The night was growing old, and much of the quaint town of Oak had already settled into their beds. But not the Swineherd Pub. While you couldn't call it bustling, the pub still had its number of patrons, quieter now with the rowdy crowd either drunk under the tables, turned in for the night, or unceremoniously kicked out. This atmosphere at least suited the cloaked figure sitting at a corner table, unlike the earlier one.

The figure had been sitting in this bar for three nights in a row, in the same spot if it was available; if not, one that also gave him a good view of the door of the establishment. His cloak did not cover his face or head, which would be far too suspicious, leaving a handsome face looking to be in his mid to early 20s, holding sharp gold eyes framed by violet hair visible to any who decided to glance his way. Every night he had ordered a simple glass of white wine and drank it slowly throughout the evening, tipping the bartender generously each time as an apology for taking up a table while spending so few jewels. The bartender never minded, though, because while the young man simply read a book while he was alone, he also seemed to happily accept the company of anyone who joined them, often buying those people drinks. He even spent a good portion of the first night with a drunk stranger crying on his shoulder and skillfully de-escalated the situation when the woman's ex-boyfriend tried to fight him. Right now, though, the young man was left alone with his book and near-empty glass of wine.

That young man is Jean-Auguste Toussaint, formerly known as August Auclair, now most commonly known as August Toussaint, a Rune Knight. The cloak was, of course, used to hide that fact since he was warned that Oak, despite its peaceful atmosphere, was home to an illegal guild that August did not want to get the attention of. Of course, if someone did something blatantly illegal in front of him, he would step in, but otherwise, he'd been advised to leave Phantom Lord be (which he was going to do anyway; he wasn't an idiot. Best to live now so he can report later). Thankfully his face was not well-known outside of Seven, so as long as he covered his Rune Knight uniform and mark, he would be fine. It shouldn't matter since he wasn't on duty, but dramatically revealing yourself to be a member of law enforcement had its benefits.

But for the last night, he was only acting as his new title: Heir to the Toussaint Family. And despite his... trepidation over this task, August was determined to see this through.

So he sat in this dingy bar, waiting for his target to finally show.

WC: 486

There was many things not on Elise mind as she linger in these parts. But what all was to come from here was not on her mind or in plans at all. Over all these things were all things Elise adjusted to as she was in the moment. With the sound of her mana bike stopping as she parked it. Walking into the build with the smoke of her cigarette seemingly slowly misting out of her mouth.  

Elise had gotten some what content here, only because it had things she liked. But Elise was never fully comfortable in any spot that people could easily find her if they knew how she worked. At times it annoyed her because it meant targets could easily avoid. Alas that was not important at the time plotting and configuring many other things was. So was drinking but Elise had different habits that anyone in Fiore figured was normal of her but anyone who knew of her in Minstrel would almost fine a paradox to what she was raised to be.

But that was entirely story, one that many people did not know for a reason. Back to what she was actually doing upon entering the build she stopped and flick the butt of her cigarette and merely quickly pulled another out and lit it quickly. Walking over to stool where there was not enough people to start laying out some things she was writing and documenting at the time. She was on the trail of a few things. After flaging down a barkeeper she then placed a decent size amount of jewel to them. A few minutes after she was given a glass and a fairly tall bottle of wine. With out even thinking about it Elise pulled out a knife, stabbed the cork and pulled it out and poured herself a glass.

Elise's mind was in her work at this time. Her eyes looking upon all of the pages neatly written in minstrel like anyone would expect her to write it in. Any smart person who could read minstrel could easily see pages that where actual serious information of things she was doing and other pages of. lines of warning that if your reading this and understanding it you either need to go away and mind your own business, Move along and say nothing.  Or avert your eyes quickly before getting caught. All and all a normal evening set up for some one here to slaughter gods, angels, demon and other assortments of beings that seemed to be ever expanding.

But she would casually sip her glass of wine, while reading through her pages, then getting a pen and going for a inhale from her cigarette. Everyone else at the bar seemed to not even pay attention to Elise even if she in some manner almost stood out like a sore thumb, There might be a reason for that but not everyone knew.

