[center][h2][color=greenyellow]Drake[/color], [color=slateblue]Ariella[/color], and [color=khaki]Nikolai[/color][/h2] [color=red]Flashback![/color] Date: Ignis 8 Location: Edwards Estate Infirmary [hr] Drake slowly opened his eyes. The long night had taken its toll on him in many ways, but the most immediate sensation would be the itching. Drake lifted his bed sheets to find layers upon layers of bandages on his wounds from the previous night. He resisted the urge to tear away the linen to scratch himself, and look around the room. This was clearly their families infirmary – so it seems that at some point he had made it home, which was good. But he felt a growing need to check on everyone else. Immediately, he pushed his arms against the bed, groaning loudly as he tried to rise from his bed. The door to the infirmary creaked softly, and Ari pushed it open, each step deliberate. She was upright, moving through the space, but the effort was evident, like wading through invisible water. Her head throbbed behind her eyes, a dull, bruised pressure that made her wince whenever she tilted her head too sharply or laughed at something small. Her limbs felt leaden, carrying a faint tremor when she reached out for the edge of a table or tried to steady herself. Even the simple act of walking made her bones feel hollow and fatigued, as though she’d spent the night running a race her body didn’t want to remember. Nik followed behind her, his steps deliberately quiet and slow. With how she felt, she hadn’t been moving very quickly so tailing her without making a sound wasn’t too terribly difficult. He had heard the sound of her door creaking open slowly, and he’d felt the tug of annoyance pull the corners of his lips down into a frown. Even now, the frown remained. He had no idea what this room was or what she was doing, but he needed to be sure it wasn’t anything that would harm her. Her stomach nudged reminders of the night before: mostly calm, but she was grateful for the broth Nik had brought her. Words lagged behind her intentions, thoughts slipping away mid-sentence. Even now, as she approached the bed where Drake struggled to rise, she had to pause to anchor herself, wary of pushing too far. Nikolai pressed his ear to the door, trying to listen and decide if he needed to slip in behind her to continue following her, or stay put. She let out a slow breath, forcing herself to focus.[color=slateblue] “Drake,”[/color] she said softly, her voice steady despite the tremor in her hands, [color=slateblue] “you’re awake. How are you feeling?”[/color] She reached out, resting a careful hand on the edge of the bed—not rushing, not pressing—but just present, the effort of simply being there etched into every movement. He paused, taking in the sight of his severely spent sister. The urge to rise waned as she approached, step by step. Even if he continued, he doubted he had the strength to fully rise at the present moment. So he sank back into his bed and reached a hand out to overlap Ariella’s. [color=greenyellow]”Like I just had a wrestling match with a fully loaded carriage…yet I still seem to be fairing better between the two of us.”[/color] Nik pressed himself even closer to the door. He could hear muffled sounds, her voice and a man’s. He didn’t recognize it. His brow furrowed. Had she been fooling him before about her experience with men? Not that it mattered much. [color=greenyellow]”You did a brave thing last night. I won’t lessen the deeds of your courage…but…”[/color] His eyes wandered a moment, the exhaustion hitting him slightly as his eyes went from focused to glazed and back again. [color=greenyellow]”You must be careful. Gods know who may come for you if word gets out…”[/color] [color=greenyellow]”And the drawbacks….you look like a ghost right now, sister. Are you sure you don’t want someone to get you a bed here?”[/color] Nik frowned in frustration. He could barely hear them and not enough to make out what they were saying at all. With a determined look on his face, Nik reached for the door and slowly turned the handle. He prayed to any god that would listen that the door didn’t creak and thankfully for him, it didn’t. [color=slateblue]“I [i]have[/i] been careful,”[/color] she said gently, as if afraid that raising her voice might shatter the fragile calm of the room. [color=slateblue]“More than you think. Especially after finding out what Mother and Father did with my memories, they should be grateful I haven’t done anything..”[/color] Her gaze drifted for a moment, unfocused, before returning to Drake’s face. [color=slateblue]“Father’s made certain of it though. He’s seen to… arrangements.”[/color] A faint, wry smile tugged at her lips. [color=slateblue]“I have a live-in caregiver now. Father sprung him on me at dinner. A newly appointed guard who very nearly refused to let my feet touch the stairs—carried me up them himself, despite my protests.”[/color] Nik rolled his eyes at her. [i]You’re welcome, [b]princess[/b].[/i] She let out a quiet breath, something between amusement and resignation. [color=slateblue]“He’s not… awful,”[/color] she admitted. [color=slateblue]“Overbearing, yes. But kind. And the kitchens have been instructed to prepare food I can actually keep down.”