Author: River, Posted: Sun Oct 7, 2018 7:17 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

Very gently, he wiped a tear from her cheek before it spilled too far down her face.  He knew then he would do whatever he could to keep her from crying again.  "Is that you talking, or your past, Mirannda?  I think whether or not I am right is something we should find out together," River said, refusing to let her put herself down in such a way.  He cupped the side of her face when she said that she didn't want to hurt him, and River understood what she meant.  But he already knew his answer.  "You won't hurt me, my dear.  Whatever fears you have, we will face them together.  No matter what happens, I want to be there for you," he promised.  Even if things did not work between them, he intended to remain friends, and to remain supportive of her. 

Pulling his head back so he could see her face, River kissed her again.  "Now come, why don't we enjoy the rest of this party?  We can worry about other things later," he said, his tone warm and protective.  Nothing else would ruin this night, he was certain of that much.  He could hear the music starting to pick up again, and he wanted to make certain that Mirannda forgot about the vampires, her fears, and anything else that worried her.  At least for the rest of the night.

Author: Nix, Posted: Fri Aug 10, 2018 1:38 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

That first word to pass through his lips haltered her steps, frozen in place. Hesitantly, the phoenix turned to look at him beneath those thick lashes of hers with a haunted expression. River wanted to pursue her? But she couldn’t drag him down the path of chaos she typically led. Especially with the unknown variables on the chances of Sin coming here. ”River…” Tears welled up in those beautiful eyes of hers as she closed the distance between them.

Both hands lifted to splay across his chest, one slid up to cup the base of his skull. All the while, her eyes pierced into his. ”I am not the right person for you.” Yet, she went in for another kiss. River was a very attractive man, sweet and caring. He is the kind of man she would have pined for before that stupid werewolf waltzed into her life. Allowing herself this little piece of weakness was almost too much for her heart to bear.

She pulled back to trail kisses along his jawline up to his ear. In between each kiss, she whispered a word. ”I’m a killer, a roamer, a lover.” Keeping her breathing under control was difficult as she stopped and pressed her cheek against his. While he couldn’t see it, she closed her eyes. ”I don’t want to hurt you, River.” Mirannda didn’t want to lose him. She clenched her teeth together, waiting to hear his response.

Author: River, Posted: Sat Jun 30, 2018 12:53 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

He was proud of the girl, it was rare for one so young to so quickly take to the serious side of being a spiritbinder.  But she had the talent, and he returned the hug with a grin.  "You did a very good job.  And I wish you luck on your travels, little one.  Write to me, or have someone help you.  If you send the letter to Sularia with my name on it, it will find me.  And be safe Akira," he said, watching the child as she ran off.  He hope she would write him, it would be good to have someone to teach, even if it would be a few years before she would truly understand what all the path would require of her.  But knowing the basics was never a bad thing.

River smiled at Mirannda, but before he could say anything, she was kissing him.  It came as a surprise, but he couldn't help himself as he returned the the kiss.  She was a kind soul, and they trusted each other.  And he couldn't say that he wasn't interested in pursuing something more with her.  But River had found himself restrained for the time being, he did not wish to drag her into the tangled web of a spiritbinder's life.  In the moment though, it was rather difficult to bring up those concerns.  "Please don't leave, Mirannda.  I would be… dishonest with myself if I had to tell you that I wasn't perhaps planning to do the same thing tonight," he said, offering her a smile once she turned to face him again.  River hoped that she would not leave, he would feel a bit foolish for baring his heart if she did.

Author: Nix, Posted: Wed Jun 6, 2018 1:17 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

The young child beamed up at the ghost, clapping her hands excitedly. All the while, Mirannda felt more like a third wheel. Still, even the phoenix paid close attention to the teachings of River. His knowledge may be useful one day. Akira padded close upon instruction, ears quivering slightly.

