Snipping the Puppet's Strings [-Haru|vampire-]

Golarion, a land of diverse races and vicious monsters. Home to elves and humans, dwarves and halflings. Monsters and magic also abide here, and good struggles with evil. It is the way it has always been and the way it ever will be. In this never ending struggle there are many great tales, and many legends are made. This story will focus on one such tale, one such legend. It begins in the Inner Sea region of Avistan, in the great elven kingdom of Kyonin.

Ancient even by elven standards, Kyonin is the spiritual home of all elves in Golarion, and in many ways is an isolationist nation. Beset upon all sides by the encroaching kingdoms of humans and dwarves, Kyonin strives to remain independent. The monarch, Queen Telandria Essadriel, is liberal in her leanings, drawing dissent from more traditionalist mindsets of her Council. The capital city of Iadara is where the Queen resides. Although the city is intentionally hidden and obscured via illusion and magical fog, the elven capital is an awe-inspiring combination of elven magic and architecture with the natural environment of the Fierani Forest. Indeed, most buildings are artfully intertwined with the twisting trees, designed to protect and augment both. The structures are mostly constructed from silver, crystal, and wood, and smooth, twisting towers are popular architectural motifs. Iadara sits on the banks of the Endowhar River; shortly downstream of the city, the Endowhar is joined by the Kyonin River, which eventually flows into the West Sellen River.

Over her lifetime the Queen has taken many consorts. Elven birthrates are notoriously low and she had to produce an heir. Luckily she does have one, a single daughter was born to her, though half elven and half fey. This did not sit well with the Council, and even from the moment she was born she was assigned a guard. The Captain of the Royal Guard, a great leonine warrior named Okoru, took it upon himself to resign his position as Captain, and be the personal guardian of the Princess. Okoru's race, the ferocious Asura, live peacefully with the elves in Kyonin, and are rarely seen outside of that country. They have little desire to explore and see the world, though it is not completely unheard of to see an Asura wandering Golarion. Known for their unwavering loyalty and peerless ferocity in battle, the Asura are often sought out for their knowledge in all things martial. As long-lived as the elves themselves, they make perfect companions.

Okoru had watched the Princess grow, at her side nearly constantly, and so when he was summoned before the Queen, he knew that the tidings were of ill portent. Informed that the murmurings of threats had reached the Queen's ears, and striving to protect her daughter, Telandria bid Okoru to spirit the Princess away and seek haven, promising to send word when or if it was safe for the faithful Asura to return her daughter to Kyonin. Swearing upon his life to see the Princess safe, Okoru went to fetch her from her chambers so that they could prepare to go.


The eight foot tall Asura strode purposefully through the crystalline palace of the Queen, knocking only briefly upon the door of the chamber to the room of the Princess before he would enter. "Princess! We must make haste! The Queen has commanded me to take you to safety, beyond the borders of Kyonin. She has seen danger, and it is imminent." he said, his voice filled with urgency. It was a deep baritone voice, and often had been used to soothe the Princess to sleep in her younger years, and though it had been a comfort then, the tone at the moment should have told the Princess that Okoru was very serious.

"I will go and pack my things Princess, and you do the same. It will only be the two of us, so pack light. e cannot afford a caravan." he warned, knowing that the Princess liked to pack for many contingencies. The magical backpack that Okoru had would hold nearly all they might wish to take, though he wanted to be careful - if somehow the bag was punctured he would lose everything within it. Once he was sure that the Princess understood he would make haste to his room, which was adjoining, and begin to gather what things he thought they might need.

Ever since she could remember Aiko had lived within the borders of Kyonin but for some odd reason the council demanded she stay within her mother's walls. For years as she grew up she often asked Okoru why she couldn't explore outside her mother's castle. Often she wasn't given a response other than she was a Princess and the only daughter to her mother. Aiko didn't see the reason to be treated like a child so when she was a teenager she did venture out late one night to explore the wooded areas. One night she was caught by Okoru in his traps as it seemed he had been following her then set up a trap to teach her a lesson. If she insisted on exploring then she must be trained as Kyonin wasn't peaceful as it seemed to be. The following years up until she was about 89 years old in human years but looked to be 26 years old, she's been training under Okoru's care.

Though the night she was to be whisked away, Aiko was laying in her soft ivory bedding as the frame work was made of entwining limbs and her night gown was made of fine pastel silk threads. Her auburn hair was in a braid as she laid on her side in a pleasant dream but that was interrupted by a brief hard knock at her door and Okoru's booming voice scaring her. Heart pounding as she sat up holding her blanket to her breasts glaring sleeply at the Asura like she was ready to skin her protector. "Okoru!" Groaning as he didn't leave her much of a choice before leaving. Once that Lion got orders he'd even toss her over his shoulder or even sit on her to make his point. She still remembered the day she wanted to go out riding but his orders were to keep her on the trail. Well she went off the trail and he didn't just tackle her but her mount as well. He sat on top of her lecturing her about his duties but soon as things settled down he escorted her home and her mother just giggled at the pair. Often Aiko heard her mother apologizing to Okoru but he had hope her own powers don't show or he'll have a harder time with the Princess. So far Aiko never knew her mother had sorted consorts who'd visit randomly or were invited for personal desires.