[/color] She pulled over a chair from the small desk beside his bed taking a seat in it. [color=slateblue]“So I am eating. Resting. Letting myself heal, even when it frustrates me.”[/color] Nik made a face, entirely tempted to stop listening. He didn’t like the way he felt knowing that he was “not awful.” It wasn’t an awful feeling, but he hated the warmth it brought. The lightness faded then, her eyes darkening with memory. [color=slateblue]“After what I saw at the banquet…”[/color] Her jaw tightened. [color=slateblue]“I understand Father’s fear now. I truly do. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t afraid myself.”[/color] She met Drake’s gaze fully, unflinching. Nik’s brow furrowed and he pressed against the door a little more, pressing it open just a fraction more. [color=slateblue]“But fear isn’t a reason to do nothing.”[/color] Her grip on her dress firmed as she pulled at the fabric. [color=slateblue]“I won’t sit safely behind locked doors while the world burns outside them. It’s not who I am.”[/color] [i]I would very much like for that to be who you are,[/i] Nik thought to himself, an annoyed look on his face. A slow breath in. Steady. Controlled. [color=slateblue]“If the choice is between dying for what I believe in, or living while turning my back on it…”[/color] She shook her head once. [color=slateblue]“Then I already know my answer.”[/color] [i]Please reconsider… There are other answers…[/i] Nik grimaced. She let out an exaggerated sigh. Drake’s gaze lingered around his sister. Watching her affirm her unabated personality came with a sense of relief and concern. He wanted Ariella to be herself and only herself – but sometimes the world wouldn’t have it that way. He breathed slowly before speaking, reaching behind him to casually rub one of his scars. [color=greenyellow]”Please, sister. You are much stronger than you think. I think those who choose to turn their ire towards you will fall before you do. You proved as much the other night... even if it was reckless. It gave us the chance to turn the tides and secure the lives of everyone there. You should be proud of that much.”[/color] [color=slateblue]“I am proud of myself, and I would do it again. I could smell your burning flesh Drake.[/color] She said softly. He paused for the compliment to linger before adding his critique. [color=greenyellow]”But a glass cannon that shatters after one shot is hardly a way to go about things. So my question to you is…how ready are you to see this gift of yours to the next level?”[/color] Nik narrowed his eyes at the question. He hadn’t disagreed with her brother up to now, but the idea of her taking her gift to the next level felt like a loaded damn question and a dangerous one too. [color=slateblue]“I was already there, Drake.[/color] Ari sighed as she bit back through her pain as she shifted uncomfortably in the chair.[color=slateblue]“Those journals you gave me, they are as if they were written by a whole other person that I don't recognize. She seemed to know a lot…I just haven’t quite figured it all out yet but I plan too.”[/color] [color=slateblue]”Maybe I can unlock those memories they took from me, be my old self again..[/color] Drake held a hand up. [color=greenyellow]”As someone who has seen both parts I know just how inevitable it is to stop you from blossoming. But a rose has its thorns, so that is why I say to exercise caution. From what I’ve read, this kind of power is a double-edged blade. For every boon gained, a price must be paid…sometimes the cost being worse than the payoff.”[/color] She knew that all too well. She was worried that was why she hadn’t seen Callum since the auction. [color=greenyellow]”But a double-edged blade managed by an expert in the craft is just another blade. So that’s why if there’s anything I can do, I would like to offer my support.”[/color] Drake corrected his posture once more as he continued/. [color=greenyellow]”Perhaps after you lay low for a minute. Once the dust settles on this whole…cursed night that we bore witness too.”[/color] He paused, a sudden realization hitting. [color=greenyellow]”Did anyone tell you what happened after your big spell?”[/color] She shook her head [color=slateblue]”No… I just woke up here..[/color] Nik pressed himself closer to the door, trying to listen. He wanted to know too. Drake gripped the sheets. From what he could recall she passed out just as things got to its climax. [color=greenyellow]”Truthfully I’m glad you didn’t get to see some of the things that happened after. I would think your exposure to magic should be a little more…subtle. Nor did I want you to see me in the state I was in. I was not the usual chipper brother you’ve come to know.”[/color] He paused. [color=greenyellow]”What you need to know…is that Kalliope Arden has been kidnapped.”[/color] Nik felt his blood run cold for a moment. He lost his footing and felt his body stumble through the door. IT swung open with an annoyingly loud thud and he just about tumbled into the room on unsteady feet. He cleared his throat once he’d found his balance again and straightened to face the man on the bed. [color=khaki]”Could… could you repeat that? [i]Who[/i] was kidnapped?”[/color] He asked, head tilting forward as if he couldn’t believe what he’d just heard. Drake spun around with a look that could kill. His eyes narrowed. [color=greenyellow]”Can we help you?”