Key number one: cleanse with salt. Dutifully, with steady and precise movements, the child made the circle. She did so without hesitation, quite serious for a youngling of her age. Akira held no bounds of surprises for them. Both phoenix and foxling watched with wide eyes as the bones were then set on fire.

First Akira looked up to where the ghost was, then back to the pile of ash. Curiously, she reached out and touched the pile, only to inspect the ash coated fingers. It felt soft, her fingers gliding over each other smoothly. Her large eyes lifted to River, full of amazement. ”Salt clean, fire release. Easy as one, two, three.” She stood and threw her arms around River. ”Thanks for showing Akira. But Akira need find Mommies now.”

Just like that, after a wavfe, the child darted off once more. Mirannda found herself chuckling. ”Well, she is energetic. Her parents must have a difficult time keeping up with her.” The woman sobered a moment and looked genuinely at her friend. ”That was a nice thing to do, teaching Akira like that. You’re a nice guy, River.” Before she knew it, Mirannda found her lips pressing softly into his own. The kiss, while an interesting surprise, was nice and brief.

Embarrassed, Mirannda broke off, mummbled an apology and began to walk away. Her mind was swirling. What was she doing? River was a friend. She did not want to drive off the one and only genuine thing in her life.

Author: River, Posted: Sat May 19, 2018 6:38 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

The child kept surprising him, and River found himself smiling despite the ghost's sad situation.  But she would be released soon, he only had to find the key.  And again, Akira surprised him with the song.  The ghost brightened again, her voice just a touch stronger.  It was something he had seen before when people interacted positively with spirits.  Most reacted badly to the unquiet dead, but many meant no harm.  "That is part of a hymn we would sing to the children.  So my lady is remembered!  Oh, I'm glad.  Thank you," she said, before looking again to River.  And he knew what the final step was to release her.  "Tell me where your bones rest, my lady.  And I will set you free," he said, offering her a bow. 

The ghost led them to an alcove to the side of the chapel, where nothing remained of her mortal form but a pile of bones loosely wrapped in tattered sky blue silk.  "I… I took a coward's way out.  I took too large a draught of dreamwine, and never woke up.  Goddess forgive me, but I was alone," she whispered, staring at her bones.  But she set her shoulders, looked to River, and nodded firmly.  She was ready.  "Akira, come here.  I will show you something," River said, speaking gently.  He showed her the contents of a pouch he kept on him at all times, even to a fancy ball.  "Salt is very important.  It helps to cleanse anything bad away.  And it will help her go home.  Here, take a handful, and draw it in a circle around her bones.  Don't worry, they won't harm you," he said.  River kept his voice even and calm, hoping to teach the girl.  Spiritbinders were rare, but she had all the signs.  And to his relief, Akira did as he asked, without even a hint of squeamishness or hesitation. 

Once the circle of salt had been completed, River withdrew the other thing he always kept with him.  The tinderbox was made of silver and engraved with a rose, a very thoughtful gift from Bryony.  His mentor didn't always understand his work, but she had always been supportive.  "My lady, I am sending you back to the Soulstream.  May your rest be blessed, and your dreams be calm," he said, before setting the bones aflame.  The ghost smiled as her mortal remains dissipated into ash, and faded with a wave to the group.  "Well, Akira, what do you think of your first time releasing a ghost?" he asked with a calm smile.  The girl had done well, there were times adults didn't even handle situations that well.

Author: Nix, Posted: Mon Apr 23, 2018 10:40 AM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

While the woman remained nameless for now, the man named himself River. He seemed really nice and warm. The spirits were right about him. There was even the suggestion of possibly learning how to do what he does! Excitement seemed to radiate off of Akira as she ran down some halls. Her mothers have given her the freedom to go where she pleased inside of the temple, and she had explored quite a bit.

Both phoenix and child watched River as he approached the woman, making inquiries to the ghost. They listened, and Mirannda was confused as to why the ghost was looking at her. She was new to the lands and knew nothing about anything. Akira, however, padded over to River and reached for the symbol. Surely, with her age, she knew nothing as well, right? After studying the symbol, she smiled.

