RP:Predestined Paths

Summary: It's the middle of the day and Lunalesca is bickering with Lanara as she refuses to take a day for herself, to enjoy the scenery and make friends. Once her innocence is proven, she will have to settle back into society, and the fairy queen is determined to give the witch a firm push in that direction. A fateful encounter occurs when Kyori loses his way in the forest and winds up in Enchantment, only to rush to Lanara's rescue as he thinks she's being held prisoner. Lunalesca mutters something about their meeting being destiny, and encourages the unlikely pair to have dinner together and go apple picking. Before she leaves the warrior with a cryptic message about his missing friend, Natianara, claiming that the girl has left the lands and that he needs to move on. Kyori refuses to believe the fairy, and he's insistent on finding a connection between Nat and Lana, as he sees several similarities between the women. The witch and the warrior end up doing as the fairy bid, picking apples and having dinner in the apartment above the flower shop. They part ways, as each has to follow their own path, but little do they know, they will be on the same road again in the near future.

Part of the Magic, Madness, and Mayhem Arc

Kyori’d hopped off the boat in Cenril earlier that morning. He received a summons and had to leave immediately. It gave him no time to tell anyone. He disappeared in the night from the tavern, turning up nearly a month later sea stained and tongue tasting like salt. The warrior ran into a woman on the beach who said he ought to rest. He did not take her advice. The man lost his way and landed himself in Enchantment, stepping off the main road in Kelay while trying to get to the tavern and look for Nat. Finding his way back to the road wasn’t an option now. Turns blurred into the same prop set of forest before he breaks into a clearing. He’s disorientated and couldn’t drown out the sounds of birds and the small voices. Pixies? Children? Faeries were common in his homeland. Kyori presses his palms into his ears, concentrating on the sound of his own breathing.

In the distance there are children playing, pixies pulling harmless pranks on unsuspecting visitors that roam the land of mystery, and a few bubbling brooks. Enchantment is the most picturesque land in the entire realm, so it’s often bustling with activity, especially in the middle of the day. As Kyori seeks to block out all the noise and turns into the clearing, he would land himself in the middle of a somewhat upsetting conversation. Lanara sits beneath a tree, jutting her chin upwards in defiance as she locks eyes with Lunalesca, the leader of the committee that monitors magical affairs. “I’m –fine- with the way things are going, really. I don’t want to go on a picnic with some pixies, nor do I want to find a date to go apple picking, and lastly, I refuse to bake anything for the Mabon Festival next weekend.” The woman crosses her arms over her chest, as her lush lips purse into a petulant pout, “Why can’t I just do my volunteer work and retire for the evening in peace? I really don’t want to make any friends, Luna. I’m trying to repair those that were broken when I left the lands. And forget giving romance another shot… No one will want an elf with all this baggage, and I’m scared of getting close to anyone again…” She blinks back tears, and shakes her head, trying to remain somewhat agreeable, as this woman was the one that determined her fate. “Thank you for giving the day off, I don’t mean to seem ungrateful. I-I will be happy to go apple picking on my own, and I will even have dinner outdoors, with the forest animals.” The full-size fairy looks at Lanara with sympathy in her eyes, about to open her mouth and offer words of encouragement to the witch, when she spies Kyori from the corner of her eye. “Hm…Perhaps fate is intervening yet again, Miss Lanara…” Her wings flutter a few times as she makes her decision, on a whim, and points from Kyori to Lanara, her words firm, “You will go apple picking and have dinner with this man, and there will be no words on the matter. If he wishes to leave Enchantment, he will accompany you on this adventure, and if you wish to meet with your attorney in the morning, you will do as I bid.” Lanara is speechless, her hypnotic hues full of apology as she rests her gaze on Kyori for the first time, “I-You-We…” She swallows, unsure what to say, before she glances nervously back towards Lunalesca. Would this stranger come to her aid?

Kyori would wish he'd seen the women before they draw him into their conversation. The warrior's sapphire eyes look up at a pointing finger, ears plugged between his palms. "Whoa, I don't want trouble!" He shouts because he can't hear himself speak. His hands pop on his ears and he flinches. "Sorry, it's...loud here." He casts his eyes around once more, settling on the crying woman. The spellblade's head was quick to snap at the pointing fairy, pixie, fae person, right hand already clasped on the jeweled end of his sword. "Release this woman!" His left arm sweeps out in a commanding gesture but his face is set with unflinching determination. Fae are incredibly dangerous and the witch was looking at him with large, helpless eyes. How could he do anything else but defend her?

