A Monster of a Kind

[Delsin Shaw]

I E G O
Cliffhold

It seems like only yesterday I had been here. The Port-city of Cliffhold, was one that had lasted for hundreds if not thousands of years. Strange to consider that the once angelic race of the Diathim had been the only species to live here. As well as their demonic counterparts. However, since the rising and falling of the Gulag plague, many humans came to seek the angels and demons of Iego to see if they could prevent their deaths. Rumors of it were borne, but none were truly verified. In the years since, with the almost complete end of this plague, Iego returned to a state where a healthy mix of all species showed up.

One of those was myself. Many of their kind were peaceful, and sought only to better the lives of those who came to them. In fact, I was looking for one particular individual as we came here today. We, being myself and Valrayne.

Having been months since our forced bond, purely an accident due to neglect upon our travels in the Nether, since then, I have given Val quite a bit of freedom. Namely working with the Agents of Chaos where she felt like it, or seeking out people who she wanted to be with. I had been in a similar situation she had been. And to be honest, I hated it. I hated the situation I was in. Forced to be subservient to someone who I would rather slit their throat. To prevent this cycle from continuing, I wanted to give Val as much space as she could. She deserved it.

In my mind, the months that she had to herself allowed her to keep her mind. And while I am sure she likely sought others to help her break the pact that she had made, I knew that she wouldn't be able to fix it. The bond she used? Soul bound. Not one that you could forge in the force, or just to someone's life. Those can be broken easily. Dying, or even severing yourself from those can be easy. Having done those before.

This pact, was deeper. She was trying to bind a spirit creature to her. An A'baal. A former Sith Felacatian much like herself. The way that she could do that, is to bind the soul to her. Her attempt to bind me as well, backfired. Meaning we were not bound by any conventional means. No. Even if both of us perished, we would be bound. And that... is what made it even more difficult.

"Val, we are here. Meet me at the ramp when you are ready."

I was already making my way there as I spoke out loud. She could likely hear me through the ship since my voice was one that could easily be projected quite a distance. I only dressed myself in a nice t-shirt underneath a button up that was unbuttoned at the moment. My left hand was my Forcesaber. Well, it was actually my nephews. I was holding onto it for him. I used the clip on the side to put it at the small of my back. Hiding it underneath the buttoned up shirt. As I was buttoning up the said panel lined shirt, Val walked up.

"Alright. We are getting you some new clothes and what not for you. Whatever you want. Don't worry about price. Just grab it. And uh... if anyone asks about why we are so different from each other, I adopted you into my family, and am taking you shopping to get to know you better. Unless you have a different plan?"

As much as I wanted to just command the girl to do what I wanted, as much as I hated this pact, I was slowly learning more and more about her. Who she was, how she acted. Rather submissive in terms of combat, and was prone to prefer peace over violence, I could understand her nature. However, my suggestion was also true. We have been away from one another for a time. I wanted to know what she had done in that time. Seeing as she was bound to me, if anyone found out we were, it could spell disaster for us.

[member="Valrayne"],

 

[Faegard]

I knew that it would have to end eventually.

What's worse, I knew that I should really be grateful to Darren for even giving me any freedom at all. It had been my own panic that led to me binding myself to him, so whether I played the blame game or not, he could do what he liked. He could have had me scrubbing the floors in his ship. But no, he had chosen to give me a long leash for a time. While I sat in my cabin pulling on a pair of long boots I heard his voice ring out, calling me to the ramp. My jaw clenched, cheeks burning with a cringe beneath my fur. As much as it sucked to admit it, I was grateful for the time spent away.

Okay I'm on my way

At least now I had someone with whom I could practice my telepathy. It was an interesting force power but until now I'd not really had anyone to talk to. With a sigh I finished lacing up the boots. Beyond that I just had my standard tank and shorts. Heavy clothing can get uncomfortable over fur so I had little interest in it. Tying my hair into a messy braid to keep it off my face, I made my way towards the ramp of the ship to meet Darren.

He spoke, and I couldn't help but blink in surprise.

"New... clothes?" I asked, "for me?"

For a moment, my mind wandered to the possibilities. My parents made sure I was comfortable, but we never really splashed out on things like new clothes. Then he continued, implying a need to hide the true reason we traveled together. Immediately I went cold, and if it weren't for the fur, all the color would have drained from my face.

"Um, yeah that sounds like a good idea. Adopted into your family... uh, yeah."

