Despite some threats and rather rude talk thrown around her part, somehow, one way or another, Orlaith managed to snag Izumi for Kaistleoki. There was slight satisfaction knowing that the previous guard of fairies was wounding up the previous court, even if she didn't have memories of the ordeal, it was but a pleasantry all around.
Also, surely ease the fact she kept disobeying orders. Orlaith now has brought three people to the pack! She firmly believed they couldn't punish her that easily despite the fact she moved around far too much, and as one of the only knight commanders as well, she felt her place was quite important. Arrogance and greed, were but a key sin for the wolf.
"This is Kaistleoki, our count Ira is currently out, but there are two others." With that being said, Orlaith howled for them.
Orlaith had taken the duotoned crane towards the home she called "Kaistleoki" -- their scents at the borders were strong, and Izumi stopped a few feet behind Orlaith so she didn't cross them....yet. There was something about this fae that the crane still found off-putting however, even if she did agree to follow them side-by-side; the constant belittling of the Court by the fire fae. No, she did not know of her personal experiences with them, but that fact still couldn't quell how she felt about it. The she-wolf would stand quietly behind her escort, violet hues shifting around the territory until the two they were waiting for showed up...
There it was. Orlaith had returned and was howling for a meeting at the borders. Wanting to be the one to greet her upon her long-awaited return, Hieronymous wasted no time in moving in. Whatever it was that she was howling about, he had more than just a few words to share with the knight commander. His pace was steady, but lacking that usual bounce - and this time, it wasn't due to injury. His mind focused on the woman he sought to have a word with, ears drawn forward as the muscular soldier marched toward the borders.
He was quick to arrive, eyes falling on Orlaith first and then softening as they moved toward the partner she came with. A pale lady behind the commander peeking in as Hieronymous slowed his pace to come off as less... threatening to someone who may or may not already be scared. Standing a few wolflenghts away, his attention shot back to Orlaith and seafoam hues hardened once more. Wrinkles forming around his eyes with disdain at her sight. Orlaith, I see you've returned.
His curt tone cut through, making note that he was less than impressed with her lately.
As if practiced multiple times, his attention fell back onto the pale woman. His smile found its way back to his maw as he greeted her like any other. I suppose she is here to introduce us, huh? I am Hieronymous, Constable of Kaistleoki. And who may you be?
His tone was night and day between the two women, one was harsh and cold, the other soft and welcoming, warm like the spring sun. If it was anyone else, they would look like an absolute madman, to him, it came naturally.
sorry for the wait!
"I didn't find any trace of the bear," the same excuse she gave to Ira, was not to be used on the other. Orlaith was going full forward on bullshitting her way on the matter, finding it would be the most suitable outcome to any trouble she should get. After all she was trying to be a diligant warrior to keep KO safe, and assumed no one would blame her so if she kept using the same 'the bear wasn't there,' tactic.
"This is Izumi, they're from the fairy court on the other side of the mountain. Apparently it disbanded! So, she needs a place." Said so nonchalantly despite the fact the other lost her home, Orlaith held a grin of 'praise me' as she told the story to Hiero. She was still in the swing of smugness for their disbandment.
There it was again; that annoyingly honey-sweet tone used to refer to the lemon-bitter taste of a fallen refuge. She wanted it to stop, but Izu knew she'd just have to bare with it considering there were more important matters to attend to right now. So, she sucked it up, strode beside Orlaith to make herself seen, and straightened her posture. In the crane's chest swirled a number of emotions about what could happen upon joining an entirely new pack since it took a while to adjust to Seelie Court alone, but her options were thread-thin right about now. A change in scenery was the best possible choice.
After the Constable gave his introduction and Orlaith introduced her name to him, the crane would politely bow her head to them before giving her own introduction. "Izumi Fujiwara. As Commader Orlaith said, I was former member of court before it disband." she said with a hint of softness out of respect for her former home. Upon lifting her head back up, she couldn't help but get distracted by Heiro's unique-looking coat. It was like nothing she'd ever seen before, and had the she-wolf wondering what genetics might've acquired such a pelt. The realization that she was staring though made her shake her head before speaking again. "I wanted to know if you would have room for another among ranks?"