Lanara presses her palms to the ground and rises to her full height of a mere five foot four inches, and although her petite form isn’t all that intimidating, the smoldering glare she fixes on Kyori is enough to make most men weak in the knees. She wasn’t a damsel in distress, but it was flattering that someone had risen to her defense. Still… She –was- somewhat a prisoner and if she didn’t follow the demands of this particular fairy, she would be in even more hot water. “Lower your weapon. Please. Sir.” Her jaw is clenched as she lofts a single brow, and he’d see the corner of her mouth twitch in amusement. This handsome man was coming to her rescue!? Against the Queen of the Fairies?! He wouldn’t stand a chance against Lunalesca’s magic, and it would only be a matter of seconds before the guards appeared to drag Kyori from the peaceful land. A hesitant step towards Kyori is taken, and he would get an up close view of the witch, likely surprised by her undeniable beauty. Lanara is a Kelvarian Elf, and being one of the few that remain in the realm, she often draws attention from both men and women, whether she be wearing a burlap sack or a barely there bikini, a smile or a scowl, there was always an abundance of potential suitors. Not that many piqued her interest, as she preferred to keep everyone at a distance. She has a pretty face with high cheekbones, lush lips tinted with a sangria stain, and her eyes are a soulful dark chocolate with long lashes and perfectly shaped brows. Long, lustrous locks cascade to the middle of her back, a deep shade of chestnut with the slightest of natural waves to give it volume. As for her figure, she’ has the appropriate amount of female curves, slender and slightly toned, and if he listened to the locals he’d know that she had the most legendary of derriere’s in the universe. However, at the moment, she’s facing him and wearing a simple, cotton sundress that masks most of her figure and hides the fact that she’s a good fifteen pounds underweight. Stress had taken its toll, and although Khitti had sent her a plethora of baked goods, it would take some time for her to gain the weight back. If the warrior stared long enough, he’d see that there are similarities between Natianara and Lanara’s facial features, and that both had worn their hair the same way. As Kyori is taking in the sight of Lana, she is giving him a long once over, trying to gain an assessment of his mental status, “Are you alright? You seem… Out of sorts.” Was he smoking too many magic mushrooms? Was he hearing impaired? Lunalesca stares at Kyori long and hard, using her powers to sense his aura and she beams with pride, as her ‘prediction’ had been correct. “Excellent! It’s settled. You will both go apple picking, and then have a picnic. Since the sound bothers you, I suggest the orchards to the south as they afford more privacy.” She’s not fazed in the slightest by the sight of the brandished weapon, or the fact that this disheveled stranger is being forced into this unique situation. It’s her attempt to get Lanara back into society, and she would use whatever means necessary.

Kyori turns his head, examining both women in turn with a bewildered expression. Was she serious? His fingers slack around his blade but his arm stays at the ready, nails lightly tapping the gems. He didn’t know the pointing woman was a queen or had magic. If he had the warrior still would have challenged her. He’s probably fought worse. The witch approaches meekly, causing Kyori’s eye to twitch. Was this a trap? He tensed, trying to keep the pointing Fae in sight. “Nat?” He whispers, eying the Queen when Lanara is closer. Was she an illusion meant to draw him? Using Nat to bait him! He grips his sword again, toes digging into the dirt, eyes on Lunalesca. Then Lanara speaks and it further confuses him. “It’s really loud here. Can’t you hear it Nat?” He frowns, tugging at the collar of his rust colored shirt and letting both hands drop by his sides. Fae are vile. She knew she’d won before he could draw his sword. “I’m sorry I left,” Sweat drips down the sides of his face. The warrior catches the smug smile of the Queen before he feels his legs start to go. “It’s underhanded!” He barks, left knee hitting the dirt. It was cruel to use similarities in this elf to weaken him. His vision blurs the dirt, putting them on a muddy sea. Whatever is happening here is starting to wear on him and he does not know why.

Lanara gasps as the stranger seems to lose the remainder of his energy and she instantly goes to his side, her dress marred with dirt and debris, as a hand gently rests atop Kyori’s shoulder. She throws inhibition to the wind, as the urge to heal this man ranks higher than her fear of being stabbed with the pointy end of his gemmed sword. “Shh… It’s alright. Come with me, I will help you.” Help him –what- exactly?! Pick apples? Eat his lunch? Thankfully, Lunalesca seems to have lost interest in her matchmaking attempt of the day and she scoffs at Kyori, “I was hoping for better, I know you’re capable… And Natianara is no longer in this realm.” With that, she turns on her heel and leaves her prisoner with the disheveled man, both kneeling in the dirt in the clearing. As the warrior continues to speak of ‘Nat’ a pixie happens to be whizzing by and she fixes Kyori with a glare, thinking he was racist and called her a ‘gnat’ though at Lana’s shake of the head she merely continues on her way. Pixies were known to hurl fireballs at those that opposed their race, so Kyori is one lucky man that his slip of the tongue didn’t earn him some charred clothing! The witch slips her arm into the crook of Kyori’s and attempts to help him rise, allowing him to lean on her for support, and she gives him a faint smile, “Come along… I won’t make you go apple picking, but you should get something to eat. I’m sorry about your friend, Nat, but Lunalesca is probably right as she is an Oracle. She can see all things… It seems your lady left the lands and moved elsewhere.” As they walk through the area, she leads him to an orchard which is private, save for an occasional butterfly or bird passing through the area. A lone bench sits beneath an apple tree and she sits, patting the spot next to her, “I’m Lanara, but everyone calls me Lana… What is your name? Are you a sailor? You smell of sea breeze and ocean water.” Her voice is calming as she plucks a ruby apple from the tree and hands it to the male, “Here… This will help.”

Lunalesca brushes Kyori off, letting Lanara tend to his disorientation. He tries to struggle away from the illusion woman but his mind is addled and she feels real and smells kind. His head is buzzing, jumbling his thoughts. He doesn’t see the pixie. If he had, he would count himself among the blessed. Not that his clothes weren’t worthless. He’d left his night suit and tie in the tavern. Lana smiles at him and the warrior groans, hating how real she looks and how many little details the Fae’d thought of. The witch helps him rise and he tenses, doing his best not to lean into her. She’s so small. He’d crush her to death. Kyori stiffly shuffles to the bench, calculating the possibility he’d been magic’d asleep. Lana starts to question him and he shakes his sea saturated blonde hair. “Did she take her?” He asked her. Did the fairy queen take Natianara? He couldn’t think straight. “She read my palm.” He told Lanara boyishly, throwing himself on the bench beside her. “Your names end the same.” He points out in a groan. “I’m Kyori, not a sailor but I did just get back into Cenril.” He mumbles and coughs, taking the apple. Cloudy, narrowed sapphire eyes appraise the apple. “Why will it help?” The warrior was uneasy when fairies were involved. “Are you a fae?”

