Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sat Apr 29, 2017 10:59 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven caught Hakon's eye for a moment, his gentle smile ever present. He transitioned to his own rendition of the song "Danny Boy", singing the words along with the melody. From his shadow, the orchestral accompaniment echoed out, the sweet sound of violins serenaded the forest around them along with his tender voice. For the start of an adventure, Aven regarded the tune a bit melancholy, to be sure, but all the same, it was one of his favorite arias. His focus on the song, coupled with the precise recreation of sound by vibrating dark matter in his shadow through his thoughts, excluded him from even remotely noticing any possible onlookers to the sides of the path.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sat Apr 29, 2017 10:09 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon glanced at her comrade, tilting her head ever so slightly and smiling vaguely as she gazed at him- she didn't know why such sweet warmth spread through her chest when she gazed at him. Even while she simultaneously felt as if she should be disgusted by him- nonetheless, she shouldered her pack more firmly as they continued on- not noticing the vague rustling of te leaves on either side of them though no wond blew.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sat Apr 29, 2017 9:58 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven absently hummed various tunes as they went, his voice a soft and smooth baritone, carrying farther than it should have. It sounded as though his shadow was amplifying the sound, or… humming with him? No, that wouldn't make sense. He kept an even pace, taking slow, long strides to the rhythm of the song he was performing at the time, as well as unconsciously matching the speed of each time to the rythmic pattern of Hakon's footsteps. Above all else, he was enjoying the presence of a companion, and the relative tranquility of the forest, looking as though he didn't have a care in the world.

That was not so, however. In his mind, he was flitting through pages and pages of research, reaclamating himself to their contents. If one were to looker his eyes, they would notice that he was not at all paying attention to where he was going, his vision zoned into the distance as he strode along. It was possible that starting a conversation would break him out of the trance, but until then, he would most likely continue humming and walking to the beat of the armor.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sat Apr 29, 2017 9:36 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She smiled faintly, looking away as she adjusts the helm over her eyes, nodding shortly," Then away we go," she hums quietly, beginning to place one foot before the other as she starts away, her eyes fixed upon the forest ahead.

Hours of walking later and the pair would find themselves in the center of a forest, thick trees crowding away what light they could as the pair continued down the road. The rhythmic clink of shield against sword, boots against ground and armor against armor within her backpack seeming to create an odd song to their journey. Hakon hadn't spoke a word, staring forward- simply trying to sort her thoughts into neat little piles- leaving the little songbird alone as she attempted to make sense of herself. Not everything added up.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 3:39 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven didn't miss a single beat in answering Hakon's question. Such was his way when dealing with directions, decisions that had no logical bearing. "Straight, onward to whatever awaits us!" He grins as he brings the hood of his robe up to shield him from the peaking sun. He truly was extatic for the future, to explore the world without inhibitions, to seek and find its knowledge and secrets. It was romantic, how he looked at it, and he'd enjoy every second.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 1:55 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

The figure that hobbled over to her, she at first mistook for a beggar- closer inspection, she smiles weakly. It was him - some part of her hoped he would show while another argued that if he did, she would drive her sword straight through his skull… Alas… Lowering her gaze, the young woman ran a hand through her hair, smiling weakly," I did- it seemed only fitting I get something that will fit my lifestyle." She answers somewhat awkwardly, it was odd, she didn't think herself the mercenary type but how else was one to survive in this world especially when their only skills were that within combat?

Tilting her head, she gazes at him, now that he was clean, she could see he was relatively attractive… Though that still wasn't enough reason to simply forgive him off the bat for the morning's indiscretions. Turning her back upon him, she looks right, left, then forward," Which way shall we go?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 1:41 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Nine hours. For nine hours, Aven roamed that God forsaken city, searching for the south exit that led to the crossroads. He was so hopelessly lost at one point that he sat down on the top of the tallest building he could find, to try and spot his quarry, of course he'd slipped and fallen, barely managing to survive by shadow melding into the stone wall beside him as he fell. After that mishap, he'd made a mental note to remain partially melded while on tall structures, a wise decision indeed. 

After a brief wait, Hakon would spot Aven trudging haplessly toward her from the city. His eyes drooped in annoyance from the drawn out battle with his arch nemesis: a sense of direction. Patience was a virtue, but he'd lost that particular blessing halfway through, not to mention he'd been ambushed by that idiotic zealot from the previous day. The foolish man tried to attack Aven at night, a near suicide mission for almost any creature. The fight, if it could've been classified as such, lasted two seconds before his attacker was munching cobblestone, knocked unconscious by a shadow tendril to the neck. Aven hoped that would teach him to mind his boundaries, but he doubted that would be the case. 

Aven meandered over, his robe looking like new, and wearing black leather gloves and boots, his short silver hair combed cleanly up and slightly to the left. When he caught sight of Hakon, however, his eyes widened. She was in plate armor, a look that very much became her, and once again, Aven's mind was drawn to that figure in his memories. They looked so similar in build, but he could not remember her face, so he thought it a large coincidence. He would have remembered her by her face, would he not have? "You look superb in your new armor, Hakon. Did you procure all of that this morning?"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 1:13 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon sighed faintly as the door closed, moving to collect her sword and shield as she searches her purse that was tucked beneath her belt- briefly shocked by the amount of coin she found there. How was she so… Wealthy? Shaking her head, she decided to leave that question aside, she had enough questions to ask and not enough answers by far.

Carefully sliding off the bed, she spread the silver along the floor- beginning to count it. An hour passed until she was relatively satisfied. Enough to buy armor, a new shield, food, maybe some other provisions… Wonderful. She cracked a smile. Despite having been woken up in such a terrible manner, she found herself rather happy. Gathering up her wealth, she headed downstairs, paid for the room and moved through the city heading South. The sun beginning to wheel higher in the sky and slowly dip.


She trudged along the long road just outside the city, her metal boots and vambraces hissed against her skin, leaving soft red marks as the remainder in her armor clanked steadily in the backpack she sported just over the enchanted shield and same broadsword she kept close at her side. She chewed carefully upon a small strip of jerky, dried fish tasted oddly… Good, not great but good. As she neared the crossroads, she tilts an eyebrow. No one was there… Odd

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 12:15 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven's smile breaks for a moment, and his mouth gapes slightly in shock. Hakon was actually still interested in traveling with him. Why? He was a dark mage, not to mention a pervert now. He wasn't positive how that situation even came to be, but he could infer that his body was used to such activity, meaning that he must have been some kind of sex fiend in his previous life. I truly am revolting.

Nevertheless, that small part of him jumped for joy, that same part of him that caused him to trust her so easily. It urged him to respond, to accept her generous offer. His smile returned in a heartbeat, this time genuine, brighter. "I'll meet you there, then! The crossroads it is!" He waves a temporary farewell, and closes the door behind him, not aware of the trial of finding the crossroads which awaited him, as he had no sense of direction to speak of. In fact, as he exited the inn into the night, he began walking north by accident.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 10:41 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

"…" She pauses for a moment, resting her chin upon her knees- her eyes fixed upon the far wall where all but one of the candles had burned out while they slept.