After some time waking up Aiko was dressed in tan pants with dark brown knee high boots with a white blouse. Her green eyes shined as she packed a small bag of herbal medicines she would need. Though with her hair brushed she stepped out of her room still trying to wake up while she looked down at the lush grounds that sparkled with the fire flies. "Okoru!" Calling out to the large lion as she went down stairs wondering where they were going and how they were going to travel.

Okoru had packed light as well, or as light as he dared. The knapsack he'd thrown several tomes into, several changes of clothing, some weapons and some gems and coins in their own pouch. His weapon of choice, a khopesh sword named Fulgur, was tucked into the baldric on his back as well as several wickedly curved blades at his hips. The Queen had given him a missive to be taken to their allies to the North, in Mendev, though it was a long arduous journey. A magical cottage was given as well, full of amenities that they could use on the journey and while they were within it they would be protected from divinations and scrying of all but the most powerful of Diviners.

"I am here Aiko!" he called to her, knowing that he would have to use her proper name and not address her as Princess, lest they draw unwanted attention. The great leonine head turned to regard her, golden eyes kind and stern at the same time. The eyes of a father figure that Aiko never had, as well as a stalwart guardian. Known as the Great White Lion, Okoru's white fur had often provided a place for Aiko to shed tears or bring laughter, and now it would be her aegis out in a world that was far more cruel and brutal than any she had known. Okoru was worried.

"You have prepared to go then?" he asked, and it was in this moment that one of the members of the Elven Council was ushered into the room by one of Aiko's handmaidens, Councilor Gandariel. The blue-robed elf smiled at the Princess and then to Okoru.

"It is my understanding that the Queen has ordered you to take the Princess away from Kyonin." he said, more of a statement than a question.

"Yes, that is true." Okoru said, immediately suspicious.

"Do you yet know your destination? The Princess is the only heir that Kyonin has." Gandariel said.

That was not entirely true, and many elves of Royal Blood existed in Kyonin, though none had a direct line to the throne after the Queen - a case could be made for many, especially considering Aiko's mixed blood.

"Northward." Okoru said, keeping the answer vague and of course they would not be crossing the mountains to the south.

"I see." Gandariel said and would approach the Princess, extending a hand, and within it an object. "A gift for you, Princess, from House Gandariel." he told her, the golden brooch within his hand in the shape of a unicorn, the animal of his House.

Okoru's eyes narrowed at the gift. Gandariel had always been friendly with the throne, and yet this seemed strange to coincide with their departure when it could have been given any time.

"We thank you for the gift Councilor Gandariel, but we must be leaving. It is important to slip out if Iadara as quietly as possible, and your silence in this matter would be greatly appreciated." Okoru said, and he looked to the Princess. "We should go Aiko." he said, his tone commanding. In this matter, and many others, he did hold sway over the Princess. His primary purpose was to keep her safe, even from her own people, and even from herself if the need arose. Without another word Okoru would leave the Princess and head out of the palace, intent on being on their way, and knowing that, sooner or later, she would follow.

The roads were dangerous, and traveling on foot was slow, as well as tiring. Okoru drew forth a small figure from his pocket, the ivory carved into the shape of a horse, and set it on the ground, the magical phrase to activate the item spoken aloud and soon a great steed, capable of bearing both himself and the Princess, was before him. Patting the neck of the magical beast, which did not shy from him as many other animals did, Okoru was ready to depart.

Aiko stood beside Okoru as Gandariel approached with him asking questions of where they were heading. The two males seemed to square off and Aiko sensed very quickly Okoru didn't trust Gandariel. Though to her she had nothing to fear from this elven man as he's been in her life as long as Okoru had been. There were moments she did question was Gandariel her father? The two didn't share any traits but it left her wondering as she did ask of who her father was and her mother never told her who. With a smile Aiko accepted the gift from Gandariel and placed the brooch in her small satchel. "I'll cherish it, Lord Gandariel." When Okoru snapped at her of them departing she tucked her loose strand of hair away from her face to trot to keep up with the tall Lion.

Their size was noticed as he was eight foot tall and Aiko was merely five foot three inches. She felt out of place as elves were taller and slender but yet here she was; shorter, ample full breasts, a waist so tiny a man can wrap his hands around her and touch his own finger tips. Her slender legs were toned meaning there was power hidden within those muscles. "Okoru, what about my hors-" What she saw next stunned her into silence. There she watched him place an ivory figurine on the ground outside the castle walls and in moments a massive horse appeared before her. That creature towered over her and its mere presence stunned her. Unable to speak she approached the creature as she reached up touching his withers. The horse leaned down and took a deep breath before snorted of acknowledgment. "Well, you cease to amaze me Okoru." With a weaken smile she looked to the horse not sure how in the world she could mount the massive beast.

