A Day of Training, and Now This? (Alferic)

[Ferrin Al'Mandrikan]

Winter of 91 out of 92, 515AV

With the days that passed by, Ferrin had influenced himself to increase his skills with the one and only sword that he only knew how to use. Unfortunately, one can not take from the Fighter's Pit. They can only use what was there and have it at that. But, Ferrin will soon be able to join the Order. Or at least, be a part of it as a Squire. And he can not wait to become one. On the contrary, what he has to wait for would be the multiple seasons of training.

Though, it would be particularly worthwhile if he wanted to gain that honor of becoming a Knight. But, who wouldn't? Who wouldn't want that honor, glory, perhaps even a low content living style? Who? Maybe those of whom who won't want to become a Squire... But, that was fine with the male. He was and still is a Hunter, but he'll probably would not need the money if he was to be a Squire. Would he? Would he still have to pay for all of those taxes that needed to be sustained to those routine checks at the end of every season?

It would be soon to discover of the fact, right? Hopefully. It was well belated after luncheon. And now, the man had set off for a destination to have a moderate meal. Footsteps, echoed lightly throughout the unlit streets. Hushed taps repeated throughout. And the dusky streets was still, with only a few commoners and visitors here and there, but still and quiet. Quiet as a mouse frisked for any remaining signs of food or shelter.

Though, possibly late for a meal anyways. The man passed by a few of the business that were closed for the night and took another turn through the still and unlit streets. With only him, and the fellow commoner's footsteps ringing throughout the distance. Unfortunately, for the Kenashian, things weren't all that peaceful as of yet. The only peace he'll find would be sleep. And that would be about it. And he would enjoy some if he made it home already.

Ferrin heard commotion that stirred the pronounced silence. It sounded like two men arguing over some sort of foul play. Or perhaps terrible bargain. Ferrin anticipated whether or not he should interject. Should he? Or should he check and see if there was such a major problem between the two men? Or was it even two men? Once again, this would be a better reason to be able to at least have his sword with him wherever he went.

The Kenasian peered around the corner. Where there was a dark alleyway, filled with only an account of two people. Men. Both around the same age as Ferrin. And one with a dagger. Ferrin crouched and only peered enough to see enough. "Where is it? Where? That move was foul. Sour just a lemon. Now, tell me!"

OOCHope this was alright.

[Alferic]

“How many times do I have to tell you, I don’t know what you’re talking about, so why don’t you just piss off and leave me be!” Although the threat of a dagger was definitely something he was taking seriously, Alferic was also totally confused by what was happening. Who was this bloke and what the hell was he talking about?
Alferic had been returning to his home from his late night meditation session with some fellow members of a splinter cell of the Lykata Cult, an organisation dedicated to the retrieval and preservation of advanced knowledge. His home, if you can call it that, was only a small Spartan apartment in the heart of the third tier of Stormhold Citadel, the cheapest housing available in the melting pot that was Syliras. Then, out of nowhere, a figure sprang from the shadows blocking his progress down the dark and deserted alleyway.
His attacker had a frightened look, very odd that given he had the dagger, not Alferic. There was something about his frantic almost crazed state that also gave Alferic the impression that whoever his guy was, he was desperate and in a hurry to find whatever it was he was after.
Alferic felt pain. The attacker’s blade had bitten into his abdomen. I don’t believe this is happening thought Alferic as he looked into the eyes of this stranger. Am I going to die and not even know the reason why?

[Ferrin Al'Mandrikan]

Timestamp

"Stop telling me these lies, you shyke. Where is it..."Ferrin pondered, the man was going to kill the other. What should he do? How should he do it? He's not very good with unarmed combat, no. In fact, he's terrible at it, but if he had his short broadsword with him he can easily scare the guy away. But, how? How shall he scare the guy away. From perspective, the guy tormenting the other, wasn't to particularly tall and his height wasn't as fearful as one might seem. Ferrin perked up his head at a higher level. And straighten his body.

This was insane.

Though, Ferrin managed a charge at the man with fearful attitude. Before the man realized, he dropped onto the ground. Anger surged on the ground as Ferrin managed to shove him, though unfortunately the man still had hold of his dagger. Which tensed Ferrin up even more so. "Whats your deal. Can't you see he hasn't have any clue to what your talking about. Put away your dagger and leave him alone."Sadly, explaining things to the man was a mistake. For that, the man who held the dagger simply stood up and brushed off his pants and cloak with a sigh of disgust.

"You'll both pay. First you. Now stay still where I can cut you."Ferrin managed a flinch and merely jumped at the wall beside Alferic. The man with no name stumbled in surprise. And Ferrin managed to turn his head and body to face the man who turned towards him. "I said stay still, you petching fool. Now do as I say."The man asked with a tone of agitation. He charged his dagger towards Ferrin and he jumped to the side, and Alferic managed to do so as well, just to avoid any collision. "Who in the Gods name are you to tell me what to do?"Ferrin asked snarky like. The blade of the dagger seemed to have shattered as the tip thrusts into the stone wall.