[/color] Drake then took a look at his sister. [color=greenyellow]”No….surely this can’t be…”[/color] The man looked at Nikolai with disbelief that was somewhat reminiscent of his mother. [color=greenyellow]”I take it you are the care-giver?”[/color] [color=khaki]”I… uhm…”[/color] Nik started, looking from Ariella to Drake and back as if she could save him from this. [color=khaki]”Sorry, yes. I’m Nikolai Berova, at your service, Lord Drake.”[/color] Nik bowed politely before lifting up again. [color=khaki]”Can you please repeat what you said just a moment ago? Kalliope? You said Kalliope?”[/color] He asked, genuine concern written across his features. The lord rubbed his fingers against his temples and groaned. [color=greenyellow]”In light of more serious conversation topics I will overlook the eavesdropping.”[/color] Drake paused to catch a breath before repeating himself. [color=greenyellow]”Yes. Kalliope has been kidnapped.”[/color] Ari looked over her shoulder looking at Nikolai [color=slateblue]”Well… Drake…Nikolai…Nikolai…Lord Drake”[/color] she gestured almost lazily. [color=slateblue]”My babysitter, courtesy of father.”[/color] Drake resisted the urge to roll his eyes at the idea of a babysitter for a grown woman. Though he interrupted, it was interesting how interested he seemed in Kalliope. [color=slateblue]”She seems rather capable, I'm sure she is alright. [/color] Her eyes glanced over to her brother. [color=slateblue]”Was it the goons from the bar?[/color] Nik felt his blood run cold again as Drake confirmed his words. He’d been hoping he misheard, that someone else was in harms way. His eyes glanced around the room, as if searching for something, something to anchor himself with. [color=khaki]”You too are capable, but I would hope that you would like for someone to care.”[/color] Nik grumbled at Ariella. He turned, waiting for Drake to answer. She noticed his attitude towards her attempt at reassurance, choosing to not react. Drake straightened himself. [color=greenyellow]”Don’t mistake my lack of action for apathy. For you see…”[/color] Drake mildly gestured to himself. [color=greenyellow]”I would simply be another body to add to the headlines as I am. I have already sent some private investigators I know personally to look into it. But obviously, the more eyes the better.”[/color] Ari nodded in agreement with her brother as he articulated better what she intended to say earlier [color=slateblue]”She will have a lot of people looking for her. More bodies may just cause more issues then good.[/color] Nik let out a soft sigh, lifting a hand to wave it in the air. [color=khaki]”I’m not saying anything about either of your inactions or what have you. I just want to know more information. She is a friend. I am concerned.”[/color] He tried to explain, looking between them. [color=khaki]”I don’t really care if there are already a large number of people looking for her, I’m still worried. I know quite well what she is capable of and that she may already be on her way back but…”[/color] He let his words trail off. It wouldn’t do to allow himself to get upset. These two clearly didn’t want him to. He took in a breath and walked over to a nearby chair and sat down. [color=khaki]”I won’t apologize for caring.”[/color] He spoke, trying to calm his own anger. [color=khaki]”But, please continue.”[/color] Drake calmed his tone, sensing the frustration in Nikolai’s words. [color=greenyellow]”As you shouldn’t.”[/color] He rubbed his temple, as if to conjure the memories. [color=greenyellow]”There was chaos. Everyone was everywhere claiming their own bounties. Kalliope had fully beheaded a man before hiding behind the bar in anticipation of some other attacker coming after her. Then the guards broke in…then…she screamed a name. Sahn-Dehk? I am unfamiliar with them.”[/color] Ari stayed silent, leaning back against the chair still weak from the events. Her face whitened at the image of someone beheading a man allowing the two to speak. Clearly she had hit a nerve with Nikolai. Nik blinked as Drake explained. He knew she wasn’t someone he wanted to fuck with, but damned if he was ever going to push her too far again. Beheaded?! [color=khaki]”Sjan-dehk…”[/color] Nik corrected, though not in a mean way, more in a way of affirming what Drake had said. [color=khaki]”If he’s aware that she’s gone then I’m sure everything will be okay.”[/color] Nik sighed. He took a moment to look at the others, as if finally realizing just how rude he’d been. [color=khaki]”Sorry for interrupting.”[/color] He added softly, turning his gaze to look at Ariella a moment. [color=khaki]”And for my behavior.”[/color] Seriously though, she beheaded someone?! Letting out a soft laugh she smiled [color=slateblue]”Never apologise for caring…Being nosey is a survival requirement in the Edwards household.”[/color] she looked at Drake with a soft smile. Drake returned the look, sighing with resignation. [color=greenyellow]”Too true, Ari.”[/color] Drake looked at Nikolai. [color=greenyellow]”Speaking of being nosey. I wish to speak with you at a later time, when I am out of intensive care and you are well adjusted.”[/color] Drake bowed as much as one could in his seated position. [color=greenyellow]”Previous follies are forgiven. For now.”