Back in Iadara, Queen Telandria Essadriel stood on the balcony to see her daughter off even in the late night. Her firey red hair cascaded over her shoulders as she held her arms under her large breasts. Her sheer nightgown only hid features that needed to be hidden. One of Aiko's handmaidens came up and bowed lowly stating Aiko had left their walls. "I hope Okoru doesn't fail me. If she falls....So does Iadara." The elven Queen made sure to tell Okoru Aiko's life matter more than anyone else's as she feared someone was to challenge the throne of Iarada. Queen Telandria Essadriel didn't know who or what will be coming for her throne of power but with Aiko being so young she could easily be used as a pawn. If her daughter were to show signs of her fey blood then she could turn the tide in any direction but for now she was an liability than an asset to Iarada.

"Aiko, this is Ruin." Okoru said, introducing the magical steed. Despite his eight foot height, the beast was obviously large enough to carry both Okoru and Aiko easily, and even as the Princess patted the horse and it turned its head to regard her, still smoking a bit from the summoning, Okoru told her about the beast. "Ruin cannot speak, but understands both the Elven and Common tongues. He will respond to a variety of commands and if we so desire, will leave no prints to follow." And to show her what he meant, the Asura spoke a command, and Ruin rose from the ground, hooves hovering an inch or so from the surface. "Like this he can even cross water. But he can only do it for a short amount of time per day. Make sure that you're over solid ground when that time runs out. Also, Ruin must go back into his small statuette form for at least ten hours each day. This somehow replenishes his energy, though while he is in this full form he is tireless. The longer you have him hover over the ground then the less time he can be manifest in this form. Everything he can do takes energy from this form, diminishing how often you can use him." Okoru explained.

The tall Asura mounted the beast, the back of the animal molding to him, no saddle needed, and he extended a hand down to Aiko to help her up, letting her sit behind him or in front, however she preferred. Then, the ebon beast snorted, tossing its head. Okoru could see the Queen upon her balcony and with a salute he would spur the magical steed to move.

The beast moved silently, hooves not touching the earth, Okoru not wishing to alert the citizens of Iadara any more than was necessary. So, in the wee morning hours now, under cover of darkness, Okoru and Aiko spirited themselves out of the capital and into the forest lands surrounding it. There were not roads, not truly, though forest trails and animal paths were prevalent in the deep wood. Ruin ran along these, the wind rushing past the two riders, the warmth of Okoru seeping into Aiko where she would be holding on. Okoru turned his head and spoke to Aiko. "I'll head due North for a few hours and then move West to the Endowhar River. We can follow that Northward and out of the forest." He wanted her to know the plan, but also offer suggestions for alternate route if she had any.

With him swinging her upwards she landed behind him with her slender hands grasping his sides. Though something told her to look back; so she looked back to see her mother standing there. With her keen eyes she saw sadness that had replaced that sparkle she had. Aiko sat there comfortably she hid her eyes in Okoru's back as tears rolled down her cheeks. The twist of his form didn't stop the tears and the sudden jolt snapped her back to reality as she hung on to Okoru. Once she heard his plan she looked up at him.

"Wanting to avoid all settlements? I suggest go directly West to hit the river then follow it Northwards." She gave him her suggestion but something was gnawing at her. "Where is she sending me and what am I not being told?" Her question was more demanding than a meek question. Back within Iadara she'd follow his guidelines with her mother's but now she doesn't have to. When she didn't get an answer she gritted her teeth feeling the palms of her hands growing hot. "Okoru! I know by Elven standards I may be dismissed because of my age but damn it! Tell me! I had enough of secrets, the whispers, the stares. I deserve to know what is going on since I'm being shipped off." Her temper was showing its ugly head but she took a deep breath as it was part of her exercises from the other members of the Elven council of her mother's. For years she was in the shadows watching her mother and spent some time with her but often she was sent off to her lessons to be a refined Princess. Those restricting lessons was what caused Aiko to rebel to turn to exploring and turned her aggression into fighting with meditation.

"I'm sorry for snapping, Okoru. But do you think its time I knew so I don't go rushing off and I'm better prepared?" Ruin moved silently through the trees but soon the heat from her palms disappeared and returned to their natural warmth.

Okoru could smell her tears and though it tore at his heart the Asura knew this was for the best, for the safety of the Princess to whom he'd pledged his fealty and his life. So as Ruin carried them beyond the borders of Iadara he dared not look back at the city that had been his home all these long years. The fire in Aiko soon showed itself though and the Princess demanded answers. Okoru smiled, though he did not let Aiko see.

"As you know, there are many who disagree with your mother and her more liberal leanings. Though veiled, the Queen has received threats upon her life and upon your own. To give her time to ferret out just who might be behind such threats, it was decided that it was best to send you away for awhile - not only to see you to safety, but also to allow her the freedom to have her investigations conducted without having to worry about your safety at the same time." Okoru explained. "There are staunch allies in Mendev, if we can find them, and we need to be cautiouss, to try and find out whom we can trust." he continued.