WC:491

August was on the verge of giving up, again, and heading to his inn room when the door silently swung open. The atmosphere of the inn subtly changed, and August knew his mark had arrived. He only risked a glance to confirm, since he found powerful mages often had a 6th sense for lingering stares. And oh yes, this mage was powerful. He already knew from rumors and his more reliable sources that this was a woman who could and has felled divine beings, but a part of him didn't believe it until he felt his magic respond, and his hair stood on ends. His magic, still weak from primarily working a desk job, almost felt like it uncharacteristically curled into itself in defense. Glancing at the rest of the pub as they went back to their own business, he could tell she may not even be doing it on purpose, and it may be August's own 6th sense reacting to someone unfathomably stronger than him.

From his glance, the woman had wine-red hair and a black coat over her shoulders. The exact description his sources had given him to help in his search, which wasn't hard since she was so famous. It was harder to find her general location than finding out her habits so he would 'run into' her in a neutral location. It was extra hard since this was a personal quest rather than a Rune Knight one, so he had to be careful in using his work connections.

Because this woman wasn't a target; she was a recipient of a letter his mother had entrusted him to deliver personally. 'Elise of Paradise Dawn and her sister Anais,' she had said, face blank in that careful way August knew was meant to hide how his mother felt about this task. Still, she had otherwise presented it casually so it wasn't until later that August realized this task would be more difficult than he initially thought.

Still, she was here and August was not a coward. He got up from his chair to approach her.... then promptly sat down when she stabbed the cork.

Halfway through her cigarette, August figured the other mage had relaxed somewhat and got up to try again, leaving his wine glass but bringing the thick text he had been reading about an ancient scholar criticizing some religious teachings. Not that he had been actually absorbing any words the last few minutes. He then attempts to casually walk to the other end of the room, annoyed at himself for being so... off about a meeting that will most likely not take more than a few minutes before they part ways again.

So, with his mother's orders on his mind, August slides into the seat beside the woman and gives her a gentle but friendly smile he uses to disarm others. "Good evening Ms. Elise," he greets, body language casual and open. "I apologize for disturbing you, but I am here to deliver a letter. It contains two letters, one for you and one for Ms. Anais." And with great relief, he slides the letter, made up of high-quality paper and simply states the sister's names in elegant handwriting, over the countertop to the woman. He puts great effort into keeping his eyes on her face, beautiful if cold and oddly familiar in a way he can't quite pin down, especially her eyes. Anyway, the most important part of his task was finally done. Now all he had to do was wait for her to read the mysterious letter and see if she had a reply to his mother. Easy. His job was practically already done, and he almost felt the urge to relax.

Little did August know that his fate was about to take yet another turn.

WC: 643

There was an odd feeling in the bar when August was brave enough to face his task head on. But as he spoke Elise learned a few important things. He used the proper speak and everything yet Elise starting this man in the eyes had a looked almost like she was if anything not annoyed bu curious while over all annoyed seemingly bothered some one was bugging her. Suppose there was nothing that could be done about it at this point letting out a bit of a annoyed sigh."No one is actually sorry for bugging me."Elise said right away.

She would take both letters sliding the one for her sister aside, She would take the same knife used to open the bottle of wine, opened the letter casually smoking not caring if any of it ended up in the path of August's lungs because that was just how Elise was not days, far gone was entirely proper lady of minstrel. Almost like why August was welcomed to the family might have been shown in some manner through her actions. She seemed to read the letter in detail making sure to take her time reading it through completely.

Then she looked at the letter to Anais for a moment almost like she was about to do something to it."Your awfully causal for some one who is suppose to be my family."Elise mentioned so casual like it almost disappointed her in some manner that he was so closed off. Suppose she did not blame him for thinking that way. Then after she closed the letter took her cigarette and pointed the ashes at a pointed end of the letter and lit it ablaze this letter was stupid and she knew it it was stupid to give her it.