Yeah, nice one, Val. My jaw clenched. Immediately I recalled my running into Kyrinov, and the way I'd basically immediately spilled the beans to him. Although I quickly turned to skip down the ramp, I could feel my tail flicking around with renewed vigor. I could only hope that our time apart meant that Darren hadn't yet figured out what that meant.

"Are you planning to get anything for yourself?" I asked, attempting to change the subject.




[member="Darren Shaw"]

 

[Delsin Shaw]

Telepathy. A skill that Val had a natural talent for. It was interesting to speak through the mind. Having been years since I have done so, it felt different. I was open to her learning and becoming stronger with her gift within the force. However, I didn't want to meld our minds. Doing so, would share too many things I have felt and dealt with in my life. I feared it may overwhelm her. Secondly, I was never fond of anyone in my head to begin with. As Val showed up, and seemed rather nervous or apprehensive of the situation, and what I stated, all of her emotions seemed to shut down. Backpedaling about the circumstance.

"Just a yeah? Val, you need to take this more seriously. If anyone knew you were tied to me, it could put us both in danger. The consequences even I cannot foresee."

It was a reprimand to her attitude about the situation more so then me wanting a response from her. Shaking my head as she skipped down the ramp, and her tail.. it was... swaying? I wasn't sure about what that meant other than she was feeling a strong emotion. Even asking me if I was going to get anything. She was successful in changing the situation. Plus, with potential people around us soon, I didn't want to argue about anything nor embarrass her.

"Should I find something, I may. However, my priority is you for the moment. I need to be able to trust that you can take care of yourself should you be away from me. So we will be grabbing some things."

She did seem surprised that I was taking her to get stuff. Was she just not used to the idea of shopping? It was then I looked at her clothing. The singular pair that she had for quite some time. Was that the only pair she had? If so, then...

"Val, Wait up!"

I jogged a bit to catch up to her much smaller frame. Eventually coming to walk side by side with her. My eyes peered down at her not in any demeaning way, but only because of our height difference. I kept a light smile on my face to hopefully not scare her or make her feel like I was imposing.

"We will be seeing a specific person. She will have all we need. An old friend of mine, she is. Just uh... She is different than you or I. I know it will be difficult for you to keep your eye's off of her, so I am letting you know now. She has quite the... appealing features."

There was no real easy way to explain my friend. Val would just have to trust me as we were walking out of the starport and into the city proper.

"Come on. This way."

[member="Valrayne"],

 

[Faegard]

A sigh slipped through my lips.

He was right, I was being too aloof. In my haste to move the subject on, I hadn't given it enough serious thought. I felt the cringe deepen on my cheeks, so much that surely it would show through the short fur, as he spoke about how dangerous it would be. A knot tightened in my gut, dread and fear and shame at having already fethed up. But that would be a problem for another time. Either he'd find out eventually and I could deal with it then, or he wouldn't, and I'd just have to make sure I didn't make it any worse.

As he hurried to catch up to me I slowed, walking beside him.

"I... don't really know what to get." I confided in him as he spoke about getting gear so I could take care of myself.

Until now I'd mostly just been taking it day by day, getting by on whatever was around. Maybe some proper gear would do me good. As we walked, I wondered if he was being genuine. I mean, I was kind of his responsibility now, it would make sense that he'd want me to at least be able to take care of myself. But another part wondered if perhaps this was a way to further indenture me to him. Owing credits? That was not a path I'd ever wanted to go down.

Then he mentioned who we were going to see, and something utterly bizarre happened.

Darren talked about how whomever this contact was, she was apparently so alluring to view that he thought to mention it to me. And... for some reason I'll never understand... I felt a pang of envy in my gut.

I'd never really cared for beauty. I'm a cat, and there aren't that many of us around. I don't draw many looks. That suited me just fine. But now? For some reason, the idea of this man I did not care for, with whom I traveled only because I had to, having eyes for some undoubtedly beautiful creature? Why the chit did that bother me so? My ears tilted back and I bit my lip, turning my head away under the guise of pulling my braid over my shoulder and neatening it up.

"She sounds interesting." I mumbled.

Nope. Not jealous. Not at all. Not even a little bit.





[member="Darren Shaw"]

 

[Delsin Shaw]

I continued to look at her as I spoke. In honest, I just didn't want her to feel lesser than this person. Lesser than her. However, the tail she had, stopped wagging. Holding almost still as she walked beside me. Shoulders down, looking away from me, and mumbling. Opening my mouth, I was tempted to say something, I started to lift my hand. She was... something. Nervous? Jealous? Downtrodden? I closed my eyes for a moment. Letting her just stay there for a moment before I reached down. Grabbing her hand within my own. All I did, was hold it.