" If you still want to travel with me, meet me at the farthest point South of this city, there are crossroads there. Have everything you need and we can head out together-" she glances at him from the corner of her eye,"- does that sound fair?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 10:11 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven stopped in his tracks, turning to face Hakon. As disgusted as he was with himself, he forced himself to smile, as he at least wanted the last image Hakon had of him to be of him smiling. He wondered if she'd thought of something else he could do to repay her, a prospect he would jump to pursue. As of yet, he'd done nothing to help her, and it tore at his insides like a rusty dagger.

"What is it, Hakon? Is there something else I can do?" A small shred of him fervently wished her to tell him to stay, an unwarranted and nonsensical desire. She couldn't possibly forgive him, that would be absurd, wouldn't it?

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 8:42 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon starts slightly at his words, she remembered something else- complete darkness, cheerful banter, arms and legs tangled as she cups the face of whoever that shadow is, pressing her forehead against his and listening to those words 'I am a man of my word'.

" Wait- Aven."

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 8:34 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven rose from the bed, nodding solemnly. Yes, she was right, he'd only cause her trouble, and after such a disgrace, the only correct course of action was for him to leave, and not ever disturb Hakon again. How pitiful could one person be that they would put shame on their savior. He felt dispicable.

Aven bowed low. "Thank you, Hakon. I am truly sorry for what I have done, I will leave and not bother you again. I am, after all, a man of my word." With that, he straightened and made his way toward the door.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 8:05 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon looked down, still hunched uncomfortably in place as she murmurs," I- I know… I meant maybe you should just leave-" she looks at him, brow furrowed. She wanted him to go- what he did was humiliating but she couldn't bring herself to burst into fury.  No matter how much she wanted to- all she felt was just shame. Biting her lip, she looked away from him, cheeks still burning.

She already planned on leaving when he left, paying for the room and fleeing from the city as soon as possible. Now she just wanted to run away and search for her purpose. Whatever that may be.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 7:49 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

An air of disbelief permeated the room. Aven looked up from his groveling, flabbergasted at her response. He'd just forced an inexcusable indignity upon Hakon, and she was simply going to forgive him? Was there truly no limit to her generosity? Still, he couldn't allow himself to get away with such a heinous act upon the woman that saved him. "Hakon, while your leniency is appreciated, I can't simply walk away scott free after putting you to shame like that. I'll do anything you ask of me, please. I must atone for what I did." 

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 7:35 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon sat up- flushed bright red, absolutely flustered and confused to the point where she couldn't even feel rage. She quickly drew the silken sheets up over her chest, her hands clenching the blanket just beneath her chin as she looks away- face burning with shame and embarassment,"…."

She opened her mouth to speak but nothing came out, so the young woman simply looked down, her eyes remaining upon the wall of the room as she tries again," U-uhm… May-… Maybe we should…. Go."

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 7:26 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven snapped awake as Hakon spoke, and quickly realized the immense gravity of his situation. He hadn't put enough space between them?! That was impossible! How did he even… it didn't matter, he was so far beyond the point of return, it's vanished hours ago. He recoiled as fast as he could, his face red as a beet, and panic in his eyes. He kneeled on the edge of the bed, prostrating himself as low as he could possible press his body into the mattress, stammering. "I-I an s-so s-s-sorry, Ha-Hakon. P-please, I w-wil accept any p-punishment." His body quivered with fear and immense regret, and despite his stature, he seemed almost like a small child curled up in apology as he was.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 7:17 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon shifted faintly, nestling more closely against the mass of warmth atop her. She pressed her face against something soft, silky- blinking blearily to find herself staring into silver hair. She closes her eyes again, oddly comforted by the sight as she wraps her arms about this mass of white fluff.

Her eyes suddenly snap open as… Her breasts shift of their own accord. Immediately flushing bright red, the Paladin awakens fully- finding herself pressed into the mattress by a particularly skinny dark mage. She gasps, but freezes- unable to force herself to move,"… I… Uhm…" she squeals under her breath, trying her best not to hyperventilate.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 7:04 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven gradually sifted off to sleep, the silk sheet swaddling him into a deep slumber. There's been so much confusion and oanic that day, but he felt as though it would be alright, as Hakon was next to him. Strange that her presence could be that important to him, but the pull of his dreams kept him from pondering the subject any further. 

The two had fallen sleep quite early in the evening, it hadn't even broken dusk when the two were blissfully resting. It was around three o'clock in the morning when Aven was roused from his slumber by a soft, pliable sensation on he cheek. The odd, fleshy pillow had shifted under him, and, still half asleep, he reached up to adjust it, his hand finding a second pillow just beside it. Drowsily, he questioned the phenomena. Odd, I don't remember having two pillows last night…

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 6:18 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon simply smiles, quickly turning on her side to face away from him as she lay upon her side, her eyes shutting tightly as she murmurs her response, trying not to seem too nervous,"… It's no problem- we're friends, aren't we?" she stifles a yawn behind her hand, her unmarred hand that ached slightly from the rather aggressive movements she had executed with her sword and shield," I'm sure…. You'd do the same,"

She felt increasingly comfortable, the sand man whispering his sweet words of slumber in her ears as she began to drift off. Even though he was so far away, his presence was… Soothing to no end.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 6:03 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven blushed a bit further. Was she serious? Even if he wasn't that type of man, he was still practically a stranger to her, how could she be so trusting of him? He rose from where he sat, hesitantly making his way over to the bed, glancing up and down the silky covers. Just stay calm, Aven, you're just sleeping next to her. Nothing else is going on here, Hakon is just being charitable. 

Aven pulled back the covers enough to slide under them, keeping a good few feet between Hakon and himself. He didn't want to make her uncomfortable by lying too close, nor did he want to accidentally roll over and cause a misunderstanding in the night. In all honestly, however, it was quite clear that the space was actually a result of a crippling shyness, one that created a near force of gravity away from Hakon. Above all else, she had done so much for him in the short time they knew each other, he couldn't take advantage of her kindness and still sleep well at night. "Thank you, Hakon: you truly are an amazing person…" He tried to dodge eye contact to prevent any further blood rising to his face. 

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 5:13 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She stayed sitting up, gazing at him as she hugged her knees to her chest, seeming to mull over his words before extending a hand and beckoning him forth. She… Felt in her gut as if he would not be any trouble, that sharing a bed with him would be more comfrotable then not," No- it's alright, you'll hurt yourself sleeping there. I do not believe you the type of man to do anything indecent so… Come- sleep next to me,"

Hakon offers a reassuring smile, tilting her head gently.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 5:15 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven laughed softly, glancing down at Hakon. "I couldn't very well join you in bed, now could I?" He hadn't thought about the implications of such a thing before he said it, and a dull flush entered his cheeks. No, no, of course I can't. That would be indecent, and I only just met Hakon. His eyes wandered to the side, trying to rid his conscious of such scandalous thoughts, but an odd feeling of longing crawled to the forefront of his mind, one that made him feel lonely trying to fall asleep in that corner. He stubbornly ignored it.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 4:55 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon watches him for a moment, clearly wishing to protest but too exhausted and pained to. She offers a weak smile before slowly sliding into the bed, beneath the light silken sheets clearly meant to breathe rather then keep warmth in. Stripping off her boots, she lifted the sheets- examining them warily before looking to him," Will you be… Alright there?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 4:48 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven's gentle smile returns, and he walks to the corner of the room, sliding down against the walls. "I agree, some sleep would do us both good. There's only one bed, so I'll sleep over here: don't worry, it's more than enough for me, I'm thankful for even this much." He rests his head against the corner, gazing softly at the ceiling, sorting his thoughts from the day.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 3:56 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon blinks and leans her head back against the relatively soft mattress to gaze at him- her gaze flickering uncertainly as she does her best to steady her breathing. His words stuck with her, in that way where one knows they would remember it forever, forever burned into a wall held for random events deep within the subconcious, only to float to the surface when either truly unneeded or utterly life changing. She reaches up, steadily resting her hand over his, hesitating and looking at her palm.