”Come sleepy one, rest your head.
Close your eyes, and drift to sleep.
Come sleepy one, rest your head.
Dance and play with Mayzera.”

She sang it softly. It was a lovely little lullabye, one Mirannda never heard before. ”Kind woman in Vilpo sang to Akira, giving Akira safe place sleep through storm. Akira no like thunder. Maybe, song about Marzena? Name lost in time?” The facts seemed to fit, and Mirannda gave an apologetic smile. ”While it sounds plausible, I’m afraid I have nothing to offer. I’m not from Revaliir.”

Author: River, Posted: Sun Apr 15, 2018 12:05 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

The ball and the vampire were now in the back of his mind as River followed the child, then his companion.  Spyros kept proving his worth, and he was quite glad the pup had chosen to stay with him.  He knelt down before the child as she spoke so he was on the same eye level and listened to every word.  Nodding, at what she said, he was certain that he could help the situation.  "Well, Akira.  They are right.  I release those who cannot move on themselves.  My name is River, you can call me that," he said, offering the child a warm smile.  The bridge created by Spyros kept her attention, and River let her play for a few moments before continuing the conversation. 

"Is there someone here who needs release?  I can teach you how, if you would like, Akira," River asked carefully.  The girl's reaction would tell him quite a lot, and he had already gotten a couple of ideas as to just what might be going on with her ghost.  The girl hadn't shown much fear, just curiosity.  So it was likely not an angry ghost.  Given their surroundings, that didn't surprise him.  The Zets'Ki Cradle was not known for being a place of violence, just a place where spirits could linger.  And she perked up, it seemed that the idea of learning appealed to Akira.  "This way.  Come!" she said before darting off again.  Spyros darted after her, followed by the two adults.

She led them around a few corridors with some twists and turns, until Akira showed them a door that led into a dusty chapel.  It was clear the small room had not been used in quite some time, and River glanced around for a few moments, wondering why it had been lost.  Then he heard the weeping.  There was the ghostly form of a woman, kneeling at a ruined altar.  Spyros left the young girl and approached cautiously, followed by River.  "My lady, what makes you weep?" he asked carefully.  The ghost seemed startled at being addressed, but a smile brightened her translucent face when she saw River.  "I've been so lost…  My Lady fell.  She was forgotten.  And I cannot leave this place.  She was forgotten.  And so was I," she whispered.  It took him a few moments to put the pieces together, but he remembered where they were.  A land of fallen and forgotten gods.  "I think I know how I can help you.  What was your Lady's name?" he asked, looking around the tiny chapel.  The Lady couldn't have been well known before the Tree here fell, and she would have been quickly lost.  "Marzena, she guided the dreamers to safety," came the whisper.  River picked up a necklace, the symbol on it was a closed eye ringed with clouds.  He knew it to be a holy symbol.  "Take that, and remember her," the ghost whispered, looking at River, then Mirannda. 

Author: Nix, Posted: Fri Mar 16, 2018 8:48 AM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

River summed it up splendidly, yet making her feel better somewhat. It was an odd feeling to finally have someone who honestly took her word as truth without effort. While she had the freedom to be vague and spare him some gore-ific details, it was still refreshing to have someone she could be completely honest with. He was so kind and understanding. A warm feeling settled over her by the time the child ran up.

Mirannda followed him, gracefully skirting around dancers. Yet, the child was far more nimble and small, easily loosing them in the crowd and ducked around a corner. When all seemed hopeless, the spirit bender formulated a plan, enlisting the help of his ghost dog, the same dog that invited her to the ball in the first place. She giggled as she watched the pup scamper off, nose glued to the ground.