Stopping our walk, I turned to face her.

"Val, You are tied to me, and I to you."

The mark I had made back then, showing I wouldn't harm her, was still upon my hand. Keeping it not for some sentimental reason, but because it would show her that while it was an accident on her end, it was her fault for a majority of what happened, it was an accident. People made mistakes that influenced how life worked. It happens, and there is nothing we can do to change it right now.

"If all I wanted was to sever this bond from you, then I could have just left you in the Nether. Instead, You are here, and we are together."

Breaking contact with her, I almost wiped myself clean of any emotion I may have just shown. Letting our hands separate as I walked on. Thinking alone to myself.

The hell are you doing Darren? Why did you hold her hand and be all kind with her?
She is just a little girl. Alone in this world.
And that is supposed to make us feel better?
We were alone. Maybe we can change her.
We? I am the Void of you. I am your darkness. You expect me to allow that?
Yes.

"Val, come on. I'd like to get there before nightfall."

Calling back over to the gi- to her behind me, I stopped so she could catch up. She was not a job, she was not who I needed to take care of. She was just a child. Why was I becoming soft? Why was I trying to treat her like a child of mine? This was not right. I should just have thrown her into the void and called it a day. Go back to whatever I was doing before I met her. Go back to how my life was. No. I should have just removed this bond when she even first tried. I should have let her kill herself among the Field of Blades. I should have let her explode from the extent of the force. But I didn't....

Why...

[member="Valrayne"],

 

[Faegard]

I blinked in surprise as suddenly Darren stopped.

Turning to face him, I gazed up into his pale features. For a moment he let the silence linger between us, before he did something that surprised me. Reaching down, he took my much smaller hand in his and held it. It was almost as if he'd sensed my discomfort. Perhaps he did. I didn't know anything about this bond, for all I knew, he had access to my inner-most thoughts. Normally that would terrify me, but right now, in this moment where I was wrestling with something I wasn't even sure I could articulate, it was almost relieving to think that he'd be able to simply know.

He spoke, as if to comfort me and my thoughts of uncertainty.

Why? Why did he bother? Why was it working? We weren't a couple, we weren't dating... he was some dark monstrosity wrapped up in the skin of a man and I... had accidentally turned myself into his pet cat.

"Thank you."

I mumbled quietly, relieved, sincere, but soft.

The moment seemed to linger for a time, as if both of us had peeled back a layer of ourselves for the other. Maybe it was this bond, drawing us together not only in realspace, but in the force, perhaps even deeper than that. But the moment soon passed, and he dropped my hand and walked on. I could sense the conflict within him to a point, perhaps he was regretting plucking me from the netherworld the way he had. Honestly, I couldn't blame him.

At his reminder, I hurried to catch up. I wanted to get in and out as quickly as possible.

"I appreciate you doing this." I said as we continued towards our destination, "it's not going to make me any more likely to do what you say... but I appreciate it."

So far, he hadn't really tried to boss me around, I didn't want him to be too disappointed when he eventually tries, only to find that I'm not so easily controlled.




[member="Darren Shaw"]

 

[Delsin Shaw]

I could hear her steps before her voice. Soft and warming actually. Taking any emotion I could feel for this woman, and shoved deeply within this void I had. Letting it fade into nothing. Even as she thanked me for doing this, a part of me wanted to turn around and slap her. Show her that we still were master and slave. Every fiber fought against me. Every fiber unable to decide what to do other than continue walking in silence. And so I stayed.

My frame pushed through the slowly growing crowd of people as we got deeper and deeper into the city. Leading through the main shops, and off to the side. A single man who seemed to be glowing. His face and body were... appealing. A perfect form of what any man would wish his frame to look. Built to protect every woman who ever came within his reach, a face that was chiseled with soft cheeks, and dark hair. Sharp eyes that looked directly at me. I extended my arm to him, and he to me. Grasping his forearm, we locked. My own eyes staring into his own.

"It has been some time Solrune."
"You know that name is long gone."
"Tis the only name I know you for."
"Is she in?"
"You can see her... however your shadow cannot."
"She is with me. She can be trusted."
"Prove it."

His sharp eyes turned to face her. Even in his extremely handsome form, the angelic shape of his face turned to eye her with an intensity that I rarely see from his kind. We released each other as I walked over to Val. Gently coaxing her to give me her hand, Opening it and showing the mark she had received from our bonding, The Angel walked over and eyed the mark. Nodding his head.

