To Save our Worlds [Bene x Digital Siren]

[Bene]

The realm of the Dima was one filled with magic, and all sorts of life. From the humans that settled the plains, the orcs in the mountains, and the Fae in the forests, Dima had a diverse population. It was a beautiful realm that knew millennia of peace and prosperity. The races that inhabited the realm coexisted in harmony for most of recorded history.

As these civilizations advanced however, they gradually drifted apart. The Fae faded into fairy tales and legends, and no longer interacted with humans as they did in the past. The orcs and the humans began to fight over resources as well, launching several brutal wars against each other. Over time humans forgot the Fae even forgot existed. They became too caught up in their wars to care.

Despite the wars ravaging the plains bordering orc territory, most of Dima remained just as beautiful. The forests where the Fae dwelled were largely untouched by the wars, due in part to the magical wards in place that prevented anyone but Fae from entering their lands. This limited their territory however, as these magics could not cover entire forests. But their lands were still expansive.

However, a new threat rose that put all of Dima in danger. From beyond the realm, an extra-dimensional force threatened to destroy the entire world. An entity known as the Blight King had breached the fabric of space and time to enter Dima. To the King, Dima was a now a new land for him to conquer as he had his homelands. Under the Blight King, his realm knew only strife. Plagues, natural disasters, and death ruled alongside him. Knowing that his world was dying, he used an ancient artifact capable of breaching dimensions to find new, unspoiled lands to conquer.

The Blight King’s armies invaded Dima through inter-dimensional gates that opened spontaneously across the realm. They spread blight and death wherever they sprung up, poisoning the once great lands. The armies of Dima Orcs, humans, and even Fae worked to repel these invaders, were no real match for the Blight King’s armies.

But it was the Fae, that would hold the secret to defeating the Blight King. Fae warriors were often born in pairs, and when brought together amplified each other’s prowess. Most warriors found their other half by adolescence and trained into adulthood to become great warriors. Very few were born without knowing their pair. Those that were had to work extra hard to prove their power.

Trevan Brightleaf was one such Fae. Trevan was no doubt a strong warrior on his own but lacked his other half. Without it, he was not as strong as he could be. To remedy this, he and the elders of his village began to look outside the realm of the Fae, and even Dima for a solution. Their warriors had captured one of the Blight King's gates and managed to deactivate it, cutting it off from his homeworld. Their mages worked in conjuction with the elders to repurpose the portal to call out for help from another dimension.

Nobody expected the call to be answered.

---

The Blight King's gate was a great stone archway that burst from the earth. Etched into it were runes and symbols that gave the gate its power, and a stone pedestal attached to its flank that was used to control it. The Fae mages worked to decipher them, and after weeks of continuous work managed to crack them. By altering the runes, the gate could reach out to different dimensions across time and space to open portals to them.

Fae elders, mages, and a handful of warriors stood before the gate ready for their first test. The fate of the realm rested on them successfully using the gate to call out for help. An elder mage placed his hand on the gate, and its runes began to glow a bright white color.

“It’s working!” said the elder “Heroes from beyond the rift! Heed my call! Save us from our time of ruin and repel these invaders!” she called out.

The gate began to shine brighter, and a bluish energy began to gather between the arches. The energy began to coalesce into a figure. A woman. But before it was made whole, the energy burst from the arch and shattered the stone boundaries. The energy shot upwards into the sky and raced across it before disappearing to the west.

As it faded from view, Trevan felt a shudder as he sensed a familiar presence. A warm, comforting wave of energy washed over him.

A sensation only felt when a Fae warrior was in the presence of his other half.

 

[Bunny]

Mundane, that was the word Eirian would have picked to describe her life. While her name was fanciful, the sort of name you might find in a book about magic, it had not proved to have filled her life with magic. The only thing her name had provided was the constant correction of it's pronunciation. Ee-ree-an was the most common and it would leave Eirian sighing internally as she corrected the person Ay-ree-an. It was the only thing in her life that was special, unusual and unique, her name. It didn't match the middling life she had led. She had good grades, but not great, she attended a good college, but not great. She had a good job, but not a great job.

The thing of the matter was, she didn't mind. She wasn't destined for great things and the way Eirian figured it, not many people were destined for great things. Having accepted her lot in life, every day was a mirror of the last more or less. Sometimes though, even with her acceptance of things, Eirian couldn't help but feel like something was missing. She couldn't put her finger on it and at best if felt like a strange feeling of Déjà vu, though the word didn't fit perfectly.. Perhaps it was more like feeling out of place in time, like this word didn't belong to her; that she was needed elsewhere.

--♡--​

Pushing her book away from her Eirian sighed and rubbed her eyes. It was close to one am and her paper was due tomorrow. It was done and it was a decent job, but she had wanted to change some details. Leaning back in her chair, a hand brushed the heavy fall of black hair from her face, fingers running through the silken strands. I have to be insane. If I had left it alone, I could be asleep now. But noooooooo, I had to poke it and now if I don't finish it the paper will seem disjointed. Rubbing her face with her palms she yawned. What this needs is coffee. Eirian's small studio apartment didn't have a coffee machine, so if she really wanted coffee she would need to go grab some from the local Starbucks nearby. Most Starbucks didn't stay open 24/7 but hers did, it was New York, the city that never slept.

Still dressed from earlier, her outfit made for the sweltering summer heat. A pair of pale blue short jean shorts, with the pockets peeking from the fraying hem and a dusty rose off the shoulder top. More than just her shoulders, it bared her slender stomach as well. It had been perfect for the city's heat and even now that night had fallen, she knew it would still be warm, muggy almost. Pulling on her converse Eirian pulled her long back hair into a messy bun, curls framing her face and neck.

Glancing in the mirror near her front door, she caught sight of her violet eyes. Most people believed she wore contacts, she didn't though. Her eyes were naturally this shade and along with her name didn't seem to fit. Shrugging she pulled open her door, and headed to the Starbucks. The neighborhood that Eirian lived in was safe, so she didn't feel rushed, taking her time in the muggy summer night. Passing by an alleyway, Eirian paused, a flicker of light drawing her attention.

Normally she wouldn't have headed down that darkened path for anything, but she felt almost compelled to enter the alleyway. The light grew brighter and if she had tried to explain what it looked like, it seemed like the fabric of the world was tearing. From the crack, Eirian heard voices, though she couldn't quite make out what they were saying. The fear that should have been there, a wariness that should have prevented her from stepping closer wasn't there. Slender fingers reached out, as if to touch the light.

What happened next, she definitely couldn't explain. A flash of light, a feeling of similar Déjà vu and then suddenly she was falling, wind rushing past her face. Eirian let out a scream, the sound rightly petrified as she hurdled towards earth. Was earth the right word though, if she took out the fact she was falling from the godsdamned sky, which on its own was odd enough, the landscape around her was vast, snow covered woods and further along what seemed like meadows. It wasn't New York, that much she knew... The thought Toto, I have a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore flashed through her mind and an almost hysterical laugh left her, the sound swallowed by the air.