Lanara can’t explain why she feels the need to take this fellow under her wing, but she’s acted impulsively in the past, and she’s likely following suit again. He could be a witch hunter, beneath a glamour spell, and seeking to capture her and throw away the key. The man even had a weapon! But… Lunalesca could see the past and the future, and if she was willing to leave her alone with the man after giving Lana an oath of protection when in Enchantment, then he couldn’t be –that- dangerous. Who was this woman he kept talking about? “Nice to meet you, Kyori… And, I’m not entirely sure why Nat is, or why our names end the same… I have been away from the lands for seven long months, and it’s a name I can recall having met in the past. I’m sorry that I can’t be of more help…” She read his palm, also? “Oh… This woman knows palmistry? Are… Are you certain her name wasn’t Talyara? I have a sister in the lands, she resides in Frostmaw, and she is capable of that sort of thing, too…” As is Lanara, though she doesn’t offer to read Kyori’s palm, especially after Lunalesca’s verbal spillage. If it was ‘fate’ that placed them on the same path, she wasn’t sure she wanted to know the outcome. She’d find out soon enough if Nat and Luna were on the same page, and what that meant for this male. Was he to go on a grand adventure? Face loss? Fall in love? Be put to death? And why was –she- a wanted woodland witch the one that was inserted in his story, at this point in time? “The apple will help to raise your sugar levels, and perhaps bring you some clarity. Were you hurt at sea? Did you hit your head?” It could just be dehydration that had him in this state, but she couldn’t be certain. Lanara plucks an apple for herself and takes a dainty bite, her dark hues taking in the male’s expression, “Not all fairies are evil. And you are in Enchantment… This particular kingdom handles magical affairs with extreme caution. I assure you… I am not a fairy, and no harm will come to you here, unless you wrongfully harm another within the city gates…” Her voice trails off as she takes another bite of her apple, choosing her next words carefully, “Tell me a little about yourself, we may as well get to know one another a little.” If she could know for sure that he wasn’t a threat, she would invite him to dine with her at the small safe house. Goddess knew, she could use a friend, and it seemed like he needed one, as well.

Kyori couldn’t explain why Lanara felt compelled to him either. He attempted to draw his sword on the Queen, couldn’t tell that she wasn’t Nat (immediately), and questioned the healing power of an apple like it was poison. That wasn’t him. “It was Nat.”And Nat was a witch, but she’d told him in confidence. He wonders if this Talyara woman is too. Maybe all women with ‘ara’ names are-a witch. The warrior continues to listen to Lanara while she asks him more questions, punctuating his own silence by biting into his apple. It wasn’t as loud here. He’s relieved. She’s asking healer questions. Maybe all Fae weren’t evil but that woman before had power of Lanara and she had the look of a prisoner when they were talking. He’d only had bad experiences with them. His bias didn’t feel biased. “I know.” But he doesn’t. “I don’t know where or what Enchantment is. I got lost.” Lanara isn’t a fairy? It adds strength to his prisoner and witch theories. He catches her gaze and holds it. He doesn’t answer any of her questions. “Are you a witch?”

The silence in the orchard becomes deafening as Kyori’s question hangs in the air, as Lana breaks eye contact and turns her head slightly away. She had come to Enchantment to have a fair trial, though there were rules she had to obey until she was proven innocent, and so she crosses her legs and only then would the stranger see the glowing monitor that was attached to her slender ankle. With great hesitance, she answers truthfully, “Yes. I am a witch… But I fear your definition and mine may differ greatly, as witches have wrongfully gotten a bad reputation in the past few years in this realm.” Larket, precisely, thanks to the corrupt leadership, as well as Cramer, the ranting author of that evil book that threatened the lives of all that practiced the craft. “Can I use various types of magic? Am I able to call the elements? Do I worship a Goddess and feel a kinship to nature? Yes, to all of those questions… For that is the true definition of a Witch. Some practice the dark arts, but they aren’t a ‘real’ witch… As we hold a firm belief in karma, and if we do wrong to another it will return to us threefold. The only time I would use any sort of black magic, would be as a means of self defense.” Now, her gaze returns to the male, and she sighs, “I am in Enchantment until my trial, as I was wrongfully charged with various crimes. It’s a long story, but I didn’t do any of the things I’m being accused of, and I’m confident that I will be acquitted.” Her words hang in the air, as she finishes the remainder of the apple and delivers her own line of questions, hoping they would be answered, “Where do you hail from, Kyori? Why do loud sounds bother you so… Did you get water in your ears or were you near an explosion? And… Where were you headed, before you had gotten so lost?”