The skin was soft, unscarred- she looked at herself more, realizing she had utterly no scars, no blemishes. She felt… Untouched though her body screamed of the experience of a thousand battles. What… What happened to her? Why did she feel so out of place. With a small groan, she closed her eyes and pressed her body against the bed, curling her knees up to her chest," I just want… To sleep this all off."

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 3:41 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven sat up slowly, a worried look dawning over his face as he watched Hakon agonize over her memories. He wasn't sure what to say, as his own memories were not in sorts either, and the random flashes of recollection had caused him no little amount of stress. It couldn't have been something as trivial as an injury to do this to him, nor Hakon. It had to be something more. 

Aven hesitated a moment, before reaching out and placing his hand on Hakon's shoulder, his wounds by then completely vanished save the hole in his clothes. "I know how you feel, Hakon. My memories are foggy at best, and I can't be sure of anything: who I was, who I am, what I'm doing here. It's a terrifying prospect to forget, I understand that, but…" Aven stands up to look her in the eyes. "The past is only that: the past. Who you think you should be now, what you believe in at the present moment is what defines you, not you previous actions. You went out of your way to save a complete stranger, knowing nothing about him or what he stood for. You barely even thought twice about overlooking his outlandish form, and judged him by the soul you saw inside. That is who you are, Hakon, no matter what you will remember in the future: you are a protector of the weak, a slayer of the wicked. An avatar of Justice."

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 3:12 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She looks away, keeping her gaze fixed downwards as she pressed her palm over her mouth as she allowed the pain to fade into a throbbing dull, ache. Closing her eyes tightly, Hakon took a deep breath before slowly sinking down into a sitting position, leaningher back against the bed as she takes several steadying breathes," My memories… they don't make sense."

She looks up somewhat tearily, staring at the ceiling as she ran a hand through her hair,"… They dont make sense- why? Why?" she pressed her fist against her forehead, squeezing her eyes tightly shut

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 2:38 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven's expression transformed instantly from a burning curiousity to horror, and he almost dropped the ring as though it were evil. He couldn't sense anymagic from it, however: it was merely composed of metal and stone, but it had somehow caused Hakon so much pain. Aven fumbled to conceal it back in his pocket, eyes wide as a few tears begin to form at the edges of his eyes. Hakon had saved him from certain death, and he repaid her only with pain. 
"I-I'm so sorry, Hakon, please forgive me! I had no idea the ring would do that to you…" A few tears threatened to drop, but he dried them as quickly as he could to conceal the fact. "Forget I said anything, it isn't important." His eyebrows adopt a worried expression. "Are you alright? There isn't a spell on you, is there?"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 1:48 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon turns slightly, having turned to hugging herself tightly, hunching her muscled yet slender shoulders as if weathering a particularly harsh gale. Her eyes linger upon the ring; it glowed a gentle copper light in the dimness the candles provided, harshly accenting the spread wings and gaping beak of an eagle with two tiny emeralds as eyes. The little songbird in her mind went wild, causing pain to shoot through her skull- instantly the paladin pressed a hand to her head, face contorted in pain as she screwed her eyes tightly shut.

" I… Put that away- ugh- please-"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 12:29 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven makes to quell the rising blood in his face, nodding his head. "Yes, I'll be fine now, thanks to you, Hakon." His mouth flatlined, protesting silently against him. What did it want, what was he so desperate to say? He hated not remembering, it was torture!
Maybe… Hakon would know? She'd said something earlier about having similar problems, didn't she? "Hakon, I don't know how to say this, but… I can't fully remember my past, and it's tearing me apart. Maybe it sounds silly, but there's a person I'm struggling to remember, someone who did things just like you've done today. Was…" he hesitated, but a surge of confidence rushed through him. He needed to know. He lifted his hand, showing her the ring. "Was this yours?"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 12:16 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon's hand quickly retracted, the woman's eyes widening a fraction as she realized what it might look like she was doing- attempting to open his robes to look at his wound though perhaps it would look…. Like something far different was her goal. But it wasn't! It really wasn't! She wanted to make sure he was alright! Thats all!

She quickly stands, brushing herself off quickly and turning her back as she crosses her arms over her chest," Are you alright…?" She inquires carefully

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Thu Apr 27, 2017 12:09 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

The barest tinge of color gradually returned to Aven's skin, and as new blood was rapidly produce and delivered to his brain, his cheek light up past their normal hue. This… this is a lover's suite!? From within his chest, Aven's heart began to beat faster and faster,  his thought falling once again to that eagle ring. His hand strayed to his pocket, emerging with it absentmindedly, staring at it, a memory clawing desperately though the fog to be remembered, but in vain. He could not remember what that ring was for, why he couldn't bear to part with it.

Aven glanced up at Hakon, whose hand  was rested gently against his chest, almost caressing the wounded area. He couldn't help but admire her beauty in the instance, now that the danger had past, completed f the flush of color to his face. "Th-thank you, Hakon. I owe you my life…"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 10:41 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon paused at the door of the room after shutting the dark wooden panel with her back, she was briefly taken aback by all this. It seemed like a place for a ritual or something rather… Ahem. Primal- to take place. Shaking her head, she strode across the room, carefully rolling him onto the bed. She leaned over him, narrowing her eyes in the darkness as she carefully unclasped the cloak, her hands moving carefully to his shoulder- so much blood.

her brow furrowed with worry and concern- slowly sinking to settle upon the edge of the bed beside him. She vaguely recollected another memory, sitting upon a bed, darkness and night surrounding them. Looking down at a young man, murmuring something to him, standing and drawing saber to fight something just beyond the door for the sake of her companion. Who was he? Who was he?! Why couldn't she REMEMBER?!

she frowned but closed her eyes, placing a hand against her forehead- she felt… Exhausted, her temple throbbed. She didn't like this…

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 10:32 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven was quite heavy for his size, in fact, remarkably so. However, it was still no issue for Hakon, who whisked him off his feet and to the tavern with little effort. Despite his paling skin and rapid loss of blood, a small red tinge graced his cheeks. She looked so incredibly heroic from that angle, but beautiful at the same time. It was nearly enough to make a man fall for her.. 

