Post by Aridan Crowe on Oct 8, 2024 4:47:43 GMT
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Aridan Crowe
[attr="class","ae_characterimage]
[attr="class","ae_infobar"]
[attr="class","ae_infosect"]MALE || HE/HIM
[attr="class","ae_infosect"]28 YEARS OLD
[attr="class","ae_infosect"]CHANCELLOR
[attr="class","ae_charsdetail"]
[attr="class","ae_detailinfo"]
[PTabbedContent]
[PTab=DEVELOPMENT]
Aliases[break]
Cian Algol
[break]The Crow on Faire Street
[break]The Sly Fox of Cierlun
[break]Current Residence[break]
Cirrus, Sela
[break]Birth Season[break]
Autumn
[break]Social Standing[break]
Citizen [ Prior ] || Chancellor [ 6 Years ]
[break]Loyalties[break]
Stella || The Heart || Sela
[break]
In terms of current importance, the Chancellor will place the wellbeing of his companion as his highest priority. All he does, it is to maintain a life of comfort for the two of them - something he wouldn't wish to jeopardize. Naturally, his role as Chancellor has built some loyalty to his nation and the people within it he represents. Alas, his direct connection to them is not nearly as strong due to the mind - doubts of the self tend to disrupt any true sense of belonging he may have to any relationship, personal or professional.
[/PTab={tab-selected-background-color:#252525; background-color:#252525; height:450px; text-align:center; font-size:9pt;}]
[PTab=APPEARANCE]
Face Claim[break]
Ben Barnes
[break]Height[break]
6'1"
[break]Weight[break]
189 lbs.
[break]Description[break]
Aridan is what's considered every noblewoman’s taboo dream in Sela. Seen as quite the charmer despite his background, he's the “tall, dark, and handsome” stereotype in a neat and titled bundle. With raven hair and darker eyes, he keeps himself clean in appearance - rarely ever dressing down and absolutely never going a day without trimming his beard. In dress, he generally keeps within his darker wardrobe of blacks, greys, and silvers in part as a counter complimentary to his companion. Sleeves are common for him, hiding the scars that that decorate his arms and body beneath their fabrics. He carries himself with a confidence that to some may come off as cocky - perhaps too full of himself or rather as a guise, compensating for something beneath the surface.
[break][break]
Almost always, save for casual crowd events, Aridan is accompanied by his familiar, a nine-tailed kitsen. Fondly named for the glow in her eyes, Stella is considered eccentric among Selanites due to her coloration. Unlike others of her kind who tend to be lighter, her pelt is a natural onyx accompanied by eyes of gold. Often she is seen with a necklace of some variety adorned, most often gold in color and complimented by fine jewels. She carries herself with a natural elegance and tries to maintain neutrality, though negative emotions show very easily on her face.
[/PTab={tab-selected-background-color:#252525; background-color:#252525; height:450px; text-align:center; font-size:9pt;}]
[PTab=BEHAVIOR]
Strengths[break]
Charisma || Manipulation || Deception || Gambling
[break]
Aridan is wonderful at figuring out others. He thrives in situations of social prowess, picking up on the tells of others easily and learning quickly what strings to pull to illicit plausible responses from. He understands you can't make everyone happy - but perhaps with the right tug, you can get anger out of them instead. It's because of this that he performs so well at the gambling tables - reading people is literally his job.
[break]Weaknesses[break]
Stella || Imposter Syndrome || Intimacy || Childhood
[break]
The life of Cian Algol is almost entirely lost to Aridan Crowe to the point that the name is one almost entirely unheard of. Perhaps that contributes to the lack of self he feels sometimes - an incomplete person. He doesn't always feel belonging in his role as the nation's Chancellor coming from a house of no prior note and usurping the title from what were once considered "rightful heirs". He is painfully aware that he speaks in twisted truths like it's a second language, pulling whatever strings he needs to attain what he wants - which makes him feel undeserving of the role alongside true human affection. Alas, it is often Stella who would ground him in these spirals. She is his rock and easily his biggest exploit. He'd overturn the world to keep her in good care as she has been the one constant of true connection for him.
[break]Motivations[break]
The primary motivation of Aridan currently is keeping his familiar comfortable and happy with life. He would do anything to assure she never has to live in poor conditions and strives to give her the world. Although as a secondary, he does hold out hope for true human friendships and affection - he struggles to find himself deserving and unwilling to be truly vulnerable with them.
[break]Personality[break]
As the Chancellor, Aridan is well mannered and well kept. With a natural dash of gentlemanly charm, his charisma carries him well through life - something that tends to pose well in his formal affairs. Despite his prior standing and what others may think of it, he treats all in good attitude and guarded faith. Negative emotions he knows to keep to himself in more public settings and rarely approaches any situation with outward anger. He's very good at keeping his presentation up as a stickler for his appearance in formal situations and minimizing ill imagery outside of it.
[break][break]
As a former swindler, Aridan is a master of manipulation and deception - for both good and bad. From a political standpoint, his skillset is ideal for pulling information that would otherwise be undisclosed. He’s very good at reading between lines and pulling the strings to turn pages, twisted truths and stories being no stranger to the man. This is something that, in turn, robs him of his own self-trust. With such things coming as second nature in some regard, he finds it difficult to believe he would not do the same to those close to him. This creates a guard within him to keep others he may otherwise care for at a distance, save for the familiar at his side.
[break][break]
As a companion, Aridan is an overall flirt, compliments to all sliding from his tongue like birdsong on the wind. He's generally able to maintain good standing with those around him, but in truth trusts very little. To those who would actually find themselves close to him, Aridan would treat them with the highest respect and do everything in his power to ensure their comfort - such is the case with his familiar. However, finding the split of the mask of charisma and the reality of feelings could be difficult. He is, in truth, a hopeless romantic hoping to find a life partner. Through his own doubts and tribulations, he craves another to be able to comfort him, and he to return the favor in kind - a genuine connection.
[break]
Stella is clever, dignified, and has a high distaste for crowds - but at her core, Stella is Aridan's caretaker. She has always sought to have his best interests in mind, holding him in her highest regards as both her bond and closest friend. Although it hasn't been uncommon for this to ring out as pure jealousy, she sees him as family. She is incredibly protective of him and her respect for him, garnering great disdain to anything that could threaten those. The unworthy, in her eyes, should be grateful to stand within arm's length of him. Of course, beneath this surface, Stella does find joys in the little things. Her daily allotment of star cookies bring her a perhaps childish joy, and the shiny jewels that she can wear around her neck make her feel exquisite and regal - both things she embodies well. Despite her terrible case of RBF, she is truly a softie inside and can be quite playful as long as there is no threat to her human.
[/PTab={tab-selected-background-color:#252525; background-color:#252525; height:450px; text-align:center; font-size:9pt;}]
[PTab=HERITAGE]
Birthplace[break]
Southern Sela
[break]Family[break]
Stella || Familiar || Alive + Thriving
[break]Dahlia Algol || Mother || Deceased
[break] Talis Algol || Father || Unknown
[break] ? Algol || Sister || Unknown || Adoptable!
[break]History[break]
[/PTab={tab-selected-background-color:#252525; background-color:#252525; height:450px; text-align:center;}]
[/PTabbedContent={width:500px; height:500px;}]
[PTabbedContent]
[PTab=DEVELOPMENT]
Aliases[break]
[break]The Crow on Faire Street
[break]The Sly Fox of Cierlun
[break]Current Residence[break]
Cirrus, Sela
[break]Birth Season[break]
Autumn
[break]Social Standing[break]
Citizen [ Prior ] || Chancellor [ 6 Years ]
[break]Loyalties[break]
Stella || The Heart || Sela
[break]
In terms of current importance, the Chancellor will place the wellbeing of his companion as his highest priority. All he does, it is to maintain a life of comfort for the two of them - something he wouldn't wish to jeopardize. Naturally, his role as Chancellor has built some loyalty to his nation and the people within it he represents. Alas, his direct connection to them is not nearly as strong due to the mind - doubts of the self tend to disrupt any true sense of belonging he may have to any relationship, personal or professional.