The pair followed the pup, until they found a group of children. They danced in pairs and groups, or huddled around to play little games. Off to the side, however, was the same little girl in white, looking longingly at them, yet fearful at the same time. When Spyros came into view, she perked up, knelt down and started playing with the pup. Her smile instantly brightened her whole demeanor, giggling as he bounced around her. Yet he still had a job, and returned to River to report a successful endeavor.

She looked up at the pair with an innocent smile. "Rumors of you. Call you Release. Say you trust… trust…" the word stumbled upon her tongue as she frowned. "Trust-worfy?" Carefully, Mirannda knelt before the child. Evidence of seeing the ghosts was clear. "Akira was it?" The child nodded, playing with the ghost pup again. "Some not nice, just like live ones. Sad ones look for Release."

Author: River, Posted: Mon Mar 12, 2018 7:37 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

The explanation was simply enough, he could see it happening.  His friend had simply been convenient.  It was a misfortune series of events, it would seem.  "So, more or less, a pair of coincidences lined up that led to that meeting.  Your being framed, and that vampire being in the right place at the right time.  Perhaps it wasn't for the worst reason to accept his aid, depending on how determined those bounty hunters were.  But that is a judgement only you can make.  It's a balance between fighting them off and it possibly having gone badly, or accepting Logan's aid.  At least you are somewhat prepared for the next meeting," River said, carefully selecting his words.  He wanted to reassure Mirannda she hadn't made the worst choice in the world, but time would tell how much she accepted his view of the situation.

Then the child ran up to them.  He had never seen her before, but something told River that he knew her in a way.  His mouth dropped open a little when she spoke, and he almost missed what Mirannda said.  "Hm?  I think so… lets find out," River said, setting off after the girl, certain that Mirannda would follow him.  Was the girl a ghost too?  Or simply one of the residents who had a connection to the spirit realm as he did?  There was only one way to find out.

Carefully weaving through the crowd, River did his best to follow the girl.  But he lost her around a corner.  He paused, listening for footsteps.  But it was hard to hear, given the music and dancing.  Then an idea came to mind.  Murmuring a short incantation, he summoned Spyros to his side.  The ghost pup danced around his feet in circles for a few moments before looking to the crowd.  "Not now, little friend.  I'm seeking a child.  Can you find her?" he asked.  The pup barked, then started sniffing around, he just hoped his idea would work.

Author: Nix, Posted: Sun Jan 28, 2018 8:23 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

At least, the despicable vampire was gone, having admitted defeat. While Mirannda prayed they would not be bothered by him again tonight, she feared that her next encounter with him would bear the consequences of tonight. The phoenix allowed River to lead her through the waltz, trying to loose herself in the music. Yet Logan had won. Despite everything, he was still on the edges of her mind, taunting her, demanding attention.

Mirannda blinked at River's voice, being drawn back to the reality of the dance. Her cheeks turned red from embarrassment for having spaced out on him. "When I entered this land, I was mistaken as the one who slaughtered a bunch of men in uniform. A bounty was placed on my head. Naturally, bounty hunters thought they would have an easy score, and Logan decided to help me out. As I said, I never asked, I just didn't deny, something I deeply regret." As she spoke, she sounded defeated, as if there was no escaping her predicament.

"I'll have to face him eventually. I honestly wonder what he's after." At this time, a small child, maybe about five years old, in a cute pink dress with white hair and golden eyes ran up to them. She had eyes specifically for River. For such a young thing, she was quite serious. After a long, uncomfortable moment, the child finally spoke. "Akira see them too." With that, she darted off back into the throng of dancers. "Um… What was that about? Your ghosts?"

Author: River, Posted: Sun Jan 28, 2018 5:32 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

They had made their positions clear, and yet the vampire hesitated.  River clenched a fist, getting ready to throw it.  But Mirannda took him by the arm and started to move away.  He admired her for that.  She could have continued the verbal sparring, but chose to instead leave the situation behind and enjoy the night.  Then suddenly the vampire raised his hands and took a step back.  While he still didn't trust this Logan or his intentions, River could see that he was finally backing down.  "Fine.  I leave you two to enjoy these festivities.  May you two always have interesting times," Logan finally said, offering them a final bow before turning and walking away.  There was anger in his footsteps, but River had a feeling they would not be seeing him again tonight.