The next hour brought them further and further north, the tireless pace of Ruin much faster than one they would have ever managed on foot, and slowly Okoru turned the steed to the West, intent on making the river before the sun broke the horizon. It was still an hour, perhaps two, before dawn, when a soft roar could be heard overhead, and the lights from an airship passing overhead could be seen, and then the great vessel itself, silhouetted against the moon in the sky, billowing smoke and steam as the thrumming of the engine could even be felt by them on the ground.

Aiko was grateful he wasn't going to sugar coat the truth or hold her hand. He told her what she needed or wanted to know so she can be careful for her and his sake. With her silence she nuzzled his large broad back as she closed her eyes falling back to sleep. The strands of her hair tickled her pointed ears as the wind that rushed by them and even asleep she can feel the invisible fingers teasing the loose strands. The turns that Ruin took or his movements didn't disturb her but what woke her up was the roar of the ship over head.

"Hm?" Looking skyward she could see the ship sailing overhead. Confused and scared as her grip on Okoru tightens. "Okoru, what is that?" After figuring it wasn't dangerous she looked at it with awe. She never seen or heard such a thing. The ship sailed across the moon casting a shadow on the ground and over them. There she began to wonder how come she never got to see such a thing. Sitting up as she tilted back with her hands on Ruin's flank to support herself while she gazed at the machine that caught her attention. Was there a law that such machines couldn't fly over her homeland? Or was it out of courteous they avoid them altogether? So many questions ran through her mind but she didn't voice them knowing Okoru hadn't been outside the borders like her so they both were going to experience new things: people, clothing, animals and machines.

Slowly Okoru brought Ruin to a halt as he and Aiko looked to the sky. "I have heard tell of such machines, though never have seen one. The perpetual mist and fog around Iadara not only shields the capital from prying eyes, but shields our own eyes from seeing the world. I have spoken with your mother and it was something we agreed upopn, that hiding away from the world is not how we should be, but the Council... they want things to remain as they are, as they have always been. They are not willing to grow and adapt, even as the world around them does so. Their unwillingness to change with the world will lead to extinction." Okoru said as they watched the ship move out of sight. The white-maned head of the Great White Lion turned to regard her with golden eyes. "We must keep you safe Princess, so you can carry on your mother's legacy and change your people for the better. To make them great again." Those golden eyes of Okoru were filled with hope and something else, something that was beyond description.

A simple word and Ruin was off again and they stayed close to the riverbank, moving ever northward and despite his speed the magical mount was unable to keep pace with the airship, though the two were able to keep the vessel in sight for a time. The moonlit paths were breathtaking and yet there was little time to enjoy the scenery. It was as they rounded a small bend that Okoru had to bring Ruin to another halt, this time due to theor progress being blocked. A band of elves, four in number, stood abreast across their path - two with bows and arrows nocked, and two others with hands upon the hilts of their swords.

"We see that the information we were given is correct. Surrender your charge Asuran! There does not need to be violence here, but if I know your people you will not give her up so easily." the elf upon the road said, slowly drawing the blade on his hip as he spoke.

Okoru growled, low and deep in his chest as his gaze flicked out over the four. Not even a day away from Iadara and already their enemy was seeking out the Princess, wanting her blood. It did not bode well, and pointed to someone in Iadara itself, likely on the Council, knowing of their departure. The only one, besides the Queen, that knew for sure was Gadariel. Though it was possible that someone else had learned of it from Gadariel, or even Aiko's handmaiden. There was not sure way to know exactly whom had given the information.

'Be ready Aiko." was the only warning that Okoru gave before he spoke a single word. The bows of the elves came up, letting fly those bladed shafts, but Ruin was no more, reverting immediately back to the small statuette form, and dropping Okoru and Aiko from their seated height and several feet to the ground. Okoru's feet landed and already he was moving, roaring his defiance at the elves and having little time to draw his sword, instead unsheathed his claws, wickedly curved and razor sharp as he charged the elves in the road.

The ride seemed perfect as she looked at the ship with Okoru though the look he had as he mentioned she was the only hope Iadara had now if her mother were to fall. That look and those words did affect her to the point she knew she had to stay alive. Once they reached the bend she couldn't see around him but the reflections in the waters gave away four elves. She couldn't believe this as she remained hidden behind Okoru but in moments they were dropped and she spun around behind a tree. To keep from over packing she didn't pack any weapons just medicine. Cursing under her breath as she heard Okoru charging the elves.

Aiko's heart was pounding with her mind rushing that she didn't notice one of the four elves with the bow and arrow approach her. The figure made her look up as he ordered her to her feet but in moments a large massive stag charged out hitting the Elf right into the open but not after being hit with the arrow. The large stag has been seen around Aiko but just at the edge of her vision. Now here it was wounded for head butting the elf away from her. The blood snapped her back into reality as she got up the blades of the grass moved with her. The grass blades turned and twisted into a bow that was made just for her height and strength and a set of quivered arrows of sharped soil that was compacted tightly. Aiko drew the arrow back as the stag's neck was sliced for standing his ground.