She had been falling quickly, but the closer towards the ground she got, the slower she fell. It didn't mean when she hit the lake beneath her it didn't hurt like hell as she broke through a thin layer of ice. Dazed for a moment upon impact, Eirian sank slowly beneath the dark waters. She could see the light above slowly fading and it was that darkness that spurred her to action. Kicking her legs, arms dragged water beneath her as she propelled herself towards the hole on the surface. Breaking through Eirian greedily gulped air. The bank rested to her left and after a moment she pulled herself towards it, crawling out of the ice.

--♡--​

Time moved oddly for her, Eirian unsure how much time had passed after she had climbed out of the freezing water of the lake and laid on the beach. Nor when she stood as it started to snow, wandering aimlessly through the forest. Her mind was a jumble of thoughts. Where was she, why was it snowing in summer, how had she fallen from the sky or how had she slowed before impact? Arms wrapped tight around her, Eirian's teeth chattered and she felt like an Eirian pop. Her fingers and toes numb, her legs and arms freezing. Her clothing was still soaked with water.

In the distance she could see smoke curling heavens ward. A fire? Eirian hoped so... A direction finally found. Fire could mean a home? A warm place to stay. Please don't be weird cannibals' or something. It would take her another fifteen minutes to reach the small cabin that rested on the edge of a small town. A town! Eirian felt like crying with relief.

However, something struck her as odd. It was like walking into a renaissance faire, the woman all wore dressed and the men tunics and breaches. A man paused, dropping his bundle of firewood when he caught sight of Eirian. Hugging herself tighter, she frowned. "Hello," Eirian's voice was husky and warm, despite being frozen to her core, "Where am I? Is there a hotel in town?" The man backpedaled and after a moment turned and booked it, raising alarm.

"What the fuck?" Eirian watched as the man ran and heads much further down turned towards her. Eirian had no idea the danger she was in, dressed like a whore, coming from the witch wood. They wouldn't care that she was half frozen or for her story. When armed men approached her, her confusion only mounted. Shackled, no one would listen to her. "Please, I don't understand!" The further into town she was dragged, the less things made sense. "Witch", "Whore", "Burn her!", "Drown her!", "Looks like someone already tried!", struggling in the irons around her wrists and the men dragging her Eirian tried to explain. "Please, there must be some sort of misunderstanding!! I am not a witch!" Though, she had fallen from the fucking sky. Eirian doubted that would help her case though.

What Eirian didn't know was as she had been falling, though time had seemed to move normally, the land beneath her went through days, weeks even before she had hit the surface of the water. Whatever had pulled her to the realm she now found herself in, had glitched, badly. There was a small bright side, the one looking for might have been close. Close enough to rescue her, for at the moment, she was being dragged to a platform, wood being piled under and around it.

 

[Bene]

The gate lay dormant now. The runes on it lay darkened, and the stone structure cracked. Moments after the glow faded, the top piece of the arch came crashing down. Whoever they called better be worth it. There would be no trying again. Yet Trevan sensed whoever they summoned was close. Very close. From the deepest part of his soul, he felt a warmth as he thought of their savior. Then came the feeling of a dagger to his chest, and he nearly collapsed from the pain.

“Elder! What is this feeling?” He cried out. “I feel warmth and pain all at once. It feels as though my heart is being torn from my chest.”

“It is your other half. I sense both halves of your soul now. With our call, the universe has gifted you your other half. Go to them. That pain you feel means they are in danger. Follow your heart, and it will guide you.” The elder told him. “Go my child. Be quick, I sense danger surrounds our visitor. Bring her to us.”

Those words were all he would need to needed to here. Trevan left the ruins of the gate running and headed back to the village. Unfortunately, when the gate initially opened it did so dangerously close to the village. Though the invaders were quickly repelled, the Fae lost many a good warrior to it. After it was secured, the mages and elders made sure its presence was safe. Over the weeks that followed, it just became another landmark in the village.

The village proper was built amongst the trees; a series of bridges and platforms connected the huts above the forest floor. At the floor is where the markets and other important buildings were. All perfectly hidden away amongst the underbrush and thick canopy of the forest. Despite the season, the village was largely free of snow. To the Fae living there, the weather was as pleasant as a spring day. The magics that kept intruders out also kept out the harsh winters Dima was known for.

Back in the village, Trevan was greeted by his fellow warriors. With no real time to explain the situation, he grabbed his sword and set off towards the direction his heart took him.

---

Trevan reached the edge of the forest quickly. Far quicker than he had ever ran before. As he crossed the threshold out of the forest, the landscape would turn from lush green to the white of snow. The Fae exhaled a deep breath, making a small cloud in front of his face. For a moment he shut his eyes and focused on the pain in his chest. West. His other half was west. Trevan opened his eyes and took off in that direction. From what the scouts had reported, a human village was just a few miles from the forest. The sensation in his heart told him that is where he would find her.

If only we would make it there in time, he thought.

Running at an impossible speed Trevan crossed the white fields of the plains, leaving behind shallow prints in the snow. Soon the sight of smoke filled the horizon, and a town slowly popped up.

"Faster." he said aloud. "I need to get there faster!"

---

Back at the village, the townspeople were more than happy to burn their new visitor. Witches were dangerous! They wielded powerful magics, and the only way to kill them was to burn them. A crowd began to form around the platform. Snow began to fall ever so gently as the wood piled up. Almost like ashes falling on what would soon be charcoal. If Trevan did not get their quick, all he would find of his other half would be cinders.

The pile was finished quickly. Every man, woman, and child seemed to lay a piece of wood down. Some neatly placed the wood, others tossed it and hurled obscenities at the witch. Others even laughed as they deposited their kindling to the pile.

"It is ready! Young miss, you are charged with witchcraft and indecent exposure. Hereby, you are sentenced to death by burning. May the gods have mercy on your soul." an old man spoke, the village elder.

"No!" a voice called from the edge of the crowd. It parted, and there stood Trevan. Ready save his other half. "Tell them who you are love. Tell them you are one of us!" he yelled, pounding his chest.

 

[Bunny]

None of this made any sense! Eirian watched as men, women and even children happily built a pyre for her to bun upon. Was this... some sort of dream? Her panic was not abating, rising with each minute that passed. She watched fearfully as men and women cheered at the though of her death, as children sang demented songs about burning witches. Had she been a witch this would at least be deserved, she wasn't though!

She could feel something, though she had no idea how she knew something was quickly approaching. It was like her feelings of being out of time and space. The thought made her frown. She hadn't had that feeling since falling, wasn't that odd? She had them on and off most days, so common that she often just dismissed them now. Not now though, they were suspiciously missing. She might have taken time to ponder this discovery had it not been for the wood being piled and thrown at her feet. She didn't really have time for introspection as to why she didn't have that feeling.