The music was slow enough he felt confident enough to dance, and he led Mirannda in the waltz around the edges so they could still talk quietly without anyone really overhearing.  "So before my curiosity overwhelms me, just what was all that about?  You don't have to tell me if you don't want to.  But you're my friend, and I do worry about you," River said in a quiet voice.  He did hope that he would get an answer of some kind, but if Mirannda didn't want to tell him, he wouldn't pry.

Author: Nix, Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2018 12:02 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

A single eyebrow rose. How was she different than others, besides the fact that she had not asked anything of him? No, this is what he wanted. Logan was trying to wiggle his way into her mind, make her doubt herself, and make Mirannda easy to fall prey to whatever dastardly plan he had for her. For some reason, he seemed to thrive on her squirming inside. The knowledge of her distrust of vampires was something for him to exploit.

"I could have taken care of them myself," she said confidently. Mirannda was barely able to withstand actually saying something positive about the experience. Still, she became red in the f`ace as he decided important to bring up how they met, and the circumstances surrounded her need for his assistance. River spoke up before she could have a chance, and she was pleased to have opened herself up to him. It was this man who seemed worthy to be truly called friend.

With a dangerous smile, Mirannda started cooly. "Honestly, Logan, I'd hate to see River in a fight. However amusing that may be, let us not think about that tonight. This is supposed to be a celebration. Go find yourself a partner and dance, enjoy yourself, but not at my expense." Linking her arm in River's, she turned to leave, waving at Logan over her shoulder. "Nice catching up with you, Logan."

Author: Logan, Posted: Mon Jan 15, 2018 7:28 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

They were such a charming couple, and it almost made him sick to see it.  There were a few eyes on them, but still not enough for him to be concerned.  An eyebrow went up when the man suggested he move on to someone else, but Mirannda seemed to have other plans.  "A fair point, Mirannda.  And you are quite correct about testing you, though I must admit that you did quite well.  Others have asked things of me, gotten them, and regretted it.  But you were different.  I admire that," he said, being genuine for a few moments.  But the smile was back on his face soon, and he could not help but add "You do have to admit that we did work well together.  Was it all really that bad?", the smile growing cold.  He only wanted the smallest of admissions from her, that would make this encounter just lovely.

He looked towards the man still clenching a fist, clearing resisting a temptation towards violence.  "Did she mention that she was wanted for murder in Hoja Mesto?  A false charge, I would assume from the passion she used to defend herself.   But still, that does ask the question of who she angered enough to cause such action against her," Logan asked.  It was a mystery to him still how her face had come to be on that wanted poster, but she had not been forthcoming before.  Perhaps now, with her friend there?

But the man, River, spoke curtly again.  "I don't particularly care as to why or how.  I'm certain there was a reason.  She is my friend, and I will stand by her.  Now, please.  Leave us be.  I will not ask you again," in a voice that deepened with anger.  At least one person was having a struck nerve.

Author: Nix, Posted: Wed Jan 10, 2018 6:34 AM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

The tension between them was rising. To make matters worse, Logan was beginning to get snarky with her. Mirannda scoffed at the mention of "old friend." Acquaintance, yes, friends, absolutely not. She did not think that she could ever befriend a vampire in her lifetime, especially with what happened.

Yet River was standing up to Logan. The phoenix was staring at him, her jaw having dropped in astonishment. Poor River did not know who he was challenging, and Mirannda wondered if he stood a chance against such a creature as Logan. Why had she not given him the credit of being an upstanding gentleman? He had not given her evidence of anything different. She would have to apologize later for not thinking of him properly.