Then simply said."I hope she doesn't want a reply because my only answer to tell her to take a long walk off of a short pier."Elise retorted about the letter almost like as important it was to one it was completely pointless to her. August was now in for a fun time. Elise got up from her chair and took a massive sip her glass of wine and simply said."Well, I would start talking if I where you. How are you and I related?"Now Elise had to ask him questions and if he counted himself lucky or smart he would start answering.

She had other questions on her mind at the time she doesn't wanna ask a few of things since she had a feeling about it that being information she did not know if it was things he knew or not. Over all encase she would keep to herself while she too time to get to know him a bit better before tearing him a good and the bad of them. maybe there was a chance this was not as bad as she first thought of it. she just needed to give them a chance.

WC:503

August waited patiently while the woman picked up the letter and began to read it, only smiling apologetically at her words about bugging her. August guessed that if she was so bothered, she would have no issues removing his person from her space, so he guessed she was either letting it slide or not truly that bothered at all.

But honestly, August was a tad annoyed that despite being trained in reading people, he honestly could not get a whiff of emotion or thought off her face. It was as still and cold as a statue, even as she read the letter and looked up at him. Thankfully, August had his mask to hide behind.

But as the woman said her next words, the ones mentioning family, August felt his mask slip for a moment. In a flash, the polite smile fell off his face to show genuine shock and confusion before firmly morphing back into a polite apologetic smile. But his eyes showed that he was thinking hard and fast, before visibly widening as she burned the letter.

Then he fought off a negative reaction as this woman insulted his mother. It was okay. It was fine. August was fine. People had insulted his mentor to his face plenty of times, and he knew the best thing to do was not show your anger because those were the kind of emotions others could take advantage of. So August mentally swallowed the indignity trying to burst and continued in vain to give this... family member? An entirely fake smile befitting the Heir of the Toussaint family and right-hand man of Major Aegeus of the Rune Knights.

But he was struggling to answer her question, trying to get his thoughts in order. What did the letter say? They were related somehow? Was his mother testing him? Yes, it must be a test, August decided. The Major had tested him as well. But how could he pass? But before him was probably a pissed-off incredibly strong mage demanding answers from August he blatantly didn't have, which honestly seemed like the more immediate problem. So despite it wrangling his pride, the best bet was to show his metaphorical belly and show this woman he wasn't a threat and knew jack. Not his favourite move, but his mother and the Major didn't have to know, mostly if he passed the test in the end.

Putting on a rather lost expression, one not entirely insincere, that showed off his youth more, August simply said, "I greatly apologize, Ms. Elise, but I haven't the faintest clue. I'm just the messenger, you see, and have recently joined the family, thus am still getting familiar with all branches of it." He said with as much sincerity as he could muster because for once it was the sincere answer if a bit padded with politeness. His guess right now is that Elise is from a branch family, and his mother was testing how he can handle the wild cards of the Toussaint's.

WC: 511

With how he spoke Elise wanted to assume this man was a fool, But alas she knew that was not the case. He was blind and intentionally left in the dark about a few things. She would stop the burning of the latter and check over what all was there, It was wordy that was for sure but the main points where there."I guess I should not be shocked mother wouldn't tell you. After all that would not work for her advantage wise."Elise said so casually she was not hiding that she kind of piece together this whole thing pretty quickly.

Then merely offered him her letter."Thus I expose you to the realities of what joining this family means and what all you could merely just taste getting into it."Elise then waited for him to take it and read it. As well in some manner with out saying it. She insisted he read this letter and take in this information. Then she would take another sip of her wine and slowly just be sure he knew fully well what was going on. Elise was not going to really let him go until he read it.

Then she simply said."I don't shoot messengers, So you are lucky there."Elise said it was the closest thing to a joke she would ever say here even if it was still cold and deadpan she was in some manner equally as serious about what she was about to say. "But I would feel bad if you end up as a pawn in a scheme that ruins lives."Still leaving out that if there was a letter for Anais and it was given to her Anais might have left minstrel as well and she did not know where yet.