Frantically she tried to pull at her bonds, like a girl in a horror film. She had to try, even knowing it wouldn't work. It was an intrinsically human thing to do. She tug at her wrists, but they didn't move and she only succeeded in hurting herself. "Fuck" Looking out over the gathering crowd she felt the sense of dread bubbling in her chest. They really were about to burn her at the stake.

She heard a voice call out "No!" And for a moment, Eirian let out a small breath of relief. Someone who was in their right mind stopped this. The crowd parted and what greeted her was the face of a man she had never met, that... wasn't even human and addressed her as if she knew him. Was this.. what was it called... LARPing? "One.. of.. who?" Her voice held clear confusion.

Had Eirian been a bit quicker on the uptake and perhaps not scared out of her wits she might have just agreed with the... Elf. What in the ever living fuck. Eirian however wasn't. Panic and fear had taken hold. "I don't know who you are!" Her voice held what was causing Trevan trouble now, her fear paramount. Wide eyes watched as one of the townsfolk grew bored of waiting, tossing a torch at the base of her pyre. The wood at the bottom caught fire quickly, the flames slowly eating around her pyre and slowly crawling upwards. Eirian who had already been panicking hit new levels of fear. Violet eyes met his across the crowd, wife and truly afraid.

 

[Bene]

"I don't know who you are!"

Those words hit Trevan like a spear through the chest. How could she not? How could the other half to his soul not recognize him? Did she not feel the same feeling in her heart as he? No. Surely she was just mistaken. The stress of almost being burned alive certainly was clouding her mind. Perhaps she even lost her memory from crossing the rift to come here. The whole ordeal had to be stressful for her. They could sort that out later. Right now he had to stop these people from burning her alive.

"Release her now!" Trevan yelled, drawing his sword. "This woman is Fae, so she is MY responsibility." he added.

"Fae? This is a witch! She looks nothing of your kind. Stay out of this." growled the elder in response. The elder held a torch aloft, showing his intent to burn her regardless of what Trevan said. It seemed words would not get through to these people. And so Trevan would turn to actions. Fae were forbidden from killing humans; doing so would only reinforce the hostility they harbored towards them. But nothing said he couldn't scare them.

Trevan sheathed his sword by his hip, and lifted his hand towards the fire of the torch. He spoke a few words in Fae, and suddenly the flame from the torch began to grow more intense. The elder dropped the torch, but the flame remained floating in he air. Trevan lifted the flame upwards to the sky and closed his hand into a fist and it burst. Sparks from the flame rained down on the crowd, causing it to scatter as people fled.

"He's going to burn us all!" "This fairy is working with the witch!" "Run before they turn us into frogs!"

Chaos erupted as people ran every which way, giving Trevan an opportunity to approach the platform. He cut her hands free and scooped her up, holding her as one would hold a bride.

"You are safe now, my love." he said to her, his voice soft and warm. A stark difference from his voice speaking to the crowd. Trevan then took a deep breath, and took off running out of the village. The villagers threw rocks, and hurled more obscenities as the pair fled.

Trevan took them a fair distance away and set her down onto the snowy field. The snow would just cover her ankles. More fell from the sky covering their tracks. They would be safe. For now.

 

[Bunny]

The assumptions that Trevan made were correct, her fear overruled her senses. The presence she had felt had been him and it was here now. Perhaps Eirian should have been able to put two and two together, but even had she been able to see the bond between them, it would only serve to confuse her further. Bonds like the one they shared would be like true love in movies from earth and it was simply something she didn't believe. True love was nothing more than a fairytale.

Fae???? His words did not help her confusion. Shaking her head, she struggled in her bonds. They were all crazy! She had to agree at least in part with the old man holding the torch, but it didn't matter as one of the others set her pyre alight. True panic flaring through her system. This more than anything seemed to force Trevan's hand, as the elder lifted his own torch to add to the flames.

Up until the torch floated in the air, Eirian had been totally convinced this was some LARP that was truly dedicated to their art... But magic was not real and therefore floating torches shouldn't have been real either. The shouts of the townsfolk might have been fun had she not been freaking out. The distraction gave him time to get to her though.

"You are safe now, my love."

Eirian could only gape at him from within the cradle of his arms. Anything she might have said died as he took off running, his movement inhuman. No human could run like him, carrying her. She wasn't a big girl, either by weight or size, but she still weighed one hundred pounds. It wasn't insignificant, less so when running.

She heard rocks hitting his back, his body acting as a shield. Wincing even as he sped them from the village and into an empty field setting her down. Shivering she moved away from him, Eirian could feel his presence now and it did nothing to help her. She had never met him, yet she felt like she knew him, without knowing him. He felt safe, which was just ridiculous!

"Stay away from me," Eirian demanded, backing up. While she didn't want him near her, her confusion mounting she had enough of her wits about her to at least say, "Thank you. For.. Saving me.." A part of her wanted to ask where she was, but she was scared to learn the answer. Turning around, she shivered, her damp clothing chilling her to the bone.

She couldn't take this, she needed to know. "Where am I?" There was a vulnerability in her voice. If he tried to approach her, she would only back away, still not wanting the weird elf(?) near her... The magic.. wielding.. elf.

 

[Bene]

Despite running for as long they did he felt great. They had covered about double the distance in half of the time. Was this the power of a warrior pair made whole? Treven felt... complete around her. When she was in his arms he felt that much stronger. Faster. He had heard stories what a complete pair could accomplish together but now he got to experience it for himself. This was definitely something he could get used to.

Yet her words would continue to wound him. As she stepped away from him, he immediately closed the gap and stood closer to her. But she backed up again. Fear dominated her thoughts likely, that's why she was so hesitant. It would certainly explain a lot.

"This is Dima. Right now we stand on the Emerald Plains; the domain of the humans. You and I live in the the forests just a bit farther east." he explained, gesturing towards them. "We are Fae. Except..." he paused. Trevan stepped towards her again and reached out to push her hair from her ears. Round? This was a human girl. Had he grabbed the wrong person back in the village? No. The power he felt carrying her confirmed she was indeed his Other. Perhaps Fae just looked different where she came from?

"We can talk once we're back in the village. You're cold. Let's get you somewhere warmer." he said and knelt down, extending his arms for her to climb into.

Perhaps the elders could offer some insight into this situation. This girl had been through a lot in the short time. Some rest would do her well too. With any luck rest would help to ease her nerves. Time was still running against them. This girl and him were to be the key to winning the war against the Blight King. A pair made whole was a powerful force. She would need to be trained as well. The longer she put up a resistance, the longer it would take to train her.

 

[Bunny]

"Dima," Eirian repeated dimly. Trevan continued with Eirian looking at him as if had grown another head. Perhaps later, Eirian could realize that her confusion as to where she was was nothing compared to falling through the sky. It sort of superseded everything else, even her brush with being burned at the stake like a witch.