Closing her mouth, she smiled at River before returning her attention back to Logan. The smile had faded, her back was straight, head held high with pride. "I have no doubt you're old, Logan, but friends we are not. Really, how can one count a single encounter that had not been an hour where you disappeared developing a friendship? You were testing me, learning about the chinks in my armor. Do not think I have forgotten your words, but now is not the time to cash in what I supposedly owe. Just remember that I had not requested your assistance, I merely did not turn it down. A mistake on my part, to be sure." Thinking back, she hated to admit that she probably did require his help. Or was she selling her skills short?

Author: River, Posted: Sun Jan 7, 2018 5:40 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

It took all his self control to not punch this stranger in his smug face, especially with the tone he was using to speak to Mirannda.  But River was quiet, clenching his fists.  He knew she was fully capable of taking care of herself, and he would much rather not get in her way.  He only nodded when she introduced the two men, and he glared silently.  They knew each other, that much was clear, and she did not like him in the least.  A few people were watching the trio, but not enough for him to wave them away.  "Well, I thought to join the festivities here.  Then I saw you here as well, and I of course wished to say hello.  Is this any way to greet an old friend?" the vampire asked, a hint of snark finally coming into his voice.  And it was clear to River that his intentions were not pleasant.

He did have to hide his smile when Mirannda had moved into a position of protection, River was certain their hosts would not allow anything to happen.  "I think that the lady does not appreciate your presence here, Logan.  Perhaps you should find someone else to speak with.  I'm certain there is someone here who would be willing to tolerate your company," River finally spoke when Logan opened his mouth again.  He didn't want to hear what the vampire was going to say, he didn't particularly care either.  He just wanted to have a peaceful evening with his friend.

Author: Nix, Posted: Thu Jan 4, 2018 5:22 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

Mirannda laughed heartily. "An adventure it is then," she promised. Perhaps there is some long lost temple holding something she needed? River would prove to be invaluable in many situations. Or, perhaps, she'd run across someone experiencing spiritual disturbances. Soon enough, all thoughts melted away as they danced. She didn't care where in the crowd they were, enjoying the moment of peace.

It all crashed around her, however, when a familiar hand landed on River's shoulder, halting their dance. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she clenched her jaw, hands falling from casual dancing positions to be folded before her chest. Eventually, she forced a small smile. Had he found out about her true nature, or was he merely referring to the fact she had "flown" away from attracted guards in Hoja Mesto? Until he made clear what he had meant, she decided to overlook the pet name for now. "Good evening, Logan. Pleasant surprise. Have you forgotten my name already?" she asked dryly.

This won't do. She's too tense. Why did she allow vampires to see her physical distaste for them? Mirannda has lost her touch to hide anything from them ever since she had escaped Sin. "River, let me introduce Logan. Logan, this is River." Shifting her weight between each foot, it was clear Mirannda didn't know how to weasel out of the situation. It was not proper to make demands as to why he was here, why Logan was interrupting their dance. Nor did she wish to inquire as to his desire for a dance, as that would be dancing too close to the vampire. Yet, she could not think of idle small talk to bring up, as would be appropriate for such a setting. Logan desired more than a simple hello, he always desired something more.

"I'm assuming your agenda did not include ruffling the feathers of a "little bird" tonight. What brings you here, Logan?" While Mirannda was attempting, it was still painfully obvious that she did not like, nor trust this man. The phoenix was standing as close to River as possible, to protect him if she needed to.

Author: Logan, Posted: Wed Dec 27, 2017 8:48 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

He almost had not come to this overly cheerful place, but Logan had decided to see just what kind of mischief he could stir up.  He took a drink from the table, drifted around, and chatted with the other guests.  Perhaps it wasn't such a bad thing to just enjoy himself?  None the less, the vampire kept an eye out for anyone of interest.  And who should enter, but the lady from Hoja Mesto.  She didn't see him, since Logan made it a point to keep out of her line of sight.  Now there was a proper target for his mischief.  He had already planted seeds of distrust in her mind, and it was time to see just where those had ended up.