Kyori doesn’t break away when Lanara does. He stays where he is, eyes fixed on her face, waiting. Waiting until she finished her rant, unyieldingly present against the drumming in his ears. His apple rests calmly in his hand, frozen. “Nat was a witch and told me about Larket.” He says in a slow exhale. Lanara didn’t have to get worked up but he knew she had every right to. “We saw the Queen at a ball because Nat had never been.” He’s still trying to digest it. She wasn’t here anymore? He’d been gone a month, at most. His first friend. Another first he couldn’t tell her about. “I don’t have any problems with witches. I saw the royal family.” And screamed at the prince under the influence of the Rage King’s son. “She doesn’t look like a monster.” He told Lana, in case she hadn’t ever seen Josleen. Cramer was a new name. She’d answered his abrupt questions. It was his turn. Just like he’d been with the other woman, he’s slow to say the name of his home. “Lativu. Five sisters, two are older than I am.” He strains, trying to think of the palm reading results that applied to who he was. “Stubborn, self-made individual that’s heavily controlled by fate.” He intentionally dodges her question about his hearing, the anxious race of her heartbeat was audible above the rest of the noise. She was the closest noisy thing. “I was trying to get to the Tavern to find Nat.” He thought he’d already said so but couldn’t be sure if it was a thought. He was out of it. “I have a sword,” he gestures over his shoulder are the jeweled weapon. The warrior bites into his apple again. He feels more grounded. “I hope your trial doesn’t last long.” He made a concentrated effort not to ask about her crimes since she already looked agitated he’d asked about her being a witch. “Now I guess I don’t have anywhere specific to go. A man told me to seek Khitti, for the devout’s guild, for shelter and possible membership but eh. I don’t believe the gods deserve worship. Defeats the point to praise cosmic beings that won’t stop war or famine or persecution for the sake of elevating and demoting people on a rigged scale of wealth and significance.” He sighs, shaking sand out of his salt stiffened hair. “Sorry I got involved in your situation.” Kyori takes another bite of his apple, it’s almost gone. “I didn’t hear what you guys were talking about.” Lanara’s eyes caught him off guard. “Thanks, for the food.” He added, boyishly.

Lanara is grateful when the male begins to speak again, this time in full sentences. For a heartbeat, she was wondering if he was simple, and that he hadn’t been lost or recovering from something that happened at sea. She’s relieved, as she wouldn’t know exactly how to handle someone with a mental defect, especially when her patience was so thin these days. Her expression softens as he again mentions his missing friend, and she bites the inside of her cheek so she doesn’t giggle when he describes Josleen. “Yes, I’ve met her on several occasions.” Unfortunately. “So you’re from Lativu? That sounds exotic! What is your homeland like?” Her smile is genuine as she gives him her undivided attention and takes in the news regarding his sword, his views on religion, and how he managed to end up in Enchantment. “I am from a faraway land, Kelvar, an island shrouded in mist. The population is mostly made of elves, and it’s eternally autumn.” Lana’s smile is breathtaking as she fondly remembers her homeland, her dark hues sparkling as she continues, “I have a sister, she’s a little younger than me, and we both came to Lithrydel about seven years ago.” She looks to be in her mid-twenties, though elves didn’t age, and she likely was much older. The drow destroyed Kelvar, though it was once again somewhat thriving, and Lana visited frequently. “I asked for this trial… Had I not returned to the lands, all would be well, but I wanted to clear my name and set the record straight on exactly what happened.” She could be put to death if found guilty, but she doesn’t get into the logistics. It wasn’t like this man would make it a habit of getting lost or wish to see her again. “It should be over in about two weeks, give or take…And… Khitti is one of my best friends! I used to be in the Devout’s Guild, and I plan on rejoining when things settle down.” She doesn’t voice her opinion on the Gods, and she waves a dismissive hand when he thanks her for the apple. “Please, it’s just an apple! And you didn’t interrupt anything earlier…As part of the agreement with Lunalesca, I do volunteer work all around Enchantment. I tutor the children, I care for the horses at the stable, assist the elders with gardening, and just help anyone in need. In turn, she provides me with room and board, and protection from any that may want to bring me harm. Well… She gave me the rest of the day off, and tomorrow, too. She claims I’ve worked my fingers to the bone and I need to introduce myself to society again. Make a friend, go on a date, do something that I enjoy, that sort of thing. I just have been through a lot this past year… So, it’s hard for me to just, get back out there, you know? I’m sorry that she forced you into this, uh, situation.” Awkward. Unlike Natianara, she isn’t one to open up easily or wear her heart on her sleeve. Lanara was a challenge. “Hey I’m stubborn and self made, too!” She laughs, nervously, “If you aren’t doing anything… Well… Maybe you could…” Her words trail off and she shakes her head, not quite brave enough to say the remainder of her sentence.

Kyori was struggling to be his usual self. His easy personality was unhinged by Enchantment, finding a woman he wrongly tried to rescue, how loud the area was, and the fact that Nat was gone. Lanara was beautiful and kind but he’s caught off guard by the situation. He’s blunt and luke warm. The warrior stiffens when the witch asks about his homeland. He clears his throat. “Lativu was different,” he doesn’t let the conversation drag; “Kelvar sounds great though.” His sapphire eyes move back to her ankle to digest what she says. A trial. “Are you on trial because you’re a witch?” Lithrydel, as she called it, did not show love for witches as far as he could see. “Did you come back for your sister?” Why else would she risk a trial? “Or your lover?” The Devout’s Guild is run by a best friend of this woman? Did fate intervene so the two should meet? Was he supposed to go to the guild? “If it was part of an agreement, why were you crying?” To him, it looked more like Lanara was enslaved by the fairy woman. Not a lover, then. “Don’t worry about it, I’ve done crazier things trying to rescue people.” Her question is unfinished so he waits. And nothing happens. His face contorts as he thinks, dusty blonde hair shivering in the still air. “Pick more apples?”

