[center] [h1]Meeting of a Healer and her future patients[/h1] [img]https://i.imgur.com/W1y7TQG.jpg[/img] [img]https://i.imgur.com/2nEAwNp.png[/img] [img]https://i.imgur.com/bsPgGiq.jpg[/img] [h2][color=92278f]Gwen[/color] | [color=goldenrod]Yulia[/color] | [color=A42A2A]Alistar[/color][/h2] 𝓝𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓶𝓫𝓮𝓻 𝟕𝓽𝓱, 𝟏𝟑𝟐𝟕 / / 𝓐𝓾𝓼𝓯𝓮𝓵𝓭 / / 𝓒𝓪𝓻𝓻𝓲𝓭𝓪𝓷'𝓼 𝓔𝓼𝓽𝓪𝓽𝓮 / / 𝓔𝓿𝓮𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰 [img]https://i.imgur.com/iDKDTFD.png[/img] [sub]Collab by [@Riffus Maximus] [@dragonmancer] [@Lasrever][/sub][/center] Dinner had been mostly quiet on Gwen's side. The young Ravencroft was too focused looking at her newfound peers and listening to what they had to say. They way the others were dressed, their bearing, it suggested they had quiet a story for themselves, unles the dark-haired girl. She was but a quaint blacksmith, fallen from the grace of of a family that would have been worth speaking about, if it wsn'T for the fact she despised them and did not want to bring public her descent to being a simple peasant, in fear of shaming Alistar. So she kept mostly to herself. In any case, Gwen was captivated by the tales and the energy of the woman who had recently joined them. But even as Gwen quietly listened, it would seem she still was prone to embarassing herself. Sometime during the dinner, she had stopped eating to focus on the words of their much too talkative companion. When she returned to her plate, Gwen couldn't find her assigned silverware. They just... vanished? Gwen unceremoniously looked under the table, see if she had dropped them, but they were no where in sight. She had politely asked for the ustensils to be replaced, but when her flimsy attention was occupied somewhere else, they vanished again. Too shy to request any more and without ustensils to eat but with an apetite yearning to be satiated, Gwen gingerly picked at the food in her plate with her own fingers, hoping to be discreet enough and no one would see her eating with her hands. It was frustrating, but she didn't dare disrupt the dinner by asking for another When dinner was over, the younger Ravencroft offered a slight curtsy bow before joining her brother on the other side of the table, jumping at him enthusiastically and wrapping both arms around one of his. [color=92278f]"How was dinner, Brother? Enjoyed yourself?"[/color] [color=A42A2A]"Tch."[/color] Alistar pushed his arm away from her grasp. He adjusted his sleeves as he had already finished his moderate portion of a meal. [color=A42A2A]"It was adequete."[/color] The mage responded. He had little interest with conversation, even with his sister. His 'allies' that were seated with him also didn't catch is interest. There were all inferior to him. Not fit to witness his intellect. [color=A42A2A]"What do you think of it all?"[/color] [color=92278f]"I... think it's all very interesting!"[/color] Gwen tried to find the right words to say. [color=92278f]"Everyone look so different. Like, they all came from different backgrounds. Makes me wonder on which basis we were all chosen. And the way we are treated, yet kept in the dark at the same time. It's very curious."[/color] The girl snuggled closer to her brother even as his arm retreated from her hands. Gwen playfully inched her face from Alistar, twinkles in her eyes as she was apparently very enthusiastic about the whole situation. [color=92278f]"How about you? What do you think of the others so far?"[/color] Having no tolerance in her gaze he continued to brush his sister off for his own personal space. [color=A42A2A]"Hmph, diverse backrounds and yet none of them intrigue me. I was expecting they'd have to select great minds such as myself but these lot are all unimpressive. Foolish even. You are free to mingle with these simpletons all you like. Of everything else? Servicable so far. The resources I am provided and the terms I have to accept are manageable."[/color] [color=92278f]"You think? I think it's going to be fun to get to know them."