[/PTab={tab-selected-background-color:#252525; background-color:#252525; height:450px; text-align:center; font-size:9pt;}]
[PTab=APPEARANCE]
Face Claim[break]
Ben Barnes
[break]Height[break]
6'1"
[break]Weight[break]
189 lbs.
[break]Description[break]
Aridan is what's considered every noblewoman’s taboo dream in Sela. Seen as quite the charmer despite his background, he's the “tall, dark, and handsome” stereotype in a neat and titled bundle. With raven hair and darker eyes, he keeps himself clean in appearance - rarely ever dressing down and absolutely never going a day without trimming his beard. In dress, he generally keeps within his darker wardrobe of blacks, greys, and silvers in part as a counter complimentary to his companion. Sleeves are common for him, hiding the scars that that decorate his arms and body beneath their fabrics. He carries himself with a confidence that to some may come off as cocky - perhaps too full of himself or rather as a guise, compensating for something beneath the surface.
[break][break]
Almost always, save for casual crowd events, Aridan is accompanied by his familiar, a nine-tailed kitsen. Fondly named for the glow in her eyes, Stella is considered eccentric among Selanites due to her coloration. Unlike others of her kind who tend to be lighter, her pelt is a natural onyx accompanied by eyes of gold. Often she is seen with a necklace of some variety adorned, most often gold in color and complimented by fine jewels. She carries herself with a natural elegance and tries to maintain neutrality, though negative emotions show very easily on her face.
[/PTab={tab-selected-background-color:#252525; background-color:#252525; height:450px; text-align:center; font-size:9pt;}]
[PTab=BEHAVIOR]
Strengths[break]
Charisma || Manipulation || Deception || Gambling
[break]
Aridan is wonderful at figuring out others. He thrives in situations of social prowess, picking up on the tells of others easily and learning quickly what strings to pull to illicit plausible responses from. He understands you can't make everyone happy - but perhaps with the right tug, you can get anger out of them instead. It's because of this that he performs so well at the gambling tables - reading people is literally his job.
[break]Weaknesses[break]
Stella || Imposter Syndrome || Intimacy || Childhood
[break]
The life of Cian Algol is almost entirely lost to Aridan Crowe to the point that the name is one almost entirely unheard of. Perhaps that contributes to the lack of self he feels sometimes - an incomplete person. He doesn't always feel belonging in his role as the nation's Chancellor coming from a house of no prior note and usurping the title from what were once considered "rightful heirs". He is painfully aware that he speaks in twisted truths like it's a second language, pulling whatever strings he needs to attain what he wants - which makes him feel undeserving of the role alongside true human affection. Alas, it is often Stella who would ground him in these spirals. She is his rock and easily his biggest exploit. He'd overturn the world to keep her in good care as she has been the one constant of true connection for him.
[break]Motivations[break]
The primary motivation of Aridan currently is keeping his familiar comfortable and happy with life. He would do anything to assure she never has to live in poor conditions and strives to give her the world. Although as a secondary, he does hold out hope for true human friendships and affection - he struggles to find himself deserving and unwilling to be truly vulnerable with them.
[break]Personality[break]
As the Chancellor, Aridan is well mannered and well kept. With a natural dash of gentlemanly charm, his charisma carries him well through life - something that tends to pose well in his formal affairs. Despite his prior standing and what others may think of it, he treats all in good attitude and guarded faith. Negative emotions he knows to keep to himself in more public settings and rarely approaches any situation with outward anger. He's very good at keeping his presentation up as a stickler for his appearance in formal situations and minimizing ill imagery outside of it.
[break][break]
As a former swindler, Aridan is a master of manipulation and deception - for both good and bad. From a political standpoint, his skillset is ideal for pulling information that would otherwise be undisclosed. He’s very good at reading between lines and pulling the strings to turn pages, twisted truths and stories being no stranger to the man. This is something that, in turn, robs him of his own self-trust. With such things coming as second nature in some regard, he finds it difficult to believe he would not do the same to those close to him. This creates a guard within him to keep others he may otherwise care for at a distance, save for the familiar at his side.
[break][break]
As a companion, Aridan is an overall flirt, compliments to all sliding from his tongue like birdsong on the wind. He's generally able to maintain good standing with those around him, but in truth trusts very little. To those who would actually find themselves close to him, Aridan would treat them with the highest respect and do everything in his power to ensure their comfort - such is the case with his familiar. However, finding the split of the mask of charisma and the reality of feelings could be difficult. He is, in truth, a hopeless romantic hoping to find a life partner. Through his own doubts and tribulations, he craves another to be able to comfort him, and he to return the favor in kind - a genuine connection.
[break]
Stella is clever, dignified, and has a high distaste for crowds - but at her core, Stella is Aridan's caretaker. She has always sought to have his best interests in mind, holding him in her highest regards as both her bond and closest friend. Although it hasn't been uncommon for this to ring out as pure jealousy, she sees him as family. She is incredibly protective of him and her respect for him, garnering great disdain to anything that could threaten those. The unworthy, in her eyes, should be grateful to stand within arm's length of him. Of course, beneath this surface, Stella does find joys in the little things. Her daily allotment of star cookies bring her a perhaps childish joy, and the shiny jewels that she can wear around her neck make her feel exquisite and regal - both things she embodies well. Despite her terrible case of RBF, she is truly a softie inside and can be quite playful as long as there is no threat to her human.
[/PTab={tab-selected-background-color:#252525; background-color:#252525; height:450px; text-align:center; font-size:9pt;}]
[PTab=HERITAGE]
Birthplace[break]
Southern Sela
[break]Family[break]
Stella || Familiar || Alive + Thriving
[break]Dahlia Algol || Mother || Deceased
[break] Talis Algol || Father || Unknown
[break] ? Algol || Sister || Unknown || Adoptable!
[break]History[break]
[attr="class","aridan_history"]
A grand hall of marble with gold accents that decorated the room from the walls to the floor. A subtle music could be heard beneath the voices of the crowd, playing from the ensemble at the side stage. Lights shone from every corner and reflected the dresses of all who danced. Amidst a gaggle of women in glorious jewel-tones, was a man in full black. His contrast stood out among the room, but made those around him brighter. The women giggled, flustering as he would grow closer to one or the other. They were red in the cheeks and loose-lipped. As they flirted with him, he would meet in kind - all to hear more about the current affairs of the noble house of Duke Greyhand. The number of bastards that man had seemed to grow by the week!
[break][break]
Amidst their laughs, something tugged at his consciousness. He excused himself, much to the dismay of the ladies, and saw himself out of the hall to the garden outside. The fresh air could not have been more welcome in that moment.
[break][break]
“It's about time. You felt like you were drowning.”
[break][break]
From the brush, a dark fox emerged. Its gaze met his, gold contrasting its black coat. As it reached him, the creature sat beside a stone bench, tails twisting to rest over its paws.
[break][break]
“I didn't like that one near you. The pink on her lips was unflattering.”
[break][break]
The man chuckled. She was a jealous fox at times - the worry was appreciated. “Thank you, Stella.”
[break][break]
“You aren't normally this way, Aridan. What is the matter?”
[break][break]
There was pause.
[break][break]
“You cannot deny the senses we share, you know. Come, sit.”
[break][break]
The man harbored a sigh and obliged his companion. “I don't feel like I should be here, Stel.”