Lanara is growing uneasy with the questions that tumble from Kyori’s lips, and she knows she should be truthful, as he would hear the rumors soon enough. The fact that she was under the protection of Enchantment wasn’t exactly a secret, at least not within the confines of the gates. If he were to leave the area, others would state that Lanara was institutionalized in Corlonia, as her mind was fractured beyond repair. That was partially true, as initially everyone assumed she went crazy, and she was at the asylum for six months, but she wasn’t insane. For a fleeting moment she thinks about Elioyahazer, the man that had left her at the altar, and she shakes her head, “No, things ended with him a few weeks before I left the lands… That was seven months ago. And yes, of course I’ve missed my sister, but she doesn’t even know that I’ve returned. Things are… Complicated.” It was like pulling teeth getting the witch to open up, but Kyori was a complete stranger, and it would take some time. “I came back because another took the fall for my crimes, so that I could be treated under the guise that I was mentally unhinged. Even the healers thought it was true, but then it was discovered that I wasn’t insane… So they released me, and the noble bard that served time was released from prison, but if I ever truly want to erase his record and clear my name, I need this unbiased trial.” She glances at him from the side, coiling a silken lock around her pointer finger as her voice lowers, “I was going to ask if you’d like to have dinner with me… An actual dinner, of more than just apples, at the place I’m staying. I’m not quite welcome in certain places, yet, as some think I’m guilty… But, I understand if you don’t wish to be seen with the likes of me.” Her gaze falls then, as though it took all her strength to utter those few words, and shame washes over her fair face. “I am accused of murdering children, setting an animal sanctuary ablaze, and slaughtering a household staff…But… I swear on the Goddess, that I am innocent.” Most men would jump at the chance to share a meal with the brunette, even if she were guilty of such crimes! But… In true Lanara fashion, she’s telling Kyori that being in her presence could have ramifications. “If not, that’s alright too, I understand. And… I would be happy to accompany you to the city gates, and tell you the way back to Kelay, if that’s the tavern you were referring to earlier. You see, all the major cities have a tavern in Lithrydel.”

Kyori wouldn’t hesitate to believe her. She has no reason to lie. He lifts his eyebrows. ’Things ended with him a few weeks before’. The sister was obvious. Lanara valued family. “Only say what pleases you,” he mumbles. He cups his face and frowns apologetically. The witch is uncomfortable and it’s his fault. He stands at her invitation, letting the apple core fall to the ground. He offers her his arm. “You beat me to it.” He put his bets on Lanara being wrongfully accused because she was a witch. The warrior couldn’t believe she’d harm a fly. “I believe you. You aren’t a bad person. I’ve known you for two seconds and even I can tell.” Unbiased trial. Could Enchantment offer that? Or was it in Kelay? Or elsewhere? He’s not worrying about ramifications either. He’d both done and been accused of his share of wrongs. No one is perfect. If Nat’s gone, there’s no rush to get back. “I’ve got no home or family to fuss over.” He wiggles his elbow, waiting for her to stand and take his arm. “Show me where you’re staying.” The witch had been through a lot over the past year. A relationship ended. Crimes committed in her name. Exile. All roads leading back to Lithrydel and redemption. Hell, he’d need to meet people too. “What do you like to eat, besides apples?” The blonde would let Lanara lead the way while remaining at her side. She’s mostly so slight, how could kill anyone? Kyori knew he was too trusting. Always quick to believe a pretty face.

Lanara finds it refreshing that this male accepts her statement with an open mind, as so many had harshly judged her in the past, without even hearing her side of the story. She tends to be somewhat naïve in certain situations also, but she’s so delighted that he accepts her offer, that she doesn’t bother to further warn him about being seen in public with the witch. “Thank you… I can tell that you are a good person, too, Kyori.” Family and friendship meant everything to Lanara, and though she had closed herself off greatly to new acquaintances as of late, she’s eager to take Kyori’s arm and lead him out of the apple orchard. “I’ve been staying at an apartment above The Flower Shop, to the east of the main road… The owner died and Waveline can’t bear to live there without him, so she only manages the business, and rents out the upstairs. Lunalesca convinced her to let me stay there, free of charge, until my trial is over.” As they walk in companionable silence for a few moments, she smiles at their difference in stature, and glances up at him with fondness, “You are perfect gentleman for escorting me home, though I hope it’s not too taxing on your back.” He’s likely hunching over so she can maintain a grip on his arm, as she’s so petite. “I eat anything, really! I love all sorts of berries, anything sweet, and I will totally wrestle you over s’mores. What about you? Any favorite foods?” After about twenty minutes or so of walking, they arrive at their destination and Lana lowers her hand from his arm so she can rummage in her satchel for the key. They pass a pleasant pixie who is manning the shop, and take the stairs to the second floor, where the door is unlocked and the witch motions for Kyori to enter first. The apartment is rather small, consisting of only three rooms, and is sparsely decorated. The first room is a kitchen with a wooden table and three chairs, leading into the next room which holds two twin size beds on opposite side of the room, and a large dresser in the center, and the room to the rear is a tiny washroom. Lana locks the door behind them and proceeds to the kitchen, where a large pot rests upon the counter, scalding to the touch, as it had been keeping the food warm for hours. Enchantment was wonderful with locking spells into their tools, and this crock pot device held a bubbling stew inside, with enough food to feed a party of ten. “Please, make yourself comfortable, dinner will be ready in a few minutes. There is a washroom to the rear of the bedroom if you want to freshen up.”