"That is quite the intricate bond you have there young miss."
"Don't play with her. She is mine."
"Oh please Sol. You know I enjoy the good tumble every now and again."
"You may do so with other people, but not those tied to me."

The growl within my throat with the last words I spoke to him, he smiled brightly and backed off. Raising his hands up high showing he meant no harm. Then showing the alley in which he was standing next to, indicated for us to move onward. I nodded my head once and gently placed a hand on Val's shoulder and led her ahead of me down the alley. As we walked, I whispered within her mind.

"If you ever see him again, find some place open, and with plenty of people around, or come find me. I won't share everything now, but just trust me when I say that you should not talk to him."

[member="Valrayne"],

 

[Faegard]

The crowd of people began to grow around us as we walked, eventually pressing in enough that we had to weave through them. For a time, I allowed myself to drift off into my thoughts, letting them mill about as I followed Darren through the throng of people. Eventually, we came to a little spot out of the way. There, stood a man who's visage completely stunned me. It was as if he had been specially crafted by some celestial being, almost too perfect in every aspect.

I stood to one side as He and Darren greeted one another, curious as to this name that the man called him. Tucking the question away for later, I blinked as the man referred to me, calling me Darren's shadow.

Before I could even open my mouth to defend myself, the Echani stepped in, assuring him that I could be trusted. Wide-eyed and uncertain, I allowed him to take my hand and reveal my mark to the man. As he did I blushed deeply. It was my own mistake, burned forever onto me. Every time I saw it, or ran my fingers over the uneven skin, it reminded me that I had done something very stupid. Worse, I felt like this somehow made me completely inadequate in the presence of this too-perfect man. He didn't seem like he even knew what it would be like to screw up.

He addressed me, and I blushed, averting my gaze.

"It's n--"

But before I could reply, Darren cut in. I blushed, and looked up at him, confused. To me, that seemed like a harsh response, he hadn't indicated any--

The man retorted, indicating that my reluctant Master's instincts had been exactly right. He growled with warning, becoming not so much protective of me... but possessive. I felt a sharp pang of adrenaline hit my system, a shiver racking my shoulders. For the most part, the Echani was reserved and almost regal in his appearance, but when he let slip the shroud a little, it was exhilarating.

Terrifying. I meant it's terrifying. Shut up.

We were granted passage, and I heard his voice in my mind, warning me not to be alone with the angel.

Aaw, you're not getting attached to me, are you? I teased in reply, but I quickly added, I'll make sure not to be alone with him...

Nope... I couldn't let it go.

Why not? Aren't these types meant to be like... really gentle?





[member="Darren Shaw"]

 

[Delsin Shaw]

I could hear the coy voice as she attempted to make light of the situation. However, she failed to understand who he was. He was no Angel as she seemed him to be. Even as we got further from him, I kept our thoughts within our mind so he could not hear. Eventually coming to a stop and looking at was just a simple wall.

"He is no angel that you see him as. His kind eat the flesh of people. Luring them to their dens with smooth voices, enchanting music and sickly handsome or beautiful appearance, then when you do not expect it, he will begin to start tearing your flesh from your bones and consume you. Leaving you alive till the very last moment."

It was harsh, but it was right to the point. So much so, that I knew she would instantly understand what the man had meant of a "tumble" and my words to stay away from him. Looking behind her, I could see he was looking at us. Clearly watching to make sure we wouldn't do anything stupid. However, I moved my attention to Val and continued to speak as I pulled out a simple knife. Cutting the flesh at my fingers and then pressing it to the wall.

"These... beings are not normal people. There are two different kinds. He is what you would call a Demon. Maelibus specifically. Now, Varyncia, the lady we have come here to meet, will not be like him."

As soon as there was enough time my hand had been placed against the wall, the wall opened up much like a door. At first falling backwards before all of the bricks folding behind one another within the building. Opening wide enough for both of us to walk into. Inside were many trinkets and tools, and clothing. Ranging from weapons, armor, simple cloths, amulets, you named it, she likely had it. Nobody was within the room. I quickly grabbed Val by her shoulder once more and coerced her into the room. As the bricks folded back into themselves, the room went silent. Then filled with my voice.

"You can tell who they are, by their voice, the strange way they talk, and the extremely perfect looking form. To you, he seemed angelic right? In truth, he is a Demon of Iego. Anyways, lets not talk about this until later. At least, when we are not here in the presence of-"
"Oh Darren it has been some time since I have seen you!"

