RP:A Kiss, A Gift

Summary: Irenic makes a new friend and a choice that probably a lot of people will regret.

Spring of Vitality

The contrast here - for the present, in comparison to what lay before - is stunning. No longer does the stark, barren landscape lie void of life. Now the works of the denizens of the forest and the powers of the Pixie Druids have restored it to the full glory it deserves. A thick carpet of grass lies underfoot, moss and shrubbery making it soft and spongy. You almost feel tempted to remove your shoes if only to run through this lush blanket of greenery as no thorns or briars are visible, but decide against it as unsure who may come across you. This small patch of forest harbours a new feature than before, a glistening pool encircled by trees. The harsh destruction wrecked from the fires split the very earth here but the final effect has been far from detrimental. From the very ground has sprung a clear spring, filling the small crevice with its natural fluids as if the blood of the earth. Walking slowly over to the waters edge, you spot several tiny creatures flitting on ethereal wings about the radiant water, water Nymphs that guard this haven of life and nourishment with their Druidic magic. You cautiously lower a hand to scoop up some of the blessed water, the Nymphs paying little attention as you mean them little harm and upon drinking it down you feel a sudden rush of vitality. It's truly a wondrous act of nature and once again showing its unwillingness to give up. To your north, east and west lay the other patches of new forest whilst the southern route leads to the Old Forest.

Valen would appear from the shadows of the treeline, and it is all too unclear as to whether he simply manifested from the dark corners or perhaps simply knew how to hide in the darker recesses of the forest. No matter what the rhyme or reason, he made his way to the waters edge. His fair face reflected in the waters edge, he seems to study his reflection. How long ago was it that he had been chased out by that kitsune? How long had it been since Kasyr and Satoshi had hunted him...? All a misunderstanding, he had to remind himself, but there the question remained in his mind. Looking to his bare left hand, he thought about the dragon for a moment...wondering what he was doing or who he was with, before dismissing those thoughts. Best to leave the past where it was, for now was the time of new beginnings. Placing himself into a kneeling position, he brought his face ever closer to the waters edge, staring into it's depths as if looking for something before leaning back with a sigh. "Kinda miss the black..." he would mumble before sitting his rear on the backs of his legs. "What am I even doing here?"

Irenic stiffened as someone flat out appeared out of thin air… Seemingly, anyway. He kept still an quiet in the waters - not out of fear, but out of curiosity. A troubled soul, obviously, everyone he meets is always vexed in some form or another. Here he was just trying to naturally heal after his torture session with Lady Dragana and some dude interrupts this towering Avian. Once the gentleman starts talking to himself Irenic figures now would be a good time as any to indicate he was not alone with a low gruff clearing of his vocal chords. Slowly meandering his way through the waters causing ripples in the clear waters. "Apologies," His voice was dry and just as insincere as his smirk. The water rolls itself down his broad shoulders to bend all the intricate tattoo markings upon most of his tawny skin and creasing in to those impossible abdomen cuts along the way all the way down to… Some kind of shorts I guess. His wet hair was slicked back making his facial features seem more bird-like and those elongated pierced pointed ears stick out horribly. There is something dark about this Avian regardless of his massive Ivory wings… Is that blood dried on them? "So, what -are- you doing here?" He asks the question right back to the stranger.

Valen nearly fell backwards with a cry at the clearing of the throat, though regained his composure after a few moments. Regardless of whether the apology was insincere, he himself was brought up to be polite and so he rose to his feet in a soft bow afterwards. "It's alright." would be his reply. Those piercing and slightly vibrant blue eyes would meet the Avian's own before the question catches him by surprise. as he ponders hard for a brief moment, eyes looking away, he starts "I do not know. I have been away from this land for so long that I am not sure why I returned." His eyes would snap back to look into Irenic's once more. "As for what I am doing at this location...I simply wanted to see my reflection. I had been forced into hiding, and even had to change my appearance, even forgot what I looked like for a time. I guess you could say I just wanted to make sure I was me again...Though, I do miss the black hair." he would add with a genuine smile, that faded as he noted the blood on the Avian's wings, and motioned to it. "Are you hurt Sir...?" Genuine concern apparent in his voice.