"You bastard!" Gritting her teeth as she released the arrow having it sail over the stag's falling form to hit the elf in his right shoulder. The power of the string and the weight of the arrow sent the elf stumbling backwards into the water. Aiko turned to see Okoru fighting the elves but she pulled another arrow and sent it sailing with several others sending one elf back from Okoru so he had a better odds. Though the elf she aimed at was better than her and he returned fire which sent her back behind the stag who was still alive. Aiko could feel fear coming from the creature before her. "Shhh its alright." Once her hand touched its forehead she felt heat coming from her hands and there was a soft glow that soothed the creature's cries of pain. Its once sliced neck was healing but she was quick to remove the arrow in its shoulder to have the wound heal. In a rushed moment the massive stag jumped to his cloven hooves just as Aiko swung onto his back. Without a command the stag charged the elf who recently fired upon Aiko as her grass bow turned into a sharp blade that sang when she swung her blade at him to slice his bow in half but on the back swing she caught his arm. IT seemed her powers were starting to show but this was the tip of it all.

Okoru saw the one elf let fly an arrow and though he could not stop his immediate forward momentum he hoped that Aiko could take care of herself. The other elves met his charge and seemed to think that their natural dexterity would give them an advantage, though the large Asuran warrior proved otherwise, his reflexes faster than even they might have anticipated. Black claws ripped away the armor of one, leaving deep furrows along the male's chest, though his elven thinblade sliced along Okoru's ribs. With a roar that shook the earth, Okru turned, graceful on the balls of his feet, claws digging into the forest earth and providing grip as he ducked another blow from the female elf just in time to see the stag come to Aiko's aid.

The other archer kept his distance, looking for a clean shot as Okoru and the two swordsmen fought. One got too close to the Great White Lion and found themselves in a world of pain as the eight foot warrior snapped the arm, not even aware which one it was until a feminine scream ripped through the air. The female tried to pull away, but Okoru held fast and swung her, using her as a weapon against her comrade, the two colliding in a tangle of limbs and with cries of both surprise and pain before fangs found their throats and Okoru ended them both in a spray of blood that seeped into the forest floor.

Turning with a predatory snarl the last of the four, the archer that had been trying to get a bead on him, seemed to find his senses and willingly jumped into the river, swimming fast to get away. Seeing no reason to give chase, for if they'd fond them once then they would do so again, Okoru turned to see if Aiko needed his assistance, scooping up the ivory statuette from the ground lest Ruin be lost in the melee.

The fourth was kept from the group as the stag snorted and stomped his hooves. With every cut the stag suffered Aiko's presence healed the massive beast's flesh. The stag stood with his head high watching the fourth elf swimming away. Panting Aiko sat on the Stag's back with the grass sword dripping in blood but it disintegrated as the blades departed in the light breeze. The dark coated stag turned and slowly approached Okoru in which Aiko dismounted the beast before he turned taking off into the woods.

"Okoru..." Rushing to him as her bloody hands moved over his form trying to see if he had suffered from any wounds. Unaware what she had done herself as her mind was on the White Lion who risked his life for her. Looking to the bodies on the ground she turned away as her face turned green, universal sign of her about to get sick. "We need to get out of here." Her hands were still warmer than usual as she kept clasping and unclasping them but soon as Ruin appeared the soil around her feet pushed her upwards that launched her onto Ruin's back. Shifting Aiko ran her hands through Ruin's mane with her looking to Okoru unsure if the blood was his or the elves he killed. Once he was mounted behind her she looked to the sky for a few moments then turned Ruin Northward along the river banks. "Come on Ruin!"

Okoru was hurt, but not bad, though bled from several cuts along his hide. The White Lion would never complain about such trivial wounds though and remained silent as Aiko's healing warmth knitted skin back together, leaving pink scars that would lessen over time. Ruin was soon under them again and they were off, heading to the River Kingdoms to the north. It would be at least another day, but the tireless horse beneath them carried them swiftly along the riverbank, the one elven archer having been swept to the south along the current.

Another couple of hours saw the sun peeking over the horizon and Okoru bid Aiko to stop so that they could rest. "It will do us good to sleep and eat something Aiko." he insisted, and once they found a suitable clearing the magical cottage was brought into existence much the same way Ruin was. The horse was put away, tucked into Okoru's pack as the statuette, and Okoru bid Aiko to enter the cottage - the interior of which was cozy with a nice kitchen and a table, a large washroom and a huge hanging bed. "You can bathe first if you desire Aiko, and I will prepare some food." Okoru told her, allowing her her privacy as he went to fix something to eat, the kitchen magically stocked with all manner of ingredients.

The ride was quiet but she was on high alert while she looked around waiting for another ambush. Hours went by with the sun rising knowing Ruin needed rest and so did they. "Alright." Following his direction but something beckoned her to a spot where she stopped with him helping her down to have Ruin return to his little statue form. In his place a small cottage appeared before the two. This was the first time she experienced such magic but she was more than willing to learn. Stepping inside she looked around to see there was one hanging bed, hammock? No, full bed attached to the rafters of the cottage. She blushed at the thought of the two sharing the bed but shook her head knowing she wasn't going to allow him to sleep next to her. Aiko was still a virgin in many ways. Even when Princes came with their parents the moment to steal a kiss was killed by Okoru's mere presence. For awhile she didn't forgive Okoru for ruining her chance to have a first kiss, to be embraced or to have her hand held. Though after awhile she did forgave him for his actions.