Elise was willing to gamble Anais was either in Fiore looking for her. Or a place so far away waiting for Elise to pick up her trail and fine her. Both smart things that would be logical."So, Your either adopted or my mother had some large scale plan and did some....vow breaking desires of lust and kept it well hidden."Elise had theories but she was waiting for something to  be given to her so it could be actually logical while insulting her mother in the most typical Elise way possible.

But none the less Elise did not seem to be interested in stinging August much like she was interested in stabbing her mother so to say."Well, Do you want something to drink or am I just going to seem like I am a horrible bitch with no manner smoking and drinking in front of you."Elise not entirely trying to show self loathing did have a sense of self reflection and knew in some manner how she could considered at times. So to get him comfortable she offered. At least she was not leaving him high and dry he had some chance around her currently.

WC:500

August frowned at being offered the partially burnt letter, not wanting to read something he had a sense was not for his eyes. But since the recipient was offering, and said recipient was also eyeing him like he was a rabbit and she was a wolf, August took the letter and began to read. And then a grimace appeared on his face.

Athena damn him; his guess was off the mark. August's mind was reeling. The letter was wordy in the way nobles tended to write, but reading between the lines was easy enough for him. The basics of the letter were his mother writing to Elise, basically disowning her and announcing August as her and Anais's much better replacement as the heir to the Toussaint family. A clear slap to the face. August was frankly impressed by how little she reacted to reading this. Because August understood what was happening now, or could take a good guess. This woman and her sister are August's half-siblings, disinherited. His mother made him her new heir, and to test his resolve had him deliver this letter stating so. She must know Elise well enough that his life was never in danger but also used this as a way to check his courage, like the Major did in the past. Unpleasant, but fair on her part, considering how much she valued the Toussaint name.

To confirm this theory, Elise mentions she means him no harm. The atmosphere was deeply awkward and uncomfortable now as August let himself have a moment of weakness and cart the hand not holding the letter through his hair wearily. He pushed the letter back towards Elise. August wanted to retort he was no pawn but held his tongue for now.

As Elsie continued to talk, August studied her face. They didn't look alike but... yes, they had the same eyes and chin. But Elise looked more like their mother, while August mostly took after his father.

When Elise finishes, August grimaces again and begins to explain with great reluctance. "Ah, yes, my apologies. It seems we were both kept in the dark about some important factors." He didn't entirely trust this woman since there must have been a good reason for his mother to disown her daughter. But... his old, horribly naive dream. Sisters. Family. This at the very least deserved some digging while Elise was still willing to indulge him. Also, she probably deserved to know, even if August was ashamed of the topic.

"Yes, you would be correct, unfortunately... my birth was not an expected one." He says, looking down at the table with a blank expression, before looking up to meet her eyes with an apologetic smile. "Ah, I never introduced myself, did I? I was born to the name August Auclair but have taken on the name Jean-Auguste Toussaint after our mother found me again. I usually go by Private August Toussaint of the Rune Knights. It's a pleasure to meet you despite the, hm, unexpected circumstances." He says amicably before painfully switching topics with a face like wood. "Yes, I was born out of wedlock. I apologize if that brings you any distress. After giving birth to me, our mother gave me to my father as a means to protect me from the Toussaint's enemies while I was still vulnerable. My father wanted nothing to do with her and raised me on his own, which she respected. Unfortunately, things in my life went... well, there were changes when I was young, and our mother lost track of me. It was only when I earned regard as a Rune Knight that she was able to find me again, and welcomed me in the family with open arms." He explains to Elsie as if he was tearing off a bandaid.

"And yes, another glass of wine would be lovely, thank you." He finishes off lamely, desperately trying to maintain his mask, and probably failing. In a desperate attempt to move the conversation on he asks; "Why have I not heard of you or Anais before?" Which he regrets instantly.

WC: 693

As cruel as it was, Elise reflected their mother this way. Cruel, Quick and hard hitting actions and twists. It made Elise hard to guess. There was a difference now. Elise did not seemed like she viewed this as a one up or a means of being pleased about it. If anything it almost seemed to annoy her that it was something that did not have to do with him and he was getting dragged into it. Thus Elise then continued burning the letter. Her manners seemed to improve as she smoked she seemed to try to make sure none of it ended up in his path. Small things at first that showed that Elise might be a stranger but she cared.

