What do you get when two ruthless assassins raise their daughter travelling through the wildest reaches of Caido? Take one look at Theea and you'll get a pretty good idea. Cheerful and tenacious in equal measure, and curious beyond all else, she began her journey on a mission to find those her mother once called family. And find them she did, soon rubbing elbows with demigods, leaders and even ghosts from the past. Her determination is resolute, her thirst for knowledge unmatched. We can't wait to see where her next adventure takes her!
Congratulations, Theea!
Credits
Court of the Fallen was created in October of 2018 by Odd, Honey, and Crooked.
OG Skinning provided by Kaons, with functionality and many custom plugins made by Neowulf!
The small town was charming with the new presence of Deepfrost encouraging people to congregate in small groups, bundled with layers of clothing and warm beverages. Zavien himself had a cup of coffee in hand, his other hand in his trouser pocket as he leisurely made his way towards the shops. Nothing in Stormbreak had caught his eye, and he wanted his first gift to Lena to be perfect. Hoping that another region might have something less... mundane, he'd made his way to King's End. He might have sought out Tal if it wasn't such short notice, but he didn't want to inconvenience the courier.
What a coincidence it was when he saw the woman he'd noticed standing with his friend at the Festival of Lights. Smiling warmly, he approached the seer, recalling her name from their run-in at the Greatwood. "Oh hi! Alys, right? What a pleasant surprise." Noting the change, Sol glided down from his fun in the sky. He was getting too big for Zavien's shoulder and opted to land on the ground next to him, tilting his head curiously up at the new fried.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Upgraded
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Mastered
Alys strolled along in New Haven, hot cocoa in a gloved hand, searching the shops for the perfect gift for Tal. She'd never been particularly skilled at purchasing gifts, preferring to make them by hand, but it was hard to make a gift for someone you spent just about every day with. Her original idea - to paint something small, a miniature portrait that Tal could keep somewhere aboard the Peregrine - was difficult to complete in secret. She still hoped to be able to do that, but if she ran out of time... well, it would be better to have a backup.
So she meandered through New Haven and was surprised when she heard her name called. She turned to find a familiar face and relaxed, offering a pleasant smile of her own. "Zavien, hello!" she said. At her feet, Sascha rumbled a greeting, then looked curiously at the dragon that landed nearby. Having become incredibly comfortable with Boreal, the little ursur had a soft spot for most dragons, and she trundled forward to try and sniff at the other companion. Alys snorted at her bonded, then turned back to Zavien. "It's nice to see you. How have you been?"
Oh, I had a dream that you couldn't hear me screaming Trying to tell you everything but it wouldn't stop you leaving
Minor powerplay allowed without permission.
Feel free to use force/magic on Alys.
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Neither Sol nor Zavien had ever met an ursur before, so while the dragon reached his head forward to offer a friendly chirp and wag of his tail, the Dragoon had to smile and pull his eyes back towards Alys. "Good. How are you?" Sadly, he didn't have any updates for her fortune telling, but that didn't mean things were going bad. Other than the information Deimos had passed him, Zavien would go so far as to say that things had been uneventful, maybe even quiet. Perhaps everything was settling down in the colder season.
Glancing around at the other folks milling about, he asked, "Out doing some shopping as well?" He secretly wondered if it was for a specific Captain, but let the innocent question stand, a warm smile on his face.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Upgraded
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Mastered
"I'm fine, thank you," Alys said with a friendly smile. Fortunately, with practice, it was getting easier for the seer to focus on a conversation even with the chaos of her magic in the background. She'd been having less headaches recently, anyway, and she counted that as a win. "How about you?"
Curiosity pulsed from Zavien, and she wondered what it was that he wanted to know so badly. Surely there was more to it than simply asking if she was out shopping. Still, she merely nodded. "Yes. I'm looking for something for my partner, just in case my first gift idea falls through." She made a face. "What about you? Are you looking for anything in particular? I live nearby, so if you're not familiar with the area, maybe I can point you in the right direction."
Oh, I had a dream that you couldn't hear me screaming Trying to tell you everything but it wouldn't stop you leaving
Minor powerplay allowed without permission.
Feel free to use force/magic on Alys.
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Surprised to hear the repeated question, Zavien tried to keep his expression neutral and kind. "Good. Thank you." However, he didn't have to hide or pretend as the following large smile broke across his face. "Ah. Something for Tal, hm?" Sol perked at the mention of their friend, glancing between the two momentarily before returning his attentions to the ursur. "What were your gift plans? Can I help at all?" A pulse of happiness for the man and his partner might have encouraged him to be a little pushy, but he hoped Alys didn't feel that it was too much.