"Are you sure?" Looking down at herself then at him as if comparing the two of them. There she noticed a few pink fresh scars. "Okoru, how did you get those?" Her strides were long as she touched the scars with a worried look in her eyes. Though it did hit her that the Stag was wounded but it was soon up and charging. "Wait, I did this...I healed you but how? Elves don't cast spells or use nature as a weapon." Stepping away from him as her mind was racing with what was going on. "Okoru, I'm scared....What am I?" She looked up at him scared as she was lead to believe she was a pure elf.

Okoru's keen senses heard the rapid beat of her heart, the way the blood rushed through her veins, and the Great White Lion sighed. He had seen and felt how her magic affected him, and knew that she was coming into her own, that the powers brought by her mixed blood would manifest soon. Though it was her plea, the distraught tone of her voice, that brought the deep sigh from Okoru. Turning to her the Asura gestured to the bed. "You should sit my Princess." he would tell her, and whether or not she did, he would soon reveal to her what he knew.

"You are no mere elf Aiko. As you may know, your mother struggled for years to bring an heir to Iadara. To the throne of Kyonin. No seed would take root in her belly and so she beseeched the Goddess for help. The very next day a vanguard announced the imminent arrival of one of the Sidhe lords, a Roya Fae. Come to broker trade with your people. This Sidhe lord and your mother came to an agreement, and your birth was the product of those two great Houses. To keep you safe your mother kept your true father a secret, though in reality you have legitimate claim both to your mother's throne and also the throne of the Summer Court of the Fae. As you grow older and reach your true age of majority, I am sure that the powers of your lineage will become more prominent."

Okoru told the tale, searching her face for some reaction, unsure if she would ne overjoyed at the news, or apathetic, or worse yet, angry. It was a lot of responsibility, but in truth she had the power, and the bloodline, to unite the elves and the Fae. Ties to the Old Blood ran in her, and Okoru knew that this was a lot to take in - so many changes in such a short time. "I am sorry, my Princess, for my part in the deception, but it was for your safety, as this journey now is as well."

Aiko moved to the bed and sat in silence as he told her of who her possible father was and what she was. With a blank look on her face as she was running through the whole thing of this being kept a secret plus many other things were going through her head. With the sensation of being light headed she took a deep breath to keep from passing out.

"So...My bloodline was kept a secret to keep me safe. I am guessing...from...Everyone which would explain why every time I asked about my father I was sent away, ignored or yelled at." The words of having legitimate claim to both thrones didn't reach her ears. Slowly Aiko got to her feet and if it was true about a silent woman is a deadly woman then she'd back up that claim. She didn't look at Okoru as the air around her grew ice cold that frost even form along the wooden floor boards. The muscles in her jaws twitched as she wanted to say something but she didn't know what to say. Overwhelmed with emotions she turned from him to pass through the only door there that lead to the washroom. There she slammed the door and locked it behind her but she turned the water on at full blast; soon as she was under the rushing waters she began to cry. So those dirty looks from the council members; the crude remarks she heard from the hand maidens; the feeling of being alone there even under Okoru's watchful eyes she felt out of place. Often when she felt all of this she often pushed it aside as being over emotional times. Now she knew the truth, she was a half breed that others looked down upon. Coughing hard as she ran out of tears as her throat had tighten up to the point it was hard to breath.

She knew of their herbs to abort pregnancies and there most have been something about her father that made her mother think he was a viable donor. Coughing once more before she ran her hands over her aching form to clean it of the blood but as she looked at her clothes to see the washroom had turned them into sleeping clothes, baggy pants with a tunic. After getting dried off she got dressed before slipping back into the open to see the massive lion there. "There had been something special about him for her to have and keep me to raise me. Though why did you choose to give up your rank to protect me?"

Seeing that she was upset, and feeling it as well, Okoru let Aiko depart to deal with her feelings and busied himself in the kitchen, making a hearty stew for them that by the time she was done washing was over the fire, sending wonderful smells through the interior of the cottage. She was dressed in clothes more suitable for sleeping and Okoru was about to go and also prepare himself a bath when her next question hit him like a thunderbolt. Of course he had known this day would come, and his oaths did not carry beyond Iadara in this instance and he could no longer hide things from her. Turning to her the looming Asura sighed.

"From the moment you were born I was in love with you. Not the sort of love between a man and a woman, but between a father and a daughter. You were not mine, but Asurans only give their lives to one other being, and we mate for life. I gave up all other goals in my life and devoted myself to you out of love. I knew that I would always be at your side, and though when you were a babe I only devooted you my spirit, as you have grown I have devoted you my heart as well, Princess Aiko. I will never give myself to another the way I have given myself to you, and that will not change even should you gain the throne and take a King to be at your side. I am, and always will be, your Great White Lion."