Hakon procured a room with only a few forceful comments, ignoring the strange looks they'd garnered by entering so brashly into the inn. The innkeeper led them up the stairs, directing them to a door at the end of the hallway, handing Hakon the key, and requesting that she be back down to pay for the room post haste, but leaving them directly after in a bit of a huff, murmuring something about "young people". 

The key opened the door just fine, but the room was something else: there were cherry red drapes over the windows, candles galore, and a very spacious, luxurious bed with silky red sheets. There was even a carpet in the suite! Aven had lost far too much blood to register anything that was happening at this point, though luckily, the drapes over the windows blocked a very generous amount of light, and the candles were mostly sniffed out for the time being. As the door closed behind them, his wounds slowly began to knit themselves together, coaxing a relieved sigh from him. He would live.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 9:56 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She scooped him up easily, almost like a knight would a princess but in this case, it would be a knight carrying a dark mage. How edgy and romantic! Hakon moved at a quick jog toward the inn, shoving through the flow of traffic, staggering slightly as she was bumped around but eventually breaking into the tavern.

They received strange looks as they entered, the inn keeper coming around the bar to confront the pair immediately," Listen here…"

" I need a room," she snaps immediately," I have coin-"

" Wo-woah there Miss- wha… What kind of room?"

" a good one. Hurry, show me!"

" R-right this way!"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 12:06 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven struggled to his feet with Hakon's help, breathing heavier still. If the wound wasn't sealed within a few minutes, he would likely bleed to death. A small trickle of blood ran from the corner of his lips as he  pointed to a nearby inn, his vision slowly becoming blurry to the point he couldn't read the name of the establishment, only make out the universal symbol for an inn. "There…" 
He hadn't the breath to voice his thoughts, but he couldn't help but wonder why Hakon was so bent on helping him. Were it not for her, he'd had perished right then and there by that zealot's blade. Out of nowhere, he remembered that random trinket he'd had when he woke up, feeling his pocket for the small piece of jewelry. When he first woke up, he'd been clutching a ring bearing the visage of a bird of some sort, the metal so tightly held that it'd actually left temporary  indentations in his skin for a time after. Why did he think of that now, of all times?

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 8:06 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon notices his already paling face paling further, instantly kneeling before him eyes widening as she grips his arms," Aven- are you alright?" Stupid question. He was anything but. She carefully pulled the hood of the cloak over his face again, ensuring it would shade his face as she nods and wraps her arms around him, quickly helping him to his feet, looking around rather frantically for a place she could at the least hide him.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 7:27 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven gasped in pain as the holy magic disintegrates the blood and flesh, his teeth gritted tight. Shit… I never told her that holy magic had the opposite effect on me! He didn't say anything about it to Hakon, though: he didn't want her to think she'd hurt him, perhaps he could pretend the wound was more serious than it appeared. "Leave the city…huh?" His eyes instictively shut, the black blood beginning to flow out of the absent flesh. He needed to get into a building, out of natural light if he wanted to heal that wound. "Could we go… inside for a bit… first?" He panted between breaths, laboring to speak normally, though it was to no avail. He'd already lost too much blood to succeed in such an endeavor. 

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 10:51 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon stood defensively for a long moment, taking a deep breath before slowly relaxing as the man disappeared. Her shoulders were the first to iwther before the rest of her body followed suite- each muscle uncoiling from instinctive battle form, she felt as if she had taken on such a stance a hundred thousand times before, in far more dire situations. Alas, she could never recall truly being in a life and death struggle before this…  

shaking her head, she turns back to Aven, offering a tiny smile before noting the splotch forming upon her cloak- slowly she shook her head- slinging the great shield over her back and sheathing the large sword, quickly moving to grasp his wounded shoulder, instinctively murmuring the spell- a minor numbing sensation would spread over the wound,  the bleeding would slowly tickle to a stop. She blinks- not having known she could do something like that but feeling quite drained nonetheless," Hakon is fine," she speaks quickly, looking away and releasing his shoulder," We should leave this city," 

she spoke quickly, unsure why she didn't want to look at him, perhaps fearing what else she would see, remember.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 2:29 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

The man grits his teeth in anger, turning tail and walking off. "Don't spout your empty rhetoric at me, heathen, I know the teachings of God, and they do not apply to those that abandon the Light. He will bring punishment on you himself for your actions today, mark my words." The figure disappears into an alleyway with that, hastening away to the unknown. 

Aven sighed relief, wincing as the adrenaline fades and pain shoots through his shoulder. The meager shadow of the stall was paltry, and even darkening it with magic, the sun was far too bright for the wound to heal very quickly. He breathes slowly and methodically, gripping the wound shut to try and speed the process and retain as much blood as he was able. A trickle of pitch black fluid leaked out between his fingers, steadily soaking into Hakon's cloak. He glanced up at his savior. "Thank you for saving me, Miss Kilandre… I'm sorry about your cloak, I'm afraid it's a bit sodden now." His memory flashed back in an instant, a grotesque scene playing before him: a terrifying creature of twisted flesh and primal rage loomed over him, his tendrils barely holding the beast at bay. An excruciating pain tears from his shoulder, but before it could consume him, a figure clad in plate barrels on that same six legged steed to knock the creature off him, but before his eyes could pan to the figure's face, his vision blacked out. He grasped at the memory in a futile effort to identify the rider. He needed to know! Who was this person from his past?

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 12:39 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Brandishing her sword to her side, flicking the blood free of the blade and speckling the wall, she answered cooly, her voiceblow and gravely," He also demands we protect those unable to protect themselves, that we work in the Light under His watchful gaze," she points her sword directly at the man, hazel grey eyes narrowed critically.

" You yourself have violated these tenants, but I allow you a chance to retreat. Do so now or the opportunity will not arose again," she promises, 

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 11:32 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

The attacker reeled back, bleeding profusely from the giant gash, unable to defend from the heavy sword with a single dagger on his offside. Instead, his weapon pulsed with holy light, and he severed the tendril constricting his arm, dropping the dagger in his right to place a hand over the fatally deep wound, light emanating from the area as he used a powerful healing spell to seal it. The action seemed to draw a sizable amount of his mana, as his eyes drooped slightly from the effort. He scowled at Hakon and Aven, speaking in a harsh tone. "You would impede the work of God, woman? That monster you are protecting bears the unmistakable stigma of necromancy, the shadows obey his commands." His eyes narrowed. "It is pure evil."

Aven had no words, though he had plenty of thoughts. This isn't necromancy! The scholar in him bellowed in frustration, This isn't even magic, you zealous fool! It's dark matter manipulation, and even if it were magic, shadows are not necromantic?! What nonsense is this?

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 7:47 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

The broadsword sank into the man's exposed side, crunching through bone and meat like a massive fang closing upon hapless prey, quickly followed by the full brunt of the kite shield crashing directly into the man, ripping him away from Aven like a charging buffalo connecting with an unfortunate soul at full tilt. Hakon managed to keep herself from tripping over the tangle of limbs, quickly retreating a few steps, placing herself protectively before Aven with her back to him, already a small pool of sweat was visible on her lower back through her tunic. Blood dribbled from the tip of the sword, splashing upon the ground as the Paladin faced the gaunt man, preparing to strike him again if need be, shield held aloft.