A Blunt statement left her lips."Well, first thing I will suggest to you. Don't ever take up smoking...it's a horrible habit."Being very aware she was saying this while smoking but she hoped he would consider it a humorous statement. Then a bit of a shock factor might showed that Elise might be a bit harsh, that she was not that horrible. She would walk to her now known Half-brother. After putting her cigarette out and left away from him and gave him a rather light hug then after it was over took a few steps back and patted him on the shoulder.

Then she would look at him in the eyes and simple said."Welcome to the  Toussaint Family dear brother, You would have been far safer to have never joined it."Elise said for the starting of her statements while she took a sip of wine."A family ran by our mother's desire to become high standing in person of the power system Minstrel has, As high as she can."It was always a power struggle either rule over everyone in the family or think about how one could become the strongest house hold in minstrel.


Even then it seemed Elise would point something out."None of what happen here is your fault to start with...You didn't know."Elise went from seemingly a hostile strange to a fairly understanding person in a small amount of time but Elise also knew trust would need to be built over time. Elise was trying to build that trust for August had a lot of the world to learn and he was most likely in her mind currently not prepared for it.

So when Elise got another glass, She almost like she was equally trained to the bar staff in the inn with them, Poured the glass of wine perfectly with out a risk of spelling and offer it to him."Your father was right you leave away from mother, It saved you from a horrible life you did not need to live."While she took a drink of her wine she had to ponder how to politely phrase what she needed too next.

After all he had not heard either of them."When your both disgraces of the family and being under the thumb of some one who just wanted to rule and be on top...the ones who fail you are abandon quickly."Elise said because it seemed to be the cause, not admitting she was the first to run."Thus is easier to never mention us."That was Elise's theory she could be entirely wrong but she just felt it made the most sense at the time."Anais and I do not want to follow mom's wishes. I ran. Thus disowned."She did not mention Anais only because she did not know.

WC:605

August gave a weak chuckle at Elise's smoking joke, distracted enough that he missed her moving until she was directly beside him. He instinctively tensed as this stranger, turned half-sister, wrapped an arm around his shoulders, giving a light squeeze before patting his shoulder and walking away. August gave her a look that, to his shame, was probably akin to a spooked small animal. Thankfully he didn't flee, but that... hug didn't help his still reeling mind or emotions. One new emotion was rather strange and fuzzy, which he immediately attempts to stomp on. Athena, he hadn't been hugged in... well, did romantic partners count? Probably not like that. The best his mother did was pats on the cheek or squeezes on the hand when he did particularly well, which August always shamefully soaked up. Otherwise? No. He was too formal with comrades for friendly hugs, Major Aegeus only ever did friendly shoulder claps, and his father when he was alive wasn't ever overly affectionate past head pats. He would admit this to no one, but that was probably the first platonic or familial hug he's had since he was very young.

But Elise's words brought him out of the spiral that hug put him in. "I am aware. I wish for the same thing in the Rune Knights, ambition and prestige to rise in ranks." He sort of defends their mother, half-heartedly, since he's still distracted. "And I have been with the Rune Knight for 8 years, ever since I was 10. My mentor, Major Aegeus, is a diplomat. I am aware of the dangers in the world of politics, and well-trained." He defends a bit more adamantly, not sure WHY he's telling Elise so much so easily. Oh dear Athena, she's gotten under his skin. He practically winced at her words of it not being his fault, the words a tad too close to some of the truth he feels.

"I don't necessarily agree with that," he grumbles when she mentions his father. She didn't know him, the dangers in the slums, the loan sharks, the starvation. Compared to that, the life of a noble sounded much better. But... Elsie seems to be giving him the benefit of the doubt so she deserves at least that.