[break][break]
There was the whisper of wind, perhaps a sigh through his mind. Stella shook her head. This was a conversation they had at least once a year since the man - no, boy - had become involved in higher politics. It wasn't without merit, but it was still suffocating whenever such a feeling flared.
[break][break]
Although her bond was now to the Chancellor of Sela, his beginnings were much more humble. She knew him when he was nothing more than “the crow on Faire Street”. The Chancellor now was once a boy, whom Stella had encountered when she was just a pup.
[break][break][break]
[break][break]
The evening was the best time for some five-finger shopping. With the sun setting and the shadows growing, who would notice a mere boy picking an apple here, an orange there? Adorned in nothing but rags and carrying naught but a sack, the raven-haired boy slunk through the market - sliding whatever he could get away with into his pouch. Some folks had their eyes on him as he passed by, but others had left their stands free. At least, as free as a turned gaze allowed.
[break][break]
The boy was lucky - or perhaps, he knew the routines of the marketplace all too well. It wasn't a long before he finished gathering his groceries and went on his way. He skipped through alleys and slid through fencing as he had done many times before. Where he once would trip over holes and rocks, he found his steps quick but precise. Yet - as with every night - he had yet to notice the eyes that watched his every move.
[break][break]
It was a mere stroke of bad luck that the bag had torn. He had begun to lose food along the trail, something unknown to him until he had reached his doorstep. It wasn't all gone, but it certainly would not be enough. It was too late to go back, though. He had barely made it back in time now.
[break][break]
The boy opened the door, and then it closed. Silence hung in the air, tense. The only voice heard beyond the door was that of the boy’s. Nervous, uncertain.
[break][break]
“The market was poor today… the bread was stale and molded… yes, mother, I swear! It was-”
[break][break]
The noise was a crack. Whether it was the shattering of a heart held together by nothing but strings or the impact of glass against a flightless bird, it was silence that fell over the world in the moments to follow. Heavy, unmoving, only broken by the patter of feet and the slamming of the door against its hinges.
[break][break]
A shriek of a name followed the boy out the door, disembodied. Where he would run, who knew? He would simply go as far as his legs would take him, droplets of ruby splattering the ground behind him.
[break][break]
By the time the boy came to his senses, he had collapsed in the midst of the Forest of Thelenaas. It was there in the dirt, where he finally noticed a pair of eyes watching from the bushes. Except now, they grew closer. Shadows enveloped the creature, or perhaps it did well to blend in with its coat. It approached him, carefully - calmly. And although afraid, the boy's body ached; it refused to move once more. The silhouette took the form of a fox with tails a plenty, and when it reached him, it sniffed. Salt and iron mixed with the dirt on his face - he surely looked a mess. But was he edible?
[break][break]
There was a pause.
[break][break]
And then a tongue, gently lapping at his cheeks.
[break][break]
“You look really bad.”
[break][break]
The voice came from nowhere, yet everywhere in his mind. It sounded young, like a small girl, but blatant in its expression.
[break][break]
“I would have come to you sooner if I had known this was going to be the outcome. What caused this, Cian?”
[break][break]
It knew his name? And what did it mean by “sooner”? The boy sniffled, and wiped his nose. Although the red still ran, his tears were no more. He heaved himself up to face his caretaker - a small pup, it seemed to be. Or, kit? That's what fox babies were, right?
[break][break]
“I had lost all of our dinner,” he answered, despite the lump in his throat. “But it’s never been like this… never a bottle…”
[break][break]
The fox seemed to shift. Somewhere within him, he sensed an anger from the creature. Its eyes narrowed, tails flittering back and forth on the ground as it sat beside him.
[break][break]
“Do you have to go back?”
[break][break]
The answer was immediate- “Of course I have to. She’ll die without me!”
[break][break]
Something seemed to scream at him, Perhaps she should! But he was set in this. That woman was his only family. He would return with plenty more tomorrow to make up for tonight, and then everything would be okay again.
[break][break]
The fox did not seem content, but she wouldn't be able to change his mind. She rested her head on his lap, curling beside him. Although her wrath did not subside, she would put it aside to assure his comfort in these woods.
[break][break]
“Then I will guide you back in the morning. For now, rest. Perhaps the forest will aid your wounds.”
[break][break]
The boy rested a hand on the creature's head. Her fur was soft and smooth as silk - a comfort unknown to him before. He didn't realize he had begun to pet her until he noticed her calming. She relaxed at this, something that made the boy grin.
[break][break]
“What is your name?”
[break][break]
There was a pause. Golden eyes blinked open as she lifted her head. Although they looked as though someone had pooled the stars themselves together, there was a curiosity behind their intensity.
[break][break]
“I have none.”
[break][break]
“Then may I call you Stella?”
[break][break]
“You may.”
[break][break][break]
[break][break]
The fox rested her head on his lap, welcoming his hand.
[break][break]
“You know, I knew a boy once - a long time ago. We were both young and rather rash. He was the kindest person I knew, though perhaps the world took that for granted.”
[break][break]
He tensed. These stories were never pleasant for him, and Stella was well aware. They fell too close to a past locked away in his mind, memories he no longer had access to; but it was a reminder he needed, she believed. For his sake, she often lept the beginning rather short and spun the story just a enough away from truth to spare him. The man kept petting her coat as she spoke, uncertain of the words she would speak next.
[break][break]
“He did as he would every day - fetch food for his family. He loved them dearly. And yet, they did not reciprocate. I had to watch every aching moment as he would be berated for not doing enough. I would lay with him as he cried himself to sleep in the alleys until I could handle no more.”
[break][break][break]
[break][break]
It had been five long years of no better. Nothing had changed beyond getting worse. Now, day in and day out, the woman claimed him to be just like his father. Day in and day out, he cursed his father for not taking him instead. The boy grew sick of the woman, and sick of the treatment. He never seemed to bring enough for the lady. Cuts and bruises were regular decorations, much to the dismay of his closest friend. And now…
[break][break]
No more. There would be no more.
[break][break]
The glass he kept in his pocket was surely staining his trousers a dirty red. His fingers twitched, adrenaline coursing through his being. Perhaps all of this was a dream, and he would wake up with a full and happy family as he did many, many years ago.
[break][break]
“Where do you think you are going?”
[break][break]
The fox bounded from the shadows beside him. She seemed satisfied, although perhaps elated was a better word for it. She rubbed against his legs, stopping him in his tracks.
[break][break]
“You will be questioned if you go into town like that. Go find water, I will bring you cleaner clothes. And then we can look into the marketplace dinner.”
[break][break]
He sighed - of course Stella would ground him. She's always looked after him, ever since they met. He turned away from the city, going instead to the nearest waters he could recall in the forest. As he cleansed himself, he ran fingers over the scabs that littered his body, the scars that his skin held. As the water rinsed him clean, he couldn't help but smile - for once, it wasn't his.
[break][break]
But he was faced with a choice - what would he do now? No one cared much for the woman Algol since her husband had left her, much less since she took to the bottle five years prior. But he couldn't deny the potential as soon as she would be found. What could he do?
[break][break]
As the fox emerged from the brush, she set the fabrics in her mouth beside the boy. As he dressed, he looked to the creature.
[break][break]
“I need help, Stella.”
[break][break]
“What is it?”
[break][break]
“I have lost my name.”
[break][break]
“You have no name?”
[break][break]
Perplexed, she tilted her head at the boy. He shook his head, settling in this new reality. It took a moment, but the fox understood. She pondered for a moment, trying to gather the right sounds for what she wished to convey.
[break][break]
“May I call you Aridan Crowe?”
[break][break]
The boy smiled for a moment before giving a nod.
[break][break]
“You may.”