“Call me Coyote.” He chuckled before letting her take the lead. He listens in silence as the witch explains her living situation and food preferences. Her relaxed disposition relaxes him. She was strange and familiar. “I tried to fight your benefactor and I’m used to it. Figure I owe you,” He runs a hand through his hair and it stays smoothed back thanks to salt and grease. What did she weigh, two pounds? “Croissants with chocolate inside.” His sister had a better name but he couldn’t remember. “And I’ll eat almost anything. Except Onions. F-“ He cuts himself off and laughs. She was a lady. Can’t go that route. The spellblade eyes the pixie as they mount the stairs to Lanara’s apartment. Her home is clean and minimal, which he appreciated. Two beds, one for herself and one for her sister. That’s Kyori’s guess. Or the pixie downstairs. His nose detects the stew before he sees it. The warrior lets her arm go and tilts his chin in the direction of the washroom. Good idea. “Thanks, I’ll just be a minute.” His boots fall heavy on the floor followed by the creak and contact of the door closing against its frame. He’s only gone for a few minutes but the sound of running water remains constant. He surfaces with damp, curling hair and a water speckled shirt badly in need of its own soap therapy. He’d used whatever most looked and smelled like shampoo in the bathroom and looks pretty proud of himself, too. He smells less like the sea now. Salt’s been scrubbed out of his shadow of a beard and face. His hair has also been baptized with freedom. The color is darker when damp but stays away from his neck enough to reveal a small scar at the base of his scalp. Easy to miss when his hair was dry and wild. Kyori steps into the kitchen, ready to be instructed on any chores Lanara needed taken care of like setting the table or filling their glasses with water. He doesn’t start a new conversation but lets them occupy the space together as if they were pretending to be old friends. He moves around the apartment like he’s known it his whole life. Food on the table, he claps his hands flat together and doesn’t wait for any prayers or blessings on the food before digging in.

Lanara remains busy as Kyori takes his time in the washroom, humming to herself as she slices a loaf of freshly baked bread, fixes a salad, and spoons the stew into two large bowls. Placing the food neatly on the table, she rests utensils beside each setting, and a handful of napkins are within reach in the center. The room is dimly lit with enchanted sconces, so she lights a trio of tapers which are arranged at the center of the table, so that neither of them would knock the candles over and set the apartment ablaze. Should she offer wine? She didn’t want this to appear like she conned him into a date or anything, or make him feel uncomfortable. She’s deliberating what to pour into which glass, when the door to the washroom opens and the male steps into the kitchen, and she nearly drops the pitcher of water that she’s tipping into her cup. “Hi.” She manages, her voice coming out in a squeak, as she hadn’t envisioned him cleaning up –that- good. “Um…I wasn’t sure if you wanted water, tea, or something stronger… I have a bottle of red wine.” It clearly had been a long while since she last hosted an event of had any company, so she nips her lower lip and takes a seat across from Kyori. The food is delicious, the meat is tender, and the atmosphere is relaxing, so after a few bites the witch dabs her lips with a napkin and glances at the pot, “Please, eat as much as you like, Coyote.” He was allowing her to use his nickname, which shows he’s comfortable, and this seems to make her happy. “So, what sort of work did you do in Lativu? Is that where you were spending your time, before you returned to Cenril?” A tikifhlee enters the room, dark purple in color, with piercing gray eyes, and momentarily steals Lana’s attention. The shadowcat is only a kitten, though it’s already double the size of a full grown housecat, and she meows loudly. Rubbing up against the woman’s calf, she peers up at Kyori with curiosity, waiting for introductions to be made. “This is Cinder! She was a gift from Khitti… She is a tikifhlee. And… She totally wants you to dip some bread in the gravy and give her a nibble.”

Kyori’s hair keeps dripping in his food. It’s annoying but the salt in his hair was –more- annoying. The mood set hinges on romantic but he’s oblivious to things of that nature. Lanara’d set the table herself so he didn’t have much to do besides sit down and wait for her to join him. “Wine is fine but let me get it.” If she tells him where it is, he’ll fetch and uncork it, pouring the crimson liquid into his before lifting the bottle in her direction. Did she want any? They eat in the comfort suspension of time and the stew is a god send, if he believed in them. Instead it’s just damn good. Sapphire eyes look up across the table at the witch when she calls him Coyote and he smiled at her. He wasn’t replacing Nat, just preserving a small part of her memory. If she was gone, this silly nickname would serve as the proof she existed. “Do you have any nicknames?” He swallows and sizes up the cat instead of answering her questions about Lativu. “Never heard of them,” but he follows Lana’s instructions to the letter and offers Cinder gravy saturated bread. That cat looked powerful. Another reason to visit this Khitti he’s hearing about. Maybe a tikifhlee was a solid choice in travelling companion. “I’ve always been a sell sword.” He lied. “I did a lot of fighting in the army there. My sisters ran a babysitting service. We didn’t have much but we were happy.” Kyori, you should consider telling her you’re a prince. Eh, the less people who knew the better. He could tell her his fantasy life and by spreading the false history he could rewrite the truth into a better future. He could and did fight. “Fighting is one of my passions.” Slay the beast, keep your people safe. The warrior could hear the whispers of his mother, begging him to keep everyone safe. ‘Keep your people safe.’ His sisters. His father. His mother. He hadn’t kept any of them safe but he couldn’t tell Nat, couldn’t tell Lanara. They barely knew him and Kyori wanted more than anything to forget his failings and be reborn here. Reborn a new man with no tarnished past. He didn’t want to lie, knew he shouldn’t, but it was a small one. One no one would ever know about to keep them both safe. It helped him hide and would keep her from viewing him differently. He wanted to be Coyote. “But work dried up so I moved on. My sister’s stayed, their business was good. I’ll send money home when I can. I always wanted to travel anyway.” He finishes his portion and ladles up more in the kitchen. “I took a job from a fella on the docks. A mad beast covered in inky sludge was devouring villagers in a town three days from Cenril. He paid me, it just took longer than I wanted.” No Kyori, the man –lied- and tried to feed you to the sludge beast as a tribute and you killed them both. Tell the beautiful witch you’re a murderer. He looks up over his spoon at her. He wasn’t a monster. “What did you do in your homeland? Why did you come here?” He didn’t want to think about his own life.