When he had come closer she had moved away again. In truth, the man before her didn't scare her as much as everything else. He had saved her. So when he tried to explain about where they lived, she looked towards the forests and then back to him. This time, when he stepped in Eirian stopped herself from running away. His fingers brushed her dark hair away from her ear, revealing a perfectly normal human ear. "I told you I didn't know you." Her voice was soft.

Biting her cheek as he knelt, Eirian watched him, if it was a choice of him or the stake, it was an easy one to make. Curling in his arms, much like he had held her before, she wrapped her arms around his neck. Laying her head to his shoulder she closed her eyes. "I am sorry I am not who you thought I was.." She was trying to let go of her fear, for it was clear he meant her no harm.

"But, thank you for saving me." Her eyes remained closed while she spoke, shivering even in the warmth of his embrace. "Are you hurt?" She remembered the rocks that had been thrown at them. Eirian fell silent for a time before she opened her eyes, looking at the strong profile of the Fae who carried her. "My name is Eirian, my friends call me Eiri or Rian... What is your name?"

It felt odd that he had saved her and was now carrying her in his arms and she didn't even know the name of her savior. Worrying at her lower lip, another question burning on the tip of her tongue. "Your love," the word hesitated over, "Will she be okay?" She clearly still thought he had mistaken her for someone else. A large part of her confusion the shock that had settled in, as the details didn't add up to her question; like why would his 'love' question where they were.

 

[Bene]

The moment her face made contact with his shoulder, Trevan felt another rush of power. A warm wave washed over him once more. It brought comfort and confidence along with it. Yet these feelings were not present in Eirian. From the way she shivered in his grasp, he could tell the poor thing was probably terrified. Getting back to the village would hopefully alleviate some of that.

“Trevan Moonshadow is my name love. If it is easier you can me Tre or Van.” He said, mimicking her own instruction to shorten her name. With names exchanged finally he felt that much closer to her. “Do you not feel anything in my presence?” he asked outright. There was no doubting the power she gave him. Did it not go both ways? For right now he wouldn’t focus on that. No need to cloud the mind with such uncertainties.

Trevan was just about to take off when she asked her final question. The one that heart the most. “You are. As my other half, we are soul mates. Fated to fight together, and one day bring another generation of powerful warriors into this world. Such is the way of Fae warriors. Yet you are not Fae. You are human. The elders will know what to do with you.” He explained. “Let’s just get back.”

Without any other words, he took off once more to the east. Trevan ran at a slightly slower pace than he used to flee the village. Despite the power he felt, he did not want to exert it. It would only be a short ways.

After about another ten minutes or so they found themselves at the edge of the forest. Snow topped the trees, and continued to fall around them. Compared the shouting within the village, the air around them was silent. Peaceful.

“Eirian. Come with me once more and into the Fae territory. I must invite you lest you get lost.” he explained. Trevan held out his hand for her to take. “Let me show you your new home.”

 

[Bunny]

He has a nice name. Eiri thought, still cuddled into him, though his question made her frown slightly, her brows drawing together. Did she feel anything? It would have been a lie to say no. What she felt was confusing at best, however. She could feel his presence, it wasn't because he held her in his arms, it was something almost visceral, primal. It was hard to explain. More than that feeling, she felt oddly safe. "Um, I think so?" Eirian's head shifted along his shoulder, her eyes drifting along his profile. The delicate point of his ear looked real... So Trevan was really a Fae? Still focused on his ear she spoke softly, "I could feel you, I think, approaching me when they were trying to set me on fire.." Closing her eyes she continued, "I also feel.. safe?"

It felt odd to her to feel that with someone she barely knew. She didn't understand why he would ask if she felt something. Everything felt so odd, nothing making sense. Rather than dwell on the oddities she had tried to change the subject, asking him about his love. His answer didn't help though. Soul... mate?
Eiri didn't believe in such things! She still hadn't noticed that she didn't feel that odd sense of Déjà vu. "Soul mates don't exist..." The words whispered. Eirian didn't even feel like she could think about the rest of what was said. For Tre had all but eluded to them having sex and her bearing his children.

Falling silent, Eirian was worried about more than just his words. Had he been anyone else, she would have demanded he put her down. Such conversations with someone you had just met, at least on earth were not normal conversations. They would also lead to the other party running as fast as they could in the opposite direction as fast as they could.

Set on her feet, Eiri eyed his hand, before sighing and sliding her hand into his. New home... Heart racing, she followed him from the snow covered world into a summer wood. Blinking, she turned around, looking behind her. Magic. Magic? Was magic real? That panic that had been subsided fought against the calming presence that he provided. Following him silently, the was only one bright side, she wasn't as cold now.

 

[Bene]

The shift in scenery was instant. The bleak, white colored landscape was replaced with a lush and lively forest. The ground below their feet was covered with a thick laser of grass and moss. The trees would seem to have gotten taller as well; their lush canopies casting a cool shade upon them. Despite the rest of the realm experienced the cold months of winter, the forest the Fae lived in remained pleasant year round. Judging from her outift, Eiri must have come from somewhere summer as well. Though Fae wore even less clothing than she was. Tre himself was only dressed in his loose trousers and a shoulderpad.

"This way, the village is just a short walk away from here now." he said to her, not letting go of her hand. Even just the small amount of contact kept him content. The same warmth emanated from his core, seemingly amplified from being home now. Perhaps even she would feel it? Tre did not ask though. They had business to attend to and could talk later. He wanted to get her to the elders as soon as possible.

The walk would be short until the various bridges that made up the village came into view overhead. The chatter of the markets and the villagefolk going about their day would break the silence in the air. The faintest flute music could be heard as well, coming from no discernable direction. As they walked through the center of the village, the other Fae would whisper and giggle to themselves. Much different from the human villagers who she would have seen so far.

After a minute or two of walking, they found themselves at an older looking hut. It was hollowed out form a large stump. The sides were adorned with flowers and other colorful objects. Vines with glowing lights extended from the other trees connecting to it, giving off a warm glow even in the daylight. Tre would stop them just before the stairs up to the hut.

"Here we are. The elders will want to see you right away. Just be courteous around them, and this will go smoothly." he said to her. Not that he had any reason to think she would be rude.

 

[Bunny]

Internally Eiri was trying to not freak out, the day thus far had not been kind to her. It was only adrenaline that was keeping her on her feet at this point, for it had been more than twenty four hours since she last slept. As they walked, she could feel eyes on her, some of which she could place, many more unknown, hidden further up in the boughs of the trees and the homes and walkways dotted along the trunks of the towering behemoths. Hand in his, she looked up at him, nodding some. Odd as it was, her feelings to Tre, someone she had just met, she felt safer near him. The idea of being parted almost unbearable. Was it just her fear and he had been the only kind one to her thus far or was it the soulmate thing he claimed to exist between them?

