completed. “It’s not a bad plan, you taught me how to calculate risks and I did that. Madam Zayn will be providing some seamstresses and I’ve got other companions to secure the area. I just don’t want my aunt anywhere near it.”
“Agreed.” Replied Kynon after a long moment, his golden gaze thoughtful as he pondered his son’s words. “You do seem to have quite the plan. How do I help?”
“By taking this.” Yunan reached into his robes and passed a parchment to his father, a deed for the business. “I don’t plan on returning to Matori after this. I’ve taken a liking to Belrea and wish to live there, but I know Maloni won’t leave Matori no matter what.” He expressed with a sigh. “So I’m asking you to take over the business with her in Matori and Oba, keep her from being too soft and guiding her while offering her protection in my place. Don’t you want to leave Zena? Your family does nothing but force you to take care of their messes, even I know that, and Maloni will listen to you more than me.”
“Are you certain this is what you truly want?”
“It is. I’ve found a reason to live that goes beyond just gathering power and wealth here.” Yunan explained with a small smile. “I’m also hoping that you can find that reason again for yourself, I don’t mind if it is with Maloni.” Surely his mother would understand as well, Yunan could already see the conflict in his father’s gaze and he simply shook his head. “I won’t tell you what type of relationship to pursue, but keep her safe and run the business. That’s all I ask because it will benefit all of us. I’ll take some profit for my work in the matter while you can keep the rest and live well in Matori.”
“I see.” His father’s voice was low, emotion threatening to show through despite himself for once. “Do you truly think she will be alright with this?” It wasn’t Maloni he was referencing, they both knew that. Even if Maloni felt hesitation it was Kynon who had left and run away from his feelings for fear of betraying the one he had lost. His family had only ever been an excuse, a reason to try to numb himself once more from the emotions that he felt while living in the warmer country with Maloni and Yunan.
“I believe so.” Yunan replied after a long moment, his own expression surprisingly warm despite everything. “I think she just wants you both to be happy, it’s part of why I worked so hard over the last few years for this. I didn’t know what I wanted in life other than to protect those that she left behind, giving Maloni her dream of a business and keeping her safe. Now though? I’ve found my own happiness and I wish to pursue that, if possible. Could you give me that blessing, father? As I give you my own to return to Matori and stay with Maloni?” Yunan never asked others for anything, always taking what he needed, but in the moment he felt like a child again who was facing that intimidating father who controlled him for so many years before they finally left Zena for Matori. Back then he had always listened to his father, only asking him for things when necessary and never for anything like this before. This time though Yunan wanted to do things in the correct way, getting his father’s blessing and perhaps one day introducing him to his companion. It was only fair that he allowed his father the same happiness again, he was no longer a child who needed his father to guide him. He just wanted the man to be happy for once, just like he wanted his aunt to be happy with her life in Matori.
Kynon was quiet for a very long moment, his expression thoughtful as he pondered everything and finally acknowledged how much Yunan was grown. “Alright then. I’ll try.” A ghost of a smile crossed his lips, a rare reaction from the iceling, as he took the paperwork for himself. “I’ll speak with Maloni and see where she wants to go from here. If you need anything before this event let me know. I have a couple of contacts within the city that I can trust from the war.” He paused again, the sound of footsteps on the stairs letting the pair know that they would be joined soon enough. “You’ve grown a lot.” It was as close as he could come to saying he was proud, the man still finding it a bit awkward to reveal so much emotion around anyone, even his own child.
“Thank you.” Yunan replied, a small smile on his own lips. He knew how hard of a decision this would be for his father and appreciated the acknowledgment from the older man. “Let’s just share some tea and catch up, shall we? I don’t have much time so let’s make the best of it.” And then after the event he would visit them again, taking the time to see what he could before going overseas to hopefully make a life for himself there.
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