Another memory surfaced, this time of another dark tunnel, different then before, of a feeling of hopelessness. One that was borne out of fearing for the life of someone quite dear to her- being alone, facing a hundred little enemies… The relief of calling out and hearing an answer, of falling into the arms of… Who? Her lips formed a name, but upon realizing it, she quickly forgot- what was that name? She knew- she knew then she had to find whoever this nameless person was, each of these flashes was based around them.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 7:34 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven was seconds away from being diced when Hakon bellowed her challenge. The assailant's attention was diverted, and he swore, bringing his daggers up to defend. Meanwhile, the holy aura faded from the rapier impaling Aven, opening an oppertunity for him. Aven gripped the blade, black veins rapidly spreading over the blade until it was pitch dark, and dissolved into particles which flowed into Aven's mouth.A small grin surfaced on Aven's face: he was back in business. From the shadows, a tendril shot out, wrapping around the man's right arm, restricting his movement and opening up his right side for attack.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 11:31 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon idly decided now was not the time, her gut screaming at her to get going- maybe she was sick? By now she felt a little light headed herself wth worry and began to jog  back to the alley. Almost instantly she noted the man above the cowering mage in her cloak and roared," FACE ME!" Immediately drawing sword and shield- and charging like a bull down the narrow pathway.

Hell hath no fury like a Paladin who's traveling companions are threatened.

Hakon brought her sword to her side akin to a lance in the narrow walkway, shield held up and at the ready. Moving with surprising speed. If she had been truly donned in Paladin armor, she would have been much, much slower.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 8:21 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven was trapped between a rock and a hard place. Or, more accurately, the sun and a bloodthirsty sword wielder. He figured he had two seconds before the man closed in and finished him off, and there weren't enough shadows to defend himself with. The only chance he had to survive was to kill the man by turning him into dark matter, and he didn't want to stoop so low to end a life. Perhaps that was a core part of his being, even without memories. 

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 6:04 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon meanwhile bartered quietly with the tanner, even managing to swap some awkward banter that broke the grizzled man into laughter- managing to crack a smile across the serious woman's features. She eventually was able to barter a coin and the strap for a clean belt and buckle, settling down upon her knees beside the tanner as she began to fix the large strap upon the shield, vaguely she was aware of some odd feeling in her gut, warning her of something. Of what exactly, she could not place her finger upon but she began to worry about Aven nonetheless.

Was light really so draining to him? It was a port city, so the sunlight from the sea was harsh, reflecting off the waves and likely heightening its power. Her lips curled into a small frown as she finished pushing the leather thong through the small holes within the shield's frame and fastening them in tight knots before she stood, swinging the kite shield over her back as she nods faintly and begins to head back to the alley. Alas, she pauses, noticing a stand of fruits… Maybe some food would help them both, he was likely a little drunk too, right?

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 5:53 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven laid against the empty stall, slowly recovering his strength. He could feel his power slowly returning, but he had barely any dark matter to work with. Getting his hands on more food and drink was obviously his best option, but he could just as easily convert other loose Matter he found. The problem was, he was in a city, where there were no twigs or leaves, of even dirt. Only stone and wood, and he wasn't about to rip apart a building just to replenish his abilities. Later, they'd have to go eat somewhere, so he could be even relatively useful on whatever job they found. 

The repose, however, was short lived. A rapier soared from out of nowhere, sailing to pierce Aven's heart. Aven caught sight of it just in time to move his torso to the right, the fine blade piercing straight through the middle of his shoulder and burying itself into the wood behind him, and he gasped in pain. The blade thrummed with a dull, holy light, sizzling again Aven's flesh and halting any attempted regeneration. The gaunt man approached quickly from a distance, drawing two daggers from his belt, content with having Aven pinned. 

The man from the tavern? Making his move as soon Miss Kilandre left, I should have anticipated that. His body descended into the shadow of the stall, the holy blade nearly severing his arm in the process, as the holy light negated his magic in that area. In the darkness, Aven is at a loss of what to do: he was far too injured to run, assuming that the man could imbue his weapons with holy magic, they would cut straight through his shadow. He couldn't fight without adequate dark matter, either. What could he do?!

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 5:02 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon smiled, resting upon his head, murmuring," Be safe," before pulling away, beginning to stride off as she scooped up the shield, tucking it beneath her arm again as she strode off. Again, she did not see the gaunt man amongst the crowd, watching them closely. Her concerns lay with her shield as she moved toward where she spotted the tanner.

Her mind wandered. She wasn't knowledgeable to even guess that her memory was wiped, merely that God was teasing her with some untapped potential. Immortals were always so bored, so why not? It was certainly a possibility.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 4:29 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven nodded, a bit flustered from the extended eye contact. Hakon really was breathtaking, her hazel eyes almost entrancing him into a daze. She wasn't sure if they'd met before, either, which only raised more questions. If she was the blurred figure in his memories, what did that mean? He hadn't studied much into memory manipulation magic, but he did know that memories weren't easy to destroy without majorly damaging the brain's other functions, and he didn't feel impaired in that respect. Judging by that fact, he assumed his memories were swept under the proverbial rug, as it were. That could explain the flashbacks, as specific stimuli could allow a resurfacing of those buried memories. Still, it could be coincidence, as he'd only been fully awake for a day. 

"Yes, I will be fine here. I just need to sit down for a bit, and I should be back to full strength." Speaking of strength, it was probably wise that he create dark matter to use. Unlike the world Aven remembered, there was not even a shred of dark matter around him, as if it did not exist naturally. He would need to convert normal Matter into dark matter by himself for use if he planned to employ his abilities. 

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 3:32 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She was taken for a moment by his eyes, the silver irises causing her to hesitate and simply stare, her lips slightly parted. It took a moment for her to snap from her trance, carefully maneuvering the cloak about his shoulders before flipping the cloak over his silvery head. She then rested her hands upon his shoulders, sighing faintly," I… Do not know," she breathes quietly answer, her sincere confusion and honesty clear in her answer as she stifles a sigh.

Releasing his shoulders, she looks down one end of the alley, then down the other before focusing upon him again," We passed a tanner on the way here, I need to get this strap repaired… Could you wait here while I go there? I won't be long, I promise,"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 2:21 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven was genuinely shocked at Hakon's response. She didn't hate him? It was so strange to think, but he didn't even know why it was strange. Wouldn't it be more normal for a person to judge based on character, rather than appearances? The thought gave him comfort, and as she offered her cloak, another memory shot to the surface: he was on a large, six legged horse-creature, riding through a snowcovered tundra, losing his handle on the beast's back due to sunlight not unlike the current day. A blurry figure in front of him offered a helmet to shade him, and had him wrap his arms around them for stability. He remembered feeling safe, not unlike when Miss Kilandre had helped him over to the shade. She couldn't be…?