"Okay," the answer was soft and she moved to be closer to him; one might have said she appeared clingy. She felt warmer now, but she couldn't tell if it was the magical lack of freaking snow again, that bond. The forest didn't seem threatening, but Eiri was a human in a fae world now. She felt very conspicuously out of place, she was shorter than almost all she saw, her figure perhaps a tad more curvy. Luckily her raven hair had fallen to hide her ears again, at least that didn't bring further attention. Though as they came closer to the marketplace, she cuddled closer to Tre, her smaller figure tucked into his own. Eiri didn't notice how she moved closer to him in her fear.

As they came to a stop she looked up at him. Looking to the hut before them and back to him, she nodded. She wouldn't try and be rude, but she was in a place she didn't know, with someone claiming to be her soulmate. She had fallen from the damn sky, she had almost been burned alive as a witch and her clothing was still wet! Oh, and she wasn't on earth anymore. This was enough to make anyone grumpy. "You.. you are coming with me right?" Her voice trembled a little. Like it or not, she did feel safe near him. The village wasn't even threatening, no one had done anything more than look at them.

Looking up the stairs she shook her head. "Please don't make me go alone." There was a desperateness to her voice. She didn't know if it was the intent, but she would down right refuse. Her eyes flashed, the bright violet showing a stubbornness within her. If she was meant to go alone, the only way Tre was getting her up the stairs was by dragging or carrying.

 

[Bene]

“I will be right there by your side.” He said to her, giving her hand a reaffirming squeeze. “The elders would see us as a pair.” With not much else to say, Tre would lead her up the stairs and into the hut. The “door” to the hut was a a cloth hung from above the doorway, easily pushed away by Tre and her. Inside, the hut was decorated with extravagant tapestries that hung from the walls. Each one depicted different scenes from around the forest, and the land. At the far end of the room five chairs made a semicircle against the curved wall of the hut.

At the center of the room was a small fountain with water so clear it appeared to glow from the sunlight shining above it. It was surrounded by an assortment of colorful rocks and shells from all over the realm. Within the fountain a few brightly colored fish circled around each other, the occasional bubble rising to the surface. At the edge of the fountain was a small stone statue of a fairly pouring a pitcher of water into it.

Sat in the middle chair at the far end of the room was an older looking Fae, dressed in a long blue dress. The sight of the duo alerted her, and she rose to greet them. As she stood her dress would spill out from the chair and onto the wood floor by her bare feet. A warm and comforting smile formed on her face as she spoke.
“My children... at last you stand before me.” Her words carried her age, but felt like honey. “Young Treven, is this the one we summoned? I sense a strong bond between you.”

“Yes ma’am. This is Eiri. She comes from a world far different than we expected.” He said with a small bow.

“I also feel as though you are you dismayed young one. You are home now, is there anything we can provide for you?” She asked Eiri. “Ask for whatever your heart desires. Then you will have the rest you need. You are in good hangs with young Tre here.”

 

[Bunny]

A small nod left Eiri, her hand in his own. He wouldn't leave her to face these elders on her own. She didn't know why even the thought of being separated from him gave her an uncomfortable feeling in her chest, a tightness that was uneasy at best. "Okay" She moved with him, staying close even as they climbed the stairs and slipped into the hut with him.

Eyes slipped over the interior, the tapestries and other bits of art that lay around them taken in, though the fountain was what truly captivated Eiri. It was beautiful. Though her appreciation of the fountain was drawn short as someone beyond it stood. The elder fae woman wasn't scary, nor did she give off any reason for Eiri to mistrust her, yet Eiri moved closer to Tre once more.

Her eyes flickered to Tre and back to the elder who had spoken. Summoned? It made her stomach turn and though she would have given anything to step away, be angry, she couldn't bear to take that step. That bond, believe in it or not had a firm hold on the young woman at his side. She didn't bow as he did, looking back to the woman as she directed her words to Eiri.

A shake of her head, hair swaying with the vehement denial that she was home. "This isn't my home.." Her words were soft and she tried to remember Tre's words, asking her to be respectful. "I want to go home.. Back to my parents and friends." She looked up at Tre, frowning. "I am not like him, you," turning her head to the side, she bared an ear to the elder, her curtain of dark hair pulled back to show the singular pale ear. "Please" there was a desperateness to her voice.

Frowning some, the elder took them both in. Human. But the spell wouldn't have summoned a human, if she were not the other half of the warrior beside her. "Tell me, child," the elder hedged. "Can you come closer? My eyes were not once what they were" It was a lie, the elder's vision was impeccable, but she wanted to test something. The question puzzled her and she nodded, moving closer towards the elder, though she did not release Tre, stretching their hands between them and then gently tugging him with her.

A serene smile was on the elder's face. "Tre, let her hand go." The words were soft, but the command was clear. Panic welled up in Eiri's chest and she shook her head. She wouldn't give him his hand back willingly. If he was to take his hand from her, he would need to fight for it. The elder watched, amused. It only proved that the bond was indeed there.

"Tell me, where you were from, did you ever feel a sense of being out of time?" The question focused Eiri and she turned to the fae, brows drawn together. It was a feeling she had daily, many times a day. The confusion as to how the elder knew of this, clear. "How do you know?" A soft sound was made by the elder. "Have you felt it since you arrived here?" Eirian's frown deepened and she tried to think back. She had been.. here.. wherever here was for several hours at least. Slowly she shook her head, "No" there was fear in that answer and the elder took pity on the young woman.

She wasn't fae, had been ripped from her world to fight in a war she knew nothing about. Ripped from her life, family and friends and the only person she seemed to be truly comfortable with was Trevan. The poor thing would struggle hard in training, assuming that the other fae didn't try to eat her alive. Trevan was born into his role, it was a sacred right, one of honor and respect. The fae were proud people.. they wouldn't take kindly to a human female. She would make them weak, or so they would believe.

However, the elder wondered if that was indeed true...

 

[Bene]

"I believe needs some rest." Tre chimed in. "Clean clothes too. Hers are... not sufficient for war. Plus they are practically ruined by the snow and the villagers." he said to the elder. It felt harsh speaking this aloud, but these were truths. Sleep would perhaps help to soothe her soul. Though he doubted she would wake up and be the soldier they needed. There was no denying the effect her presence had on him, but what of the opposite? Just how was he affecting her? Only time would tell, but that was not a luxury they really had. It was an impossible thing to ask of her.

"Hmm..." the elder pondered a moment, scratching her chin with one of her slender fingers. "Rest is the answer then. Tomorrow we can talk war. Tonight, you two get some rest. Get to know each other. Establish a stronger bond. Copulate." she instructed. "Time will tell if she is the answers to our prayers. The universe works in mysterious ways." she said with a wink. The elder then waved her hand and shut her eyes a moment. "Yes... rest...." he spoke softly, falling asleep soon after.