[break][break][break]
[break][break]
“The boy and I fled north to the river and found a town. We'd hear rumors of a mauling to the south, but it was neither here nor there. In time, everything passed. He did all he could to afford our survival.”
[break][break]
Gradually, the man eased himself. The storm clouds had rolled through his mind, and now they seemed to be parting. He let out the air he had held in his lungs.
[break][break]
Finally, he could play into her story. “He sounds like a good kid, Stella. What ever happened to him?”
[break][break]
“Well you see, he met someone else…”
[break][break][break]
[break][break]
“Aridan!” The siren called behind him. The tavern was quiet so early in the morning, so the woman’s voice rung through the halls. By the time she would peer her head around the doorframe, he would be downstairs, passing a spare coin to the keep.
[break][break]
“Another mark in the sheets, boy?”
[break][break]
The old man chuckled and shook his head. Somehow, every girl seemed to think they could cage the crow. It became the town challenge now. Despite his reputation, they seemed to always fall for his words. Another day, another bed paid for by a beautiful woman. The bell over the door chimed, and out he went to the city.
[break][break]
Birdsong filled the air and the smell of bread danced on the breeze - the river town of Cierlun was alive and well today. Amidst the crowds that had begun to travel the streets, there was one that weaved around carts and persons. Raven hair slunk away to the baker's alleyway, setting a coin on the side window. A half-loaf of bread was set on the sill a moment later, coupled by a fish. It was common knowledge in the town that the baker's husband was a fisherman. As he swiped up the gifts, there came a motion around his legs. Looking down, he met the golden gaze of his beloved familiar, rubbing against the side of his legs.
[break][break]
“That one was desperate,” her voice rung in his mind. “I can still smell her.”
[break][break]
He chuckled, giving her the fish and breaking a piece of break for himself. “Yes, she tried. No petal fell from that flower, Stella. Worry not.”
[break][break]
“You keep saying that.” She seemed to chew with some element of spite. “But they are getting worse. You get closer and closer to getting one in heat. When that happens, their… ‘flower’ may be down a few ‘petals’.”
[break][break]
There was bitterness in the voice - dismay. She pressed against his shins as he took a bite of the loaf. “I promise, Stel - as soon as we strike it big, I'll move you into a mansion and no more sleezey women to share my bed with.”
[break][break]
He set a hand on her head, rubbing back her ears. She seemed less tense now, finishing her breakfast. It was often she needed to be reminded of this goal - but the big what-if's still remained. She would have to be content for now, and as long as he maintained his ways - she could do so.
[break][break]
The day would progress like any other - a full afternoon of swindles and gambling, followed by an evening at the tavern, woman on either arm. Whichever one would pay for the better room, surely would be the one to win the prize. It would be rather unfortunate if a passing-by politician had caught wind of the town's biggest name -
[break][break]
“Excuse me sir,” it was an elderly voice that approached. “Are you, by chance, this ‘Aridan Crowe' I keep hearing whispers about?”
[break][break]
The man sat down at the table in front of him, elderly but certainly not an unknown face to this country. For once, there were no words that escaped the tongue of Cierlun's smoothest talker. He shook his arms free, and the women clung shuffled away. The man seemed amused - to what, there was no telling. A nuzzle against his ankle implied that Stella was with him. When did she get in? Familiar sense was a funny thing sometimes.
[break][break]
“You are an interesting tale in this place, Aridan. Arrived just a boy and now living as a man with nothing to his name but rumors of promiscuity?”
[break][break]
He tensed.
[break][break]
“I suppose you're correct, Your Grace-”
[break][break]
The man cut him off, raising a hand. “Please, call me Tidas.”
[break][break]
Sela's Chancellor, Tidas Riveire, sat before him - a man easily in his 70's, with more wrinkles than Aridan could count. Thin hair, green eyes that still seemed to have plenty of life in them. He didn't seem to be there of ill intent, from what Stella could tell, but he didn't not have a purpose either.
[break][break]
“Look, Aridan - I'm quite up in my years, but I've always been a gambling man. Fancy me a game?”
[break][break]
Such came as a surprise to the comparative youth, but the man would oblige. Aridan brought out his cards and began to shuffle. The games to follow wound up with Aridan's pockets lined - but the Chancellor seemed unbothered. In fact, the old man kept his grin the entire time - loss after loss.
[break][break]
“One more game, boy, all or nothing” he insisted. “If I win, I get all of my coin back. If you win, you get the key to my office.”
[break][break]
At this point, it was hard to believe the Chancellor hadn't had a single drink - but in the entire time they had been there, he hadn't broken sobriety. As Aridan set the table, he couldn't help but notice something change in the old man - a new gleam in his eye. As Aridan's stack dwindled down, the old man chuckled.
[break][break]
“Do you know why we call this one ‘War', son?”
[break][break]
The man claimed another pairing to his stack.
[break][break]
“You have had every game of tells won so far - but war is unpredictable. The cards can go either way, battles won and lost. And yet - none of it matters. It can go away in an instant.”
[break][break]
The cards went either way - more to Aridan, more to Tidas - until the last pairing. “Until the final battle.” Tidas pulled the cards to his stack, leaving nothing for the boy.
[break][break]
The man chuckled and held out his hand, waiting for the Aridan to place the sack of coin he'd obtained. As he did, the man grabbed his wrist. He reached up his sleeve and pulled the card from within - a red ace.
[break][break]
“The last thing you should do, boy, is rob a man blind in his hometown,” he commented. “I thank you for not doing so.”
[break][break]
He set a couple of coins on the table, nodding towards the keep. This would be the first night in a long time where he didn't have to seduce his way into lodge.
[break][break]
“Thank you, Your- er, Mister Tidas!”
[break][break]
The night passed in peace, Stella curled on the bed at his feet. She seemed truly happy in this moment - a feeling Aridan hadn't read from her in quite a long time.
[break][break][break]
[break][break]
“The next morning, we were awakened by a knock. By the time he was ready to answer, there was no person there. They did leave a warm breakfast and a note, however.”
[break][break]
The man chuckled, “I think I know what that note said.”
[break][break]
He was much more relaxed now, the memories clear to his mind. He cleared his throat, attempting to mimic the low and elderly tones of his predecessor.
[break][break]
“Aridan Crowe, I hope this letter finds you well-fed. I will be leaving town to travel through the rest of Sela. I was hoping you would accompany me. I will be waiting on the edge of town and departing at noon. Sincerely, Tidas Riveire.”
[break][break]
It was a letter he had read time and time again as the beginning of any fond memories he held. Word for word, he was almost certain he could mirror the writing if he tried. Stella looked up at him, tilting her head. If he didn't know any better, he'd have expected a smile on her face.
[break][break]
“Indeed,” she nodded. “And after some hesitation, I managed to convince him to go. And we went. We traveled with the Chancellor, passing from town to town. There came a time where we had to return where we began, but it was brief and uneventful. At the end of our journey, we began to part ways, but the Chancellor had other ideas.”
[break][break]
“He offered to take us in.”
[break][break]
“Indeed he did. And he showed you everything there was to know about his job - until his time had met its end.”
[break][break][break]
[break][break]
Aridan paced the length of his room once more. Since the news had broken, he had not settled for even a moment. There was a feeling of loss, of frustration, of anger. It had been a week now since the Chancellor's memorial was held, but still - there was grief. While he struggled to find the best outlet for it, he was faced with the harsh reality of his situation.
[break][break]
The title of Chancellor in Sela had been generational. Each Chancellor had taught their blood and prepared them to take over on the retirement of their predecessors. It was inherited, always. With that, however, would come the end of his stay. For the past three years, he had found a home in Cirrus in a room granted to him at the generosity of former-chancellor Tidas. Stella had come to have comfort in plush sheets and daily treats in the form of star-cookies. She could feel him worrying - he knew this. She honestly could probably guess why. Her gaze followed him from her water bowl, tails spread on the floor behind her.
