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Candlelight flickers across the curves and crevasses of stone walls, their dancing quickened as Ghislaine and his guest pass by. He keeps these halls dim and frigid. While most visitors find the south wing unnerving, Morris feels at home. This place reminds him of the mountain caves he was accustomed to. |
Why am I here an' no' wi' th' others? Morris gripes as they enter what seems to be private chambers, tucked away in this quietest corner of the castle |
Because you aren't like them Ghislaine answers, looking over the room before meeting the boy's gaze Are you? |
I-I Morris blurts, puffing up with a protest but failing to find a proper retort |
Oh, don't mistake that for an insult! Ghislaine assures him. He gestures to a set of armchairs near the window. Morris is skeptical at first but finds no way to politely refuse. I mean to say that you are special, Morris Ghislaine praises, seating himself across from him Much like myself. |
We're no' alike at all...! Morris hisses, scowling at the man across from him |
Oh, we're alike in many ways. Ghislaine replies with a cool laugh We both have rare gifts, gifts that garner fear from our associates. |
Euan has rare magic... Morris complains in a withering tone, his eyes locked on his own hands which twist and controt on his lap But he still got t' leave wi' everyone else. Am tired o' being left behind... |
Yes Ghislaine croons with a faux sympathy Young Euan does indeed possess valuable abilities but, much like his uncle, his skills are best applied on the battlefield. But you, Morris, have a more unique path set before you. |
Morris spares Ghislaine a glance, looking away again quickly. Years of disdain have left him ever cynical of olive branches. |
You see, I once sat exactly where you sit now in very much the same position. Morris scoffs at the idea but Ghislaine continues Like you, my peers feared my abilities and, in turn, feared me too. |
Whit… can ye do? Morris peeps despite himself, his scowl softening yet his eyes remain locked on his contorting hands. |
I posses Irkath's Eye and Vision Ghislaine answers in a more cheerful tone I can see deception and even peek into Irkath's Plane. Are you familiar with this aspect? |
It's… Morris pauses, conjuring up the fairytales from his childhood Th' aspect o' lies? |
A very common misconception. Ghislaine states as softly as he can No, Irkath is far more than simple lies! Irkath is… Well he is the aspect of the unknown, the keeper of lost and forgotten knowledge and the father of all secrets. |
Whit does 'is hev t' do wi' me? Morris complains heatedly |
It is why I tell you you are special, Morris! Ghislaine insists, circling back Dark magic is already very uncommon but Irkath's blessings are the rarest. I believe you possess this magic. |
W-whit? Morris stammers and his eyes widen. Ghislaine stands, turning to the window to obscure his smile. |
People are naturally afraid of the unknown Ghislaine performs with a bitter frown and tremulous tone, eyes on the city below Those few with our gifts are frequently ostracized or even persecuted. Someone capable of weaving, revealing or piercing through deception or even into an individual's deepest secrets terrify their peers. Before my master took me under her wing, before his majesty made a place for me here, I had no one. I suspect you too are familiar with this treatment…? |
Morris feels tears welling up as Ghislaine glances back at him, searching his eyes. Morris' face scrunches and he wipes his eyes furiously as the tears roll out. Ghislaine turns again to the window as the boy sobs and grants him a moment of silence to regain his composure. |
There may be a place for you here as well Ghislaine continues as the boy's sniffles subside If you are willing to hone your abilities. |
Whit d-dae ye m-m-mean? Morris replies, still wiping at his face. Ghislaine turns and settles back into the chair. |
His majesty has an… appreciation for dark magic. Ghislaine speaks precisely, presenting a thoughtful gaze with crossed fingers He admires it. There is a collection of us here, in the capital, who use our rare abilities to serve him and further our group's interests. However, we only accept the most special, skilled and loyal into our society. The work we do is very important to the kingdom, far more impactful than mere soldiers. |
Whit... kind o' group? Morris prods |
I suppose… Ghislaine sighs, looking down and raising his eyebrows It's more like a family than a group. We look after each other and the King looks after us. |
Morris chokes down his initial eagerness at the thought of a family of people like him, not trusting himself enough to allow himself to hope. But such an opportunity cracks his delicate resolve. |
W-whit would- How would I… Morris stammers |
Don't fret! Ghislaine comforts him and the boy tries to relax I am telling you all of this today because I believe you have the potential to not only be a candidate for this group but to perhaps take my place in the far future. |
Me?! Morris gasps |
Yes Ghislaine chuckles But for now, I leave you with the offer to apprentice under me. That is why you have stayed behind. You do not have to answer me right aw- |
Aye! Morris blurts out almost immediately |
Ghislaine blinks in the face of Morris' fervent confirmation but then laughs in response, Morris' face flushing red in embarassment. |
Well... you'll certainly need that enthusiasm during your training. Irkath doesn't relent his secrets readily. Ghislaine responds, watching as Morris beams at the prospect. Ghislaine rises from his chair and Morris mimics his movements I believe that is all for today, I have other matters to attend to. So for now, you may settle in here. |
Here? Morris echoes in disbelief, gawking at the lavished chambers |
Yes! Ghislaine's answer is cheery, but to more experienced ears his tone is that of a spider who has captured its prey! You'll find this and far greater rewards if you can learn to master your kaithur. I'll send for you when we are ready to begin your training. |
Ghislaine turns and leaves then, Morris still speechless as he closes the door behind him. Ghislaine wears a pleased expression as he travels through the halls and it remains as he joins Ambrose and Martin in the great hall. |
I take it you were successful? Ambrose greets him and Ghislaine's smile widens |
It went far better than I had expected! Ghislaine answers gleefully The boy is very... receptive. |
I pity him already. Martin grumbles and Ghislaine's smile drops considerably |
Sour that my charge is more manageable, are you? Ghislaine banters |
While I endorse your project Ambrose cuts in I won't tolerate fruitless distractions. |
Of course not, sire. Ghislaine breathes, his expression pleasant again And, if he learns quickly enough, he may be just what we need to find the girl. |
Hm Ambrose hums I suppose we will see. |
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