But she and Anais were disowned for being disgraceful failures, huh? Well, both Mother and the Major had very high expectations, so August wasn't surprised that those going against the grain would be disposed. That's just how it was, and August knew well that if he grew too rebellious that it could happen to him. But would take quite a bit of rebellion because Mother and the Major cared quite a lot about him. But August does wonder what Elise wasn't telling him because the paladin could tell there was much more to this story. But he wouldn't ask; he didn't want to anger Elise or drive her away. He'd figure it out sooner or later.

"I... see. I'm sorry. I hope you're doing better now, and know I'll help you keep your freedom, if you wish it. The burden of the heir is one I'm completely capable of bearing." He says with confidence, looking at the wine as he swirls it around in its glass. "What do you want me to tell Mother? I, at the very least, need to tell her I delivered the letter." He says, taking a sip of wine. "But... maybe not about this conversation. Or future ones, for now. Because I want to..." August trails off, not sure how to put his next words. "I want to- I would be happy if we could meet again in the future." He finishes lamely, before continuing in a rush. "But we both know Mother may disapprove. I need more time to ease her into the idea of continued contact between us." The young man says, confident Elsie understands what he means.

WC: 653

It seems that were going to share parts of their life story, the better question in Elise's mind was. Would this man even remotely be ready for what his half sisters both experienced in life? She assumed not but maybe it would make a few things clear for him."Think on this for a moment will you dear brother."It was general statement to get him to ponder more on other people's life rather then his own since he seemed to centre around only himself. Where Elise thought about a lot of other people already fairly openly, Even factoring in August himself. Which was still a bit odd to him most likely. So she would add in her own life experiences.

"You are not aware of what cycle your added into is are you?"Elise asked this looking at him right in the eyes to piece together if he would lie to her or not. Any answer that was yes. Was most likely a lie and she could easily call him out on it but was merely letting him answer how comfort he felt. Elise was going to let him knows them and let him take it in. After his answer she merely stated."At that age mother was beating in playing the piano into my brain, either verbally or from flogging with a wooden stick."Elise dropped that right away. There is a reason why she could seem so tough while caring at the same time."That was after beating how to be lady like into me. Before being into looking perfect and knowing how to cook with out flaws."Elise mentioned this so casually and almost like she was jokingly saying her life was in some manner was easier and she was mocking the situation poking fun at herself for her such easier life compared to August.

When in some manner they both had it rough. But Elise almost saw him being prideful and stupid enough to want to bare being an heir of the family head on. When Elise wanted me to walk away free from it. But if he wanted to tell mother anything she almost wanted to piss her off and not leave her a reply."You can tell her I burned the letter in front of you and said nothing."Elise now had to hope August was a good boy and actually passed that on exactly how she stated. It was for his safety mostly she stated it that way. It was saving him whatever mood their mother could feel if Elise spoke that. So Elise would plant being almost a haunting spectre that lingered in her background to echo forever in her mind that she hated her.

Any advantage was one she would not get form Elise, Elise knew these games.Almost like she was not trying to provoke more reactions from him but making sure he knew she cared about him. Being they both where the same height Elise then much like any minstrel person would do for people they deeply cared about kissed both of the cheeks on Augusts face."Keep our conversations and meeting a secret, Mother must not know for a reason."Elise made sure that was clear. Most likely affecting him in some manner again.

Then let out a sigh and simply said."Even if she doesn't ease into the idea, You need to be free to do whatever you want too...that is the beauty of life in front of you."Elise kind of continue to try and push for him to be free and to walk around freely but part of her assumed he was not going to get it. Merely hoping he did.

WC:621

August pauses at Elise's request for him to listen and focuses his attention. First, he frowned at her once again saying he couldn't handle himself, then tried to hide his discomfort. Mother... beat her? Now, August knew pretty well that despite the image he tries his best to portray himself as, the archive mage was not the most moral of people. Working under a diplomat, and even a policing body, sometimes involved dirty work. Nothing illegal, but... immoral. Mostly petty back-stabbing politics, manipulation, gaslighting with a dab of espionage, but still things he would have to be a fool to say it was something a good little Rune Knight should do (even if it was for the greater good of the organization). Still, a child being beaten? Well, it's not like he hasn't seen it happen, mostly while he was growing up in the slums. Also, frankly, he wasn't surprised a noble would do such a thing, since he had no grand expectations for a noble's character, even the Toussaint's. But the idea that the woman who has treated him so kindly, his Mother, supposedly treated his half-sister so cruelly (maybe even Anise?)? It had an emotion he always did his best to ignore squirm in his stomach.