[break][break]
“You aren't going to help the situation by walking a hole into the floor, Aridan.”
[break][break]
“I know.”
[break][break]
He knew. But he couldn't settle in this uncertainty. How would he appeal to a person who knew nothing of him? Tidas had treated him as he would have expected the man to treat a grandson. He shared stories, interests, and showed him every aspect of his job. Aridan helped him with tasks around the office that would have pushed his elderly bones beyond their reasonable use. And now, the kingdom spoke in circles. Which of the Chancellor's grandchildren would inherit the title?
[break][break]
Duchess Talia, who was the eldest of them and the renown businesswoman of the Riveires?
[break][break]
Duke Reyvon, who had spent time as an honorable knight and known for his strategy?
[break][break]
Duke Ferdinand, who was the youngest but most creative - an author and keeper of the libraries?
[break][break]
There was a knock at the door, pulling Aridan from his mind. Stella perked up, her ears flicking back a bit. She was uncertain as to what would follow. Aridan approached the door and opened it, being met with an official messenger of the Sela Court.
[break][break]
“Mister Aridan Crowe,” the girl started in her most proper voice. Her posture was one of the highest respect - a base standard for the messengers of the court. “I have been sent on behalf of the royal court to request your presence at the ceremony this evening.”
[break][break]
There was confusion written on the face of the man, moreso as she stepped to the side - revealing a wooden chest with a golden insignia on it. The messenger continued.
[break][break]
“On behalf of the late Chancellor Riveire, you have been left this chest. He had requested you to dress in your finest wear for the evening. Your Familiar, the Lady Stella, should find a designated accessory within the chest as well. Good day.”
[break][break]
The messenger turned and marched away, leaving Aridan puzzled and Stella approaching the chest outside the door. She sniffed around it for assurance before turning back to Aridan.
[break][break]
“It certainly doesn't smell like a trap.”
[break][break]
“O…kay?”
[break][break]
Aridan dragged the box into the room, finding it surprisingly heavy. How the messenger delivered it alone, he wasn't sure. But, it wasn't locked. He pushed the lid open, revealing the chest which split into two sections. The smaller one contained a sack of treats for Stella, topped by a golden necklace. Aridan Picked it up and slid it over his companions head. It settled perfectly around her neck, diamond pieces dangling like stars shining against her fur.
[break][break]
“Oh this looks very nice.”
[break][break]
The fox sat herself in front of the room’s mirror, adoring the jewels around her neck. Aridan moved on to the other side - clothes and coin topped by a letter.
[break][break]
The letter was written in handwriting he'd read a million times, though perhaps shakier now. The man was predicting his own passing, all the while detailing everything in the chest. Stella's new accessory and her treats, a tailored wardrobe for him, coin enough for comfort, and a journal of the old man's personal keeping. The letter alluded to his life in youth while lifting up Aridan to move forward. To say it didn't move it's reciever would be a blatant lie, the words weighing heavy within his chest.
[break][break]
By the time Aridan had finished reading, Stella was cleaning the salt off his cheeks. He sniffled and rubbed his eyes. He rubbed underneath her chin, setting the dampened paper aside. He brought his focus to the chest, going through the clothes. The miniature wardrobe within was full of blacks with silver accents, mirroring without matching his four-legged companion. At the very bottom was a small booklet full of the old man's very familiar writing. There was only time for a skim, as reading it page by page would overtake the ceremony. As a kind of final honors to his former friend, Aridan was set on his attendance.
[break][break]
The event to come was one to declare the nation's next chancellor. It was supposed to be announced by the Queen, attended by a plethora of nobles. It was certainly the event, much to Stella's dismay. Rarely was she one for crowds, but formalities were formalities; and on this occasion, she would deal with it. Aridan had dressed himself in his newest attire, a lovely set with a fur cloak from the chest. It set comfortably over his shoulders, just as the entire outfit held onto his body just right. Not too snug, not too loose, and certainly comfortable - it was no wonder to the eyes that settled on him during the prelude.
[break][break]
The proper ceremony began after a speech of appreciation for the man that was Tidas Riveire. It was moving, truly, with all manners of speakers from the court to family. As that reached its end, those in line for the succession made their way to the front of the room. It wasn't as though they were called, but each one of Tidas's grandchildren wanted to be ready. As the queen spoke, the name to follow was not that of the Duchess Talia. Nor was it that of the Duke Reyvon.
[break][break]
Stated as the youngest candidate but having studied directly under the late Chancellor with direct recommendation in his final will, the name to follow was none other than-
[break][break]
“-Aridan Crowe.”
[break][break]
The room fell silent. There was a spread of confusion. There was no such name in the bloodline of Tidus Riveire, nor was there even a noble house of Crowe. Whispers spread amuck, but Aridan was of no mind to hear them. His mouth fell as he processed what he had heard. It was the lovely voice of his companion as always that brought him back to the reality of it all.
[break][break]
“Hello? Aridan - it's time to make our entrance!”
[break][break]
She nudged him forward, and Aridan walked. They approached side-by-side and knelt before the queen, accepting the proposition. Daggers from the eyes of the Riveires stung In his back, but it would be of no matter in this moment. The aftermath included many a congratulations and more attempts of the nobles to pry more information about the man and his fox, fawning over her eccentricity.
[break][break][break]
[break][break]
“They wouldn't leave me alone.”
[break][break]
“They still don't.”
[break][break]
Stella nuzzled his knee.
[break][break]
“Point is, you are where you are for a reason, Aridan. Someone clearly thought you deserved it, and you have maintained this role for years now.”
[break][break]
Aridan sighed, resting his head in his hands. He still didn't feel right in this role. Deep down he knew he held a title much worse, but he was a swindler once, a gambling conman who preyed just as much on the desires of the drunk. Presently he just felt he had been promoted from local snake to national snake. He still pulled everything he needed from the tongues of nobles once sober, and charmed his way through conversation with those who remained. He was no better than he had begun.
[break][break]
Stella knew every detail of his thoughts - he had grieved them to her plenty of times before. She shook her head and licked his hand.
[break][break]
“This is the role you play, Aridan. You watch the people, observe them and learn to be able to report back to your queen with the status of your nation. Your skills are suited for this - you have put them to better cause than laying with the highest bidder and praying they allow you to keep your sanctity.”
[break][break]
Perhaps the end came off more bitter than the fox had intended, but it brought a smile to the man all the same. Finally, he gave in - nodding with her. “You're right, you're right.” He pet her one last time, scratching behind her ears before rising to his feet. “I'll try to put this all aside. Thank you, Stella.”
[break][break]
The fox nodded her head, following the Chancellor as he began back towards the ballroom.
[break][break]
“As always, you are welcome, Aridan.”
A grand hall of marble with gold accents that decorated the room from the walls to the floor. A subtle music could be heard beneath the voices of the crowd, playing from the ensemble at the side stage. Lights shone from every corner and reflected the dresses of all who danced. Amidst a gaggle of women in glorious jewel-tones, was a man in full black. His contrast stood out among the room, but made those around him brighter. The women giggled, flustering as he would grow closer to one or the other. They were red in the cheeks and loose-lipped. As they flirted with him, he would meet in kind - all to hear more about the current affairs of the noble house of Duke Greyhand. The number of bastards that man had seemed to grow by the week!
[break][break]
Amidst their laughs, something tugged at his consciousness. He excused himself, much to the dismay of the ladies, and saw himself out of the hall to the garden outside. The fresh air could not have been more welcome in that moment.
[break][break]
“It's about time. You felt like you were drowning.”