Raising my head up to the barely dressed frame of a woman, her extremely lean frame with horns upon her head, fae wings, with scales and a presence that was unmistakably bright. I smiled intently. Having been years since I have last seen her face. She stood even well over my own height. Nearing three meters tall. This large place was built for her. Varyncia was a hybrid of a Demon, and an Angel of Iego. However, I didn't voice this.

"It has been some time Varyncia."
"Always the formal one."

Her gaze descended upon the frame of Val. Her eyes brightened up quite a bit at the realization to why I had been talking as well as speaking about who the man outside was. Her light hearted chuckle as she closed the distance and invaded Val's space. Hugging her ever so lightly before holding her at arm's length as though they knew each other.

"Oh now are you a precious little thing! Oh you are so adorable and cute. I could just eat you up! OH! I am sorry. Poor choice of words. I am sure our big ugly friend here already cued you in to my guard outside. Satarus is not very welcoming as much as I would like him! Unlike him, I do not eat people! But you? MMMMM if I could capture your cuteness in a bottle I would!"
"Alright Varyn, calm down on the theatrics."
"No wonder you said you were going to be visiting soon! She is so adorable how have you hidden her from me all your life!"
"Varyn..."
"OH you sourpuss! Anyways, it is nice to finally meet you Valrayne! Darren told me he would be visiting with you to get some stuff. Do you have in mind for what you want to look for?"
"You two work together on what you want, I will just take a gander around the shop. And Varyn.."
"Oh yes my Dark Lord?"
"Keep it on the lower end."
"Oh I know you would buy anything I have anyways! We both know that is just you brooding like some Emo Sith, Oh wait, you were one!"

Her cackling broke out as she smiled deeply. Looking over to me as I shook my head. The tall lady seemed to emanate light in such a strange way. An aura of happiness and joy. I took my time. Taking a couple steps to the left so that the two ladies could hash out what Valrayne wanted. Honestly, Varyncia was truthful. She knew I would by anything and everything from her if I could. I was one of her more valued customers. I walked over to the counter where there were a couple firearm underneath some glass. Just looking at them and the prices they were at. However, in the background, I could hear the woman as she spoke to Val.

"Don't worry about Darren. He can be brooding all the time. Trust me. Now, He did tell me he needed some stuff for you, but where do you want to start first? Clothes? Shoes? Well not shoes for you. You might not like them because of what you are. hmmmm. Maybe some shin guards? Ohhh wait, what kind of weapon do you like?"

I just shook my head. Keeping my head facing away from them with a smile on my face. No matter the time of day, or how bad it was, the attitude of Varyncia could brighten anyone. Even myself. So for now, I just kept looking at the different guns underneath the counter.

[member="Valrayne"],

 

[Faegard]

The explanation Darren provided made my blood run cold.

Even though our conversation was entirely telepathic, I couldn't help but throw a glance back at the man. Where once I'd seen a radiant perfect that drew me in, a light, flirtatious invitation, I now shuddered, seeing only a lure, and the hideous creature that lurked behind it. I couldn't help but dwell on the fact that if I had come here on my own, if I hadn't been with the man I'd accidentally made into my Master... I would have very likely gone with him. Then what? Even A'Baal wouldn't be able to protect me from my own stupidity.

The echani used a little of his own blood to open some hidden door, and with a slight wince I was ushered inside.

As I began to realize just how dangerous a place this galaxy truly was, the man's coercive insistence, along with how possessive he could be... it didn't seem so bad. I wasn't dead yet, anyhow.

I gazed wide eyed as we came into the room, listening casually to Darren as he spoke... until he was interrupted. The woman that approached us was like none I had ever seen. At almost three meters tall, she even surpassed the Echani. Her visage was almost heavenly, if such a place to exist, and her voice melodic and singsong. My eyes widened, my cheeks blushing and ears flattening at how completely inadequate I felt standing before such a creature.

She... she gushed over me.

I gasped in surprise as I was suddenly enveloped into a hug, the woman then holding me at arms length, going on about this apparent 'cuteness'. I could feel my cheeks burning, but with my ears folded to the side and gaze averted, I was struggling to suppress the smile that fought its way onto my lips.

"Uh... thank you, Miss Varyncia" I replied meekly.

I couldn't help but chuckle as she dismissed Darren, and as she moved towards the equipment, speaking about what I might need, I threw him a glance. Having no idea whether the lady could hear telepathic thoughts or not, I chose to say nothing, instead I simply hoped he see the gratitude in my gaze. Then I turned back to her,

"Well, Miss," I began, "heavy clothing is uncomfortable on my fur. Do you know of anything that's... light? I'm not really one for armor, if I'm honest. I prefer to be able to move. Maybe some kind of cloak for cold places."