[/color] Gwen stated as she looked around, staring at each member of their newfound allies all the while she tried to sneak a hug to her brother, like a clingy hyperactive sister. As the dinner had ended, Yulia had been prepared to go back to her room with little ceremony. The idea of being served didn't sit well with her, leaving the whole experience to be more than a little uncomfortable; indeed, as the room cleared, she had preferred to try and assist in sorting things out rather than simply leaving. It was that insistence on remaining which had led her to overhear the conversation, a soft smile appearing on her face. It was amusing rather than insulting, really; Yulia didn't have enough pride to be hurt by such an insult. Besides, it presented an opportunity, and once she was sure they wouldn't say much worth knowing, the servant spoke. [color=goldenrod]"I'd expect one of such great intellect might know better than to disparage people so publicly. There are ears everywhere in a place like this,"[/color] her words were honeyed, voice smooth as she approached the pair,[color=goldenrod] "and some know far more than you would think."[/color] She glanced between them with a smile.[color=goldenrod] "Sharing a little of your sister's friendliness might go a long way; after all, many of us - myself included - would be eager to know you both."[/color] Gwen smiled when she saw someone aproaching them. Such a pretty-looking lady. And her soft words too. There was something that made the younger dark-haired girl feel reassured by her presence. The youngest of the Ravencroft however felt slightly nervous however when the woman confronted Alistar about what he just said. [color=92278f]"Oh!" Gwen's word seemingly forced itself out too hard due to her anxiety "P-please forgive me on behalf of my brother. H-He's a bit cranky because of the journey. "[/color] [color=goldenrod]“Neither of you have to apologise. I’m not angry, just offering a word of advice – as someone who does a lot of listening.”[/color] Yulia chuckled lightly. [color=goldenrod]“But if it makes you feel better, you’re forgiven.” [/color]Of course, without Alexei around she had no reason to avoid a proper introduction. Extending a hand for either of the two to shake, she spoke. [color=goldenrod]“Yulia Zykova,”[/color] there was a pause before she broke into a slightly teasing grin, [color=goldenrod]“simpleton extraordinaire.”[/color] Alistar had kept a light, disinterested scowl on his face as one of his peers spoke to him. He wasn't much interested in her welcoming tone or her humor. Though he had to admit it was somewhat refreshing to speak to someone other then his sister. [color=A42A2A]"Fair enough."[/color] He agreed. [color=A42A2A]"But I'm not here to hide my opinions of anyone here, I still hold true to my disdain. I doubt the knowledge I wield is an interest to you, less the others we are forced to co-operate with. I am obligated to offer my services, but don't mistake it as a kind gesture." He didn't shake her hand, but he did return a greeting." I am Alistar, and I carry the blood of the Ravencroft family. My sole duty is the study of the arcane, and nothing else but."[/color] The mage glanced to Gwen who seemed to be excited to socialize. [color=A42A2A]"I have little patience for pleasantries regardless, Gwen is sufficient to answer any general information you need to know about us. You don't need to speak to me unless if you wish for me to enlighten your feeble mind with my studies."[/color] The youngest sibling timidly chuckled, feeling the pressure of her brother's pompous behavior towards their comrade. By the celestial gods, couldn't he try to be a bit nicer? The dark-haired youth could feel the heat rising to her blushing cheeks. [color=92278f]"I-I'm Gwen. Also Ravencroft..."[/color] the girl paused before adding [color=92278f]"...apprentice blacksmith. It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Yulia."[/color] Gwen diligently accepted her newly introduced comrade's hand for a firm and friendly shake. At the gesture, the blood-red eyed young woman's smile seemed to easen into something more natural and comfortable. A scholar and a blacksmith, then. Interesting. The brother, Alistar, certainly had quite the ego, though his sister seemed easy enough to talk to. [color=goldenrod]"I've done some studying of the arcane myself; perhaps not to your level, but if you ever wish to speak to someone with an interest, I can grasp a few concepts."