#rian kestavin

“Theron? Theron!” 

A woman’s voice called to him. At first a faint questioning tone before the scolding one. The mage held up a hand as he worked to finish the last page of his reading.

The table he worked at was covered in various literature, tome upon tomes of shadow magic and lore on old gods and obscene rituals. Not his usual reading and subjects far more vast than he’d realized. Stubble peppered his hagered face. It was anyone’s guess how long it had been since he’d left the library for more than air to stay awake.

Pale green hues turned meeting a furrowed gaze with a furrowed gaze, “Rian? What are you doing here?” Seeing the woman in Dalaran hadn’t happened for well over a year since she’d run off after her suspension from Light’s Hope.

“I had business and I hadn’t heard from you in over a week.” She stepped closer looking her twin over. “You can’t just disappear like that, not now, not with everything...”

“A week?” he blinked running his hands over his face. “Yeah.. sorry..” He spoke pulling himself out of the chair. It was as he looked Rian over he saw the look in her eyes. The look that said there was no good news to be had and in truth it was a look that seemed to come with the worst news. 

“What happened? Emilia? She’s alright? Val? Thaylynn?” He asked a sleep deprived voice heavy with concern.

She hadn’t the words herself and was quite tired of being gentle. She held out the letter. One that had mirrored her own, letters for intended for his eyes written in their mother’s hand. “We’ve got a lead. But we’ve buried the wrong bones.” The words came quiet and choked.

The magus looked at her confused but accepted the letter reading it over. Shoulders slumping when he finally put the pieces together. Without another word he dropped the parchment to the stack of books and moved to wrap his sister in a tight hug.

“Hey.. Hey you’re not alone this time, yeah? I’m here, Val’s here. Thaylynn... “ He tried to offer some sort of comfort despite feeling the infliction of the heartache. 

“I’m scared, Theron.” Rian choked out. “I’m scared.”

He’d never heard those words from her before. She was always the strong one, the fighter. It was a reaction enough that brought him a moment’s pause. There was a lot they needed to catch up on. A week had passed lost in research. For now it would wait.

Willow grove had come a long way in it's construction since a pair of fires brought it to it's foundations. House Teague washed away on the wind with the ash. After a year the first wing had been completed of a larger Chateau. A second wing and various additions of the vision  still yet to be completed.  As promised the Lord and Lady Kestavin had made the journey from Stormwind. Rian wishing to see first hand the progress being made on her brother's estate. Supplies had been slow to acquire with the war. What they could manage mostly came from a local mine or timber. It was a champagne vision on a the beer budget of what remained of House Valteric. 

Aside from the contractor and various workers, they were the first guests of the house. A lone fire burned heartily in their chambers, their bed void of Rian's presence. Whether sleep escaped her or not remained the question. The halls were new and missing their lord, her brother. The depth of the night settled further in the woods, the surrounding area vastly different from those in Alterac. 

The low rumble of thunder sounded in the distance as a swift breeze gave a good rattle to the windows.  All that remained of a trail were half opened doors leading to the foyer. A curtain of warm spring rain could be heard making it's way through the grove. Another gust of wind  and there came the heavy knocking of the door blown open, banging loud against it's holding wall. Just beyond the  threshold on the wide porch stood the Countess, still and staring out into the night in nothing more than her evening gown caught in the rain smattered wind.

“Can you hear them?” She whispered. “Can you hear the howling?”

Tagged By: @alliesweetsong-wra

Name ➔ “Rian Jessyn Kestavin.”

Are you single?➔ After a long pause, she gave a quiet, “No.”

Are you angry?➔ “Yes. At the moment anyway.”

Are your parents still married?➔ “They were.”

NINE FACTS

Birth Place ➔  “Ironforge, Mother had traveled to meet my father while he was on leave.”

Hair Color ➔ “Dark brown if not black, suppose it depends on the light.”

Eye color ➔ “Grey Green. More like my father’s eyes.”

Birthday ➔ “March third.”

Mood ➔ “Empty, angry... Mostly numb at the moment.”

Gender ➔ “Female”

Summer or Winter ➔ “Neither. I find most comfort in the spring and fall with more preference in the fall.”

