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

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.