Pieces of all shapes and sizes of glass dispersed throughout the flooring. And the man simply gazed at Ferrin with pure hatred. "That dagger was one of my favorites. You understand. I'll take you and all your possessions with ease... "The man shifted from being against the wall to a running state and fled the current affiliation. Ferrin looked at the other man with awe. "Are you alright?"The Kenashian inquired with a few muffled breaths. His heart had been beating roughly fast. A surge of adrenaline kicked in, but it quickly bolted away as the fighting had stopped. "Drunken fools, have no clue what they were even talking about. You alright by the way. The names Ferrin."

[Alferic]

Finding it hard to talk Alferic looks at his rescuer and manages to gasp his thanks as well as telling Ferrin his name. Looking down at his wound both can see that blood has seeped into Alferic’s clothing.
“Is the wound serious, will I die? Can you help me?” asks Alferic as he starts shaking not only in shock but also in total ignorance since has no knowledge or experience whatsoever of such matters. Up until now his life has been quite a simple one, working in his parents’ bakery and then becoming a follower of Eyris, Goddess of Wisdom, helping the priest Amus with his daily devotions. When his parents were killed in a fire at the bakery he was actually rescued by Amus who effectively became his adopted father. He has lived all his thirty years in Syliras largely keeping himself to himself with only a few friends from the meditation group.
Ferrin can now see that Alferic looks a religious-type with his shaven head, although not totally clean shaven as some dark hair stubble remains. He has a black beard and thick black eyebrows. Alferic is well-built and solid in body, but not carrying any excessive fat.
Tearing his shirt to see the extent of the wound Alferic exposes a marking on his body of a shattering sun with a sword striking through it diagonally across. Such a marking signifies that his family is loyal and honourable as well as kind. It also means that his family name is Al’Mandrikan.

[Ferrin Al'Mandrikan]

Timestamp

Ferrins hands were merely shakey after that forceful encounter. Well, seemingly forceful. Though, Ferrin was one of those types of people that he would bound to protect others. Others, that were in danger or he could detect which whom would become endangered. Ferrin knew that the man had a lack of observance, though he couldn't quite be sure whether or not the man in front of him was peculiar

He hadn't known the business of this man that he saved. Maybe he was some sort of antagonist. But, with the dimmed lighting. Ferrin could see the man's shirt draped with a small amount of blood. Thick, red sticky liquid. The man went over his head with the eccentric energy with his questions. Getting late, Ferrin had assumed he'd probably disturbed a few of the community.

"From what I can tell... Not to bad-"Ferrins words had been cut off as the bits of the low lighted sun was going down over the horizon. He peered closer to the wound, half examining it and half examining what looked like a tattoo. Peculiar. It was. It almost looked as if... It were his family's very own. There must be a coincidence. Or maybe the man hadn't realized that this was Ferrins family mark. Though, his father had left Syliras while he was within his twenties or so.

Perhaps a bit older. But, Thorin... Ferrins father hadn't talked much of his family. Not often. But his mother was born in Kenash, and mentally bounded herself there, as if she had institued her own mental contract. No matter what the children did, she wouldn't take them outside of Kenash. Though, there were a lot of places to spend some quality family time. Or just to spend time in general.

"From what I can see is that you'll be fine, we just need to fetch someone who can get you bandaged up. If you don't mind me asking... How'd you come upon that tattoo? This one here?"Ferrin asked as he pointed his index finger at the sun and sword. Did Ferrin have family down here that he had not known of?"My names Ferrin. Ferrin Al'Mandrikan..."The man said with a nod.

The two went off. Towards the main gates where there were bound to be people there to help the injured. "Maybe we can get you a healer here."

[Alferic]

Although in considerable discomfort, Alferic was extremely relieved to hear Ferrin say that the wound was not life threatening. As they slowly headed towards the main gates in the gathering gloom seeking a healer, Alferic also felt enormous gratitude towards his rescuer.

“So you’re of the family Al’Mandrikan.….that’s an amazing coincidence” whispers Alferic. “I have no memory of how I came to have this tattoo. My parents told me that the tattoo was done when I was very, very young. And strangely enough, I only discovered by chance earlier today that it is the family marking of your family...”

Stopping for a moments rest, Alferic winces in pain and gathers his thoughts. “When I told my parents that I had found out that it was your family’s marking, there was an awkward silence and I could sense something was not right. Finally they then told me that they were not my real parents, that they were paid to look after me. I was stunned, upset…..I just couldn’t take it in…”

Resuming their walk to the main gates Alferic looks at Ferrin and thinks Ferrin could be part of my real family…

Arriving at the main gates they are directed towards the home of a healer and soon see the symbol of Rak'keli, Goddess of Healing, which is her two pet winged serpents known as the Rakanivas. The healer's house is a humble little dwelling nestled between an apothecary's residence and, ominously, an undertakers!