Aven reached out, accepting the cloak with his gentle smile. "Thank you, Miss Kilandre. You're so gracious, I'm glad we met." He fastens the cloak over himself, that feeling of deja by still on full tilt. "Miss Kilandre… have we… met?" He gazed into her eyes with his own, as the black particles around his irises recede, leaving only the soft, silver-grey hue he was born with.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 12:11 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She hesitates a moment as she listens to his story, propping him against a stone wall as she gazes at him uncertainly. She should be unnerved, that shadow gave this man life. Instead, she merely felt sad. Standing a foot away from him, one hand remaining on his shoulder to steady the man, young Hakon merely offers a tiny smile,"… We'll… Find out something,"

her promise was vague but certain, she did not want to leave this stranger, in the hour they had been together she felt more certain of herself then she had since wandering aimlessly into the Wicked Mermaid.

she squeezes him gently, before pausing and putting down her shield, beginning to carefully unstrap her cloak from her back, handing it to him," Put this over your head,"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 11:02 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

"Thank you, Miss Kilandre…" He hobbled along with her to the shade, where life began to return to his features. His stamina flooded back, along with a sense of returning power. There was no doubt in his mind at that point: the research that wandered around in his mind, his weakness to light, gaining strength from the darkness. It finally came back to him: he wasn't fully human, Aven was a dark matter being, and a shadow being to boot. That was why his powers hadn't worked, why he'd felt so useless against that wolf. The sun drained his mana and stamina, while the darkness restored it, and the same went for his powers.

Could he tell that to Miss Kilandre, though? She was a Paladin, a light bringer: how could the two of them adventure together if he was a being of the dark? She seemed so thoughtful, though, and had been so gentle with him. He didn't want her to go, every fiber of his being screamed at him to stay with her… but why? "No, I apologize. It's just what I am: I'm composed of those particles you see in my eyes, I'm sorry for not saying so earlier. My abilities and stamina are drained by the sun, and the darkness bolsters them." His gaze drops to the ground, ashamed. He felt as though he'd deceived her, even though he did not remember until that time. "I apologize for not saying so earlier, I just… couldn't remember. I've had problems with my memory since earlier today, I honestly don't even know where I am." He fell silent, waiting for her to leave in disgust, or even draw her sword to strike him down. She was a paladin, after all, but somehow, he didn't feel right lying to her.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 10:39 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Furrowing her brow worriedly, she nods and murmurs vaguely," Of course," slowing down and carefully, hesitantly wrapping an arm about his slender shoulders, hoping to keep him upright as she tucked the shield under her other arm. Carefully she began to guide him into the shade of a stall, ducking her head slightly to try to look him in the face.

" what happened? Did you drink too much?" She asks warily, furrowing her brow slightly

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 10:21 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven gazed up at Hakon in confusion, wondering why he was so tired. It was as though his body and mind were being drained of energy, he could even feel what little control he had left over his powers wane. It couldn't have been the alcohol, he wasn't affected by alcohol. Wait… a scene plays through his mind of a giant man, almost like a bear, sitting next to him at a bar, the two of them chugging drinks as though competing. The bear-like man gives up, leaving him the victor, but as he searches around the room for the person he wished to share the victory with, they were nowhere to be found. Who was he looking for? It was so close to his grasp, yet he could not reach the distant memory. Regardless, he recalled that alcohol had no effect on him; was it because he was different? the amount he consumed was super human, did it have relation to those black particles, maybe? Gods, he couldn't think straight in that glaring light…

"Yes… I'm just… a bit tired, I suppose. Could we slow… the pace a bit?"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 9:56 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She did not notice the gaunt man, nor the increasing fatigue of her companion until he spoke. She turned to look at him, noticing how his movements slowed and his back slumped, accentuated further by the harsh sunlight. Hakon reaches out, instinctively gripping his shoulder, immediately a picture, a scene flickers before her mind's eye; complete darkness, a gentle touch though her entire body burned like hellfire, feeling as if her muscle would split from her skin. A question, the soft sensation of fabric from thin air resting on her shoulder, a warm embrace. A kiss.

she flushed suddenly and reeled back slightly," A… Are you alright?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 9:20 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven strode after Hakon, oblivious to Hakon's unease. It didn't occur to him that the power he held was considered malicious at best, and pure evil at worst. That wasn't much of a surprise, given his amnesia, but none of that passed through his head at the time. He was walking on air, for what reason he was't sure, though that Kilandre woman's presence alone made him happy. A few dirty looks were shot at Aven on his way out, one of them especially nasty from a tall, gaunt man with a rapier, who kept his eyes locked on Aven like prey.
 
Aven caught up with Hakon outside the door, giving her a smile once more, gauging the area. "Should we try the city square first? That sounds like somewhere that a request board could be posted…" The sun shone down from the sky, bathing the land in warm, golden light. Within seconds, Aven's eyes began to droop sleepily. "Or maybe… there's an organization… that deals with adventuring…"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 8:58 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She watched the particles for a moment, ever so slightly unnerved by the exponential growth of the numbers. Something about the void-like darkness that surrounded him was simultaneously disturbing and comforting. Hakon watched him for a moment, blinking, clearing her throat and nodding shortly," Right-"

Hakon turned upon her heel, moving from the Tavern before she could be any more dettered.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 8:03 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven chuckles. "Wandering it is, then. If we go down enough streets and ask enough people, we're sure to find something." He rises from his seat, ruffling his hair back into a more defined look. The particles in his eyes begin to slowly increase in number, a steady change, one that Aven himself does not show any indication of noticing.
Stretching his shoulders and brushing the back of his tattered robe off, he smiles gently. "Shall we go?" 

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 7:53 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hesitates before slowly shaking her head," I was… Thinking you would know," she admits softly, soft laughter bubbling from her lips as she slowly stood, hooking the shield beneath one of her arms, the broken strap hanging loosely from it as she cast him a tiny smile," Perhaps we can simply wander until we find one? Who knows? It might be good for us to simply wander about, hm?"

She flashes a small smile, teeth flashing white behind thin lips before looking away quickly. Still, something tugged at the back of her mind, every time and she looked at Aven- it caused her some discomfort not quite being able to catch the small bird of memory the fluttered about her skull- just out of reach.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2017 7:29 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven strokes his chin thoughtfully, possibilities roaming through his mind. Request boards… they would most likely carry bounties and menial tasks, he couldn't think of much else they would carry, given his limited knowledge of the adventuring orofession. It was certainly worth a shot, though: they didn't have anything to lose by checking. "We could try that, absolutely! Do you know where we could find the request boards? I'm afraid I haven't much experience with this city."

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 10:28 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Perhaps the alcohol was getting to him, perhaps that was why he was acting increasingly theatrical and jovial. Mot that she minded in the slighest, of course. Seeing the disheveled mage so happy was rather- nice. It made her feel happy in turn, she didn't know why. She knew herself, and she found happiness in only very specific instances, she supposed being with him was one as well. Admittedly, she found Aven increasingly comforting though they had only be conversing for mere minutes.

" Fair Maiden?" She echoes incredulously but laughs lightly," I wouldn't say that-" at his suggestion she mulled over his words," We could try and find request boards around the city, see what needs to be done, yes?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 9:57 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven grinned widely, his suspicions affirmed. "I would be honored to accompany such a fair maiden on a conquest of the unknown!" With that, he downs the remainder of his drink, placing his payment on the bar. He didn't seem even remotely affected by whatever he'd drank, though Aven assumed it'd just been a weak liquor, though in reality, it should have had a man of his build tripping on air.