Lanara gives a slow nod in response to having some wine, and it’s as she’s taking that first sip that Kyori asks if she has any nicknames. She couldn’t tell him –all- of them, could she?! Cinnamon, Slaughtering Sister, and Crazy Lana, were rather unsavory and she didn’t want to give him a back story on how she had earned them. A faint blush rises in her cheeks as she recalls the past, when she had naughtier tendencies and enjoyed being reckless. The added color and flickering candlelight, however, enhance her appearance, so it’s likely that he won’t question if she’s keeping any secrets. “I have a few…” She takes another sip of wine, before telling him the nicknames that she held a fondness for, “Llama, Canary, and Lioness… Those were the three I’ve earned from those that I’ve been romantically involved with, in the past. Obviously, none of those apply today. And… Tiny Dancer was given to me from an old friend, from my days of being a dance instructor.” She would never dance again though, the witch hunters made sure of that, so she drains half of her glass of wine and returns to her meal. “Everyone calls me Witchy or Lana, mostly. But, feel free to call me whatever you think is fitting… How did you become Coyote?” Cinder swipes the bread with her paw and batts it back and forth on the floor, before gobbling up the morsel and peering up at Lana for more. “Nuh uh, Missy. You better lick that floor clean before you get another bite!” She’s teasing, of course, and would mop the floor when the meal was over. Her new companion was spoiled rotten. “Wow, you were a sell sword? It explains why you enjoy traveling and protecting others. And it’s admirable of you to help your sister’s financially…Do you plan on making these lands your home? Or will you just earn enough and head home in the near future?” She waits for an answer as she takes another dainty bite of her food, giving the man her full attention, until he returns the question. “Um, in Kelvar I mostly helped around the house, when I wasn’t at the Academy. You see, my magic began at a –very- early age and it was too much for me to control, so they sent me away to a boarding school until I could contain my powers. I returned home on the holidays and in the summer, but I guess you could say that Taly and I were mostly raised apart… We… We left Kelvar around the same time, after the drow destroyed my homeland, and I searched for my sister for two years, before I finally found her here. She made her home here, and so did I, as we had no one else to call a friend or family.” It’s the most she’s spoken since she’s been in Enchantment, and she feels slightly self-conscious as she tucks her hair behind her ears, “I’ve had many jobs over the years… Babysitting, tutoring in magic, teaching various styles of dance, waitressing, and before everything happened… I operated an animal sanctuary in Sage Forest. It was always my dream to work with animals, domestic and exotic, and I miss it so much… My sister runs the place now.” As Kyori heads for second helpings, the witch takes a long look at the male, noting his scar, though she doesn’t comment. “Did you manage to slay the sludge beast? Were you injured?”

Kyori sits down with his second helping, looking to Lanara when her nicknames are revealed. He chews thoughtfully, nodding to show he’s listening. Nicknames from past lovers, huh? A dance instructor? He decides, mouth full of stew, he won’t be calling her any of those names – especially not witchy. After what Nat said, it seems derogatory. He isn’t judging that’s just his stance. She would be Lana until another opportunity presented itself. “My friend had trouble with names.” He swallows a mouthful of wine. “It’s a hold over, if it pleases you. You can call me whatever you like, that’s just the only nickname I’ve had so far and it has a nice ring to it.” Cinder entertains herself with bread and the warrior stares down at it, enamored by its compact size. Enjoy is a strong assumption. The warrior doesn’t correct her. “I’m not sure yet. Depends on the amount of money I can make. If I make more here, it makes sense to stay.” He watches her eat, blonde brows furrowed when she says her homeland was destroyed. He chokes down an impulsive reply. Instead he says “I’m sorry” and continues listening. “The trial will end soon and you can go back.” The spellblade can ask her sister about Nat. “I can take a message to her if you want?” He’d go back to Kelay once they finished. He couldn’t take the Fairy Queen’s word about Nat. “Nah, I’m okay.” The scar is old and gray on his skin. “It was rough but worked out fine.” He stands, finished with his plate and offers to take Lanara’s into the kitchen for her with an outstretched hand.

Lanara can sense that the conversation is dwindling down, and it saddens her, somewhat. It had been a long while since she had communicated openly with another, and even longer since she hosted company for dinner. She would never return to Kelvar, but she fixes the man with a small smile as he was being kind. As Kyori rises and extends a hand to accept her plate she shakes her head, "Please, don't trouble yourself! I will take care of the dishes... You have had a long day, and you need your rest." Her eyes widen when he mentions taking a message to her sister and she fervently shakes her head, "Please, don't tell Taly that we've spoken. I want to explain everything and surprise her, but I want it to be at the right time." Once she was proven innocent. "The sanctuary is about two miles north of the Kelay Tavern. But it's getting dark..." She glances at the lone window in the kitchen, seeing that dusk was nearing. The warrior was bound to get lost again. "If you don't plan on heading to Kelay tonight, you are welcome to stay here. The other bed isn't being used, but I can't promise Cinder won't hop up for some cuddles. I don't mind at all! If not, there is a local tavern, The Green Fairy, that may have a room available." She wouldn't press further on the matter, as she busies herself with washing the dishes and utensils. Lana feels that Kyori is harmless, and she knows what it's like to be uncertain of one’s path.