[/color] It was up to him whether he ever accepted that, but with the idea planted she turned to Gwen. [color=goldenrod]"I'm only a servant, I'm afraid. Nothing as exciting as either of you."[/color] Smiling, she released the young woman's hand. [color=goldenrod]"But it would seem your brother's volunteered you to indulge my curiosity, so... what do the pair of you do? With the bond, I mean. I'm guessing we all have some idea."[/color] [color=92278f]"I'd say being here makes you just as exciting as everyone else." [/color]The raven-haired pale girl replied to the 'servant' with a friendly chuckle. [color=92278f]"Oh, it's... quite grim actually." [/color] Just as Yulia released Gwen's hand, her arm turned pitch-black for a second before a shadowy metal gauntlet enveloped her entire arm. "From what I understood, this gauntlet draws blood from wounds it inflicts and stores it. Brother manipulates blood and bones." Despite the whole blood scheme, Gwen seemed excited to explain the Ravencroft's magic to someone else. Even though she abandoned magic, unlike Alistar, she was very curious and enthusiastic to the powers they've been granted. She looked expectantly at Yulia, curious as to what power the others were graced with. [color=92278f]"What about you? Do you make magic? Do you summon a weapon too?" [/color] Well, the girl hadn't been wrong about calling it a little grim, and Yulia looked over the black gauntlet curiously. It was definitely more unusual-looking than Alexei's sword, as weapons went. She didn't try and touch it, figuring a cut from the sharp edges wouldn't be worth the trouble - that, and she rather fancied keeping hold of her blood. Nonetheless, it sounded useful, if morbid, and she shared in the enthusiasm to an extent. Of course, the question of her own power was easy enough. [color=goldenrod]"Magic. I heal people."[/color] She smiled gently.[color=goldenrod] "I've no ability to protect myself, but I'm glad for it; and I'll no doubt be kept busy with all of you."[/color] [color=A42A2A]"Hmhp."[/color] The crossed-arm mage had a sense of pride in his power that Gwen only understood a fraction of it. Truth be told, Alistar wasn't entirely sure of it either. However, the difference between him and her was that he planned on discovering the true depths of his power and the magic around him. Alistar silently watched as the two conversed, a bit reliefed that his sister was finally socializing with someone else. [color=A42A2A]"Healing will be an important role. You better keep up that responsibility."[/color] He said, that was perhaps the best compliment he could muster but it still sounded arrogant and belittling. Perhaps this servant wasn't the dullest of the lot here, but even still, she was merely a pupil compared to his brilliance. That was what he thought at least. If the dark-haired girl's eyes could glitter, then the look she had right now could be the closest to having sparkles of admiration as the gauntlet surrounding her arm vanished. Before she realized her enthusiasm went a bit too far and too familiar, Gwen had taken the Healer's hands in her own with excitement. [color=92278f]"Healing magic!? That's an incredible gift! I can barely imagine all the good that could be done with such talents." [/color] [color=92278f]"She'll be a perfect Healer, Brother! I'm sure of it"[/color] Gwen assured Alistar as he spoke of responsability. Somehow, the red-eyed girl felt like she could completely trust Yulia. The youngest Ravencroft flashed a bright smile to the other young woman [color=92278f]"Don't worry about that. We'll make sure to provide you the protection you need."[/color] Nodding solemnly at Alistar’s reminder of responsibility, Yulia had briefly appeared lost in thought. Her eyes widened in surprise as her hands were grabbed, briefly trying to tug them away from the stronger girl’s grip before she realised it was harmless. At Gwen’s words, she broke into a slightly surprised chuckle. [color=goldenrod]“Well, I feel safer already. I'll do as much good as I can, though I fear I’m far from a perfect anything.”[/color] There she went again, being touchy as usual. Honestly Alistar was just glad it wasn't him this time. The mage simply crossed his arms. [color=A42A2A]“We’ll just have to see. I expect diligent training.”