Aven turns on his seat to face Hakon. "So, where do you suppose we'll find this adventure? I must confess, I'm a bit new to the practice, and should I desire to eat during these next years of my life, I'll probably need some coin, as that just wiped me out. Do you have any ideas?"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 9:29 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon blinks and smiles at him as if she was relieved he offered, it felt infinitely more reassuring that a strange she FELT as if she knew would be her traveling companion rather then a stranger she KNEW se did not know. Running a hand through her hair as she gazed at him, cracking a smile.

" Well-" she tilts her head,"- perhaps you would be willing to join me, on an advanture Aven Alveron?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 8:15 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven raises an eyebrow. Adventure… that word held so many unknowns. In fact, Aven thought that may be the entire point of the term: adventure was not something that could be strictly defined in a traditional sense, as it encompassed anything from a trek to uncharted lands, to a night of courtship with a fair maiden. Adventure was simply a journey into the unknown, whatever that may be, for as many reasons as there were stars in the sky. Maybe he could use a bit of anarchy, a bit of unpredictability, seeing as he had barely any idea of the place he was in. If he was going to travel around learning new things about the world to fill in the gaps in his memory, why not make it an adventure? 
"I could say the same, and I wouldn't call it childish. The world is heavy with turmoil and danger, I think it's a healthy change to say, 'Screw it, give me your best shot!'" He laughs warmly, a pleasant sound. "Say, how would you like to form an entourage of sorts? As they say, two heads are better than one, are they not?" The offer seemed only natural, oddly enough, as though he were asking a question with an obvious answer; though, he could not explain for the life of him why he was suddenly so confident she would accept. The world truly was filled with unknowns.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 7:01 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

" You… You have?" she was surprised to say the least, she wasn't even particularly certain about what she knew of Ansgar, and the more she attempted to remember something, the more nonsensical the shattered fragments became. But, of course, she shook her head and focused hard upon his face. She felt somewhat unnerved the particles did not bother him, but an odd undertone of reassurance also caused her some comfort. She knew that those particles would do no harm, to her at least.

She pushed the heavy platinum braid over her shoulder, taking another sip of the odd water- his question caught her again off guard, causing the woman to scratch her temple," Adventure, I suppose… To put it childishly," she admits easily," I was hoping to find one here, so I know where to go. What of you?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 2:24 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven watches her gesture with her finger, and lets out a short laugh. It would certainly seem strange to an onlooker to see the dark matter particles that swirled in his eyes, but he was used to it. They'd been that way for… how long had they been like that? He couldn't remember if he was born that way, or if they'd maybe developed into such by magic use? He couldn't be sure, though he'd lean toward the latter. "Don't mind those, they're harmless. It's a side effect ofthe abilities I used to have, dark matter particles. There really isn't enough of them here to use those abilities, though…"
Wait, Ansgar? That sounded so familiar. Maybe he was from that land after all, and hit his head a bit too hard running from that wolf. Yes, that must have been it. "I've heard of Ansgar, that's very noble. What brings a Paladin of Ansgar to this area?"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 2:09 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

" Ansgar," she answers easily," Or I believe His name is Ansgar," furrowing her brow, she closed her eyes and brought the water to her lips, taking a gulp- surprised that she didn't retch immediately. It was clean but merely looked unusual? Odd. 

She smiles faintly, looking down as he complimented her. Why did she suddenly feel so bashful? She never felt that way, especially around strangers. Hakon gazes at him and tilts her head, noticing something," Mmm- your eye, there's something-" she points toward her own eye, making a small circularing motion with her forefinger. She had noticed the shadowy particles there, popping just in and our of his silvered irises

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 1:53 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven became concerned as Hakon stared off into space, as if recalling some gruesome, scarring memory. His hand instictively reached to to flawlessly snatch the mug that was slid to him, mildly startled by his body moving unbidden. Great, so he'd also been a drunk in his past. Fantastic. He took a swig, downing the liquid with the ease of water. 
"I can't really say how, but I found myself in the wilderness outside this city earlier today. The scrawny creature should have been no match for me, but…" He sets the mug down. "My powers wouldn't work. It was as if I were a novice, despite knowing for a fact I'd faced larger, scarier foes with no hesitation-" His mind flashes back to a cave, where a blurry figure was held captive by a giant, snakelike creature. He had pierced the creature with countless tendrils of darkness, and somehow purified it, all with what seemed to be relative ease. I remember something? The rest is all a blur, faded as soon as it had appeared. "A paladin? That makes sense, you have such steadfast, determined eyes. What god do you serve?"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 1:35 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

She blinks and reaches over her shoulder instinctively, her fingertips idly brushing the hilt of the broadsword across her back. It wasn't… Familiar, the leather wasn't even worn. It was strange, unnerving in a way. She knew how to swing it, how to use her brute strength and momentum to bring down beasts of all sizes. She remembered something suddenly- sharp teeth sinking into her thigh, tearing flesh and tendons, fat and blood squelching as pain shot through her. Unconciously her hand flew to her thigh, her nails digging into the worn fabric as she stared off into the distance- only snapping from her trance as a pint filled with unusual looking water.

" Yes- I am… A Paladin, I fight for God," she speaks automatically again, smiling faintly, as if waking from a pleasant nap. Carefully she turned toward him," How did you get attacked by a wolf here?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 1:13 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven considers the question. He was positive that he once wielded powers akin to that of a mage, but could he truly call himself a member of such a profession when his mastery had since faded to nothing? Being that mages used knowledge as their weapon, he still had the qualifications to be one, and he supposed there was still the potential there to be grown, a path set before him to regain that which he had lost. Maybe on that path, he would find the memories so stealthily hidden within the confines of his conscious. That was something he wished fervently for, deep within himself, though he could not place why such a desire was so strong.
"Yes, I believe I am… not a very strong one, mind you, as a single, starved wolf gave me this much trouble on my journey to this place." He gestures to his tattered clothing, a small chuckle escaping his lips. "Pretty pathetic, huh? To carry around such a giant shield, I'm guessing you're a warrior, Miss Kilandre?"

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 12:49 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

The bartender shot him a confused look but as he rectifies his order, the man nods shortly and moves away. 

" Matron's Root-" Hakon echoes thoughtfully, it rolled off her tongue and she could even taste the liquor on her lips. Alas…. She could not place it with a memory so soon the words slipped away and disappeared into the foggy abyss of forgetfullness. She blinks and looks upon Aven once more, taking in his robes, his attire- he was dressed not much better then herself," Are you a Mage?" She inquires curiously, vaguely recalling a distant dislike and hatred of mages- stemming from what? She did not know. Perhaps she would rmemeber in time, to avoid liquor for now perhaps would be her best bet in the endeavour.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 12:33 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven smiles softly, his silver eyes shimmering slightly, the gesture of kindness a needed reprieve from the confusion he'd felt for the last day. He extends his hand, giving her as firm a handshake as he could muster. He managed a force akin to the idle squeeze of a small boy. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Kilandre. I would have a Matron's Root, if they have it." Matron's Root? What was that? It just slipped off his tongue naturally, as if he'd made the same order countless times before. He stammered to correct himself, to not come off as an oddity. "I-I mean, any hard liquor would do."