After only a few knocks on the healer’s door it slowly opens to reveal an attractive human female face covered in swirling sigils dedicated to Rak’keli. Without saying a word she ushers the pair in.

It is known that such healers, through their link with Rak'keli, Goddess of Healing, borrow from her domain and channel the essence of her powers through themselves to repair damage. Her only demand is that her healers swear an oath to never turn their back on the opportunity to heal that which is damaged. That healing must be offered freely to both friend and enemy alike. It is a serious oath and one that, if broken, can result in serious consequences.

Healing takes no formal training, though it requires a deep and devout faith to Rak'keli and the belief that one can heal. Healing therefore rarely works for those insecure or uncomfortable around wounds, disease, or other forms of illness. Thus, Rak'keli, though generous with gifting marks, makes certain she only gifts marks to those who exude calm confidence and conviction in their own ability to heal. Thankfully for Alferic, this lady certainly exuded both qualities…!

[Ferrin Al'Mandrikan]

"Speech" -- Timestamp -- Thoughts

The healer ushered the two in with hospitable haste. "Who's hurt and how may I help?"The female asked with a rushed soothing tone. She motioned Alferic to sit on top of one of the beds."This man is the injured. I'm fine. Just a few cuts and bruises from the Stone. A drunken man had gotten to him. Couldn't really decipher his facial looks and physique. "Ferrin exclaimed guiltily.

The healer nodded and she examined Alferic. " Can I have your name please.Sir."The healer asked."All it needs is a few days of herb and you'll be set. And a bandage around the waist. Come back on a few days and we could check on you."The healer pronounced with a ginger smile.

Ferrin had imagined when he was a young child. Acquiring the family tattoo. The shattered sun with a sword that struck through it diagonally. It dignified the Al'Mandrikans. Ferrin could at least trace back a generation or two from his mother's side, but whenever he had attempted to trace back his origin from his father's it would be considered as a failed attempt. For the reason to be told was that his father hadn't really expressed much of his family's side.

Once the tattoo was implemented onto his skin, there was no choice of turning back. But, that doesn't mean your family won't love you.

"So, your a part of the Al'Mandrikans. I'd never figured that father would have had actually kept such information away for so long..."Ferrin announced half to himself and half directed towards Alferic. Ferrin examined the tattoo closely. It was fairly smaller than his, but that was possible perhaps; if Alferic was truly young, it would have to be smaller. Or something like it? At least.

Who were his true parents. If Ferrin had ever known of them he would help Alferic find them, but he can't have him stay in his apartment, it's not big enough for three people. Him, Jade, and Alferic. Plus, Jade had been talking about wanting to adopt from the orphanage. So, Ferrin knee that he would have to get either a bigger apartment or, purchase a house from the authoritative personal.

But, then Ferrin would still have to purchase some furniture even for that one house and a small 20x20 won't suffice four people whence the two adopt. Ferrin wondered when the adoption would take place. Though, it probably won't be for awhile since Jade was still growing accustomed to him. Let alone the apartment. And Ferrin had offered her the bed more lately and she seemingly had had better sleep with the comfort. So, maybe the two should get a new bed fairly soon as well.

What to do with Alferic though? He can't push him away. When he's already been done so by his family. Well, Ferrins family. Alferic was probably his cousin or something? Maybe Ferrin can get him a room at one of the Inns, that was how Ferrin lived for a season or two. He payed it off with his hunting occupation. Maybe, Ferrin could get Alferic a job too?

"How long have you been in Syliras? Do you have a place to stay, anything?"Ferrin asked a bit motherly, though he was settled with a visage of a stern countenance and sat down on a chair beside him."That'll do Ferrin for now. You'll look after him for me right?"Ferrin nodded simply in an attempt to get an answer from Alferic.

Credits go to Aislyn

[Alferic]

“My name is Alferic, Alferic Delakan, well, at least I think it is…” replies Alferic in a confused tone.

The healer continued her examination of his wound and also observed the tattoo, but without comment. She then applies some kind of spirit that stings before stitching the wound up and applying a soothing salve. Finally she bandages the wound tightly causing Alferic to wince slightly.

“Thank you….er..sorry, I don’t know your name.”

“Marsella and I’m pleased that I’ve been able to be of assistance” states the healer in a very professional manner, but not totally lacking in warmth.

“How much do I owe you Marsella?”

“To be of help is its own reward.”

Reaching into a pouch Alferic retrieves a couple of Mizas and places them on the table.

“Please accept this donation as well as my gratitude.”