More than happy to talk about his own partner, Zavien smiled. "I'm looking for something for my girlfriend, Lena. I was thinking about jewelry, so if you have any suggestions for where - or what - that would be really helpful." He laughed warmly, completely at a loss for the particulars of the gift. Lena didn't exactly wear a lot of jewelry, but the other Dragoons had insisted that it was the perfect present. Beyond that, they'd said he was on his own.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Upgraded
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Mastered
Poor Alys (thanks to a distracted writer) had accidentally repeated herself, but fortunately, Zavien was kind enough to let it go. Fortunately, the conversation moved right along to Tal, and Alys smiled at the mention of her partner, a pretty blush mantling her cheeks. "That's right," she said. It was always nice to meet a friend of her partner's; he usually had good taste in companions, and her own interaction with Zavien assured her that this would be no different. "I was going to make something, but I'm not sure I'll have time. But I'm terrible at buying gifts. Everything I could think of, Tal already has. Any ideas?"
At her feet, Sascha rumbled a greeting to the curious dragon, attempting to move closer in a slow, but friendly greeting. People were often wary of an ursur, no matter how small she might be, so any opportunity to make a new friend was welcome.
"Oh, jewelry? Sure, there's a good place around the corner. Come on, I'll take you. What kind of jewelry were you thinking? Necklace, bracelet... a ring?" she added with a laugh, wiggling her eyebrows playfully. Not that it was any of her business, really, but she was in a good mood. Hopefully Zavien wouldn't mind.
Oh, I had a dream that you couldn't hear me screaming Trying to tell you everything but it wouldn't stop you leaving
Minor powerplay allowed without permission.
Feel free to use force/magic on Alys.
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Humming deeply at the admission, Zavien didn't wonder at the blush of her cheeks. "He does seem like someone who'd be hard to buy gifts for." He brought his coffee up in another sip as he brainstormed ideas for his friend. "Maybe a journal for his adventures or deliveries? Or a fancy new map? Or something for the Peregrine?" Since most of his time seemed consumed with deliveries, he couldn't think of anything other than something related to his profession.
Now it was Zavien's turn to blush, running a hand through his hair as he laughed nervously. "We only just started dating, so I think that might be a little too much too soon." Letting Alys lead the way towards the shop, he tried to shake the red from his cheek. "I was thinking more along the lines of a necklace." It was less likely to get dirty or caught in her work if it was on her neck.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Upgraded
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Mastered
While Tal would likely be perfectly content with whatever gift Alys got for him, she was determined to find something he would love - which meant that yes, he was most definitely hard to buy for. But Zavien's suggestions were welcome, and her eyes lit up with a new idea. "Oh, I didn't even think of maps! I have just the cartographer in mind, too. Thank you!" It meant that she wouldn't be making a purchase today, but once she tracked down Sohalia, she would be able to purchase exactly what she needed.
In the meantime, she was more than content to help Zavien with his gift. Alys hid a grin at the man's blush, nodding along as he explained that he was looking for a necklace. "Do you know if she prefers gold or silver? Were you thinking of something simple, like a pendant, or something more elaborate?" They were just around the corner from the jeweler, and it would be helpful to know what Zavien was looking for. "Or we can just browse, if you're not sure."
Oh, I had a dream that you couldn't hear me screaming Trying to tell you everything but it wouldn't stop you leaving
Minor powerplay allowed without permission.
Feel free to use force/magic on Alys.
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Happy to see his suggestions hear, he smiled warmly. When she mentioned 'cartographer,' it was his turn to brighten, looking to Alys in curiosity. "Oh! Do you know Sohalia? I think she mentioned that she makes maps." They'd been speaking very quietly at the time though, so perhaps he'd misheard.
The questions swam before his eyes, a little overwhelmed with the options. His cheeks flushed a little more, realizing exactly how little he knew about jewelry. "Umm... Maybe we could just browse first?" Smiling sheepishly, he added, "I didn't have anything specific in mind since I've never bought jewelry before." His own ring and bracelet had been from deities, the only accessories he wore himself. Somewhat to hide his embarrassment, and somewhat to keep it from going cold, Zavien took another sip of his coffee, glancing ahead to see if he could spot the store.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Upgraded
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Mastered
"I do," the seer confirmed. "She and Tal were friends for ages, and he introduced us. Her maps are supposed to be quite impressive, though I understand she hasn't had a shop for a while. But maybe she can help me with something for Tal." She wouldn't say that she was close friends with the Luminary, but she knew the girl well enough to know that she'd do anything for those she cared about - and that Tal was most certainly among that number.
