Sentimental
The sound of horseshoes clapping against stone reverberates throughout the capital as new recruits pour out from their homes, tearful eyes holding both pride and trepidation. Tia's face is unsteady as she watches them pass by from her window, an amalgamation of her own emotions stirring. Her eyes graze the room she had let herself believe would be her home, seeming hollow now that most of her things have been packed away. Tia questions if it would be a home to her again when she returns or if she would return at all. |
This is the second time I'm leaving my home... Tia comments to Duff, settled on the windowsill All in one year! But this time I'm doing it alone. |
Duff reminds her, locking eyes with Tia |
I won't even be able to see dad… for years! Tia continues, her voice cracking as she speaks. Duff holds her eyes before glancing back outside, his tail flicking at the end. What if I never see him again...? Tia squeaks I-I already lost mom I- |
Duff insists
|
As Tia wipes at her eyes, he can feel the crushing sense of loneliness looming in her mind and her fear of it threatening to crash into her with its full weight. Duff meows suddenly, catching Tia by surprise. He stares pointedly at the recruits passing in front of the manner gates. Tia searches their faces, seeing the same uncertainty she was wrestling with. She remains silent, watching until a knock stirs her from contemplation. Duff leaps onto her shoulder as she makes her way to the door. |
Evelyn paces in the great hall, pale and tense until Tia and Allen descend. She draws in a breath and offers a steady smile to her granddaughter, trying to put them both at ease. |
Come here, Tia Evelyn asks holding Tia by the shoulders, looking her over and straightening out her clothing I've triple checked your belongings and have them prepared out front—everything is ready! Evelyn chirps, searching Tia's eyes and feeling her tremble slightly |
I-I don't know if I'm ready… Tia peeps, her voice discordant. Evelyn opens her mouth to reassure her but pauses as Allen places a hand on Tia's empty shoulder. |
You don't have to be Allen consoles softly |
Both of their eyes tear up and, as her face trembles, Allen spreads his arms out to her. Tia embraces her father, Duff hopping to a nearby table, and Allen holds her tight. He holds her as if releasing Tia would be the end of him. |
Listen to me Allen's voice is firm as Tia pulls away, cupping her face You do everything you can to keep yourself safe. I don't care what they say or do, whatever pressure they put on you—you focus on staying alive! |
Ok Tia squeaks, her breath catching |
She places her hands over his, squeezing them once before letting them drop. Allen turns to Duff and gives him a stern expression. |
I expect you to look after my daughter Allen addresses him in a grim tone |
Unlinching, Duff offers only a simple nod and Allen returns his attention to Tia |
And I expect you to write us, even when you're busy! Allen addresses her in a far gentler tone |
Tia gains a wobbly smile followed by a deep breath to steady herself |
Now then Evelyn cuts in, catching everyone's attention Let's repeat the rules one more time before you go! |
Ok Tia puffs #1: No changing my appearance
#2: No changing forms—only use Dad's magic #3: Keep Duff concealed and don't be seen together #4: Tell no one |
Duff snarks
|
Hush, you! Tia bites with a scowl before speaking with less certainty I... I just have to act like a normal human. I already know how to do that! Mostly... |
Aaaand Allen chimes in Number five: no boys! |
Oh, Allen! Evelyn admonishes him as he and Tia giggle There is one last thing then, a family tradition… |
Evelyn leads them to the mantle of the fireplace. A polished box creaks open under Evelyn's hand and she produces a knife with the family crest on its pommel. She then gestures to a glass case Tia hadn't stopped to observe before. Her fingers graze the glass, delicate as a feather, and her eyes brim with memories. Inside, many locks of hair are braided and pinned to a satin backing—fifteen in total. |
When a Minx leaves for service, we cut a lock of their hair and pin it here Evelyn explains, her voice a pitch higher than usual So a piece of you is still here, no matter where you go. And when you return you cast it into the fire to celebrate the person you've become! |
Then these…? Tia questions breathlessly, studying the locks still pinned in place. Evelyn's lip trembles as peers at them wistfully. |