[/color] He said with a sort of high and mighty attitude that did not bother to hide his arrogance. [color=A42A2A]“Then I will be able to properly judge if you are truly above a simpleton as you’ve suggested.”[/color] Realizing her misplaced gestures, Gwen giggled nervously as she withdrawed her hands from Yulia's. "Practice makes perfect, as they say." the enthusiastic young lady encouraged both her brother and her new healing comrade. [color=92278f]"That's what we're here for after all, apparently." [/color] Growing silent, Gwen tried to hide and stiffle a faint yawn from her mouth. Between the journey to get here, the dinner and the exhaustion from her previous lifestyle, the youngest of the sibling was starting to feel the heavy burden of fatigue weighing heavily on her. But Gwen tried her best to look unfazed by it. There were so much people to meet, so much to know. Plus, she wouldn't want Yulia to think she was boring. [color=92278f]"You said you are a servant? Who's your master exactly? He looks very... noble-ish? Is he a high-ranked member of society?" [/color] Yulia frowned. [color=goldenrod]“It would be improper of me to speak about my master behind his back.”[/color] There was a tinge of regret to her expression as she looked towards the siblings. [color=goldenrod]“I’m sorry I can’t be of much help, but it does no good to try and act above my station. Even being served here is… uncomfortable.”[/color] She’d caught Gwen’s yawn, of course, glancing at the girl with a smooth smile. A good distraction from the topic. [color=goldenrod]“Perhaps we might head to our rooms? I imagine we could all use some proper rest today. And if either of you need anything done, well… my master’s orders come first, but it’s no harm for me to offer my skills should you want help.”[/color] It was an offer made in part for herself as well as the two; better that she kept herself humble. [color=92278f]"Oh... uhm... yes, good idea."[/color] Gwen stammered, realizing her yawn might have prompted this decision. [color=92278f]"I would definitely love to make use of you 'services' every now and then. Well, when you are available, of course."[/color] Gwen giggled, offering Yulia a smile and a playful wink. Gentle as the Healer was, Gwen felt like she'd love to be friend and spend some leisure time with her. Yulia’s eyes widened as she looked at the girl’s expression, trying to gauge whether that was an intentional advance or just some incredibly unfortunate phrasing. She paused, looking slightly flustered. [color=goldenrod]“…c-could you perhaps be a little more specific? I’m afraid I don’t quite know what you mean.”[/color] Gwen quirked an eyebrow. Guess she sucked at playing with words. [color=92278f]"Ah, I mean, I... uh... would love to hang out with you some other times. As friends, yes!"[/color] Words were fumbling out of her mouth as she tried to get out of the embarassing grave she dug herself in. After an uncomfortable pause, she chuckled nervously as she fidgeted with her fingers [color=92278f]"I-I'm sorry. I'm such an idiot with jokes."[/color] [color=goldenrod]“N-no, it’s not a problem, I was… surprised, that’s all. You didn’t offend me.”[/color] Yulia shook her head, leaving a few seconds of awkward silence as she tried to figure out how to reassure the girl. [color=goldenrod]“And in that case, you’ll be pleased to know my services are freely available.”[/color] She laughed lightly, figuring a repeat of the joke might be enough to reassure the red-eyed girl things were fine. The dark haired girl smiling in return, feeling eased at seeing Yulia was kind enough to accept her offer despite the blunder. Slowly, the youngest Ravencroft scooted slowly towards her elder, sneakily wrapping her arms around one of his.[color=92278f] "That's awesome! Then, I guess I'll bid you a good night, Miss Yulia. See you tomorrow!"[/color] [color=92278f]"Shall we be going, Brother?"[/color] Gwen tugged at Alistar. Alistar modded once. The servant had much to prove, he’d have to watch her progress later if she truly believed in her worth. For now it was time to rest. [color=A42A2A]“Hmph, yes. I’ll head back to my room.”[/color] He turned and began to leave on his own, but of course his younger sister following quickly on his trail, nagging him all the way until the sight of both siblings disappeared as they turned a corner.