[break][break]
From the brush, a dark fox emerged. Its gaze met his, gold contrasting its black coat. As it reached him, the creature sat beside a stone bench, tails twisting to rest over its paws.
[break][break]
“I didn't like that one near you. The pink on her lips was unflattering.”
[break][break]
The man chuckled. She was a jealous fox at times - the worry was appreciated. “Thank you, Stella.”
[break][break]
“You aren't normally this way, Aridan. What is the matter?”
[break][break]
There was pause.
[break][break]
“You cannot deny the senses we share, you know. Come, sit.”
[break][break]
The man harbored a sigh and obliged his companion. “I don't feel like I should be here, Stel.”
[break][break]
There was the whisper of wind, perhaps a sigh through his mind. Stella shook her head. This was a conversation they had at least once a year since the man - no, boy - had become involved in higher politics. It wasn't without merit, but it was still suffocating whenever such a feeling flared.
[break][break]
Although her bond was now to the Chancellor of Sela, his beginnings were much more humble. She knew him when he was nothing more than “the crow on Faire Street”. The Chancellor now was once a boy, whom Stella had encountered when she was just a pup.
[break][break][break]
– ○ – YEAR 3481 – ○ –
[break][break]
The evening was the best time for some five-finger shopping. With the sun setting and the shadows growing, who would notice a mere boy picking an apple here, an orange there? Adorned in nothing but rags and carrying naught but a sack, the raven-haired boy slunk through the market - sliding whatever he could get away with into his pouch. Some folks had their eyes on him as he passed by, but others had left their stands free. At least, as free as a turned gaze allowed.
[break][break]
The boy was lucky - or perhaps, he knew the routines of the marketplace all too well. It wasn't a long before he finished gathering his groceries and went on his way. He skipped through alleys and slid through fencing as he had done many times before. Where he once would trip over holes and rocks, he found his steps quick but precise. Yet - as with every night - he had yet to notice the eyes that watched his every move.
[break][break]
It was a mere stroke of bad luck that the bag had torn. He had begun to lose food along the trail, something unknown to him until he had reached his doorstep. It wasn't all gone, but it certainly would not be enough. It was too late to go back, though. He had barely made it back in time now.
[break][break]
The boy opened the door, and then it closed. Silence hung in the air, tense. The only voice heard beyond the door was that of the boy’s. Nervous, uncertain.
[break][break]
“The market was poor today… the bread was stale and molded… yes, mother, I swear! It was-”
[break][break]
The noise was a crack. Whether it was the shattering of a heart held together by nothing but strings or the impact of glass against a flightless bird, it was silence that fell over the world in the moments to follow. Heavy, unmoving, only broken by the patter of feet and the slamming of the door against its hinges.
[break][break]
A shriek of a name followed the boy out the door, disembodied. Where he would run, who knew? He would simply go as far as his legs would take him, droplets of ruby splattering the ground behind him.
[break][break]
By the time the boy came to his senses, he had collapsed in the midst of the Forest of Thelenaas. It was there in the dirt, where he finally noticed a pair of eyes watching from the bushes. Except now, they grew closer. Shadows enveloped the creature, or perhaps it did well to blend in with its coat. It approached him, carefully - calmly. And although afraid, the boy's body ached; it refused to move once more. The silhouette took the form of a fox with tails a plenty, and when it reached him, it sniffed. Salt and iron mixed with the dirt on his face - he surely looked a mess. But was he edible?
[break][break]
There was a pause.
[break][break]
And then a tongue, gently lapping at his cheeks.
[break][break]
“You look really bad.”
[break][break]
The voice came from nowhere, yet everywhere in his mind. It sounded young, like a small girl, but blatant in its expression.
[break][break]
“I would have come to you sooner if I had known this was going to be the outcome. What caused this, Cian?”
[break][break]
It knew his name? And what did it mean by “sooner”? The boy sniffled, and wiped his nose. Although the red still ran, his tears were no more. He heaved himself up to face his caretaker - a small pup, it seemed to be. Or, kit? That's what fox babies were, right?
[break][break]
“I had lost all of our dinner,” he answered, despite the lump in his throat. “But it’s never been like this… never a bottle…”
[break][break]
The fox seemed to shift. Somewhere within him, he sensed an anger from the creature. Its eyes narrowed, tails flittering back and forth on the ground as it sat beside him.
[break][break]
“Do you have to go back?”
[break][break]
The answer was immediate- “Of course I have to. She’ll die without me!”
[break][break]
Something seemed to scream at him, Perhaps she should! But he was set in this. That woman was his only family. He would return with plenty more tomorrow to make up for tonight, and then everything would be okay again.
[break][break]
The fox did not seem content, but she wouldn't be able to change his mind. She rested her head on his lap, curling beside him. Although her wrath did not subside, she would put it aside to assure his comfort in these woods.
[break][break]
“Then I will guide you back in the morning. For now, rest. Perhaps the forest will aid your wounds.”
[break][break]
The boy rested a hand on the creature's head. Her fur was soft and smooth as silk - a comfort unknown to him before. He didn't realize he had begun to pet her until he noticed her calming. She relaxed at this, something that made the boy grin.
[break][break]
“What is your name?”
[break][break]
There was a pause. Golden eyes blinked open as she lifted her head. Although they looked as though someone had pooled the stars themselves together, there was a curiosity behind their intensity.
[break][break]
“I have none.”
[break][break]
“Then may I call you Stella?”
[break][break]
“You may.”
[break][break][break]
– ○ –
[break][break]
The fox rested her head on his lap, welcoming his hand.
[break][break]
“You know, I knew a boy once - a long time ago. We were both young and rather rash. He was the kindest person I knew, though perhaps the world took that for granted.”
[break][break]
He tensed. These stories were never pleasant for him, and Stella was well aware. They fell too close to a past locked away in his mind, memories he no longer had access to; but it was a reminder he needed, she believed. For his sake, she often lept the beginning rather short and spun the story just a enough away from truth to spare him. The man kept petting her coat as she spoke, uncertain of the words she would speak next.
[break][break]
“He did as he would every day - fetch food for his family. He loved them dearly. And yet, they did not reciprocate. I had to watch every aching moment as he would be berated for not doing enough. I would lay with him as he cried himself to sleep in the alleys until I could handle no more.”
[break][break][break]
– ○ – YEAR 3486 – ○ –
[break][break]
It had been five long years of no better. Nothing had changed beyond getting worse. Now, day in and day out, the woman claimed him to be just like his father. Day in and day out, he cursed his father for not taking him instead. The boy grew sick of the woman, and sick of the treatment. He never seemed to bring enough for the lady. Cuts and bruises were regular decorations, much to the dismay of his closest friend. And now…
[break][break]
No more. There would be no more.
[break][break]
The glass he kept in his pocket was surely staining his trousers a dirty red. His fingers twitched, adrenaline coursing through his being. Perhaps all of this was a dream, and he would wake up with a full and happy family as he did many, many years ago.
[break][break]
“Where do you think you are going?”
[break][break]
The fox bounded from the shadows beside him. She seemed satisfied, although perhaps elated was a better word for it. She rubbed against his legs, stopping him in his tracks.
[break][break]
“You will be questioned if you go into town like that. Go find water, I will bring you cleaner clothes. And then we can look into the marketplace dinner.”
[break][break]
He sighed - of course Stella would ground him. She's always looked after him, ever since they met. He turned away from the city, going instead to the nearest waters he could recall in the forest. As he cleansed himself, he ran fingers over the scabs that littered his body, the scars that his skin held. As the water rinsed him clean, he couldn't help but smile - for once, it wasn't his.
[break][break]
But he was faced with a choice - what would he do now? No one cared much for the woman Algol since her husband had left her, much less since she took to the bottle five years prior. But he couldn't deny the potential as soon as she would be found. What could he do?