If they… can't return Evelyn responds with a wavering voice We keep these here so that they are never forgotten and this piece of them is still with us. |
A heavy silence looms over them until Evelyn turns to Tia, offering her the blade. Tia runs her fingers through her hair as she eyes it. |
Do you think... Tia's question is timorous I'd like to use my real hair… if that's okay? |
Evelyn blinks, not having considered the difference. She seems about to rebuff Tia's request until Allen speaks up. |
I don't see any harm in it Allen reasons, causing Evelyn to release the breath of her unspoken protest |
Evelyn nods, despite a tight frown, and Tia takes hold of the knife as snowy hair rolls down her shoulders. She selects a lock near the nape of her neck, severing it and passing it to her grandmother. |
Ordinarily We start a new board for each generation and these would be displayed in the library or study. But… I can't bring myself to take them down. |
That’s fine Tia reassures her I like this better anyways. |
Evelyn gives her a starkly grateful smile in return. Tia's braid is secured and Evelyn carefully pins it at the end, the clear white popping compared to the brown and black lockes. Allen's eyes fill with tears as she closes the case and he swipes them away quickly before Tia can see. As a bell tolls throughout the town, Tia reverts to her disguise and Duff disappears into her cloak, settling into a pocket Evelyn had prepared. Much of Tia's clothing now had these little hideaways. They make their way outside and, pausing to embrace them both a final time, Tia mounts her horse in silence. Allen watches as she rides through the manor gates, lost. The moment she is out of sight, Evelyn retreats into the manor, crashing into a nearby sofa like a bundle of firewood set loose. She covers her face with one hand, otherwise seeming like a limp doll in the seat. Allen follows her inside with tenuous steps, surprised by the sudden shift. |
I never… I had hoped I'd never have to do this again... |
Allen settles into the matching armchair and he still feels a tingling in his limbs. It hadn't left him once all morning and now seems to expand. He flexes his fingers slowly, his mind still racing with potential alternatives or solutions which he knew were all futile. Allen wanted nothing more than to race after his daughter and leave this place with her. This thought, among many others, had been repeating endlessly in his mind since the day Ambrose had refused his request but today it was overwhelming. He gestures over a staff. |
Absolutely not! Evelyn snaps heatedly, surprising Allen with her vehemency I won't see you touch another drop of that abominable brew ever again--not while I still live and breath! |
...Fine. Allen relents grudgingly after sharing an intense gaze of tenacity with his mother Whiskey then--the whole bottle. |
[
I understand it's been a hard day Evelyn gripes But- |
Do you? Allen snaps too harshly |
I am not having this argument with you today! Evelyn denies with a firm wave Besides, we still have important matters to discuss. |
I'm sure House business Allen grumbles, wearing a scowl and propping his head up with one hand Can wait until tomorrow. |
I've been handling House affairs on my own for more than a few decades, far more efficiently than most I'll have you know—something you'll need to learn now that you've returned! Evelyn answers almost indignantly, ignoring Allen's sigh There is a distressing rumor circulating. It- |
Mother Allen interrupts Gossip is the last thing I will tolerate today! |
You will stop interrupting me! Evelyn snaps empirically, leaving Allen blinking This isn't just gossip, it has to do with your daughter! |
Allen blinks and leans back into his seat, lips pressed together. The servant returns with a bottle and a cup on a tray, placing it on the table between them before stepping away. As Allen pours himself a glass, Evelyn dismisses all of the staff and waits until they are alone to continue. |
From what I've heard Evelyn explains, speaking slowly Ghislaine, under direction from the king, is trying to find and capture shape shifter spies. |
Evelyn holds Allen's eyes with her own, his already pale face losing more color |
Spies…? Allen husks |
Yes Evelyn confirms tersely, frowning From the Continent Beyond according to what's been circulating. |