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 12:03 PM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

" Kilandre," she answers, the word rising easily as she offers him her hand," Hakon Kilandre," she couldn't tear her eyes away now, it was impossible. He was familiar. It was as if they had lived a life together that was now nothing but a memory buried beneath miles of earth. She KNEW him but… Did not," Hakon Kilandre,"

Blinking rapidly, she turns away, forcing herself to wave over the bartender," Water, and…?" She looks toward him, but jot directly at him, vaguely fearing to be pulled into that trance of scrambled memory again," What would you like?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 11:42 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven was surprised by by the gesture, it certainly hadn't been one he expected. Did she not see how ragged he looked: the worn, dull tinge to his eyes? Perhaps she'd felt the same once, beaten down with nowhere to go. Finding somewhat of a kindred spirit was comforting, and the strange feeling of deja vu resurfaced in his brain. what was he trying to remember? It seemed important, something vital to his existence, somehow. Nevertheless, the fog buried it once again. Perhaps with time, it could find it's way to the light from the shadows of his mind, but until then, he had only to wait. 
"Really? Well, thank you, Miss…?" She hadn't answered his question from before. He cut himself off before he asked again, it would not be polite to pry. He was simply a ragged patron at a tavern, no reason to share her identity. Then again, why did he? Why had he felt so inclined to establish trust between them, his heart beating faster as he glanced her visage. Too odd…

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 11:28 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Her eyes followed his eccentric movement closely, seeming vaguely put off by this theatricality. Nonetheless, she forces another smile," Alright then Aven Alveron- would you care to sit down with me?" She asks, motioning idly beside and equally rickety stool at her side. She felt oddly at ease with this man, though with most she found herself to be suspicious and easily agitated. As if she had tired of years of futile interaction- though… From what she remembered, she never truly interacted with anyone but her trainers- faceless trainers, instructors. She furrowed her brow. Strange, what exactly did she remember before wandering into this bar? Not…. Much.

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 11:16 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Who am I? The question was so simple, and yet… why did it seem that he could not answer? Aven knew his name well enough, that much was certain, but as to who he actually was, he could not give shape. There was the mountains of research in his head, a veritable library of theorums and hypotheses, all of which he could categorize internally with little effort, but no context to give to the studies. Was he a magical researcher, who was paid to delve into the secrets of the world, or perhaps a hermit, who devoted his life to the study of magic and it's workings. He sighed inwardly, he wasn't old enough to be a hermit, what a silly thought. Still, he didn't even remember his family, what being an "Alveron" meant. How could he answer such a question should he be unsure of the subject himself?
"M-my name is Aven Alveron…" Stuttering still, coward? Suitable, perhaps he'd just been a coward who hid himself away in a study to pursue knowledge. Before he knew what he was doing, however, he'd swept into a formal bow, almost noble in appearance. What was that? "May I ask your name?" Bold, imagining the poor sight he must look. No doubt, she would brush him off as a beggar, and rightfully so.

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 10:58 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Hakon snapped her head up again, looking at the silver haired and disheveled man who stood before her. Inquired to her- she was taken for a moment. Something in her mind seemed to quiver, like a small bird awakening in confusion before falling back asleep. She blinks and offers a small, embarassed smile as she reaches down, scooping up the kite shield's broken leather strap, placing the great slab of wood upon her lap as she turned toward him.

" Thank you, but I believe I will be alright," she answers quietly, her serious expression cracking for a moment long enough to offer a shadow of a smile. Her gaze flickers back to the shield, pinching the broken strap between thumb and forefinger as she stifles a sigh. She wondered how much it would cost to get a new strap- she supposed she could find a trapper and trade it for a little silver or leather to buy or make her own. Nonetheless, despite her thoughts wandering, she couldn't help but look up to the man again, the question rising to her lips before she could stop it," If I may, who are you?"

Author: Aven Alveron, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 10:30 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

Aven sauntered into the building, a complete mess: his hair was slightly ruffled, his black robe in dirty and worn in a few areas, and had only light, black cloth slippers on, needing to throw away his previous leather boots and gloves after the viscious wolf attack he'd survived. His silver-grey eyes drooped, a small gathering black particles swimming aimlessly around the pupils.It was not only his appearance in dissaray, however: his mind was clouded, filled with broken memories and foggy recollections. Where had he come from? It certainly wasn't here, he knew that much. The land felt different, foreign, and his body groaned at the change. The memories he retained clearly were of no use, as they detailed scientific studies and knowledge, nothing situationally helpful. Moreover, he recalled abilities he'd been able to harness, manipulating shadows and melding with them, being one with the night and an adversary of the sun.He strafed around the tables on his way to the bar, almost absentmindedly, as his mind slogged along. Those abilities, and their previous drawbacks, as he'd found out the hard way from those wolves, were nothing but a memory, his current power a mere fraction of what it had been, not to mention that his very nature of dark matter seemed even more an oddity than before. Unlike what he could remember of the world previously, he was not surrounded by dark matter here: it did not seem to be a function of the world. Just his luck, he supposed.As if in response to his arrival, a giant kite shield fell right beside him, nearly crushing his foot, startling him out of his thoughts. He glances from the shield, to it's owner, but before he could ask what happened, he made eye contact with the armored woman. He platinum blonde locks framed a beautifully angle face, and her eyes bore deep into his mind, tugging at something as if trying to drag a memory from the misty depths. He swore that he knew that face, but he couldn't recall a single thing about it. He did know, however, that she was beautiful, and his eye widened slightly as he struggled to say something, anything. "D-do you need help with that?" He offered his help so awkwardly that it was almost endearing, a naivety showing through his nervousness that couldn't be faked. Stupid, stupid…

Author: AevumEternity, Posted: Sun Apr 23, 2017 9:55 AM, Post Subject: Déjà Vu, Like I've Been Here Before

[Aven Alveron]

Hakon Kilandre settled upon a stool, the tottering wood squealing slightly under her weight as she stifled a yawn and hooked her feet about the legs. Years of training had lead up to this; being kicked out of her home by her father's advisors with nothing but a shield, a broadsword, the clothes on her back and the skills she had accumulated. Fantastic. All for the sake of learning the value of building herself up, maybe God would give her a break on this one.

Eh- probably not. The young woman reached back, straightening her back as she began to braid her hair idly, looking around the rowdy bar. It was said this is where adventures began, so she would see, on this day, at this time, if that was really true.

Her hazel-grey eyes flicker across the dimly lit scene, it was pleasant, brusque, just the way she enjoyed it. There was an air of tension and primal joy that caused her to smile faintly. Maybe… This all wouldn't end up to bad? As if on queue, the stap of her shield suddenly snapped and the kite shield fell to the floor with a loud bang. Instantly the bar descended into silence as Hakon froze, platinum locks in hand… Damn it all to hell.