Ferrin mumbles something that is half directed at Alferic and half to himself, but Alferic is far too distracted by observing Marsella to take in what he said.

Alferic was hazarding a guess that Marsella was perhaps a year or two younger than himself. Although not exactly thin, she certainly wasn’t fat either, just perfect, well, at least as far as Alferic was concerned. Auburn hair and a just few inches over five foot in height. And then there were those gorgeous green eyes of hers that he was finding totally enthralling.

However, Ferrin moves up to sit beside and breaks the spell with some questions of his own to which Alferic replies:

“I have lived in Syliras all my thirty years my friend Ferrin, and currently I have an apartment on the third tier of Stormhold Citadel. If I could call once more on your help to get me back home I’d be most grateful.”

Still feeling rather woozy, and perhaps not just because of the wound, Alferic slowly heads towards the door with Ferrin close by.

“Good night Marsella. I’ll be back in a couple of days then so you can check on how well the wound is healing. Many thanks once again.”

[Ferrin Al'Mandrikan]

Timestamp

Ferrin waited patiently as Marsella checked Alferic over. It was true from what he had explained before he hadn't known about his "true" family. But, what if the Al'Mandrikans were truly Alferic origination? Could it be? One can not simply withold from this encounter. Unless one would challenge onself with difficulty to abide the intricacy. Or possibly this would even be an intricacy, or maybe this would be some major misunderstanding and Alferic parebts before adoption had simply grew fond of the design. There were people who would and could do things such as that, but Ferrin hadn't really seen any harm in it. His father would though and one would really have to be a part of the family.

It was... Strange.

A walk back to the Stormhold Citadel. The medicinal doses must've been a woozy wfor the man. He's been here for thirty years at most. And Ferrin had only been here in Syliras, for roughly a few seasons. Well, that was covered and taken care of. The tenancy problem. He wouldn't need to give the man, Alferic a place to sleep. Fortunately."I can take you back home. If you'd prefer. I won't mind at all."Ferrin said with a smile as the man stood up with haste.

Marsella abided the two with a gentle wave and a curious nod as Alferic relinquished a few Golden Mizas ontop of a counter top furnished with wood and freshly lacqured to avoid any bacterial infection. At most. Or just to attend to it by keeping it clean for guests and the injured.

Ferrin smiled and nodded back. He whispered a thanks to her and the two had already stepped outside of the healers room."You don't remember much do you. Of how you really had gotten that tattoo. And yet, you've been here for 30 years. How old are you?"Ferrin asked sheepishly with a hint of shock and curiosity all in one mix."If you've really lived here all thirty years. How were you not informed of the tattoo and all?"

The Kenashian asked as the two took a turn towards the Citadel. Ferrin kept an eye out for any more drunken men while the two conversed hoarsely to themselves with haste. The two were greeted no sooner by one of the doors that led into the Citadel."Ah, well here we are. Home sweet home. For you I believe. I can get you to your room if you'd like?"A night out from a days worth of training and now this? What's it come to? Next there'll be pigs and cows falling from the sky like hail chipping away the cemented ground and buildings like they have no business intruding the land and all.


Credits go to Aislyn

[Alferic]

“I believe I’m 30 years old, however, the way things have been going today I wonder if even that is true? Have I lived here for 30 years? I thought I had, but who’s to say that I was born elsewhere and brought to Syliras? My earliest childhood memories go back to when I was maybe two or perhaps three. I need to talk to my parents, or should I say, adopted parents…”

“Thanks for seeing me safely back to the Citadel Ferrin. I should be able to make my way to my apartment from here. Perhaps we could meet up here tomorrow, midday perhaps....I'd like to continue our chat...maybe you could tell me all about your family?”

Leaving his new friend and, indeed, new family member, he walks gingerly up to the third tier of the Citadel. The apartment is only 20’ by 20’ containing just a hearth, bunk, chest, chair and a small table. However, the spartan nature of the room serves Alferic well enough and he is content. This is just as well as he could only afford cheap accommodation. It is situated so deep within the interior of Stormhold Citadel that there is no windows, and only a small ventilation shaft to bring in some fresh air. The smell is therefore something residents have to get used to. Each hallway is lined with torches which are kept lit at all hours of the day, allowing for some light and gives residents something to light their hearth from.

As he enters his apartment someone is waiting for him. A middle-aged man, around 5’ 8” wearing a dark brown hooded cloak covering his bald head is sitting on Alferic’s only chair and is reading some manuscript. He stops reading when Alferic enters.

“Alferic, where have you been, I was getting worried?”

“Sorry Amus. You were right. They’re trying to find the manuscript. One of their men threatened me and ended up stabbing me here.” Pointing at his wound, Alferic walks across the room and wearily lays down on his bed.

“I will stay here my lad. You sleep. I will protect you.”