That's preposterous! Allen derides, spinning his liquor in the cup before sipping at it Ambrose would never believe baseless fear-mongering! There's something more to this... |
Evelyn hums her agreement while Allen mulls over his options |
There is... one more tidbit I've overheard. Evelyn continues, her dire mood recapturing his attention He is looking for something called a "dark" shape shifter. |
Darkness... Allen denotes carefully, holding Evelyn's gaze Have you seen them too, her shadows? |
Ambrose looms on the easternmost balcony of the castle, overlooking the alabaster streets and watching the annual pilgrimage. His son had departed earlier this morning, tradition dictating he be the first to leave, but Aldric is far from Ambrose's thoughts as his eyes scathe the children below. Any one of them could be the girl who holds all of his hopes and ambitions, the future of the kingdom, just out of reach. He knows she's likely an unwitting player in this game and yet he struggles against the accumulation of animosity for her—this clueless, weak-willed child who had snared his greatest desire so effortlessly and threatens to trample sacrifices the likes she could never comprehend. Despite Ghislaine's assurances, Ambrose feels as if she's slipping through his fingers. The door behind him swings open and Ghislaine emerges, squinting into the glaring sunlight reflecting off of white stone buildings. |
What is it? Ambrose bites, making no effort to hide his aggravation as his eyes still linger on those below |
It's Allen, sire Ghislaine answers, continuing to blink and squint He's here asking for an audience with you. |
Allen? Ambrose echoes and swivels around fully Here now? |
Ghislaine nods as Ambrose pauses to work out why |
Should I dismiss him? Ghislaine asks, poorly masking his desire to do so |
No Ambrose denies him, looking back at the children once I'll see him. |
Ghislaine follows Ambrose back into the castle, grateful for the dim atmosphere as they make their way to the great hall. Allen waits there, speaking with Martin and seeming to poke fun at and ruffle him. The sight brings a sense of nostalgia to Ambrose despite the reversal in their habits and a smile touches his face. |
Allen, what a surprise Ambrose greets him and Martin grimaces at his choice of words Still your specialty I see. |
Good morning, sire Allen answers, surprisingly cheerful I hope I'm not intruding, dropping in so suddenly. |
Ambrose hums a laugh in response but it doesn't affect his expression |
I certainly didn't expect to see you today, of all days Ambrose admits A solemn occasion for most. |
Allen's smile strains in response, pulling at the aged lines on his face |
Well Allen answers thoughtfully I've never been able to sit idle when there's work to be done. |
You’re here on business then? Ambrose asks, the slightest disappoinment sneaking into his voice |
Yes Allen responds with a simple nod I'll try to get right to the heart of it and not waste your time. |
Even when you're serious you're slipping in jokes! Martin jests, referring to Allen's lethal technique, and Ambrose can't help but join in on the laughter |
Ghislaine frowns, the joke lost on him. Allen clears his throat as their laughter fades and tries to be more serious. |
Now that I've returned and seen off my daughter Allen begins It would be… irresponsible for me to sit in my manor twiddling my thumbs. I came here today hoping to play an active role again Allen states solemnly To offer my skills to you and the kingdom. |
Eyebrows raise on all of their faces, Ghislaine and Martin locking eyes before looking back to Ambrose |
That is a very appealing offer, Allen Ambrose responds carefully But I am not without skepticism hearing this from you now. |
Ghislaine nods into Ambrose's words and Allen can see a similar doubt on Martin's face |
I understand that skepticism Allen is unfazed as he agrees, anticipating this response I won't deny that I have been an absent member of your court for some time. |
Absent? Ghislaine derides with a sneer Absent doesn't begin to cover it, you ran away and abandoned your duties for two decades! |
That's hardly- Martin snaps at Ghislaine |
No, he's right. Allen interrupts him, throwing them both off All of you know... I was lost after that battle... Allen reminds them, pausing to rapidly construct a somber and almost uncomfortable atmosphere And I did run away from many things in my grief. My family, my duties, myself and yes, the kingdom and all of you. |
