Thread: Tempting Bonds (Neuro+LI)

Rinwen sat in a dim corner of the tavern, observing its patrons quietly. The paper lay on the table beside her, and she stared at it, studying the features of the man depicted. It unnerved her that while this was such a churlish sketch, there was something about him that made her think she recognized him. So familiar, yet she couldn't quite put her finger on who it was. Taking a small bite of her food, the girl sighed and flipped the paper upside down, mulling over what her next step would be. Based on previous information, Veris was last seen near Myth Drannor... should I go there myself? Find my brother and request his help? What would he say to me? She debated staying at Hawkteyn a while, to search and see if he would be within its walls. It was plausible, and a better place to start rather than race across the rest of the empire. Thoughts wandering elsewhere, a frown crept upon her lips as she pondered Kvothe's last words. For the past few days Rinwen had suppressed the memories as best as she could, in the fear that if she were ever to relive those memories, a torrent of tears would burst forth. Thus, the woman forced herself to live within the Heart of Stone, without a care to the welfare of her mental state, of what the damage would be. Once she released the magic's hold on her mind, would she even be capable of any compassion? But what did it matter... it wasn't as though she had anyone left to show kindness towards. The cold feeling still in her chest, the woman downed the last of her hot spiced cider to warm her spirits, and pushed the chair back as she stood up to retire to bed early. Perhaps sleep would be a comforting escape. Alas, when she looked up, she noticed a peculiar looking woman within the tavern. Stepping back, Rinwen looked her over, and felt her interest piqued as she noticed the strange lady was a Genasi. As the girl herself was half-Genasi in thanks to her father she took her mother's Eladrin appearance, while being capable of limited Genasi abilities-- 'twas her brother that took after their father, she felt curious to speak to one. The young woman also noticed the Genasi wore the garb of a swordmage, and immediately felt the urge to ask of her brother, in case the strange traveler had come from Myth Drannor. Rinwen tensed as she was approached, then nodded and gestured for the woman to sit down. As she listened to the swordmage's questions, the girl took note of the Genasi's features. She seemed slightly similar to the man in the picture... but this was a woman, and Rinwen clearly remembered her target was a man. This unnerved her greatly, but she shrugged it off for now. Later, she would feel brave enough to approach the subject. Ah... Rinwen said slowly, frowning slightly as she searched for the words to say. Her hearing was placed on full alert once the Arenthy's caravan was mentioned. She thought to herself, What does she know? Can this woman help me? Does she think I'm responsible? Does she know anything of Avalon? Still, Rinwen placed her thoughts on hold, and simply nodded, albeit somberly. Yes, ma'am, the caravan is... my troupe. Although she was still deep within the Heart of Stone, the girl found it hard to keep her voice straight. Do you have any word or what have you...? Anything that you wish to speak with me about regarding... that? She suddenly had a burning question in her mind, but she was unable to speak it for fear that there would be a heartbreaking and disappointing answer. Did she see anyone there? Anyone alive?