[/color] He said with a tired and playful smile. Nik nodded his head politely, a means of trying to appease his employer’s son. He did need Drake to trust him if he was to do his job. [color=khaki]”Absolutely, Lord Drake.”[/color] Nik returned. Large green eyes peered over her shoulder as Ariella turned to look at Nikolai [color=slateblue]”Would you mind if I spoke with my brother privately for some time, I don't want to keep him from his rest and frankly I need mine.”[/color] her voice said rather weakly. [color=khaki]”Oh… Right, yes.”[/color] Nik nodded. [color=khaki]”Take your time.”[/color] He added with a small wave as he exited. He turned the corner just as he did and leaned against the wall to wait for Ari. His mind was racing, thinking about what was currently happening to Kalliope. He’d have to check in on that when he had the opportunity. Drake smiled at the door as it closed. [color=greenyellow]”Charming one, isn’t he?”[/color] He asked before letting out a soft cough. Damn. Even talking this much left him feeling winded? [color=greenyellow][i]All that screaming would do that I guess.[/i][/color] He looked at his sister and exhaled. [color=greenyellow]”Your memories may be gone but you used to be a prodigy believe it or not. If your gift is out in the open, it might be best to be prepared to shield rather than harm.”[/color] He felt himself grind his teeth as the image played back. Those men grabbing her, toying with her. Then her having to resort to magic so strong it knocked her off her feet and leaves her reeling for days…Some big brother he was. [color=greenyellow]”I will be taking up the sword, perhaps even getting a little more physically fit for what troubles may lay ahead. But I think I will be carrying my revolver wherever I go.”[/color] He gestured to the piece of metal sitting inert on a nearby table. [color=greenyellow]”Whether it’s magic, steel, or lead. Keeping yourself armed in the days to come feels like a must.”[/color] He reached for her hand. [color=greenyellow]”No matter what happens. I’m here for you.”[/color] Ari smiled softly as her fingers played idly with her nightgown. [color=slateblue]”Thank you…”[/color] she said softly, her hand reaching out to her brothers as she gripped it softly. [color=slateblue]”He is something… I suppose trying to argue with father against my need for a guard would be useless at this point so I might as well just deal with it. I didn’t want to do it you know…[/color] her green eyes glanced up at her brother before dropping to look at his hand. [color=slateblue]”The magic…”[/color] she added. [color=slateblue]”But I don't know what I was supposed to do, I guess the drinks certainly didn’t help but I couldn’t just sit there and allow things to happen. No one else was doing anything. I panicked.”[/color] Drake smiled and nodded. [color=greenyellow]”Well for someone who panicked you certainly turned the tide. I was about to dislocate my wrists and make for a shot against the ring leader. Even that would have been a gamble at best.”[/color] His eyes seemed to look past her in that moment, the sights of the tavern and what happened gripping onto his psyche. Before realizing it, his hand had gripped onto hers. The man softened his clutch and took a shallow breath. [color=greenyellow]”I am just glad you didn’t have to witness anything else. What happened after you passed out…I would hope you never have to be a part of.”[/color] Drake met Ariella’s eyes and lowered his voice. [color=greenyellow]”But it seems the crown is doubling down. They’ve already sent patrols all over town. Witch hunters to investigate any potential source of magic or magicae.”[/color] He took her hand in both of his. [color=greenyellow]”So I will train and prepare for the inevitable. A guard at our door is a…mostly welcome addition. And whatever you need from me, it’s yours sister.”[/color] [color=slateblue]”What shall I do?”[/color] She asked her brother, her tone holding its own fear unable to hide her concern. [color=slateblue]“I know I'll need to attend the ball. What if the witch hunters are there?”[/color] [color=greenyellow]”Frankly, after the other night…I think you deserve something memorable and enjoyable. I will be in attendance tonight, as will Nikolai I am sure. I don’t have all the answers, but gods help me I’ll find them to keep you safe.”[/color] He kept his eyes locked onto her as he spoke. [color=greenyellow]”And before you say it…no I won’t just throw more swords to follow you in lockstep, but father will likely have some nearby incase anything goes wrong.”[/color] He knew her fear of being locked up better than anyone, and he wanted the upcoming ball to be a good memory for her, not just another regrettable event that ended with her in disarray. Nodding, she sat in silence before finally speaking [color=slateblue]”We both should get some rest.”[/color] she smiled softly before giving her brother's hand a squeeze. She didn’t wait for his response before leaving her seat. Taking a final look back to her brother and his condition she offered him a final smile [color=slateblue]”Goodnight Drake”[/color] slipping out of the door. Her eyes glanced at Nikolai for a moment before she headed back down the hall towards her room. [/center]