Okoru's words were spoken with honesty and though he met her gaze as he had started, by the time he was done he was afraid of her reaction and held himself stiffly, expecting a reprimand. To those that knew his people it was clear that he had sacrificed everything for her. As far as he was concerned, she was his wife, if not in body or spirit, then in his heart. He was hers, completely, to do with as she so desired, and he would spill his lifesblood for her if all she did was ask it of him.

"I am going to go and bathe now... Princess." he told her, his voice quiet, and he would turn and move to the washroom to prepare.

The morning air was still as he told her that when he first saw her even as a baby he fell in love with her, well as a Father would for a child. So did his love turn from nurturing to a being who loved her for her. A tear rolled down her cheeks as he turned away but she was smiling. "Better make sure you do get nice and clean. I do want to hug my Great White Lion for everything thing he has done for me." With a smile she looked at his broad back, the very same back he often turned on her in training to teach her to valuable lessons and tough love.

While he was gone she grabbed a bowl and poured some of the stew for herself but as she sat by the fire. Even though she was at sexual maturity age for decades but the thought of taking on a lover never ended her mind. To take a lover, even if it was Okoru would be a conflict of interests to ensure her safety, her kingdom's or kingdoms' safety. The more she thought about it even with all of the emotional and overwhelming information she's been given, he stayed. Okoru was her rock in all of this mess she was placed in. He was going to be here or there when it all gets sorted out in the end. That thought of him being there made her smile that he will be there while she figured who she truly was and will become. Though she didn't know what type of feelings she had for Okoru just yet as well she never thought of him in that light. When she heard the door creaking she looked up as her long auburn hair was drying in slight waves over her shoulder.

"I will cleanse my body for you Aiko." Okoru said, his tone serious. Once in the washing room he would take off his baldric and his clothing, his bits of armor, until all that was left was his white-furred form. Lowering himself into a fresh tub of steaming hot water he bathed with a scentless soap, lathering his mane several times and finally rinsing thoroughly. Once done and stepping from the tub he could see that the magic of the cottage had cleaned his articles as well, mended it in areas and he dried and then was careful in the brushing of his hair so that by the time he was done his fur shined and his mane fell in pale waves. Though technically naked, the Lion exited the room sans clothing of any sort, having neglected to take anything with him to change into. Of course he was sheathed and nothing was showing, though like the wild and feral animals he resembled, his balls hung heavy between his legs - though the Princess would have to learn of such things in her own time and Okoru was not modest.

Grabbing the magical knpasack he pulled a simple loincloth from it and slipped it on and then turned to the kitchen, his nearly nude form rippling with muscle as he moved. "Is the stew to your liking?" he asked, knowing that it was hearty and filling. Moving past her he grabbed a bowl and the ladle and got a healthy portion and checked the oven, finding two small loaves of bread. Grabbing those as well he soon took a seat at the table and would begin to eat.

"With any luck we'll make the River Kingdoms by tomorrow morning." he told her. "Perhaps there we might find one of those airships to take us further north, if you think you might like that." he suggested, and he found the idea a bit frightening, but fascinating as well.

When he walked out she glanced over to see he was mostly naked. Her face turned bright red as she looked away from him trying not to look at him. True he wasn't the modest type but she was taught to be a Lady of Iadara or well by her mother's standards which was high. Even if Aiko seen him without or with very little clothing just being without so much made her blush. When he moved over to the pot she tried not to look at him knowing his male organs hung low.

"The stew is good. Why shouldn't we give it a try to fly on the...Thing. While we're running we should atleast take in some of the sights and act more like tourists than just runaways." Shrugging her shoulders as she finished her stew then placed the bowl away to have it cleaned and disappeared. Aiko returned to Okoru and hugged him from behind with her burying her face in his soft mane. Her soft lips moved to his ear and whispered to him softly as she smiled. "Thank you for being tough on me and being there when I needed you." Her grip tightens on him before letting go as her hands moved over his shoulders. She made her way to the large hanging bed and crawled up under the covers. The bed swung slightly due to her movements but laying on her side facing him she nestled the soft pillow as the blanket was up to her shoulder.

Even as he pulled on the lojcloth and secured it, making sure he was covered and snug, Okoru could see Aiko blush and he smiled. She was adorable and though she was a woman grown, it was nice that he could make her blush. His great height put her just a little taller than his waist and so as he ate it was a good thing he was seated and he reached up one massive paw-like hand to pat her arm and feel her soft skin under the pads of his fingers, his claws retracted so they would not harm her.

"You are very welcome Princess, and I would do it all over again." he admitted. Watching her as she moved to crawl into the huge hanging bed, his golden eyes were full of kindness and wisdom, and once he had eaten he grabbed a pillow from his pack and laid down on the floor close to the bed, stretching out his great frame and falling into a slumber that would last most of the day.

Hours later Okoru would awaken, the sun slipping below the horizon and his bladder screaming for relief and he got up, moving into the washroom to empty his bladder and wash a bit before coming back out to make a meal to break their fast.