Despite Orlaith's attempt to soften the trouble, she was in, Hieronymous didn't budge. The blatant disobedience wouldn't be ignored or forgiven so easily. It didn't quite help that the way Orlaith acted about the disbanding of the fairy court didn't sit well with the Constable either. It was no joyous time. Perhaps the knowledge of the Empire's fall also hardened the blow, and though he tried to remain neutral on the matter as Orlaith had no hand in their downfall... the smile on her face and casual outlook on it all was inappropriate. Especially when a grieving member was standing right there.
Turning his attention to Izumi for now. I've heard of the Court's disbanding from Lumiya herself, I am sorry for such a loss.
Perhaps this would help ease the young lady after spending so much time with Orlaith who probably didn't help the mourning with this attitude of hers. Lumiya and Dante arrived a day ago and sought refuge with us as well.
At least there was some more familiar faces for her to enjoy during her stay, he supposed that should be good enough news.
We certainly have space for one more.
And just as he did with Lumiya, this one he would have to talk to more about her role within the pack on a later date... for similar reasons as Lumiya, but also for the reason that he desired to speak with Orlaith. Why don't you go and find her? She should be resting, just follow my path to dens, you can't miss it. We can talk later.
Moving out of her way, he pointed the young woman with his nose into the direction, the path to take to rest and wait for him to talk later. Once the message came across, he turned his attention back to Orlaith. I would like to talk to Orlaith alone for a bit if you don't mind.
Despite everyone seemingly displeased with her attitude, she didn't know. Like someone finding a toy in a cereal box she was just producing positivity, over the demise of a pack, and the recruitment of said-pack. Who could deny more members, especially possible warriors? She was a bit tired of it only being considered by three, and two of them were above her rank, so having fun with a 'vacation,' was out of the question with them. Though she never did ask if Izumi is one..
Especially since now she is about to get an earful. Her face just dropped with an 'ugh,' look as green eyes rolled to the floor. She even had forgotten momentarily when familiar names floated around, as now Orlaith was preparing for the lecture to be. Not that she would change much- because it's her.
She really didn't find it an issue if she left for a day or two, especially if it had to do with looking out for the bear. 50/50 though, half bear, half vacation.
To the painted sire's words, her icy lavender gaze widened ever-so slightly. Lumiya? She was here?
When the court was announced for disbanding, the young fae couldn't bring herself to face the other members and left unannounced in her moments of grief, leaving behind Lumiya along with Bridget and Teya; the two wolves she wished to form a connection with. Thinking back now, her actions were too brash and selfish -- Izu didn't think about how her newfound freinds would feel about her sudden disappearance. But now that she was aware of Lumiya's presence, a part of her felt a sense of relief that the Faerie Queen was doing well.
This 'Dante' fellow from the court -- he was someone the crane had heard of during her time in the pack, but never actually seen before. They would probably cross paths now that they were in the same pack, but she wasn't much fazed by the mention of him due to never meeting them.
Looking back up at the pair, the young princess would bow her head to Hiero again; "Constable Hiero, thank you." Then, a turn to Orlaith, despite the current mixed-feelings she suppressed at that moment "And you too, Commander Orlaith, for offering me new home..."
As per request, the crane bird would take her leave into the river's territory, leaving her two new packmates to whatever they wished to discuss. Hopefully there would be a chance to run into her former leader too...
It seemed that the mention of the former fairy queen was present had lit a light in the pale woman's eyes, it pleased the Constable to see some faith restored in some way through such minor gestures as this. With a dip of his head, he excused Izumi has requested and hoped she would quickly settle in her new home - hoping to speak with her again soon once this whole Orlaith issue was dealt with.
Once Izumi was out of earshot, the painted knight turned his attention fully on the Knight Commander. His expression falls from the pleasant smile he offered the pale woman, and onto something more stern. I'm glad you are back and looking well.
he began. Again not wanting to come off as too much of a hardass given his title, but there were certain lines he didn't appreciate to be crossed, and here he was drawing his first. Here I was worried of your well being, you know, after disappearing when you were supposed to be healing as per the Chamberlain and Count's request.