Martin and Ambrose glance to each other and Martin's face grows particularly mortified at the memory of Allen during that time. Martin was there in the aftermath of that battle, Allen lingering amid the corpses of his siblings. Neither of them knew how approach Allen in the wake of his losses, their friend shutting down every approach and isolating himself. Allen had nearly drowned himself in the hallucinogenic mead his mother had refused him this morning, reliving his past or experiencing alternate paths had he made different choices—anything but his reality at the time. He was an utterly broken man. Even Ambrose's stoic facade warps as the memories return to him, unsettling Ghislaine. |
I will always be grateful for how you responded! Allen continues earnestly, locking eyes with Ambrose I'd still be lost if not for the mercy you granted me. I found myself and a new purpose because of that kindness. |
That's all… a beautiful sentiment, Allen. Ghislaine cuts in, Martin leering at him for his belittling tone and sham of a smile But it assuages none of our concerns about your loyalties to his highness! |
Which is still my concern. Ambrose agrees and Ghislaine's smile widens While I appreciate your skills, nothing is more valuable to me right now than loyalty. How am I to trust in your loyalty, Allen? |
I bring up the past to preface that very point Allen's response is steady and cool headed You know better than most that, at every point in my life, nothing has meant more to me than my family Allen states and Ambrose nods in agreement And when I lost them... I lost my faith and my purpose. But I have that family again. There is nothing I wouldn't do for my daughter! |
Ambrose raises a brow as he speaks but waits for Allen to make his point |
And now… her future is inextricably tied to the kingdom's future a smile starts to grow on Ambrose's face as he grasps the connection and Martin regards Allen differently as well Her fate is the kingdom's fate, so my loyalty is to this kingdom's future. I would be... remiss to sit idle while that develops. |
I see Ambrose hums and a genuine smile breaks across his lips |
Ghislaine fumbles witnessing his utterly satisfied tone and expression, breaking through his usually ironclad facade. But how could Ambrose help but smile, his oldest friend finally returned before his eyes? Martin breaks the silence with a single hard laugh. |
That's no bluff Martin grunts curtly Every moment o' that damn escort ye were smothering th' lass! |
I see your nephew has already had an impact on your accent Allen points out with a grin and Martin grumbles at the thought of Euan You're not even drunk! |
A soft, nostalgic warmth remains in Ambrose expression as he watches the two of them, the smallest smile still in place. Ghislaine puffs up at the sight. |
Loyalty to your daughter does not mean- Ghislaine begins but Ambrose cuts him off with a halting gesture |
I know first hand how passionate a Minx is when protecting their loved ones... Ambrose indicates almost somberly, a bittersweet nostalgia lingering deep in his eyes I do trust in that loyalty. I will consider where you might be most useful. But I still expect you to prove yourself! |
Of course! Allen agrees, bowing his head in thanks and trying not to seem too relieved I'm grateful for the opportunity! |
Well Martin sighs abruptly, cutting through the tension I need a drink after that! |
Can you hold your liquor any better, after all these years? Allen questions with a grin |
You know I can't Martin guffaws But that's never stopped me! |
Allen and Martin both bellow with laughter and Ambrose chuckles. They look to him, questioning if he would join them, and Ambrose leans achingly close to accepting. Ghislaine shuffles behind him, stewing silently, and Ambrose offers a curt denial. The two men bow politely before making their way out and Ambrose sighs once they are alone, his gentle joy dissipating all at once. |
I can feel your disapproval Ambrose complains flatly, turning to his advisor |
I fear... he's using sentimentality to further his own goals, sire Ghislaine answers smoothly |
I won't forget his motivations! Ambrose growls with an agitated leer |
Ghislaine presses his lips together, biting his tongue |
But he may prove a valuable tool in flushing out this shifter… assuming complacency hasn't robbed him of the shrewd mind I remember. Ambrose drones, falling into contemplation |
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