Irenic had no issue looking the stranger in the eye and upon further inspection he gentleman might note Irenic's left eye is brown while the other is a silver… The brown one seemingly out of place. There are old scars upon this man's face, one spanning his brow and the other his lips, not to mention the scars mixed in with all of the tattoos on his torso. Not only were the wings dulled by dried blood, but there was a large nasty bruise on his side and his left eye was still slightly swollen. His chuckle was short to be followed by a slight wince, "Yes… But not for long and for good reason." His smirk was devious at this as if he enjoyed the pain somehow. He found his way to his own trousers not before passing by the stranger, Valen might notice the hint of his most favorite scent emitting from the Avain; typical race trait there. "I don't worry about being me anymore… For I don't even remember who that is." His plight seems rather damning, but his cavalier attitude about it seems he rather enjoys it… What a weirdo.

Valen eyed the man carefully as he moved as he had never encountered anyone who carried themselves this way. Try as he might, he could not grasp the concept that he might actually enjoy the pain that was inflicted upon him, but there he was...seemingly enjoying it. It brought about a few thoughts in the Vampire's head but that was cut short as the smell, the oh so wonderful smell, of rose petals mixed with the scent of fresh Avian blood and a hint of Lavender assaulted his nose. Eyes fluttered for the briefest of moments, as he tried to grasp what was being said if only to find some modicum of concentration. "Your mannerisms would betray that you would also not care to find out who you used to be..." It was here, that Valen's own sadistic smile would grace his lips. "Pity...I could most certainly help you. I have the most peculiar and useful talent of unlocking one's memories. A most wonderful process, and different for all who I practice it upon." Giving his shoulders a shrug he would take a single step towards the male, eyes now regarding the scars and tattoos, and various other wounds. "Tell me though, honestly as I find this rather...odd, but I have never met one with heterochromia...different colored eyes that is. Were you born that way...? Or is it an enchantment of sorts?"

Irenic did not mind all the interest as he's used to it by now since the time he was thought to be dead. "Memories… Tricky thing about those… I was raised from near death and my master wiped my memories because I am too stubborn… I wouldn’t have obeyed or bent to her will otherwise." he talks of being a slave like its some sort of honorable job.  "Furthermore, whenever I encounter my ex-fiance I get these impossible headaches as if my brain was trying to tell me something… Once she relived me of my headache she would be hit from very old memories of mine… Turns out I was a pretty cold heart bastard." His mannerisms probably indicate he is still pretty much the same. "I've done countless bad things to countless people. It would probably drive me insane." Again, such a dark subject was talked about like the most matter-of-fact things. His scarred brow quirks up at him now as he peered down at the man, "Oh? This old thing…" He meant quite literally, "My master was blind until I gave her one of my eyes… Or rather, she took it." A shrug from those broad muscular shoulders and it would be a curious thing to wonder why in the world would this magnificent creature would allow someone to mutilate  and manipulate him so. Even curious-er was the way he talked as if he was bookly, too smart to be controlled, but controlled anyway.

Valen found himself letting his curiosity getting the better of him, and his eyes flashed from those bright blues to a pale soft red for just a few moments before he willed it away. Now was not the time, he had to delve deeper. It was not lost on him that this persons mannerisms betrayed a strong mind yet he could not help but be curious as to how he had come to this fate or predicament. a raised eyebrow would grace his features now in a look of skepticism as well as intrigue. "You say you have a master. Are you a servant? A slave...?" It was certainly a conundrum, how could one being such as this fall prey to such a state of existence? "As for the subject of bad things...What person has not wronged another before? I ruined my marriage with my overprotective nature. It was because of me that my ex-husband saw his ex-fiance ripped apart at our wedding by my husband's brother...as an intentional suicide." The pain of that memory was certainly still fresh, but he pressed on. "And how is it one such as yourself came to this fate? I mean truly. I see before me a person of magnificent stature, grace, and beauty...and yet you allow yourself to be a person's pawn or worse? What do -you- get out of that...? You allow her to take your memories you said, just so you could be her captive? No sir, one such as you should be out there and free...doing what -you- wish. How is it that a person, who seems so strong willed as you, could allow your beauty and your radiance to be reduced to that of some mule? One who commands as much awe as you do, my fine smelling friend, should be and forgive this term....free as a bird." A gasp would escape his lips and he would turn to face away from the male. "I...apologize." In truth his veins felt like boiling over though he did his best to quell his anger at seeing such splendor treated in such a way. "Sometimes...I do not think before speaking and I fear I may have offended you..." He looked to his hands before sighing.