Granted Hiero was the type to still do his duties despite healing himself, cheekily sneaking out of his den to check on the borders and packmates, maybe do some fishing to fill caches - but never did he wander off of the pack's borders, leaving for days without a word. Tell me Orlaith, what are your plans here in Kaistleoki, what are your goals?
Despite Orlaith being mildly taller than him, the man's stare made him feel less than above average in her presence. He wouldn't tolerate being talked down to by the Knight Commander anymore after today.
"See ya," there was somewhat a gloating feeling on being called Commander, but that was rather cut-short to when Hiero started to sound.. A noble of sorts, compared to the usual. She had to control an eye-roll to the change of tones as unlike Ira whose tone was always as like a leader, she couldn't take the goof Hiero seriously, even after trying to.
"I was looking for bear tracks," which was half the truth and lie. A stroll that simply went wrong by going too far, and alongst the way did she realize there was no bear tracks. Not the one she knew of anyway, there was some but they were more of wandering grizzlies then the actual blackbear that caused her own harm- she could never mistake that one.
"Being a warrior and guard?" The answer was met with both sarcasm and skepticism, because honestly that was about it, "be someone." Since she had no previous memories, it was also the large factor she truly was indebted to the group. They healed and allowed her to stay, even permanently while she was waiting to be healed. Orlaith wanted to stay, especially if she had the chance to be someone, as slowly she was moving up- now as the Knight Commander.
You blatantly disobeyed all of us.
he spoke quickly after her obvious lie, almost cutting her as if he was trying to correct her. He liked to be friends, to try and be someone anyone could approach and not fear to talk to about anything - but it didn't seem to be working with Orlaith. She was bullheaded, and he was tired of the disrespect. More so toward Speedy and Ira, neither of them needed this extra baggage on their plate.
We needed you here. A strange man came looking for our women, to take them to his brothers and for himself up on a mountain somewhere, and you were nowhere to be found to make sure everyone would be safe. I'm sure you're aware most of Kaistleoki are women.
He frowned. Knowing very well that many of the members were able to take care of themselves, but if they were targets... who knows what sort of tactic the desperate men would come up with to take a few for whatever they had planned. Another woman caused trouble on our hunting grounds, and again, you were nowhere to assist.
He made sure to be putting it into perspective that being here had as much excitement if she put effort into it.
You have all the potential to be great Orlaith.
he drawled, a tone of disappointment tainting his words as the flourish and joy faded from his voice. But this is not the way to do so, not here in Kaistleoki.
A shake of his head. We need to have faith in you, and I can confidently say that trusting you is getting very difficult. I don't want to have to strip you of your rank Orlaith, but we need someone responsible as Knight Commander. This is your first warning on the matter, I hope we can build on that trust from here on out, yes?
"You know I can't be everywhere right?" While his words seemed true she just scoffed at them, finding the mere' factor she wasn't at only two moments to be enough of a dismissal of her factor was a guard. Though it was true enough, she couldn't always be the only one, there was plenty of other guards and yet..
"You know when you were gone, it was me tending to it right? Only Ira and I as warriors, and finally Aliana, and yet you expect me to be at every moment? I'm not some God, how can I be at every situation, huh? You giving Aliana the same situation?" Her words now rumbling out of her throat as she spewed toward the main, caring no more to his logic. If he wanted to say she needed to tend to all the situations, then perhaps he should've been here earlier and helped her so- or give the same lecture to not only herself, but Ira as well.
"You know, I-" killed someone who tried to hurt me, yet no one was there. But bit her tongue. She had promised herself not to reveal it, finding the factor simply.. Unnerving. She never truly experienced a thoughtline that someone would hunt her down, and rather then but a spar or a battle. Orlaith knew it wasn't the first time either, and her past life was that she and the other guards would take down any enemies.. But she was alone. And alone even now.