Now, the fact that Elise could be lying to purposely turn August against their mother who disowned them briefly crossed his mind. But August just as quickly dismissed the idea. For one, Elise seemed to be the prideful type who would see this sort of thing as a shameful past show of weakness, especially since she was now a powerful mage. So that means her admitting it meant 1. it was probably true, and 2... the fact she was admitting it to August, the bastard half-brother meant to replace her that she just met, meant Elise was showing weakness simply to help August. A powerful woman who looked like she would sooner swallow glass than be vulnerable did that. For him. Of course, the paladin just met her, and she was rather affectionate with him so far, but his gut told August he was on the mark. but even so... "I believe you. And I'm sorry you went through that. But... I need to do this." He says with determination. "I want to become the next head of the family. I'll- I will make sure they stay away from you since that is what you want and deserve, but please don't take this away from me." He says the last part quietly. It was incredibly selfish and even dangerous, mostly in light of the abuse Elise was put through, but... he wanted a mother. He wanted a relationship with her. And what kind of son would he be if he didn't even try? "But... we can still meet, right? I won't tell Mother anything about you, and won't mention her or the family in front of you again. Just..." He feels more pathetic than ever saying this, so just trails off and refuses to say anything more.

So he just nods, relieved at her words since he can tell Mother that. Then he blinks in surprise when Elise kisses his cheeks. He's done les bises before, even recently, but this one felt more... loaded after their conversation. So much that he was too shocked still to even return it, staring wide-eyed at the huntress. He subconsciously knew then that he had already begun to grow incredibly attached to Elise. Fully admitting it was another thing altogether.

WC: 602

In some manner this was over all enough Elise had merely gotten her point done and shown out. She was unsure how else to express her point anymore with out almost beating it to death. Thus She was start seemingly letting it go at this point even if she wanted to say anything else more indepth to what she was subject too. Just because one was better off in higher standing did not mean all of them had a good life. Elise had made that a point for a reason. "Good, Keep these that mention of action. As well as what could be left unknown to. In your heart while talking to our mother."She seemed to slightly almost like she was putting on a front of being happy about being believed, but in some manner it was almost like letting all this out was some kind of small relief to Elise personally just she did not want to out right state it.

In some manner Elise was a weapon made by her mother, But also the key to her down fall. She raised Elise perfectly in the manner in which she wanted too. But most likely did not consider that Elise would want to be her own problem. She would just stick to being free while August wanted to go into that life. Elise being the older sister she was. Still would suggest things for the better of his life."I will not keep you from what you desire August."Since everyone was free to choose Elise wanted him to be sure he stated that."Chase your wishes and dream. But keep in mind you should know what your getting into and my part is limited."For now August seemed to almost be spared Elise wanting to just add more into these flames of how dangerous this could be to him.

But if anything, Elise was going to make sure no matter what she kept up to date with August this man was not going to be left behind."Consider this your big sisters first promise. Your choices in life will be respected and I will not stop you from them."Elise would at least make it clear that he could do these things and Elise was not judging him but with Elise there was always more to add into the promise in some manner and she would mention it soon.

Then she would mention the adding part. Making sure yet again to stare at him in the eyes while she was talking to continue some kind of guess on how he might think of it."But in return, Whatever you may speak to me about it is my duty as your family to look out for you, If I must protect you in some manner weather you like it or not. Mention it or not. I will do it. I do not care if you want my help or not."Elise said so bluntly to make sure he knew that.

Elise would do many things to make sure August was safe, She left it vague what all that would be intentionally. Elise was bold so as she continue her smoke and had a sip of her wine then she put out her right hand and extended her pinky out, As childish as it was such thing was a point. They where half even if brother or sister. Family promises where different."I will keep you safe, not matter who I have to rough up or even dead the life off."Yes she was willingly admitting she would murder some one for him."Consider it a pinky promise."It was still but made her point.