Kyori nods solemnly. “I give you my word, I won’t tell her.” That was the witch’s prerogative and he did not want to take that surprise away from her. While Lanara’s looking out the window, the spellblade fixes her with a patient but disobedient smirk and scoops up her plate anyway, carrying the dishes into the kitchen. He fiddles with the sink, tapping this and that until he figures out the system and hot water steams up around his calloused hands. He leans into it. Kyori opens his mouth, shifting his jaw and cracking his neck. He is tired but there’s still more to do. No matter how Lana protests, he’ll maintain a calm disposition and go about washing their plates. “Why did you open an animal sanctuary?” He calls back over the rumble of water. “Are you one of those people who can’t turn animals away? One of my sisters had that bad habit.” He looks down at the hot water, stripping the plates clean. “That was her branch of the babysitting business, actually. People would bring her injured, old, or disowned animals of all creeds and she’d nurse them back and find them homes. Our home, usually.” Once the plates are certifiably debris free, he shuts off the water and reaches for a towel to dry them. “She used to say animals were more honest than people, more open and affectionate. She was younger but boy,” he chuckles fondly, leaning against the counter. “She wasn’t too far off the mark.” Lanara’s offer for him to stay granted her a kind but tired smile. “Thank you for all your hospitality but,” Damp blonde hair shakes back and forth, “I still have a few things to do yet.” He sets the dishes on the sink and stands near Lanara, pushing his hair away from his forehead. “Thank you for helping me.” Kyori bows his head respectfully. He hadn’t forgotten that the witch was a prisoner in Enchantment until her trial. “Is there anything you’d like me to bring back for you?” From the realm at large or even from Kelay, specifically.

Lanara hadn't expected to be outsmarted in her own kitchen, so as Kyori rinses the dishes, she takes up the space at his side and proceeds to dry them. It's oddly comfortable, and the pair has such a good system of wash, dry, repeat, that it looks as though they have been a team for several years. The mention of the sanctuary is brought up and Lana smirks, teasingly towel whipping the warrior on his forearm, "I think your sister and I would get along just fine, thank you! What do you have against critters, Coyote!?" It's the first time since they've met that the witch hasn't guarded her emotions or words, and she leans in slowly to taunt Kyori further, "I bet you had a pink poodle when you were a little boy. You even dressed her in clothes, and she was your first kiss!" Lana giggles, resuming her kitchen duties, as she answers his inquiry, "I have a gift that makes animals trust me, so I have never been rejected by even the most feral beast. I think an animals nature is far more genuine than a man or woman, and I just feel a kinship. My sister built the sanctuary as a gift for me, and it's the most rewarding job. But yes, I bring home strays, often." As the final dish is dried and Kyori declines needing a place to stay for the night, she gives a slow nod, "I understand, but please be careful. It's easy to get turned around in the woods at night. If you head north until the bridge, then veer west on the road, you will be in the town of Kelay. And..." Where did this man hail from, with such impeccable manners? His offer to return, with items she may need, is so thoughtful that she's silent for a moment. "You are very kind, but I have all that I need... If you ever are in need of a friend, or want to, um, come by again... I would welcome your company." As if on cue, her cheeks redden, and she glances everywhere but at the male. When did being social become so difficult?!

Kyori recoils when the towel taps him, blonde brows raised in surprise. “I’m a critter!” He protests, hands up in surrender. Lanara accuses him of having a poodle and he shakes his head. “By that logic, most people’s first kiss would be dogs.” Who puts dogs in clothes? “You and your sister sound very close.” He tries not to sound sentimental. “I will be careful,” he reassures her with a tired half smile. The warrior’d proved prone to losing his way. That is how he landed here. May the Fairy Queen’s threat to trap him here without a date be forgotten. Her directions are, committed best he can, to memory. If his feet took him elsewhere, he’d find his way eventually. Kyori gives her a cautious look. Was it too much to ask her? The witch flushes and Nat’s face flashes through his mind again. Lana’s sister –had- to know why. He gives Lana an unguarded smile and lifts his hand to rest it on the top of her hair. It’s silken and dark in the low light. “Don’t hesitate to do the same, Lanara.” Sapphire eyes open and his hands are stuffed back into his pockets. He shrugs a shoulder, adjusting the sword strap across his chest, and turns to go.

Lanara lifts her chocolate hues to lock with sapphire, as the sentiment is returned. Kyori's arrival was unexpected, their day had taken a twist of fate, and although the witch had a heavy heart these days, the smile that brightens her face is of the utmost sincerity. "Thank you for hanging out with me, today. I hope to spend more relaxing days of getting to know you in the future... I'm sorry about your friend having left the lands... And, I wish you safe travels, always." As his hand lowers from the top of her head, she lifts hers to clasp his, and gives it a gentle squeeze. For a moment, neither of them speak, as they both had uncertain futures ahead. Kyori gathers his things and leaves the apartment, as Lana locks the door behind him, and hopes he doesn't get lost in the forest. The rest of the evening passes without incident, as the witch and her cat curl up on the bed, and Lana reads a book of poetry aloud, as though to soothe them both now that they are alone, again.