Tre turned to Eiri and gave her hand another squeeze. "Excuse the elder, it seems she has ran out of energy. Let us get you some new clothing, the markets should have what you need. I'm sure you must be hungry too; I sure am." he said with a faint smile and then looked back to the elder. "Tomorrow we will meet with her again, but for now let's take it easy." With that said he released her hand a moment and walked over to the fountain. He knelt down and cupped his hands, taking a small sip of it. With a sigh he stood again and gestured to the fountain.

"Have a sip. Then we shall be on our way." he said. It was just plain water, but it was customary to drink from the fountain after consulting the elders. Though Tre wasn't sure why. Just something they had always done he figured.

Getting her some rest and new clothes was his new priority. Though the elder did mention copulation, he knew that would not happen. To Fae, the act was simple and not a huge deal. A way of relaxing and strengthening the bond of a couple was it's main purpose. Especially among warrior pair such as Tre and Eiri. Something told him that she would not be up for it, given how she responded to his words of soulmates and love. Truth be told, he wasn't into the idea either.

 

[Bunny]

W-a-r. Eiri's snapped towards Tre, eyes wide. War? The word seemed to resonate in her mind, repeating over and over. Slowly she felt anger take over. They kidnapped her, from her world, home, friends and family to bring her to another world to fight a war? The air around Eiri began to shimmer as her anger rose. Her eyes, that pretty violet gaze fell on Tre. She said nothing, turning silently back to the elder. As the elder continued the air directly around Eiri rose a few degrees and her small hands curled into fists.

Everything had been sort of okay up until the elder suggested they fuck. Oh, she had used a nicer word, but the end result was the same and Eirian only grew angrier. There was something between Trevan and herself, she was at least willing to admit that. There also wasn't a feeling of being out of time and space, of not belonging. Begrudgingly, it felt nice, to feel a part of the world. However, that didn't change her anger, nor her desire to be petulant. Dismissed, Eiri felt rigid, still fighting with her outrage.

It was only Tre's request that she not be rude to the elder that had her holding her tongue. That wouldn't spare him though. She said nothing as he apologized for the elder, nor when he suggested what they should do. When he released her hand, she could feel something, like a chain linking them. When he told her to drink, she looked at the water, then him before storming out of the hut and down the stairs. The air left in her wake would be humid and unpleasant, her anger fueling this change in her. At the bottom of the stairs she spun on him. "Why didn't you tell me?"

Her voice wasn't quiet and she pushed at the taller male, still furious. "Afraid if you told me you kidnapped me from my world to come fight a war, I wouldn't have been as accommodating?" Another small push, "And if you think we are going to copulate, you are going see hell freeze over first!" The air around her bent under her heat, shimmering with it. "If the choice was feeling out of place of being kidnapped and told I was fighting a war, I would have stayed where I was!"

Eirian didn't know that while she might have lived a decent life, she never would have found love. Even had she ignored that feeling, the one she ended up with would never make her happy, not really. They wouldn't know, because she wouldn't tell them. It would be what could be between Tre and herself. Fighting tears, she looked at him. He had felt safe, and now it felt like some sort of trap. Magic even.

 

[Bene]

Eirian's response was not exactly what he had anticipated. Not only did she disrespect the elder by refusing to drink, but she stormed out as well. Tre followed after her quickly and paused at the entryway as she continued her verbal assault. A small crowd had begun to form, drawn tot he sounds of her yelling. They chattered and whispered to each other as she laid into him. Finally she ceased her outburst and Tre looked from her to the crowd.

"You done?" he asked in a plain tone. Tre stepped closer to her, only about a foot from her now. As he approached he could almost feel the heat of her emotions; the intensity almost too much to bear. "Let's just go. You're drawing a crowd. You need new clothes else you'll draw another. Fae talk and you're not exactly making yourself popular." he explained with the same plain voice. Tre had no time to entertain her outbursts. He was beginning to have his doubts this girl would be of any help at all. So far all she had done was allow a bunch of humans to capture her, and then make a scene in front of the elders. He would have to do his best in order to maintain his cool facade. If he lost his temper it would only make things worse.

Around them the crowd began to disperse, chattering and whispering amongst themselves still. A few snippets of conversation would stand out to them, mostly about her being human. The Fae generally distrusted humans given their long history of conflict. Now one was yelling at one of their honored warriors in front of the elders. Such disrespect. This would be yet another barrier for them to overcome as a pair.

"Come, let's get you some clothes and some rest. Perhaps that'll put you in a better mood." he said with a huff. "The market is this way, and my hut not far after that. Follow me close and try to avoid another outburst like that until we get to my place." Only fueling the fire growing in her. Tre sincerely hoped that he would be right, and sleep would put her in a better mood. Otherwise they were going to have some serious issues. This girl was brought here to win a war. Losing that war meant the deaths of everyone in this village. That fact would be the most important to get across to her.

 

[Bunny]

The crowd had been all but ignored by Eirian and she watched as he looked towards her and then back. It didn't help her anger. Did all he care about was the views of others? Some soulmate. "Taking among people is not exactly a fae trait," she hissed. "I don't care about the crowd... I don't care about your war and I don't care if I am popular." Her words were at least softer, but she was being honest.

His clam tone was infuriating. Had she known his thoughts, Eirian might have tried to leave. She hadn't asked for any of this. This was his and the elder's fault. They had summoned her here. She hadn't asked to be called into their world, their war. Trembling she refused to move, watching him with fury. "I am sorry, do you not see a need to answer any of what I said? Rest is not going to magically make me any happier to be here. You k-i-d-n-a-p-p-e-d me. You stole me from my home, my world. What about that will sleep fix? Unless I wake up from some horrible dream... I don't see that happening and something tells me I am not going to be that lucky"

Eirian looked at him, her anger still clinging to her. Her hair danced on it's current. "You said we were soulmates." There was even hurt in those words. She might not have believed in soulmates, he did. "You don't actually care about me. You only care about what I can do for you." The power was starting to leak from her, fire spiraling out from her feet, like flamed serpents. "Your world and my own must have different meanings of that word." Eiri barked out a laugh, the sound harsh and the power erupted from her.

The air around her seemed to breathe in before exploding around her, akin to the way a bomb exploded in her own world. The flames didn't leave her, but the power would likely knock him off his feet. "I am not going anywhere with you. As awful as those people in that village were, they were at least honest. You should have left me where I was. Seems you'd be better off."

She had heard the whispers about her race, knew her being human already didn't make her popular. The issue was, she could see why she should give a fuck what these people thought of her. They were responsible for her being here and bothered by the fact she had the audacity to be unhappy to be angry.

 

[Bene]

The sudden blast was enough to knock him down on his ass, and definitely scare him. The crowd gasped and fled as well, leaving them relatively alone in front of the elder's hut. Quickly that fear was replaced by awe, and then respect. This girl was strong after all. But she lacked control of her powers it seemed. This made her dangerous. Had the elder sensed she had this power?