Irenic stayed expressionless during this strangers rant with an almost bored disposition as if he's heard it all before. Once the man was done his hand went to his hurt side while Irenic guffawed, revealing white but slightly crowded teeth, not necessarily at the stranger - just out loud. "As Avians go they are stubborn and apparently I take that even further." He allowed a pause between them and didn’t mind the subtle compliments he was receiving from the stranger. "You've obviously noted how large I am with not only height, but strength in muscle… It would have to take quite the necromancer to bring me new life and for that I have the most respect." He reaches down to gather his V neck sweater and readies it to slip back on he continues, "For a while I was a mindless drone, she was all I knew and I started to love her, but I knew my place. Eventually she allowed me to choose her side, so I did. I want to serve her for she is who I feel I am meant to serve or protect… With stipulations." A shrug from him once he adjusted into the sweater… Somehow (ya know, wings and all.) "No distractions… It's what got me into trouble this last time." The chuckle came out low and devious while the smirk matched, but somehow came across charming, "I don't offend easily, unless an individual aims to offend someone I protect." The last bit might catch the ear at 'someone', as if he's made up his mind to protect more than just his master.

Valen listened for a moment, before realizing that perhaps sometimes words could be wasted. Though, then again, the man was still here. Well of course he was still here he was getting dressed! The Vampire shrugged the thoughts off, taking note of Irenic's own pearly whites and was not alarmed, but rather impressed with them. "You think you avians are stubborn? Try talking a Dragon into doing something they don't want to do." he said with a genuine laugh. "That may as well be the largest losing battle one can have in life. As for necromancy...I know all too well just what kind of power that would take. My brother is one, and I doubt even he would manage to raise you if you fell. Your master's power does her credit but that is still no reason to..." He allowed his words to trail off, a fight for another day and he was simply not going to allow himself to be put into an endless argument or the more likely debate. Still...there was the question. "Allow me to ask you a question in logic then...She as a necromancer raised you, which, if I remember what my brother said, binds you to her in some regard? In what universe then was the choice she gave you to serve her actually a choice? She simply asked it seems because she knew you would choose to serve her because of that bond. While I am certainly not going to attempt to go over my own moral views...allow me to put it plainly as a question. Knowing all of that, if true, did you really have a choice to begin with?" A tilt of his head would be given, as if pondering his own words, and he would continue, the charming smirk that was given still in his mind. "Don't you want to at least know if you made the choice freely? No distractions, right? What if, and I ask this meaning the utmost sincerity, but what if that bond is a distraction to keep you occupied from learning the truth...?"

Irenic listened to this man pull on strings like some sort of conspiracy theory. "We are bonded, yes. Once I chose her she felt it was true and in that moment I felt her control over me lessen over time… I guess I don't need to call her master, she's just Lady Dragana and I would me more of a body guard, but the complications are… Well… Fun." That smirk returns , "No distractions meaning…" He cleared his throat once more, "Of a sensual variety… She discovered my dalliance with a certain witch and was not too thrilled." he adjusts the sweater around his neck and there was obvious Vampiric bite marks." Another shrug, "I get a place to sleep and food to eat while I get to serve the woman who saved my life.. It may not be forever, but for now it's proven quite the ride." Some of his dusky brown hair falls into his view before he smooths it back… "Edlin, by the way, merry meet." Another chuckle before a subtle wince and holding his hand out to him for a shake.

Valen felt a stab in the recesses of his mind during the conversation at that, but took the hand regardless, having eyed the aforementioned bites. "Valen Veldair. Edlin, huh? It's nice, not what I would have guessed your name would be but it is a nice one all the same." He would release when the other did, letting his hand simply fall limp by his side. "Seems your mistress may be the jealous type...A lesson I learned in what not to be. Jealousy is a poison that sweeps through the mind and the heart, only for it to have decayed my already dead one. If it works out for you, and you are content with it then I really have no ground to argue. You...have certainly made your point." As if thinking on something, he would look to the sky, seemingly fixated on one star before returning to the avian. "You know...It's a shame. I won't tell you why, I won't tell you how, it's clearly not my place. I'd ask you to tell me more about yourself...but I'm not even sure how much you would be able to tell me. I can tell you that I like Lavender, blood, and roses, but my overall favorite thing in this world and existence is the feeling I get while flying. Is there anything that you know of that you enjoy?"