Watching for a few moments as she danced with another man, Logan drained his cup.  Now was as good of a time as any.  He headed toward the pair, studying their body language.  Friends, most likely.  Another one of her misguided adventures had probably brought her into the man's path.  It would be interesting to observe both their reactions.  He sauntered up and carefully dropped a hand on the man's shoulder.  "I beg your pardon, good sir.  But I'm acquainted with your friend here.  I only wished to say hello to the little bird," Logan said, offering Mirannda a bow.  There was no snark in his gesture, but nothing in his eyes other than dark humor.  It was clear he was trying to bait for a reaction.

Author: River, Posted: Wed Dec 27, 2017 8:39 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

It was awkward for him, being in these formal clothes and with Mirannda looking as lovely as she did.  But he was in a good mood, and River was glad that she reacted in a similar way.  "Well, to be fair, we were both quite dusty.  I do believe I collected a few cobwebs in the library," he said with a laugh.  River listened attentively to what she had been up to, and nodded.  He trusted her judgement as to who her assassination targets had been, and he was certain she would tell him more if she was comfortable.  "Quite a bit of travels it sounds like.  I should do that more, my mentor is always having to chase me out of my studies," River admitted with a sigh.  What he didn't add were the actual threats from Bryony. 

As they moved towards the dance floor, River could tell that Mirannda's emotions weighed on her.   He knew what the words she spoke meant, and River ducked his head in a bow.  It was a sign of trust, and he swore here and now to never let her down.  "You are very welcome, Mirannda.  I only ask one thing in return…  Drag me out of Sularia every now and again.  I could use a good adventure," he said, a gentle smile on his face. The dance was a waltz, the three beat pulse of music still allowed for conversation.  They joined the crowds, though River preferred to stay on the fringes.  His dancing skills were not all the way up to par, and it would help to make a quick exit if need be.  He stopped paying attention to the people around them, and only to her.  At least, until a hand dropped on his shoulder…

Author: Nix, Posted: Thu Dec 21, 2017 9:16 AM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

Mirannda curtsied to his bow and blushed at his compliment. "Thank you. I must say, you clean up nice. Not that you were – Just that, the dusty – Um… You look nice." She was flustered at herself, feeling heat rising to her cheeks as she ducked her head sheepishly. He spoke about being consumed by a book, causing her to smile. Of course he had found a book, it seemed only natural for him.

"Interesting things? Compared to a book, probably. I'm learning that I must start back at square one, before I can be what I wish. So I spent much of my time in the employ of several different people. Guard and protect, escort, even assassination of a deserving individual or two." The assassinations took a week longer than it should have, but Mirannda always was and always will be thorough. Never has she killed an innocent for money, and even with her desire to not be as she once was, she could not bring herself to be a paid murderer of that caliber.

With the turn of the conversation having turned to her, Mirannda realized how vastly different she is from her friend. River spent his time in books and working with spirits. Mirannda dealt in blood and death. Resisting the urge to glance at her hands, Mirannda put her empty glass down, took River's and placed it next to hers. Taking his hands in hers, she gently tugged at him toward the dance floor. "You got me in a beautiful dress. It'd be a shame to waste it. Dance with me, ma falon." Those last to words caused her to pause. For the first time in forever, the elvish word for friend slipped past her lips. Tears rushed to her eyes as she leaned in and placed a small kiss on his cheek. "Thank you, River… For giving me something I thought was lost for eternity." The true feeling of friendship…

Author: River, Posted: Sat Dec 16, 2017 6:26 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