I paused to caress the old scar over my left shoulder gently. It doesn't hurt these days, not unless I stress it, anyway, "I'm not exactly built for fighting. If the gloomy Echani insists I have a weapon, something I can operate in one hand might be ideal. Actually, do you have anything wrist-mounted? That would be pretty versatile. He wants me to be able to take care of myself, now that I think about it, maybe I could use some kind of survival kit or something."

That was already likely a tall order on its own. I glanced back towards Darren, biting my lip sheepishly. I hoped I wasn't overstepping.





[member="Darren Shaw"]

 

[Delsin Shaw]

I stayed silent. Turning around to lean back onto the counter, I propped myself up onto it, and sat. Leaning back just a bit as the towering frame of the woman almost hunched over the smaller one of the kitten. Hiding my smile and face now, I could hear what Val wanted. Something light, and movable. Maybe a cloak or light armor that was not restrictive at all. Even then speaking about a weapon that was one handed, or maybe even wrist mounted. I shook my head. One handed would be best. Wrist mounted wouldn't be good for her if she tried to transform. However, she could still use a weapon if she went into her more bestial form.

"Kits? Like a bug-out bag? I have a couple of those. We can look at those later. They take some time. You want something light. hmmmm. Well I do have a couple cloaks but nothing really protective."
"Glistaweb."
"OH! Thank you! That is perfect!"

Without saying another word, The angelic being reached down. Grabbing Vals hand and led her through the store like a child leading their parent to the new playground. Eventually coming to a rack that had a couple items hung over it. She let go of Val to throw some stuff left and right. Looking for the right item.

"AH! Here we go. This here is a jacket! Rather light, Glistaweb is actually stuff that reflects blaster bolts. Now what is really nice about this jacket is that I made the fabric with Noris Root. That way it protects you from lightsabers too! I know Darren would like that part. But the Jacket is even better! Watch!"

She started to dress Val in the jacket as she was speaking about it and the Noris Root that was used with it. I smiled lightly for a second and nodded my head at Val letting her know it was okay. When proclaimed to watch, She did something that allowed the jacket to suddenly lengthen around the body and then no longer have sleeves. Becoming a cloak that was now around her shoulders.

"See, this cloak is using living biological cloth! It can shape to a jacket, cloak, or even just a nice looking dress! Oh you would look so good in a dress. Maybe we should do that one!"
"Varyn..."
"Oh fine. Dress up later! Now your second item was a one handed weapon right? Well Do you like guns? swords? daggers? And do you think that your little shapeshifting thing could limit usage of a wrist weapon? Hmmm. What would be a good weapon that we could give you. Something that accents your natural gifts would likely work best. What do you think Darren?"
"Its not my choice Varyncia. Valrayne is who you should be asking. I can teach her how to use it when we have some time."
"Awwww so caring for you to train her how to kill people. Are you sure she isn't like adopted or something?
"We are tied yes. Please stay on track Varyn."
"Blegh. Stupid sourpuss. Anyways, the edge lord over there is right. What do you think is comfortable for your hands?"

[member="Valrayne"],

 

[Faegard]

As Verynica led me through the store, thinking out loud to herself with a little input from the Echani, I couldn't help but feel somewhat like I was entirely secondary here.

Not so much a person anymore, I'd become a doll for the woman to dress up and toy with at her leisure. It wasn't unpleasant, if I was honest. Having never been gushed over like this, I'd had no idea what to expect. Led by the wrist through the store, she ended up coming to a particular garment. It looked beautiful, far nicer than anything I'd ever owned. She draped it over me, and I reflexively slipped my arms through the sleeves. It was light, and I stretched my arms out behind me to discover that it was flexible as well, allowing me to move freely.

Then the jacket shifted. It became a cloak. At that point? I was sold.

"Imagine that!" I exclaimed excitedly, "something that could stay on me when I shift!"

Removing the cloak from my shoulders, I folded it and hugged it to my chest, silently announcing that I'd very much like to have it. By now there was a grin plastered firmly across my features and my tail twitched happily. The discussion presently moved to a weapon, and with Darren's input, I considered my stance. At Varyncia's question, I glanced down at one of my hands, clinging to the beautiful garment,

"Something small," I answered, "concealable, I think. My strength lies in being able to get close to a target and only needing one shot. I don't need anything when I shift, the felacatian war form is... adequate. "

I paused, chewing on my lip thoughtfully,

"I probably need something ranged, I'm deadly enough up close. But... I don't like having to rely on ammunition. I'm not exactly a black cat, but I have the luck of one. Do you think you could come up with something like that? Small, concealable, works on recharging a battery or something? I once read about these bows that were held by a reclusive cult of witches that could summon their arrow when the string was drawn back. That, but... smaller would be extremely cool."