Morning or Afternoon ➔ “Mornings, it’s about all what little time I get to myself.”

EIGHT THINGS ABOUT YOUR LOVE LIFE

Are you in love? ➔ "Yes or was” She shook her head, “Yes.”

Do you believe in love at first sight? ➔ “No, I believe thinking so is setting one’s self up for being hurt.”

Who ended your last relationship? ➔ “I did.”

Have you ever broken someone’s heart? ➔ “I have. I’ll forever hold a regret for it, but it had to be done.”

Are you afraid of commitments? ➔ “Whether I’m afraid of them or not I’ve not really had much choice. But no. I do try to be a woman of my word, and have a sense of purpose in committing to using my title to help others.”

Have you hugged someone within the past week? ➔ “My daughter.”

Have you ever had a secret admirer? ➔ “Not that I’m aware of.”

Have you ever broken your own heart? ➔ “I suppose I have in a sense.”

SIX CHOICES

Love or Lust ➔ “Love. Only if it’s real.”

Lemonade or iced tea  ➔ “Lemonade. I have a fond memory of time with a dear friend. I was having a bad day and he escorted me to a little festival for some fizzy lemonade with berries in it. Still one of my favorite drinks.”

Cats or Dogs? ➔ “I don’t see the point of cats. They’re cute to look at. But I enjoy the company of hounds better.”

A few best friends or many regular friends? ➔ “Personally I like the idea of a few best friends. But I think it’s been more of the latter. I suppose it’s reasonable to have both.”

Wild night out or romantic night in ➔ “I’m not sure I’ve got a wild night in me, but right now that would be my preference.”

Day or Night ➔ “Day, there’s little time to stop and over think. I enjoy keeping busy.”

FIVE HAVE YOU EVERS

Been caught sneaking out  ➔  “Yes. But not in a very long time. I was maybe nine or ten.”

Fallen down/up stairs ➔ “I’d like to say no, but I know Theron and I both tumbled a few times in Teague Manor.”

Wanting something/someone so badly it hurt? ➔ “This feels like a trick question. I’ve wanted things badly but I’ve gone out and gotten them or worked for them. If numb counts as a hurt, then I’d give my sword up for a bit of piece if I thought it would do any good.”  

Wanted to disappear  ➔ “Yes, it’s easily forgotten when busy though Move and work along enough to some it may seem you’ve disappeared.”

FOUR PREFERENCES

Smile or eyes ➔ “A smile.”

Shorter or taller ➔ “Taller I suppose. Though there have been times I wish I were shorter.”

Intelligence or attraction ➔ “Intelligence.”

Hook-up or relationship ➔ “Relationship.”

FAMILY

Do you and your family get along? ➔ "Most of the time There’s been a few bumps, everyone has those.”

Would you say you have a “messed up life”? ➔ “I’d like to say no But after the last three years I’m tired and probably more cautious than most my age.”

Do you consider all of your friends good friends? ➔ “I believe so. I’m probably the one who’s not been a good friend. I’ve had a hard time keeping in touch these past few months.”

Who is your best friend? ➔ “I’m not sure he knows, I’d probably say Beau. He may be a pain in the ass at times but he’s seen the good and bad and for whatever purpose still cares to converse with me, pick me up and make me laugh.”

Who knows everything about you ➔ “My twin brother, Theron.”

It wasn’t sorrow nor joy that filled the Countess’ features as she rode through the keep gates accompanied by three of the Ravenguard from the most recent patrol. Winter’s firm hold held in the northern passes leaving some simply impassible until the spring thaw. Numb as the cold and the blood that stained her blade were what had become the Countess. With a swift dismount, Rian barely slowed to pass Duke’s reins as she turned on heel towards the keep doors.

Pulling at the buckles of her gauntlets as she went, two officers quickly fell in step at her sides. “Have we received anymore news from Stromgarde?” Grey green hues shifted to the taller man to her right awaiting his answers. 

“The supply order was delivered. There’s been a request to make use of the infirmary.” He reported.

A sullen purse of her lips noted her contemplation before she’d nod. “Very well... Send word to Krovorn and Hargran for any medical supplies they’re able to spare. Get me a report of what we’re able to gather and what we’ll still need to acquire.” Pressing onward through the keep a pair of double doors were pulled open before her as she stepped into the war room, left to her own devices. 