As for Zavien, it seemed she'd overwhelmed the poor man, and the seer winced at the sudden burst of trepidation she felt through her magic. "Sorry," she said. "I have too much jewelry, so I get a little carried away." She gestured to her necklace, bracelets, earrings, and rings. "But if you've never bought before, and you're not sure of your girlfriend's preferences, I'd say that browsing is the best option. Most of the time, we can trust our gut when it comes to jewelry, so whichever piece calls to you, I'm sure she'll love."
Oh, I had a dream that you couldn't hear me screaming Trying to tell you everything but it wouldn't stop you leaving
Minor powerplay allowed without permission.
Feel free to use force/magic on Alys.
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Remembering how he'd helped Tal search for Soh, he supposed he shouldn't have been surprised to hear that Alys knew her. However, it always astounded him how the network of his acquaintances somehow always knew each other. Smiling to himself, Zavien nodded his head. "Hmm... what a small world. I'm sure she'll have the perfect thing for Tal."
Alys's apology surprised him, and the Dragoon couldn't help the chuckle that escaped. "You're fine. I'm just nervous that I might pick something boring that she won't like..." Lena wasn't the kind to hold that against him, probably just happy with the gift being from him, but that didn't mean he wanted to get her something simple or ugly. He wanted to get her something as amazing as she was. And that was a tall order.
Zavien glanced down at his coffee with a soft smile. "But thanks. I'll keep that in mind."
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Upgraded
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Mastered
Zavien reminded Alys a little bit of an eager puppy, the way he seemed to be easygoing and forgiving. She could tell even without her magic that he wanted only to please his partner, and that was something she could certainly relate to. "I'm sure you'll pick out the perfect gift," she assured him, because someone who was that nervous about such things was bound to make the best decision that they could for the person they loved.
They arrived at the jewelry shop, and Alys led the way inside. She waved to the merchant on duty, who was helping another customer, and began to show Zavien around the shop's displays. The shop was arranged in a 'u' shape, with glass cases displaying the jeweler's wares. Things were arranged by metal, and then by type of jewelry; Alys steered them towards the silver necklaces first, seeing as she was partial to silver, herself. "Just take a look around," she advised. "If there's anything you like, we can ask to look at it and the merchant will get it out for us."
Oh, I had a dream that you couldn't hear me screaming Trying to tell you everything but it wouldn't stop you leaving
Minor powerplay allowed without permission.
Feel free to use force/magic on Alys.
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Grateful for the reassurance, he gave her a bright smile, certainly eager to please. "Thanks." He didn't disagree with her, but it was still nice to hear that someone believed in him. His spine straightened just a little more, fragile confidence easing into his body as they made their way into the shop.
His green eyes widened at the overwhelming level of options. How would he ever choose? "There are so many options..." He encouraged Sol to stay outside, reluctantly following Alys towards the case. Running a nervous hand through his hair, he leaned down to looked closer at the options. The silver was pretty, but another glint quickly caught his eye. Gold jewelry was displayed to his right, and Zavien subconsciously drifted towards it. There were simple pieces like chains and small pendants along with more elaborate items full of gems and beautifully crafted images.
One particular necklace drew his attention, an elegant portrayal of a flower he didn't recognize. It brought an idea to mind, and he looked towards Alys with excitement. "Do you happen to see a gold necklace in the shape of lavender?"
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Upgraded
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Type: Grey | Rank: Mastered
Alys watched as Zavien perused the silver quickly, his eyes widening. He was a bit overwhelmed - she could see that as well as feel it with her magic - but he quickly gravitated towards the gold jewelry, and the seer tagged along behind, watching curiously. Zavien looked around until she felt a sudden spike of excitement from the dragoon; he turned to her to request assistance, and she eagerly began to seek something similar to his request.
It was difficult to discern some of the finer shapes of jewelry, given that there was so much of it in close proximity. "Why lavender?" she asked, curiosity in her voice as she searched. She didn't have anything against the plant - in fact, lavender was a particularly useful one - but she did have to wonder what it was specifically about lavender that called to Zavien.
"There!" she said suddenly, pointing to a dainty necklace in the center of the case. "That looks like lavender."
Oh, I had a dream that you couldn't hear me screaming Trying to tell you everything but it wouldn't stop you leaving
Minor powerplay allowed without permission.
Feel free to use force/magic on Alys.
Emotional Telepathy | The user can read deep emotions of those within a 5 foot radius at will. Control is excellent. Note: "Deep emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
Emotional Perception | The user can read surface level emotions of those within a 15 foot radius. Control is moderate. Note: "Surface level emotions" include anything written in a character's narration in a post.