As I spoke, I glanced towards Darren. He promised he'd teach me in whatever weapon I picked. With a slight shrug and meek smile of 'sorry I'm gonna make you teach me this', I turned back to the woman,

"Thank you, for this. Seriously. It's really... I think I needed this."





[member="Darren Shaw"]

 

[Delsin Shaw]

She was enthused with the new jacket. I had a feeling that it might have worked for her that way. However, I did not know that Varyncia had such a thing in her little shop. It intrigued me that she had so much. You never quite knew what you would get into if you just asked. There has been one time she didn't have what I want, so she said she would keep her eye out. And while she did follow up on it, I am sure she now gets all random kinds of stuff just because I might have a need for it, and she knows I would always return here.

"You still have that arsenal of Nightsister bows right?"
"That is such a good idea Val! I mean, its more so of a two handed tool, but I am sure I could find something that might work for yah! It may take a minute."

She stood there for a second more before leaving the presence of Val. Retreating around the counter and into a door that led into some storage room. Looking over the distance to where Val was, I nodded my head at her. Just easily speaking over the distance.

"Quite an eccentric person, but she knows pretty much anything to do with weapons, armor, clothing, and the like. She is pretty much a walking library worth of knowledge. Considering she is older than the Gulag plague, I would hope she would have that kind of knowledge."
"I HEAR YOU DARREN! ITS NOT NICE TO SHARE A WOMANS AGE!"
"Its not your exact age! Just relax. I am telling Val that you are to be trusted."
"OOOOOH YOU EVEN HAVE A PET NAME FOR HER! HOW CUTE!"
"Focus Varyn."
"Oh hush up. I already found what I needed."

Walking back around the counter, she came past me and walked over to Val. Presenting the first bow to her. It was a Recurve shape, shorter. Handing it to her she explained how it worked.

"So, pulling on the string, arms the bow. When you release, it fires the bolt. However, this one is about comparable to a pistol calibur. Which I honestly don't think would be bad. But there is better."

Pulling out behind her was a box. Barely a couple feet long, she opened it on the counter and then pulled out a folded bow. A quick punch motion forced the limbs of the bow to snap into position. It had a more pronounced curve, and was clearly a little heavier than the previous one.

"This one operates the same way, however it uses a special element called Isotope 5, which means the bolts are much more powerful, and can reach ranges that even your eyes couldn't see. The really cool thing about this one, is the fold up feature you saw. Allows you to carry it on your back with the right parts. and I know Darren can teach you to use one of these right?"
"I was a soldier in my past life."
"Yeah, but soldiers don't know how to use bows."
"I use a nodachi. A traditional sword of Atrisian, and Echani Kind. You think I wouldn't know how to use their weapons?"
"Fair point young man."
"Not young, but yes."
"Hey, you exposed that I was at least hundreds of years old. You are but a child to me!"
"Coming from likely the longest lived species?"
"You see this Val? Don't let him treat you like this. He doesn't know any better."

As she spoke up to Val about my actions, she walked over and placed a hand on my face. Acting like a mother wiping dirt from my face. Yet I had none. No, she just wanted to play around. While we had done so in the past, I was not in the mood, and due to my last... relationship, it wasn't going to happen. I gently grabbed her hand and shook my head.

"Oh... I forgot. I am sorry."

She pulled back just a little bit. Seeming sad for a moment. All before bursting up into an explosion back towards Val.

"If you want one or both, we can take them Val. Up to you. And is there anything else you would like?"
"Yes! He is right! You can have both, one, or neither of them. Or we can keep looking. Up to you!"

[member="Valrayne"],

 

[Faegard]

Darren suggested the Nighsister arsenal, and I watched with excited glee as the angel woman disappeared to fetch them.

I listened as he spoke about her, chuckling at her sudden reaction to his quip about her age. As the two bantered I leaned back against the counter, folding my arms with the jacket draped over them. She shot back about him having a pet name for me and I grinned, even though behind it I felt a tiny rush. Never had a pet name before. It was nice. I still wasn't his pet, though. No matter that he said.