Setting the gauntlets off to the side of the large carved table, a marker was moved from the image of one of the northern passes back to its place near the keep. Grey green hues lingered along the various markers making mental calculations of the resources that remained. If winter hadn’t done a number on the county the war certainly had. It could have been seconds or an hour that the Countess had been lost in thought. The constant bustle of keeping busy had diminished her realization of time.

It was the soft padding and the clearing of a throat that brought Rian back to the moment. The lilt of her gaze rested on the Magistrix taking up her place opposite the countess. With the bend of a knee to dip her curtsy, “My Lady. My apologies for intruding, I wondered if I might have a word?”

“Of course, you’re welcome to speak freely.” Rian answered.

In her hesitation to raise the delicate matter, Caterina rested the pads of her fingers over the edge of the table. Her index finger curling enough that her nail caught and idly picked at a small divot that lined the edge of the map. “I’ll not waste time sugar coating it my Lady... We can’t continue to pretend nothing is wrong.”

Rian’s gaze had returned to the map on the table though the magistrix words had her quickly questioning the permission to speak freely. “Of course things are wrong, there’s war and we’re caught with limited supplies growing more and more meek... I’m aware..” A slight tone of annoyance dripped from the words lacking in mirth. 

“That’s not what I’m speaking of and you know it, my lady. All do respect there is an order to things. Just because you don’t wish it to be does not make it so. It’s well over a month now since we’ve lost contact with the Lord’s patrol. He wasn’t at war, we know where he was...” Caterina’s own annoyance was but a ghost in her voice harbored behind hard truths and concern. 

“Normally I’d be the first to suggest exhausting all options. We’ve lost patrols before. Hazard of being so close to the Syndicate. I don’t like the idea of admitting he’s gone anymore than anyone else. There’s been no radio contact, no signs, and heavy storms. Rationally speaking if the syndicate has not... it’s likely the storms have.”

The hot ache stirred within Rian. Brows furrowed as her jaw clenched. While she looked to the war table avoiding looking to the magistrix. She wanted to argue that there was hope but that required more faith than she could muster. The frustration in the magistrix’s words sank heavy in her gut.

“No one is forcing you to leave. It’s merely that we will need to start making arrangements. At least considering them for the succession.” There was a roll to the magistrix’s lips, “Perhaps you and the babe can stop into Stormwind... I’d be happy to han-”

“No! How dare you..” Rian snapped cutting the woman off. “I’m not blind or ignorant, Caterina.” 

Raising her hands defensively, “I’ve not said you were, my lady.” Dropping her hands to fold at her front. “Consider it, is all I ask. Better to be prepared and not need it than need it and not be prepared. Think of your daughter.”

Rian’s features softened with a sadness, showing more emotion than she had in days. She didn’t want to accept the idea but knew Caterina was right. Had it been anyone else they’d have informed their family by now. When she finally mustered the nerve to lift her gaze towards the magistrix it was only to find the woman was gone. Shoulders slumped as Rian leaned her weight against the table. Two hot tears broke loose down her cheeks.

It was a chaotic rage that washed over where her faith was broken. The pieces that marked the county’s forces on the map soon violently strewn as she swiped across the table. More tears broke loose as the Countess let what she’d been hiding. Angry and hurt shouts filled the room, anything not bolted down soon turned over or thrown, leaving the guards to grant the doors a wide birth if not avoided all together. 

Hot embers crackled and popped in the fireplace burning a dull roar in the quiet of the morning. Rian had returned to the keep early through a portal that mirrored the one she'd left in the day prior. The Magistrix true to her word had delivered the message personally though the Countess had chosen to take the night in wake of shock and processing her thoughts. Sitting quietly in a private den of the keep, Rian watched the flames.  

Thaylynn knew. One of the guards had brought him word of Rian’s return. His body seemed to work against him, but gradually, he worked up enough energy to move. With the assistance of one of the staff, he was dressed in a simple white tunic, and a pair of black trousers, and a full body cloak for warmth. His left arm was in a sling, from strained and torn muscles, and he used a cane in his right hand for balance in his legs. His hair was still longer and disheveled, along with his beard. He’d had neither the time nor energy to see the keeps barber yet. With time and great effort, he’d made his way downstairs, the guards having directed him towards Rian’s location. The tap of the cane on the floor giving his presence away, as he stood in the doorway of the den, silent.