Trevan climbed to his feet and dusted himself off. With a smile on his face he gave a sarcastic clap. "Well that's certainly something." he said with a short laugh. There wasn't really any other way to react. "So you do have some magical abilities in you. But it looks like it takes a bit of anger on your part. That's good. We can use that." he said scratching his chin. "But there is something else I should do before we carry on." he said to her then stepped closer to her.

Once he was within arms reach of her, he pulled her in close to him and embraced her. Despite any protest she would give, he only squeezed her harder. "Listen..." he said to her softly. "I know this is a lot for you. We took you from your world without asking. We whisked you away to some magical land and expect you to help fight our war. It sucks. It's not fair to you. But this is what the universe decided to do with us. We have to just take this for what it is and adapt. No sense getting pissed about it." he said and then stepped back from her. The smile on his face faded and held his hand out for her to take.

"Let's get you some better clothes and get you some rest. It's all we can do right now. When the elder wakes up, we can ask her if there is a way to send you home. But once she falls asleep, it can take days for her to wake up. So all we can do now is wait. I hate it just as much as you do..." he said, the same sass in his tone as before. Tre didn't show his more compassionate side often, but he hoped it would be just what she needed right now. A little compassion could go a long way. Besides, being cold and acting tough wasn't getting anywhere.

 

[Bunny]

What had happened. There had been a building of anger and then it had been like the world had breathed in then became silent around her as the power rushed from her. Her eyes narrowed and Eiri made a rude gesture at his sarcastic clap. "Fuck you," his reaction only raising her hackles again. It was odd, her mind and even her body wanted her to move closer. The bond, whatever it was... She hated it and it was pure stubbornness that kept her rooted in place. "Then it shouldn't be a problem if you're near me" Her words were barbed and she crossed her arms.

A brow lifted sardonically as he said there was something he should do. Tre moved closer and Eiri refused to give him the satisfaction of stepping away from him. His arms slipped around her and there was no doubt, he'd feel how she stiffened, hands pushing at his chest. Her body and mind quieted some, the reaction confusing and unwelcome, she had been fine with her anger. She stopped struggling when it became clear she wouldn't be able to free herself. An annoyed huff leaving her as he told her to listen.

Sighing, her body softened and she shook her head. "That is easy for you to say, Tre. I was the answer to what you needed. You need me here." She would have said wanted her, but she doubted that it was as true, not in the sense she meant. Thick lashes dropped and it took a lot for Eiri to not take the comfort she wanted dearly. To melt into his embrace as her body demanded she do, to rest her head against his shoulder or chest. It was almost like compulsion and she could tell that if she just gave in, it would be better. The comfort that was offered would be hers.

He pulled back and the chance fled, as he offered her his hand. Looking to his hand for a long moment she slipped her hand into his. "Tre?" She waited till he looked at her, "If the spell pulled me here, to be.. whatever I am meant to be for you..." She recalled the elder's words and knew that asking or not, if she left whatever she was meant to help with would be over. A sigh left her and she changed what she had been planning to ask. "Do you really hate it?" She had a feeling he might, but she was curious what part it was that raised his ire. Was it they stole her from her world, life? Or perhaps it was she was mortal, a human.

Taking a slow deep breath she tugged on his hand gently. "I am sorry," the words offered quietly. "This is.. just a lot.." Eirian was trying, sort of. She wasn't happy and while his touch and his embrace had taken some of the wind from her sails, it didn't fix it. Eiri was pretty sure she was stuck here. To fight a war, one she didn't know or understand. The events of the day were catching up and Eiri could feel the weariness pull at her bones. "Lead the way."

 

[Bene]

"I do. I hate that war has claimed countless lives of people I loved. I hate that we're facing extinction from an unknown threat, and that we summoned you here using the same means these invaders entered our world. I carry a great deal of hate within my heart. Yet the moment I felt your embrace that hate became a little easier to bear. In time, you will come to bear that hate as well. Yet together, perhaps we can share that burden." he told her. With a soft smile on his lips he gave her hand in his a gently squeeze. With that, the two would head off to the markets.

As Tre would lead her forward, the rest of the village would pass by until they reached its heart. Market stalls with wildly colored tops were organized in a series of concentric rings, with a grassy park area at its center. Cutting the rings in half was a stone paved walkway, with the semi-circles on each side. The chatter of at least a hundred or so Fae filled the air within the markets in a dull roar. Greeting them as they approached was the mouth-watering aroma of various baked goods and sweets being sold within the markets. Tre would pause just at the edge of the first ring and point towards the middle-right ring.

"There are the stalls sell female's clothing. Our manner of dress is a bit... different than yours." Tre said, looking her over briefly. "Getting you some clothes will help you blend in better and draw less attention. Eventually we'll fit you for combat suitable outfits but that's not important now. If you're hungry too there's this one stall that sells these fruit-filled sweet rolls that are the best. We don't eat meat like the humans do, so you won't find that here unfortunately." he explained.

At the center of town nobody was concerned with Tre or Eiri, as they were by the edge of town where the elders were. Here they were just another body in a crowd.

"I'll follow you here. Lead the way towards whatever stalls catch your eye." he said to her.

 

[Bunny]

Something in Eirian ached for Tre, the pain and suffering he'd endured and would endure further. As much as she wanted to deny that there was a bond between them, it was clear that it existed. She could almost feel those feelings that he was remembering, like a ripple or an echo in the distance. A frown pulled at the edges of her mouth as he spoke about her learning the hate. Rather than say something bratty or bitchy she held her tongue. She didn't want to learn to hate. The only thing that she wished was to chase those shadows from him, but she didn't even know how she would be able to, if she could.

Offering him a slight smile as his hand squeezed hers. She was at least for now stuck here and something in her bones told her that her trip here had been one way only. There was no point in trying to fight him or it right now. She could.. try. It wasn't really their fault it had ripped her from her world right? A part of her agreed, another rebelled at the thought. This wouldn't be easy.

Her thoughts swirled as she tried to come to grips with what was now her life, following him as he led her by her hand to the market. Looking up at the sound of his voice and the rumble of her stomach at the rich and sweet scents of food. Her eyes flickered to him. Eiri knew that Tre knew what she'd say next, "I don't have any money.." Her hand tightened on his slightly, and she found herself struggling to release his hand. Blush blossomed in her cheeks, "Do.. Do I have to let go?" She would, but Eiri didn't want to. The comfort of his touch kept the panic of all of this at bay.

If he allowed her to keep his hand she would slip past the food, despite the complaint of her stomach, toward the stalls that held female clothing. As they walked she could see he wasn’t wrong, her clothing stood out, not that many paid them much mind. Fae in all shapes and colors wandered around them. Like a rainbow their clothing while sparse to a point was simple and elegant.