As she returned with what she'd been looking for, I stood and approached to inspect them. The bows were beautiful, and as she pulled them out, I placed the jacket on the counter beside me and reached for them. Accepting the bow that was presented to me, I held it for a few moments, admiring its elegance and beauty. It was a graceful, almost feminine weapon. I'd love to--

Dammit.

I drew back the string, but winced as the limbs barely even went taut. Placing the bow back down, I rubbed my shoulder. My tail hung limply and my ears tilted back, I must have looked utterly defeated. They were gorgeous, but I couldn't even draw it back a little. I'd be useless with something like this.

"They're lovely," I murmured, somewhat deflated, "but perhaps just a blaster pistol or something would suit me a little better."

Instead, I observed the interaction between Varyn and Darren. There was a history there, for sure, and at one point, she seemed to touch close to something that unsettled him, as he silently shook his head. She turned back to me, the both of them offering me to take either or both of the bows. For a moment I felt like a newly adopted child, being offered gifts by gushing new parents to help me transition to some new life. I shuddered with discomfort... especially regard the thoughts I'd been beginning to have about--

ahem

"Thank you, both of you," I replied, "perhaps I'll focus on hand to hand combat for now, or train in my war form."

Finally, a smile,

"Darren, have you ever fought a giant cat?"





[member="Darren Shaw"]

 

[Delsin Shaw]

She didn't take to the bow very well. More so, the pull and draw strength. I smiled a little as her question for just some blaster pistol would do fine. Or even just resorting to hand to hand combat, or the like. Part of me wanted to easily point out how Val wasn't really using all of her frame to pull back on the bow, but something told me she didn't want it to begin with. I thought it over a bit as Varyn continued to ramble on.

"Oh I am sure you could do it hun. I mean, if we need to find some blaster for you I think we can find something. You said small and easy to carry right? Maybe we can get a hold out. No those have too many rounds. You don't want to have to keep reloading or what not. Something that can hold a number of them and just be used in last case scenario right?"

I had a feeling that all the weapons in this shop just wouldn't match up to what she wanted. All the weapons were stuff that was highly illegal like Phase Cannons, or Disruptors and the like. Heavy bulky weapons that could blow you apart in one blast. However, they weren't meant for her. Taking a step forward, I waved a hand at Varyn to tell her to let the subject go.

"I don't think you have what she is looking for. No disrespect, I feel like we don't quite know what would fit her style if you will."
"Oh I understand that hun. Well, Val, if you do find out, be sure to let me know. I have so many different suppliers that it wouldn't be a problem to find something for yah!"
"Thank you Varyncia. Val, is there anything else you can think of that you might want right now? If not, we can enjoy our time here while we can. Or we can go to the other shops around here and see what they may have."

I wanted her to feel in charge. I wanted her to understand that she could do what she wanted. I was not going to command her or make her feel like some servant of mine. She wasn't. However, I felt the need to... protect her. I would never admit it to her face, but in the small amount of time we had been together, her life had become more apparent to me. She was never really in any situation to have what she wanted or to just relax. She was always worried about her next meal, or where she would sleep next. Which is no way to live. Considering I had been in the same situation, I needed to fix this.

"You make the call. I am fine with whatever you want to do."

[member="Valrayne"],

 

[Faegard]

I felt my cheeks grow warm under my fur as the lovely angel woman continued to go on.

Why did I have to be so picky? I felt awkward and embarrassed, like some picky child who's parents tried to appease with a list of shiny toys. Maybe I was being too harsh. Although as I glanced to Darren, he seemed to have something of a knowing look in his eye, an understanding almost. He then proceeded to speak up, saying what I had wanted to but felt uncomfortable doing so. My fists un-clenched and I relaxed a little, nodding in agreement with him. Varyncia spoke to me and I nodded to her,

"I will, and thank you for all you've done."

Darren asked if I needed anything else, or if I just wanted to continue on.

This... gave me pause. He seemed to be emphasizing that I could make the call, that I wasn't beholden to him. For a moment I felt my gaze narrow, reflexively reaching out with the force towards his mind. Did he have some ulterior motive? Was this to lull me into some false sense of security? What did he want?

But I shook my head, banishing the thoughts. Why should it matter? Whether he had other plans or not, this was a chance to get to know him, to learn a little more about the mysterious man whose fate now tangled with mine. Picking up the beautiful, shifting jacket, I smiled, and turned to Varyncia,

"My lady," I began, "where would you recommend we go for a bite to eat?"

A pause,

"Darren does eat, right?"




[member="Darren Shaw"]