"Why should I trust you then, someone who disappeared and waltz'd back in? Those who you knew are gone! There was new wolves, and none of us know you, only Ira and Speedy. You've done nothing to even gain my respect." Then there was that factor, while she enjoyed the hunt a long time ago, it was the factor when he was promoted it came a surprise. She knew he had a past with Kaistleoki, and Ira knew him as well as Speedy- but majority of those who were in his past were gone.
It was a new reign, she firmly believed, and he has done nothing to prove to that rank.
Of course, she would talk back. How could he have expected anything less? And before that it was Ira, Speedy and I for much longer.
He reassured with a hardened tone. To both of them, they just appeared out of nowhere and gained nothing from one another respect-wise. It was understandable, but he hated that she wasn't even trying to understand him in any of this. He wouldn't let this newcomer come in and believe she ran the place just because he was gone for a mere moon cycle.
I did not, because Aliana does her duty. She doesn't go running off while injured when she brings news of danger lurking nearby.
he reiterates for Orlaith, truly starting to believe that her thick skull needed things to be explained multiple times before grasping a situation.
I was gone for one month.
His voice raises slightly, brows furrowing as he was clearly having enough of all this. He was the one who Ira trusted with the position of Constable, and clearly still did as he was given it back upon his return. Howl and his children, Moonshadow, Ira and her children, Speedy and her children, I was here for when Ira's children's fathers disappeared - I was here for all of that, before you, I will have you recall. I did not leave the lands while injured and waltz back in as if nothing was wrong. I was injured, searching for a way back with no nose to guide me. I crawled back after trying to visit our sister pack in the mountain, one of my duties, I apologized and prepared not to be welcomed back- what did you do? You left against our orders, disobeyed all of us, not just me.
A low growl was returned at Orlaith's rumble.
You haven't either. If anything, I have lost respect for you. If you cannot take responsibility for your actions and would rather point fingers, you are no longer our Knight Commander. Not until you can act like one.
he was unmoving, a cold iron pillar standing in her way. The man's decision was made and the ball was now in Orlaith's hands. Would she learn from this, or simply throw another tantrum and solidify his decision to demote her...
All those names, Orlaith doesn't know. However Howl was, was barely presentable in the back and she scoffed at the thought, alongside with whoever Moonshadow was, the two weren't very into the pack-life were they? What did they do besides each from the cache, much less do patrolling. The factor was she personally believed she done far more then any of them-
yet, she got demoted.
Coldly so, "Yet all of them done nothing, I haven't seen those two patrol once, and yet i'm the one demoted." It was laughable, and so laughed at him while olive eye looked down in scorn. There seemed to be a flashing image of a white and black lady, it made Orlaith blink as almost the images overlapped..
Was this what Riley said, how Seelie Court didn't deserve her? This was the same as them?
No matter where she went, it seemed in the end all she done was never deserved. There was more others that simply did nothing, and yet even they rose the rank unlike herself, "Tell Ira that she lost a guard, since i'm just a lowly commoner who can't patrol right." There was a part of her that wanted to simply run away from this place- her attitude expressed she was done.
However the guard- not anymore. Out of pure spite since she was so lowly in his eyes, he can do it all himself. Without anymore she started to turn away from him, disrespect or not, she cared little anymore. If he was so angry at her she thought he could fight her, or simply go to Ira and complain his little head off.
Suppose she'll now nap by the stream since she is so useless and injured.
You are being demoted for the lack of rationality.
Just because the mentioned individuals weren't as present as they once were, they were still a part of Kaistleoki much longer than Orlaith has been. He got along better with them all as well, none of which challenged him at every moment or turn a deaf ear to the council's requests.
He had no words for her final statement. It was childish, trying to gain sympathy by putting the blame on him for the pack losing a guard. If she was wise, she would already know that she was still plenty capable of doing the same duties and earning her place back as Knight Commander - but it seemed that she was not capable of such thought yet. Understandably she was upset and he could only hope that in time, she would figure it out on her own.
For now, he let her wander off out of his sight. Casting no glance over his shoulder or watching her leave, only a steely gaze as he watches through her while departing to go mope. He would only return to his patrolling to burn off some steam before going to see anyone.
last from me! thank you for such a beautiful drama filled thread ;3; <3