Irenic doesn't exactly shake his hand, but grasp the inside of the gentleman's forearm while his other arm crosses over his heart, must be some old custom from the imprint that was Irenic/Edlin from before. "That she may be and I agree. I don't get jealous over her husband. I just have a feeling I just don't compete over the affections of a woman like it's some sort of sporting championship." His bi-colored eyes look up at the same time as his new acquaintance did and continued to do so while he was listening to Valen tell him about himself. "I am called Edlin because that’s my soul's name, but apparently I changed my name to Irenic when I arrived in Hollow. So, I go by both names." His bruised up hands slip into his pockets, "Flying, huh?" Now his eyes trail back to Valen, "Where are your wings?" The question was posed with curiosity not condescension.

Valen recognized the gesture as what must be a formal greeting, and it made him give off a slight mix between a giggle and a laugh, one he quickly tried to hide. At hearing about the name, he frowned and shook his head "If that is your -true- name, you should not tell it to anyone. Name's have power, and if you give someone the name of your true self...They can end up having power over you. At least that's what I learned when I was growing up back home." His eyes betrayed a hint of deep rooted sadness as he spoke the word 'home', though made no more mention of it. "Irenic though, you did not strike me as one of those either. I pictured you having more of a flourishing name...like Lethalan, or something like that at any rate. But there you have it." The question of his wings though had him giving off a toothy grin, kind of cute really...like a little child who was hiding a secret. "Now that is a question. One I am more than happy to show you." As he spoke, from his eyes poured a black mist which moved into the shadows and out of sight. Soon after, a ripple went through those dark areas of the forest and they started to move towards him, up his legs and to his back. From his back then grew two wings, seemingly made from the shadows themselves, and there Valen was still grinning away. Though they were made from shadow, they took on the appearance of very solid natural wings, shapes of feathers and all, spanning almost as large as Irenic's own. "You pick up a few tricks when you have all the time in the world, this is just one of them. These wonderful additions are my gateway to the world and sky." They would give off a few beats as he would start to hover. "I cannot maintain them indefinitely, but certainly long enough to travel great distances." A bit of a showoff he was, not intentionally, but he at least wanted to try and impress his new acquaintance.

Irenic didn't pay any mind to the gigaugh (giggle and laugh smooshed together) although he did listen intently about his advice on name giving, "Well, Valen… You may have a point." He ultimately shrugs, "I don't give it much of a thought as I was told I changed my name for a reason when I came here, not sure why and I don’t really care at this point." Irenic guffawed once more an obnoxious and pompous sounding one, "Well, Sir Valen… I apologize I am not opulent enough for you." He offered a flourished bow and one could tell he was only jesting and yes someone as intimidating as him with the scars the tattoos and height could joke around too, don’t judge. Irenic took note of the toothy grin… Another vampire and usually he would start to feel anxious around a vampire, not knowing why, some imprint from his past maybe. His own bi-colored eyes traced the movements and even the shadows as the brown left eye was picking up hints of magic from it as it's all that it can see. Once the image of the dark wings completed he offered a hum of approval with a nod, "Nicely done…" His wings were very sore as he pretty much had to fight his way out of Larewen's dungeon or else he'd offer to show him some cool spots to fly to in Hollow… "Is that power you have… How you give memories back?" It might be read on his expression that he's been rethinking on abstaining from gaining them back, although, he is a bit hard to read from body language alone.

Valen was fortunately very gifted at reading people, though this was certainly the far least interesting thing about the Vampire. Leaning in, he would offer that same toothy childish grin "You don't really care, huh?" It was a bit of a tease, lighthearted and generally playful in nature, though to someone like this stoic male it might be lost on him. The comment about not being opulent enough though brought a soft tinge to his cheeks as he managed out "Oh please...Y-you certainly possess enough grandeur." It was then he caught it as a joke, then thought back to if his previous jest was in good humor or whether it would actually have upset him. Deciding in the end that it did not matter, he decided then to focus on what seemed to be the main question, still hovering off the ground. "It is indeed power that I possess. I have performed many re-awakenings in my time here, all for free, though I am thinking about starting up a business at this rate." His own, light, melodious laughter would spring from his lips as he continued to gaze into the avian's eyes. "Though...It is simply a question of if you would like that? I..." He pauses for a moment before looking down, almost sad "Sometimes it can change people, remembering that is. You might remember you hate vampires...and...well...Me being one as you have most likely guessed..." He then would quickly look up "It's not that I'm worried you would attack me, but rather..." A sigh escapes him "Forgive me, I am assuming that your question is beyond mere curiosity. Is it something you are wanting me to do?"