[break][break]
As the fox emerged from the brush, she set the fabrics in her mouth beside the boy. As he dressed, he looked to the creature.
[break][break]
“I need help, Stella.”
[break][break]
“What is it?”
[break][break]
“I have lost my name.”
[break][break]
“You have no name?”
[break][break]
Perplexed, she tilted her head at the boy. He shook his head, settling in this new reality. It took a moment, but the fox understood. She pondered for a moment, trying to gather the right sounds for what she wished to convey.
[break][break]
“May I call you Aridan Crowe?”
[break][break]
The boy smiled for a moment before giving a nod.
[break][break]
“You may.”
[break][break][break]
– ○ –
[break][break]
“The boy and I fled north to the river and found a town. We'd hear rumors of a mauling to the south, but it was neither here nor there. In time, everything passed. He did all he could to afford our survival.”
[break][break]
Gradually, the man eased himself. The storm clouds had rolled through his mind, and now they seemed to be parting. He let out the air he had held in his lungs.
[break][break]
Finally, he could play into her story. “He sounds like a good kid, Stella. What ever happened to him?”
[break][break]
“Well you see, he met someone else…”
[break][break][break]
– ○ – YEAR 3491 – ○ –
[break][break]
“Aridan!” The siren called behind him. The tavern was quiet so early in the morning, so the woman’s voice rung through the halls. By the time she would peer her head around the doorframe, he would be downstairs, passing a spare coin to the keep.
[break][break]
“Another mark in the sheets, boy?”
[break][break]
The old man chuckled and shook his head. Somehow, every girl seemed to think they could cage the crow. It became the town challenge now. Despite his reputation, they seemed to always fall for his words. Another day, another bed paid for by a beautiful woman. The bell over the door chimed, and out he went to the city.
[break][break]
Birdsong filled the air and the smell of bread danced on the breeze - the river town of Cierlun was alive and well today. Amidst the crowds that had begun to travel the streets, there was one that weaved around carts and persons. Raven hair slunk away to the baker's alleyway, setting a coin on the side window. A half-loaf of bread was set on the sill a moment later, coupled by a fish. It was common knowledge in the town that the baker's husband was a fisherman. As he swiped up the gifts, there came a motion around his legs. Looking down, he met the golden gaze of his beloved familiar, rubbing against the side of his legs.
[break][break]
“That one was desperate,” her voice rung in his mind. “I can still smell her.”
[break][break]
He chuckled, giving her the fish and breaking a piece of break for himself. “Yes, she tried. No petal fell from that flower, Stella. Worry not.”
[break][break]
“You keep saying that.” She seemed to chew with some element of spite. “But they are getting worse. You get closer and closer to getting one in heat. When that happens, their… ‘flower’ may be down a few ‘petals’.”
[break][break]
There was bitterness in the voice - dismay. She pressed against his shins as he took a bite of the loaf. “I promise, Stel - as soon as we strike it big, I'll move you into a mansion and no more sleezey women to share my bed with.”
[break][break]
He set a hand on her head, rubbing back her ears. She seemed less tense now, finishing her breakfast. It was often she needed to be reminded of this goal - but the big what-if's still remained. She would have to be content for now, and as long as he maintained his ways - she could do so.
[break][break]
The day would progress like any other - a full afternoon of swindles and gambling, followed by an evening at the tavern, woman on either arm. Whichever one would pay for the better room, surely would be the one to win the prize. It would be rather unfortunate if a passing-by politician had caught wind of the town's biggest name -
[break][break]
“Excuse me sir,” it was an elderly voice that approached. “Are you, by chance, this ‘Aridan Crowe' I keep hearing whispers about?”
[break][break]
The man sat down at the table in front of him, elderly but certainly not an unknown face to this country. For once, there were no words that escaped the tongue of Cierlun's smoothest talker. He shook his arms free, and the women clung shuffled away. The man seemed amused - to what, there was no telling. A nuzzle against his ankle implied that Stella was with him. When did she get in? Familiar sense was a funny thing sometimes.
[break][break]
“You are an interesting tale in this place, Aridan. Arrived just a boy and now living as a man with nothing to his name but rumors of promiscuity?”
[break][break]
He tensed.
[break][break]
“I suppose you're correct, Your Grace-”
[break][break]
The man cut him off, raising a hand. “Please, call me Tidas.”
[break][break]
Sela's Chancellor, Tidas Riveire, sat before him - a man easily in his 70's, with more wrinkles than Aridan could count. Thin hair, green eyes that still seemed to have plenty of life in them. He didn't seem to be there of ill intent, from what Stella could tell, but he didn't not have a purpose either.
[break][break]
“Look, Aridan - I'm quite up in my years, but I've always been a gambling man. Fancy me a game?”
[break][break]
Such came as a surprise to the comparative youth, but the man would oblige. Aridan brought out his cards and began to shuffle. The games to follow wound up with Aridan's pockets lined - but the Chancellor seemed unbothered. In fact, the old man kept his grin the entire time - loss after loss.
[break][break]
“One more game, boy, all or nothing” he insisted. “If I win, I get all of my coin back. If you win, you get the key to my office.”
[break][break]
At this point, it was hard to believe the Chancellor hadn't had a single drink - but in the entire time they had been there, he hadn't broken sobriety. As Aridan set the table, he couldn't help but notice something change in the old man - a new gleam in his eye. As Aridan's stack dwindled down, the old man chuckled.
[break][break]
“Do you know why we call this one ‘War', son?”
[break][break]
The man claimed another pairing to his stack.
[break][break]
“You have had every game of tells won so far - but war is unpredictable. The cards can go either way, battles won and lost. And yet - none of it matters. It can go away in an instant.”
[break][break]
The cards went either way - more to Aridan, more to Tidas - until the last pairing. “Until the final battle.” Tidas pulled the cards to his stack, leaving nothing for the boy.
[break][break]
The man chuckled and held out his hand, waiting for the Aridan to place the sack of coin he'd obtained. As he did, the man grabbed his wrist. He reached up his sleeve and pulled the card from within - a red ace.
[break][break]
“The last thing you should do, boy, is rob a man blind in his hometown,” he commented. “I thank you for not doing so.”
[break][break]
He set a couple of coins on the table, nodding towards the keep. This would be the first night in a long time where he didn't have to seduce his way into lodge.
[break][break]
“Thank you, Your- er, Mister Tidas!”
[break][break]
The night passed in peace, Stella curled on the bed at his feet. She seemed truly happy in this moment - a feeling Aridan hadn't read from her in quite a long time.
[break][break][break]
– ○ –
[break][break]
“The next morning, we were awakened by a knock. By the time he was ready to answer, there was no person there. They did leave a warm breakfast and a note, however.”
[break][break]
The man chuckled, “I think I know what that note said.”
[break][break]
He was much more relaxed now, the memories clear to his mind. He cleared his throat, attempting to mimic the low and elderly tones of his predecessor.
[break][break]
“Aridan Crowe, I hope this letter finds you well-fed. I will be leaving town to travel through the rest of Sela. I was hoping you would accompany me. I will be waiting on the edge of town and departing at noon. Sincerely, Tidas Riveire.”
[break][break]
It was a letter he had read time and time again as the beginning of any fond memories he held. Word for word, he was almost certain he could mirror the writing if he tried. Stella looked up at him, tilting her head. If he didn't know any better, he'd have expected a smile on her face.
[break][break]
“Indeed,” she nodded. “And after some hesitation, I managed to convince him to go. And we went. We traveled with the Chancellor, passing from town to town. There came a time where we had to return where we began, but it was brief and uneventful. At the end of our journey, we began to part ways, but the Chancellor had other ideas.”
[break][break]
“He offered to take us in.”