A grin warmed his face when Mirannda approached, and River offered her a bow.  "You look lovely, my friend.  I'm glad to see you.  This night has already gotten better," he said after a brief silence.  He was truly glad to see her, and knew the evening would be much better with her company.  It took him a few moments to find his words, taken somewhat offguard by how lovely she looked.  Granted, the first time they had met had been in a rather dusty temple, and they'd both had to flee before more trouble had found them.  "I've been well.  I found another book of forgotten rituals, so that's been consuming much of my time as of late.  Spyros being able to travel to you with the invitation is the result of one of those rituals, I was able to help him travel further from me, and maintain some solidity," he said, his face animated as he spoke of the work that consumed most of his time.  But there were things be made time for, his dear friend being one, and a ball like this another.  "I've not even gotten half way through the tome, but there is quite a bit I've already learned, and more to look forward to," he said, then took a gulp of the cider. 

"So tell me of your adventures, Mirannda.  Surely you've been up to more interesting things than I have.  I have a bad habit of sequestering myself within a library for rather long periods of time without realizing it," he admitted with a chuckle.  River's eyes had stopped drifting around the room once she had arrived, and Mirannda now had his attention.  He would have likely remained on the fringes without her presence, and River was glad he wouldn't be a wallflower tonight.

Author: Nix, Posted: Mon Dec 11, 2017 7:20 AM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

It was somewhat disconcerting to wake up to tiny, cold brushes against ones cheek. This was how Mirannda was woken up one morning, from a ghostly pup. When she finally opened her eyes, she was annoyed to find that her ghost had multiplied in the night. Was that possible? No, the second pup was familiar, and had a scroll tied neatly with ribbon. It was a message from River, asking her to be his date to the Reverie Ball. With a small smile, she wrote in a steady hand a message in reply. She would meet him there.

There came the matter of apparel, however. For now, she had primarily been concentrating on rebuilding what she had lost. All of her gear, new contacts, new reputation. After a long while, Mirannda finally settled on a blood red, mermaid dress with lace red flowers covering most of it from below her knees to her bosom. Rosebuds reached up, giving an impression of flame from a distance. The flowers wound all the way down her arms, tapering at a V across the back of her hand. In between the roses where the dress isn't covering her skin was a nude colored mesh that matched her skin tone perfectly. Her hair was teased into a budding rose with gems adorning it as dew, the rest of her locks wavy and over one shoulder.

When she finally made it to the party, Mirannda fidgeted with her hands. Aside from River, she was likely to know absolutely no one here. She was nervous about being in a room full of so many strangers. It was easy for assassins to hide, as well as other dangers. Yet, why would anyone be out against her? Deciding she needed to calm her nerves, she headed for the refreshments table, only to find the one person she knew. A wide, genuine smile spread across her face, her nervousness disappearing at spotting friendly River. "Good evening, River. How have you fared lately?" she asked as she grabbed her own copper mug of mulled cider.

Author: River, Posted: Sun Dec 10, 2017 4:39 PM, Post Subject: A Night to Remember [event, p, r]

He had yet to figure out what on the gods' green earth had possessed him to invite Mirannda to this dance, but River knew it was far too late to back out now.  It had been a few weeks since they had escaped the desert city, and become friends in the process.  They had a great deal in common, and he knew that she would likely enjoy this little event.  Pacing around the floor, he had a hard time not fidgeting with the rich clothing that seemed to be appropriate to such an event.  The red silk shirt and brown velvet vest were light and loose enough to allow him to still move about unhindered, and River had also chosen plain, comfortable boots that he could dance in as well.  His black trousers were perhaps a bit shabby, but it was hard to tell with the rest of his attire.  Plus they were comfortable and normal, making him more at ease.

Glancing around, Mirannda still wasn't here.  But nerves had made him early.  He wandered over to the refreshments, taking a copper mug of mulled cider.  He sipped, watching the people pass around the room and chat and dance.  There were people of all walks of life and species here, vampires mingled with elves, and a dwarf was dancing with one of the Cradle's natives.  There was a calm air to the entire scene, and River felt himself relaxing.  It wouldn't do for Mirannda to get here and find him a nervous wreck.