Irenic quirked his brow at the jest, "Well… I guess the more I think on it… I don't remember a home, I don't remember love, or making it." He truly didn’t seem to care, "I was right in saying I don't mind, but the look on everyone's face when they hear I don't remember… It's like I told them I am actually a ghost here to tell them everyone they loved is dead." He was still talking as if it was so matter-of-fact… Something is off with this man, but we shall find out what… Hold on… Give him a second he's digging something from his pants pocket… Ah, okay, its just gold coin, "One thousand gold I'll give you to help me remember and leave anything to do with Irenic out… That’s what got me killed. It's good faith money that if I remember I hate vampires I wont kill you…. Deal?" His hand was offered out to the man as his face was stern and serious as if he was kind of forcing him to take the money. The look in his eyes proved he was sure his personality would change, but that he also didn't care about that.

Valen felt a bit uneasy now. What if the person he was interested in, was no longer that? Well then it would mean it just was not in the cards and he would be no worse off. "I can honestly say, good sir, that what you just described to me...is exactly how I felt. It pains me to see one such as you not remember things from your past. Although..." he said eyeing the coins, before looking back to him "The money is not what interests me. I have enough coin to last me for ages. If you insist on paying me..." he would say as he moves closer, within arms reach of the man though his arms would stay at his side "Perhaps, something less materialistic, and more meaningful, would be more apropos? What need have I of coin...when my dead heart simply yearns for companionship and acceptance? A kiss, good sir, will be my price." It was clear, the jesting was done in this instance. There was no emotion that betrayed it was anything but the serious request of payment. "One important thing to remember and know though, is that once your memories are realized...you will remember what is going on right now and ever since you lost your memories.."

Irenic placed his gold back in his pocket and listened intently to the words of Valen. He did not shy away when the man stepped closer and only had to bend his neck down a little more to look him in the eye. So what Valen fancies men, it doesn't affect Irenic's own life or Edlin's for that matter, but he couldn't love a man like that. He has no issue paying the price as one stride from Irenic's long legs shrunk the distance between the two men to nearly nothing while his hands reached up to the sides of the vampire's neck and thumbs resting on his jawline in order to bring their faces close. Such a closeness he was surly swimming in that favorite scent to boot. He didn't make a big show out of it, wasn't out to tease the guy, but the kiss was indeed offered with rough passion and just the perfect amount of holding time to leave the vampire satisfied, but wanting more. Maybe his kissing talents were those imprinted traits like his thirst for knowledge, but damn it all Irenic does it well… Too well as he gently pulled his hands back to his own sides, "I can offer acceptance… Friendship, but I am afraid I just won't be able to love you the way you want…" Was his way of letting him know he doesn't play on the same team while his eyes open back up to look into his new friend's eyes.

Valen watched as he came close, and damn if his heart could beat he wondered just how fast it would be doing so right this moment. the rush that went through him as those hands were placed upon him. The scents that he craved and adored the most were locked upon his senses like a bee towards a fully bloomed flower, and it drove him mad nearly though he remained his composure well. Valen would in turn, return the kiss with rivaled passion yet with all the subtleties of a submissive in a dance. Irenic led, and Valen followed. Yet just as well as how Irenic led, the vampire seemed to know this dance just as well before he found it over too soon for his liking. Eyes half-lidded he would offer in reply with a playful scoff "Who said anything about love, good sir? You brought that into the open as I simply said companionship and acceptance." It was said as a playful tease, though he knew very well what the male meant and while it brought a pain to him, perhaps once his memories awakened there would be more to it than this. After all, many considered themselves to know what attracted them only to find that one foreign and exotic object that drew their gaze. "Well...If we are to do this then perhaps we should get started." It was then, with a heavy heart and nervousness for events yet to come that the Vampire stood back a step. With arms outstretched to his side, a red mist began to fall from his eyes like a waterfall of tears until it encircled him on the ground. Pointing both fingers towards the other male, the mist that surrounded him would shoot forward and ascend right into Irenic's nostrils, eyes, ears and head directly for his mind. Once inside, Valen would appear inside the man's mind and look around to see just what new surroundings he found himself in. With any luck, he would be able to find these lost memories. Though if the memories were actually removed and taken from him...that was a different story. First thing would be first though, find the part of his mind that had been altered and then decide the course of action.