Her sleep itself wasn't peaceful like his as it was filled with glares, insecurities, rage and worry. In the middle of her sleep she often sat up in a cold sweat to see Okoru laying there on the floor asleep. To know he was there was a comforting thought which soothed her back to sleep. Her nightmare didn't stop even when she went back to sleep. What coaxed her back to reality was him rustling about but thankfully she opened her eyes when he was in the kitchen cooking. Groggy she sat up rubbing her eyes as her hair did look a mess as it looked like a puff ball.

"Okoru...Stop calling me Princess." Smirking as she shifted to sit on the edge of the bed and her feet couldn't touch the ground. Stretching her arms above her head before jumping down to move to the washroom where she brushed her hair then got re-dressed in her traveling clothes. Yawning as she walked back out and sat at the table before slipping her boots back on. "You shouldn't be calling me Princess while we're out since it draws to much attention perhaps from unwanted people." She had taken his warnings to heart though now she wondered if her powers were showing now because of her elf blood? Did she hit a special age for things to start happening? Though she smiled over at him as him admitting his feelings to her did affect her in a positive way as she was starting to look at him as more than a protector.

Okoru had learned to sleep lightly, and though he did not stir as Aiko would wake up throughout the night, he was aware and knew that she would peek over the side of the bed. It made him feel good to know that she looked to him in such a way, and so in the morning he gave her a nod as she went to the washroom and he had to agree with her. "I only call you Princess when we are alone. Out on the road you are Aiko. But I do agree and will use your name from now on." he told her and then chuckled, "You can call me Okoru." he joked, and would bring her a small breakfast bowl with fresh fruit and sugared cream and a honeyed biscuit.

Truth be told there was no small bit of relief that he'd come clean about his feelings for her and though he viewed her as the grown woman she was, and his heart was hers, he knew that she would never accept him as anything more than a protector, and he was fine with that. Merely being around her and having her in his life was satisfying enough for him. And a Lion could always dream. Couldn't he?

"The sun is almost down Aiko and we'll be off soon. Hopefully we run into no more trouble tonight." he said.

Once they both had eaten and were ready to be on their way, Okoru got into his traveling clothes and grabbed his weapons, and offered a couple of blades to Aiko as well. Soon it seemed they would be ready and once they would step out of the cottage Okoru would shrink it down and put it in its pouch, drawing out Ruin's little statue and bringing the horse back to them, the beast stamping it hooves in anticipation of a good run. Once on the beast they were off again, once more following the river northward and without interruption they would cross the borders and be out of Kyonin by morning.

At his joke she couldn't help but bust out laughing and for once in a long time it felt good to laugh though this laughter felt different. Perhaps maybe there was no secrets anymore? Whatever the case was, there she stood after the breakfast she holstered the two blades he gave her. Compared to him they were daggers but for her they were swords. Once outside she looked to the evening skies knowing they weren't out of Kyonin yet but she was starting to get homesick. After hearing Ruin's infamous stamping of his hooves she turned, grasping his wrist she swung up behind him. Settling in behind him as she held on to his sides.

They were off once more only to stop once in awhile for bathroom breaks only. Just as they crossed the lines of Kyonin she was sitting in front of him, asleep. Her auburn hair mingled with bits of his white fur and his warmth was what did her in with them transferring into open areas. With the sun rising she opened her eyes seeing wide open areas with feral horses galloping away with horned smaller horses as humans called them Bison. "Wow..." Smiling as she reached up over her shoulder touching his pectoral. Though she reached down into his own pouch and pulled a map out. "We can follow the river further North Daggermark or hit the Sevenarches but I don't know what these settlements hold for us. Or the settlements are cities or a ride by."

Okoru held her close as they rode, his nose almost buried in her hair, taking in the scent of her and bestowing his warmth as they rode through the cool night air. It allowed her to sleep in his arms without him feeling guilty about it, or allowing her to slip from Ruin's back. So when they crossed the border and entered the River Kingdoms and she tuched him lightly and retrieved the map from his belt, Okoru dismounted and would stretch. Thinking for a moment he soon spoke. "Following the many rivers that run through this part of Avistan will be easy. The problem comes in that there will be far more traffic, both on and off the river itself, traders and merchants with prying eyes. That was why I mentioned the airship Aiko, to get us off the ground and away from those eyes. Unfortunately I am unsure of just where to try and procure passage on one of those machines." Okoru said, and stood for a moment with his hands on his hips.

"There will likely be no avoiding contact with other travelers nor settlements. Avoiding them might even draw more attention than simply traveling like normal and being outgoing. Hiding in plain sight as it were. I would truly hate for your first real expedition out beyond the borders of Kyonin to be so secretive and unfulfilling." Okoru commented, and he could only remember vaguely his own travels out of the elven lands, but that had been nearly a century before. "My presence will probably draw more attention than your own Aiko. My kind is not known to venture far." he admitted, and smiled. "I'd say if we stick to traveling at night that will help in who we might encounter as travel will be much more busy during the day. Let's press on for perhap another hour and then find a place to camp. Unfortunately there won't be many places to hide our cottage out on these plains." Okoru said, and hoisted himself back up onto Ruin's back.