The clack of the cane on the hard stone had been enough to well glistening depths to Rian's eyes as her lips pursed firm and swallowed hard. Her gaze had remained on the fire withheld in some trepidation. The thumb that held her chin and index finger hooked over her lips fell away to clasp the book in her lap as a welcome distraction. Even if it was to simply set it aside.  Slowly rising up to her feet her hands smoothed over the front of her robe, more out of desire to keep them busy than actually needing to sort herself.

It was a pained and shaken look that finally rested on the lord standing in the door frame. Her nostrils flared under the mix of emotion she felt as crystalline drops streaked hot down cold cheeks. "I'd wondered if she was toying with me." She spoke in a dangerously soft hush. Her hands tightened in their hold, paling the edges of her already pale knuckles. Her jaw set firm. Though she'd taken the night to try and collect herself for his return, the sight of him truly there in the door seemed to have shaken any planned words  for the moment.

(( Written with @thaylynnkestavin || @ravenshollow-wra & @beau-wra for mentions/pertinence.))

What Color Is Your Soulmark?

The color you fit most is Green!

Loyal, down to earth, and friendly, the green personality type lives a “live and let live” lifestyle. They are calming to be around and choose to listen and observe more than they speak. This type tends to be a shoulder to cry on in times of need, and they often take care of others before themselves.

When working, they see the big picture instead of little details. This makes them lose faith in their projects if they’re moving too slow or not achieving what they want, and they often jump from topic to topic without meaning to.

Green soulcolors are emotionally intelligent, and they pay attention to body language and verbal cues. If you’re lying, they’ll be the first to know. They are honest about themselves and their motives, being the most sincere color out there. However, they are less likely to give themselves credit and often brush off compliments.

This color is people oriented and loves to be friendly. They are also people pleasers and don’t like to stir up conflict, and they will often choose to go along with an idea they hate as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone. Since they are so loyal, they don’t tend to see the bad in those they care about, and it often gets them into trouble when dealing with toxic people.

QUIZ HERE

Rian hesitated with the envelope in hand. Turning it over between fingers as she gave the decision one more thought. The weight heavy on her chest but it didn't change the circumstance, one she felt little faith would improve. Rosenfield had been assaulted and lost, war had begun, the warnings had all been there. With the initial strikes beginning, war seemed the better effort than one of lies and deceit.  Setting the note on the main desk in the Holt Embassy, with the Holt tabard and communicator. 

To the Matriarch & Other Privy Council of House Holt:

I want to thank you for offering House Valteric aid. For allowing me a place to be useful and to learn this past year. The time with your family has been one I will forever value and appreciate. It is, however, with a level of regret, that I find need to submit my resignation as Marshal of the Lionsguard. 

As I’m sure you’ve seen by now, war stirs at the precipice, the warnings no longer idle. I myself encountered the Forsaken in Stranglethorn. My brother’s holds in the north have also tasted the beginning pains. And now the assault in Ashenvale. With all that stirs taken into consideration as well as previous efforts to bring the Lionsguard to a cohesive force in the name of Holt, there is little more I can do to see to it’s success. 

Secondly, the issue of lies and secrecy. I am well aware that’s how most work their politics, but I personally strive to hold myself to an open communication. To have a Captain lie and not only admit to his secrecy but that he would do it again, leaves no room for trust. I could replace him, but he would still do as he likes with disregard to those charged with the safety of the house. Or I can step aside and leave you all to your preferred conspiracy. 

I leave open the offer of aid between our houses. I still hold Holts in a warm regard. Should war or trouble stir on your doorstep, House Valteric and House Kestavin are but a summons away and happy to help if we’ve the means to do so. 

                                               Light Bless,

OOC: All the love for House Holt Peeps. It’s been an amazing year! Rian’s story has simply grown and taking her a different direction. It’s gotten more an more difficult to justify an IC reason for her to stick around. And so with the building tensions and recent events she will be moving on to new goals.