Irenic didn’t jest in reply as this was probably a delicate matter. He's felt how it could be to put yourself out there only to be cast aside, but that's not something he wanted to be focusing on at in this moment. He watched and only stood perfectly still and one might find from this posture he puts on there was an imprint of a military man. Valen would find himself in quite a dark place for such a bright and brilliant sounding man. Like an old dusty library one would have to find their way through a maze of bookshelves which held books, but were emptied for now and covered in a thick layer of dust. A female screaming in the distance almost a whisper as the footsteps seem to echo endlessly on dark stone floors. The scent of an exotic beach could be traced here or there and that might be the indication that one is getting closer to the key that unlocks all of this. There are strange markings on the floors that look like runes, some inked spots look like his tattoos while another peculiar crest sticks out amongst it all. The crest itself seems pivotal to the man that is Edlin with it's depiction of a rigid vine wrapped around a boars head and it seems every time one would focus on the crest there was the faint sound of young boys whimpering or crying in the distance. So many twists and turns through a vacant library one might become quite perplexed or irritated until the air seems to warm and sweeten as if on the clearest beach with the sound of waves and a woman humming a soft tune grows louder and louder. Valen had made his way to a large door and the sounds stop to a silent halt and when the door is opened it revels a trophy-like room with large elegant windows showing off the beauty of the Island he came from. Each case holds different talismans in keeping every memory, its all about choosing the right one and while there are plenty only a select handful stick out… There is the crest from before, a chefs hat, a platinum ring, a battle ax, and the runes from before imprinted on a stone.

Valen had seen what he thought to be it all before, but each time he delved into someone else's mind he was always surprised at the differences and this one was no different. Making sure to pay careful mind to that crest, thought it pained him to hear the sound of a whimpering child, he knew what he was hearing was simply memories locked deep away. If that crest betrayed such emotion, such anguish, then he knew that it must be a key of some sort. Opening the door and stepping inside to see all the various items at his 'disposal', he knew that this time he had to think hard. Multiple times he would walk past all the different cases before looking at the runes in depth. His training in runes with the kitsune Alphonz would certainly come in handy here. Still, things could always be corrected if things went south though the temptation to alter a few key things was strong, Valen was more a gentleman than most...and believed in working for the things you wanted most. shaking the thoughts away from his mind, he focused now on the runes, the ring, and the crest. "Let's see...The crest is obviously his family from the past, as that is what a crest traditionally symbolizes. The ring may tie in to a previous marriage...those runes though." he would muse out loud to himself. If Irenic was of a strong will, he may even be able to hear these musings. a decision has to be made though, so first and foremost he would touch the crest and begin his craft. a prismatic light would envelop the crest at his touch, revealing a single keyhole in the middle of the symbol which he would pull out an ornate skeleton key out of almost thin air and point it. A sliver of light would shoot from the key to the hole, a sound as if a lock turning would be heard, and finally light from the keyhole until the crest was gone from it's case. He would do the same with all the rest, except the ax. If need be, he could always simply lock these things away again with permission but he was comfortable with what he had chosen to awaken. Something nagged at him though, and with a smirk he knew what to do. Taking a moment to close his eyes, he would add something in place of one of the items that he took. It was simple really, a visage of a brain...with an open door. With that, he would allow the images to fade. the mist would return to Valen's body the same way it left though taking a more direct path, before the Vampire would open his eyes and move forward...ready to catch the Avian if he started to feel woozy.