[break][break]
“Indeed he did. And he showed you everything there was to know about his job - until his time had met its end.”
[break][break][break]
– ○ – YEAR 3494 – ○ –
[break][break]
Aridan paced the length of his room once more. Since the news had broken, he had not settled for even a moment. There was a feeling of loss, of frustration, of anger. It had been a week now since the Chancellor's memorial was held, but still - there was grief. While he struggled to find the best outlet for it, he was faced with the harsh reality of his situation.
[break][break]
The title of Chancellor in Sela had been generational. Each Chancellor had taught their blood and prepared them to take over on the retirement of their predecessors. It was inherited, always. With that, however, would come the end of his stay. For the past three years, he had found a home in Cirrus in a room granted to him at the generosity of former-chancellor Tidas. Stella had come to have comfort in plush sheets and daily treats in the form of star-cookies. She could feel him worrying - he knew this. She honestly could probably guess why. Her gaze followed him from her water bowl, tails spread on the floor behind her.
[break][break]
“You aren't going to help the situation by walking a hole into the floor, Aridan.”
[break][break]
“I know.”
[break][break]
He knew. But he couldn't settle in this uncertainty. How would he appeal to a person who knew nothing of him? Tidas had treated him as he would have expected the man to treat a grandson. He shared stories, interests, and showed him every aspect of his job. Aridan helped him with tasks around the office that would have pushed his elderly bones beyond their reasonable use. And now, the kingdom spoke in circles. Which of the Chancellor's grandchildren would inherit the title?
[break][break]
Duchess Talia, who was the eldest of them and the renown businesswoman of the Riveires?
[break][break]
Duke Reyvon, who had spent time as an honorable knight and known for his strategy?
[break][break]
Duke Ferdinand, who was the youngest but most creative - an author and keeper of the libraries?
[break][break]
There was a knock at the door, pulling Aridan from his mind. Stella perked up, her ears flicking back a bit. She was uncertain as to what would follow. Aridan approached the door and opened it, being met with an official messenger of the Sela Court.
[break][break]
“Mister Aridan Crowe,” the girl started in her most proper voice. Her posture was one of the highest respect - a base standard for the messengers of the court. “I have been sent on behalf of the royal court to request your presence at the ceremony this evening.”
[break][break]
There was confusion written on the face of the man, moreso as she stepped to the side - revealing a wooden chest with a golden insignia on it. The messenger continued.
[break][break]
“On behalf of the late Chancellor Riveire, you have been left this chest. He had requested you to dress in your finest wear for the evening. Your Familiar, the Lady Stella, should find a designated accessory within the chest as well. Good day.”
[break][break]
The messenger turned and marched away, leaving Aridan puzzled and Stella approaching the chest outside the door. She sniffed around it for assurance before turning back to Aridan.
[break][break]
“It certainly doesn't smell like a trap.”
[break][break]
“O…kay?”
[break][break]
Aridan dragged the box into the room, finding it surprisingly heavy. How the messenger delivered it alone, he wasn't sure. But, it wasn't locked. He pushed the lid open, revealing the chest which split into two sections. The smaller one contained a sack of treats for Stella, topped by a golden necklace. Aridan Picked it up and slid it over his companions head. It settled perfectly around her neck, diamond pieces dangling like stars shining against her fur.
[break][break]
“Oh this looks very nice.”
[break][break]
The fox sat herself in front of the room’s mirror, adoring the jewels around her neck. Aridan moved on to the other side - clothes and coin topped by a letter.
[break][break]
The letter was written in handwriting he'd read a million times, though perhaps shakier now. The man was predicting his own passing, all the while detailing everything in the chest. Stella's new accessory and her treats, a tailored wardrobe for him, coin enough for comfort, and a journal of the old man's personal keeping. The letter alluded to his life in youth while lifting up Aridan to move forward. To say it didn't move it's reciever would be a blatant lie, the words weighing heavy within his chest.
[break][break]
By the time Aridan had finished reading, Stella was cleaning the salt off his cheeks. He sniffled and rubbed his eyes. He rubbed underneath her chin, setting the dampened paper aside. He brought his focus to the chest, going through the clothes. The miniature wardrobe within was full of blacks with silver accents, mirroring without matching his four-legged companion. At the very bottom was a small booklet full of the old man's very familiar writing. There was only time for a skim, as reading it page by page would overtake the ceremony. As a kind of final honors to his former friend, Aridan was set on his attendance.
[break][break]
The event to come was one to declare the nation's next chancellor. It was supposed to be announced by the Queen, attended by a plethora of nobles. It was certainly the event, much to Stella's dismay. Rarely was she one for crowds, but formalities were formalities; and on this occasion, she would deal with it. Aridan had dressed himself in his newest attire, a lovely set with a fur cloak from the chest. It set comfortably over his shoulders, just as the entire outfit held onto his body just right. Not too snug, not too loose, and certainly comfortable - it was no wonder to the eyes that settled on him during the prelude.
[break][break]
The proper ceremony began after a speech of appreciation for the man that was Tidas Riveire. It was moving, truly, with all manners of speakers from the court to family. As that reached its end, those in line for the succession made their way to the front of the room. It wasn't as though they were called, but each one of Tidas's grandchildren wanted to be ready. As the queen spoke, the name to follow was not that of the Duchess Talia. Nor was it that of the Duke Reyvon.
[break][break]
Stated as the youngest candidate but having studied directly under the late Chancellor with direct recommendation in his final will, the name to follow was none other than-
[break][break]
“-Aridan Crowe.”
[break][break]
The room fell silent. There was a spread of confusion. There was no such name in the bloodline of Tidus Riveire, nor was there even a noble house of Crowe. Whispers spread amuck, but Aridan was of no mind to hear them. His mouth fell as he processed what he had heard. It was the lovely voice of his companion as always that brought him back to the reality of it all.
[break][break]
“Hello? Aridan - it's time to make our entrance!”
[break][break]
She nudged him forward, and Aridan walked. They approached side-by-side and knelt before the queen, accepting the proposition. Daggers from the eyes of the Riveires stung In his back, but it would be of no matter in this moment. The aftermath included many a congratulations and more attempts of the nobles to pry more information about the man and his fox, fawning over her eccentricity.
[break][break][break]
– ○ –
[break][break]
“They wouldn't leave me alone.”
[break][break]
“They still don't.”
[break][break]
Stella nuzzled his knee.
[break][break]
“Point is, you are where you are for a reason, Aridan. Someone clearly thought you deserved it, and you have maintained this role for years now.”
[break][break]
Aridan sighed, resting his head in his hands. He still didn't feel right in this role. Deep down he knew he held a title much worse, but he was a swindler once, a gambling conman who preyed just as much on the desires of the drunk. Presently he just felt he had been promoted from local snake to national snake. He still pulled everything he needed from the tongues of nobles once sober, and charmed his way through conversation with those who remained. He was no better than he had begun.
[break][break]
Stella knew every detail of his thoughts - he had grieved them to her plenty of times before. She shook her head and licked his hand.
[break][break]
“This is the role you play, Aridan. You watch the people, observe them and learn to be able to report back to your queen with the status of your nation. Your skills are suited for this - you have put them to better cause than laying with the highest bidder and praying they allow you to keep your sanctity.”
[break][break]
Perhaps the end came off more bitter than the fox had intended, but it brought a smile to the man all the same. Finally, he gave in - nodding with her. “You're right, you're right.” He pet her one last time, scratching behind her ears before rising to his feet. “I'll try to put this all aside. Thank you, Stella.”
[break][break]
The fox nodded her head, following the Chancellor as he began back towards the ballroom.
[break][break]
“As always, you are welcome, Aridan.”
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Last Edit: Oct 16, 2024 15:27:57 GMT by Aridan Crowe