Stopping at a booth Eiri ran a finger along a soft pair of pants. Not quite like silk or soft cotton, something in between. It seemed to have a matching crop top. There were other items of clothing that appealed to her, such as a top of warm brown with almost leaf-like cloth coming from it, in shades of green, brown and gold. There were also several outfits that looked like butterfly wings, pinks, blues and even the tawny brown of a moth. Looking at him she tilted her head. “Would you pick?” She pointed between the outfits. He’d know what was more appropriate. That and there was something that echoed in her head and heart about allowing him to pick, something that Eiri felt it best not to poke.

 

[Bene]

Tre gave her had a reaffirming squeeze. “Don’t worry, I’ll get it covered.” he replied in a soft tone. “I have a bit of extra money these days so it’s no big deal.” he assured her, and then led them both towards the clothing stalls. The pair looked them over a moment before Eiri asked for his opinion. To him, they all looked about the same anyways. Fashion wasn’t his forte. He himself only usually wore his shoulder piece and his trousers with the matching boots when training. The times he had a day off he usually just wore the same trousers and a loose fitting shirt instead. Clothing wasn’t something he was too concerned about usually. Though sometimes he did change up the color of his shirt at least.

“I like them all really. The dresses are more formal wear, but those trousers and top are practical.” he explained. “So I’d pick that if it were up to me. But it’s not. So pick what your heart wants.” he told her and then let go of her hand a moment. Tre would watch as she picked out the outfit she wanted, and pay for it once she settled. With that out of the way, it was time to move on. The day was starting to take its toll on him, so he could only imagine the extent it did on Eiri. If her outburst earlier was any indication, she was likely at her limit for the day. Tre would ensure she did not blow up again by getting them both home as soon as possible. Literally or figuratively.

"Did you want some food here? If not I do have some stuff back home." he told her. The scent of the sweetbread was calling him. Being that it was getting late, the smell of porridge and savory soups began to join the sweet smells in the air. With a rumble of his own stomach, he decided for them both to just get food here. He would lead her to the next ring of stalls where various foods were being prepared and served. Eventually they would stop in front of a stall selling the sweetbread. An older looking Fae greeted them both as they approached.

"Well if it isn't young Tre. And a friend! Just this once I'll throw in an extra piece for free, but don't go thinking that expect handouts like this again." she said in a motherly voice. "You there dear, what's your name? I can't say that I've see you before and that outfit definitely stands out? Where did you get it? I think I could pull it off" she said with a chuckle. The stall-keep then opened a whicker basket and placed to medium sized rolls of bread on the countertop. In return Tre dropped 2 coins next to it. He took one piece of bread and then handed the other to Eiri.

"Could we also get some of that soup? It smells just wonderful, plus you are always scolding me for not eating as much veggies." Tre said to her, dropping another coin down.

"Of course!" the Fae replied and turned around once more to open a large ceramic pot. As she did, a puff so steam rose up and filled the air with its scent. She scooped out 2 large servings into 2 smaller ceramic pots and placed lids on all 3 containers. When she turned back around she placed the ceramic containers on the countertop and smiled. "Eat up you both, especially you there young lady."

"Thanks Auntie Viv." Tre said and bowed his head slightly. Then he turned to Eiri "Let's get home now. I think we both have had a day."

 

[Bunny]

It made Eiri feel uncomfortable to have him pay for her outfit or anything else. It was nothing against him, she was just not used to getting gifts and liked to be self-sufficient. She couldn't do that here though, with no job, no money and only Tre as a friend.. The word sounded odd in her mind. Friend. Were they friends? Were they more or less? Pushing the thoughts from her mind she had asked him which outfit he thought. After some mulling, Eiri decided on the olive green brown pants, the top with the softer brown, green and gold. It would fit better for practicality, while still being beautiful.

When he paid, her cheeks had burned and she whispered, "Thank you." Following behind him, her new outfit wrapped up and tied with twine. His question had made her pause, looking up at him. The day was wearing at Eirian and she could feel it in her limbs, her thoughts. "Whichever you'd prefer," came finally. She trailed just a little behind him, taking in the vendors and their wears. The closer he led her towards the food, the more her stomach grumbled.

She had been lost in thought, looking at a male fry up what looked like mushrooms and something else she couldn't place when she heard a warm, motherly tone. Looking at her Eiri offered a soft smile, stepped into Tre, the action telling without meaning to. "Eiri, it's nice to meet you." Looking down at her clothing she blushed and offered a giggle. She didn't know how to answer where the outfit came from, but she knew women much like the fae before her. "I bet you could," Her smile grew a fraction. The woman was taller than she, and a bit more curvy, but Eiri could see her wearing it.

Taking the bread from Tre she bowed her head in thanks. "Thank you." This time her words of gratitude were not so shy. She watched as Auntie Viv filled containers and turned back to them. A smile tugged at her lips once more. "Yes Ma'am." Echoing Tre, she bowed her head slightly and nodded to Tre, "Okay." She'd slowly eat her sweetbread, walking beside him now. As they left the markets, Eiri sighed softly. "I am sorry," The words were soft and filled with emotion. "I know it wasn't your fault.."

 

[Bene]

"Do not apologize. You have done nothing wrong." he said to her, echoing her tone. Tre flashed her a small smile, and continued along the path towards his home. As they walked away from the markets, a peaceful silence would replace the noise of the crowd. They were walking through the area of the village where the huts began to get more spaced out, with more trees filling the gaps between them. Here is where most of the villagers lived, up in the treetop huts and some on the forest floor. The tops were usually reserved for priests and nobles, while workers and soldiers lived on the forest floor. Rope ladders hung from the trees for villagers to climb up to the walkways above that led to the various houses.

A short time later, they would at last arrive where Tre lived. It was a modest sized hut, identical to everyone other one they had passed, positioned at the base of a large oak tree. The walls were made of long wooden planks bent to form a dome shape, almost like the bottom of a boat. Where the wooden planks met at he top of the huts was a thick patch of moss, providing a bit of insulation. At the hut's front was a small circular shaped door that was just barely tall enough for Tre and Eiri to fit through.

"This is it." he would say, gesturing to the hut. "Let's get inside and rest. Tomorrow we go to speak to the elder once more. But we can sleep in a bit if you'd like." he said. Then he would lead her towards the door, and guide her into the hut. Inside it looked much bigger than it did on the outside. It was still just one room, but it was very open. At the far end of the room was a hammock hung from the ceiling made of thick rope with dark colored cushions on it. To the right of the hammock was a curtain pulled back to the wall that could be released to give at least some privacy. Further along the wall was a small metal stove with a metal vent extending into the ceiling. At the center of the room was a small table with two chairs placed opposite of each other. A rug made from the fur of a large bear was placed under the table and stretched out a few feet in either direction.

"It's not much, but this is home." he said to her. "I'll let you take the bed tonight, and I will sleep on the floor."