Irenic could indeed hear and once the key was locked into the crest they were ripped from the pleasant trophy room to a dark longhouse for troubled orphan boys, Valen could hear the boys wining or crying some of them silently so in their beds, but little Edlin, the mark burned onto the skin over where his heart is. The marking looks fresh and painful but his expression was stoic as those chilling silver eyes set on the large crest above the archway in the room. Valen would hear the older version of Edlin as if voicing his thoughts at that moment, "Why can't they just shut up… We've all get it bad, just suck it up." One would wonder how this 9 year old little boy was so callous so young in life. Once the memory ended their consciousness was snapped back to the trophy room and the runes on the rock were next and they were transported to an run down hold that he used as some type of lair, all men of different shapes and sizes pledged their allegiance to him and a few of them brought a woman he was searching for after a long tiresome journey. We only hear his thoughts as we can see he was this woman against her will and she spits on his face, but intimidates her into doing what he wanted, "This (expletive) of a runesmith. Hah! I barely made it to Hollow alive." We only see flashed of the pain it caused him for her to etch and carve those runes into his wings (feathers have now molted) How his guttural screams and groans rattled the candlelit chandelier and fast forward to his crash landing into Hollow where the rune etched stone rolled from his grasp. The memory probably wasn't something very flattering on Edlin/Irenic and one might start questioning at this point on what they just got themselves into. Irenic was feeling just fine and to any passerby's he was smirking through it all as if enlightened. Lets delve right into the ring, it was his fathers of which his mother wore on a chain around her neck and in this memory Edlin is a young man, a teenager if you will. Those pesky dusky tendrils still falling into view of those chilling silver eyes and it would be easy to see where he gets his sharper features from, his mother, this beautiful maniac before them. He was still expressionless and sort of slouched while those ivory wings behind him seemed a little large and out of place on him, "I always made an effort to see her in the Asylum, but she never really saw me… Not after…" The older voice of Edlin trails on as his mother cowers in the corner of the sanitary visiting room so she can attempt to relief herself before the orderlies came and whisked her away. Edlin didn't budge, but only walked away back to the orphanage those days. Last, but certainly not least… The chefs hat, the start of them all… His mother used to be a wonderful cook, had her own shop and here we find him where he stood motionless out of paralyzing fear as 7 1/2 little Edlin was watching as their quaint little home was being ravaged by feral vampires and he felt weak as he was already fed from, but his mom had come to rescue him who was now being violated in more than just a few ways in the corner… There was a loud thudding noise, something tumbling down the stairs where little Edlin was standing at the foot of, this object hard to make out until it makes a sickening thud at the boys feet, "Father." It was his fathers decapitated head and at this moment it all clicked for him… The tears stopped and that expressionless face slowly morphed and grew into the tall Avian bastard we know today… And it seems the ax would be a different story for a different day. When he comes out of it he slumps to the grass and his hands angrily palm the earth there, his head hurts a lot because Larewen's own magic was strong and wasn't supposed to be so easily undone and his low gruff tone was sort of growling or sighing, I don’t know… He's weird, but the anger slowly subsides to something a bit manic and his chuckle follows. "Whew…." When he stands now, his smirk was smug and this glint in his eye that wasn't there before felt dangerous.. He refrains from being the first to speak.

Valen watched everything play out as the silent observer, before we come to the part where Valen had exited Irenic's mind. So many unhappy thoughts...and at least one similar to his own story. The night the Vampires staged their coup in his parents kingdom, but now was not about Valen. The silence seemed to go on forever and at the glint being seen from Irenic's eyes, Valen for the first time showed a hint of fear. "Edlin..." he finally spoke. "I...I am so sorry. Had I known that any of that would be revisited..." A tear made his way down his face on the right side, and he quickly wiped it away. "I understand if you are to be upset with me. I understand fully if you feel cheated but your mind was the most complex that I had ever visited and I only tried my best. Oh gods above I feel like an idiot..." He was at a loss for words now, no doubt any hopes he had of anything would be dashed upon the rocks though hope would not be given up so easily quite yet. He simply needed more time to plan how to fix things. "Look....just do what you are going to do to me, I already know I screwed up big time and you probably feel like I cheated you into a kiss...But at least just hear me out if you at the very least never listen to me again after this." He took in a faux breath, nervous habit and all that, but here he went...heart in hand. "I can certainly tell you -my- story if you wish, but to make my point...I like you. You know that, you even told me that you could not return that affection but the point is I don't care. True, we have not known each other for even a night but the fact remains I feel drawn to you and its not because you smell heavenly. Seeing those memories, one stood out and touched me more than the rest. You suffered at the hands of vampires just as I did alongside my brother. Our parents were executed in front of us, and the rest of the entire kingdom and we were turned to be made an example of. My point is, you see how I am. You may call me weak, you may not. You may simply think me strange and odd and while that may be true, what you cannot say is that I have not made the best of things and try to make others happy. Whatever that look in your eyes is, it scares me, and I am hoping you heed my words and just understand that...I am here for you. You want revenge on a vampire, to help you cope I will offer myself to assuage your pain if it means that you can try to make the best of things." He almost felt like he was rambling now, but one last thing was to be added. "Just know that I tried to help because I care about you..."

Irenic's posture shifted to something more perfect like a noble knight, but that damn devilishly handsome smirk and the mischievous glint in his eyes contradicted the white knight he appeared to be. Despite the short hairs on the sides of his head the top was left long and hung lazily in those multi colored hues settling unwaveringly on Valen while being painfully silent... He listened intently to the similar story but have no change to his expression and the silence that followed was unnerving, he knew it. This vampire reminds him of many young men who he commanded that would feel comfortable to come out to him and confess nearly the same sentiment, you see, the thing about Edlin is that yes he's imposing and a strong warrior with an evil streak, but he emits a sexual energy, not on purpose... Something about his soul seemed old and wise, he grew up too fast, he had to - so maybe people feel safe in that respect. So much silence has passed while explaining this to you, but when Edlin finally clears his throat to rasp out his menacing tone - he muses cryptically, "Darkness doesn't always mean evil and lightness doesn't always mean goodness..." his point being is so many individuals assume he's good with the good looks and white wings and here's this vampire before him with shadow magic doing a good thing for such an evil guy. Edlin shrinks the distance once more between the two men and holds the sides of Valen's face like he did before, "Valen you (expletive)ing bleeding heart genius! I could kiss you again." He seems appreciative and the compliment should be taken in kind, but there is still something unsettling about his new found attitude. His arm drapes around the vampire as if they are the best-est of friends while shifting his standing position directly next to him. Why is Edlin so impossibly warm, his scent so impossibly intoxicating to most and that damn smug smirk one might be worried he is going to be a troublesome friend, but possibly a worse enemy. "Thanks to you I, Edlin, am now free." With this sentiment his wing curls around his friend like some sort of hug, in this short moment Valen would be able to see the natural allure of his wings, the clean ones so hypnotizing in the moonlight reflecting hues of pearlescent whites and gleaming silvers. A wince came from that small movement from his wings followed by a short pained grunt, which, I don't know how, but that still sounded so 'ugh'. Through clenched teeth he says, "(expletive) Larewen! That (expletive)..." his charms return when his injured wings tuck closely to his muscular build. His arm pulls the vampire in closer to gingerly place a peck on his forehead (as Edlin is probably taller in comparison) "I would -love- to stay and chat my friend..." a menacing chuckle vibrated in his throat and chest, "But I have a different vampire to put in her place." He would pull away to shake his new friends hand as he did before, free hand fist over chest. "Merry part until we merry meet again." The smugness seemed permanent and his knowledge of the vampires attraction to him might be a mistake... only time will tell... Edlin made his long booted strides away from him towards Vailkrin.

Valen, as had been in the past moments, found himself drawn into that smirk with all the hopelessness of a lost school girl. Those first words, an odd sentiment, actually drew an unexpected reaction from him...a sort of grin, but with his own predatory smile. "While that may be true...Edlin, that is precisely why I walk the road of twilight in the shadows." The truth of the matter was, that while Valen may seem bright and bubbly, there was also the glimmer of a strategist, a planner, and above all...an essence of conniving. All of that was buried deep though, only tapping into that when he felt he was backed into a corner and now was not one of those times. At feeling his face being held once more, he would bring his hands to gingerly and sweetly hold his wrists and would have yet another tinge to his cheeks at the compliment. "I wouldn't go that far...Just don't make me regret this, please? I did this because I wanted to help you. We are who we choose to be and anyone that cannot choose...well, is really no one at all." As unsettling as things may seem, Valen stood like a bulwark against it, his aura of confidence not being hidden in the slightest. At the hug, he felt his undead heart give off a faux skip, this proximity, it was almost too much but he felt so safe, so protected that he could do nothing more than drink in that feeling. This avian, had him in the palm of his hand yet seemed almost indifferent still...at least that's how Valen viewed it. Looking up at the sudden expletive, his brow narrowed. He knew how this was going to end...he could see it and his mind raced before putting those thoughts on the back burner. "If you feel you need to, then by all means." The kiss to his forehead brought yet another tinge (its adorable really, his luminescent pale skin having that softer shade of a blush) to his cheeks and this one stayed. One thing that may catch Edlin off guard, and something Valen could not help, was a stand on his tip-toes and trail a kiss under the jawline of the male. A small step for him, a giant risk as well, though risk nothing and gain nothing. It would be the most sensual of kisses, lips feeling almost like velvet as they would meet his skin if he was right in thinking he could catch him off guard. As he would watch him go, a final tentative wave would be given before calling out "I hope that you remember one thing, Edlin. Just know...I will always be there for you no matter what it is." With that, he would wait for a few moments until he was gone, making sure there was nothing else, before melding into the shadows until nothing was left but a pair of glowing red eyes in the darkness and eventually those too would fade.