WC:603

August nods at Elise's words, taking a calming breath. He is glad she isn't upset at his refusal to stay away from their mother. He feels much less wary of her now that they have gotten to know each other better, though he is still aware of how strong she is. Most of all, August is humbled that she opened up to him like this, obviously for his sake.

"I do know what I'm doing," he reassures her, giving her a small, genuine smile. "And thank you for respecting my choices." Her promise is already unique to him. All past figures he followed and admired did care for him, but with them—Mother, the Major—there were expectations to that care. Roles and responsibilities to fill. Elise, though... Well, maybe such things will come from her one day.

That expectation is almost fulfilled when she starts with 'But in return...', which almost makes him feel relieved for a moment. Expectations in return for kindness are something he is used to, something he can handle. But it seems like this sister of his enjoys baffling him nearly every time she opens her mouth. August can only gaze at her in almost awe. Is that... a vow of protection? "We have just met!" he protests, cheeks red. "You barely know anything about me, only that I report and care for someone you hate! I can't accept this!" he practically blurts out, his usual grace and diplomacy thrown out the window. He is staring at the pinky finger almost with dread, definitely disbelief. "What if I betray you, or fail you? Just because we're related by blood... Why are you doing this?" he asks almost desperately.

WC: 285

Elise almost wanting to say in the most sassy and witty was possible that he had no idea what he was doing and he was just going to most likely wing it entirely with results that might only make him lose his pretty blue hair. In some manner Elise did have a lot of self reflection in some manner she was even thinking of somethings right now that was in some manner self reflection. After all yes she just met this man but she was already committing to look out and watch over her newly found baby half brother. For his own mental well being. Elise would not ever call him baby brother yet. Not unless she really needed to stab him verbally with it."If your as your showing yourself to be you won't do anything to slight me, I won't do anything to slight you. Seems pretty simple."Elise said this while sipping her glass of wine waiting for him to choose to it or not.

Then putting her glass of wine down and since losing track of her current cigarette, just merely got another one and lit. Elise was being smug enough to not put her arm or pinky finger down either."I am doing this because it is right, I would do this to anyone who is trying to live their life that is my family, I trust you enough to admit willing to murder some one to a Rune Knight....What motives do you consider me having brother?"She asked him seriously in this continued stared down, Yes it was embarrassing him slightly but Elise was making a point.

But Elise would be wise enough to make the point clear."Tell me August, How does one gain trust with in each other? One need to starts it to build it up. This is me trying the starting point."She figured she did not need to explain anymore and waited. August was not getting away from the pink promise until he outright refused or accepted.

August just gives a large, if shaky, sigh At Elise's words, his forehead resting on one hand braced on the barkeep. 'Of course, I'd overlook a claim you're going to kill someone for me as long as I can justify it as an exaggeration!' He almost fumes in his head. He wasn't angry at Elise, just so incredibly overwhelmed that his emotions went haywire. It was easier to be angry or frustrated compared to the other emotions he was feeling. "Once again, I am working with our mother, AND I'm a Rune Knight. You trusting me makes no logical sense!" He snaps at Elise, then practically chokes on his tongue at her last words.

Because he doesn't know the answer, August thinks, frowning at the bartop's wood. But her's made sense he supposed. Frankly, if she was anyone else, August would be incredibly suspicious of her intentions for being so generous with him. But... for some reason, August trusted his new sister. It was still shakey trust, but it was there. August wonders why, then flashes of memories of siblings playing, fighting and defending each other, instances he'd seen growing up in the slums as a Rune Knight, flash in his head. The memories of always being incredibly jealous of those types of relationships, as he had been with viewing any type of loving family. Envy that was so strong and hot that it sometimes felt like he was burning from the inside out. And while he was loathe to admit it, she was offering exactly what he always wanted. He couldn't say no. No part of him was strong enough for that.

August stares at the wood in front of him intensely, chewing at his bottom lip as he goes over this entire meeting again in his head, then an almost frightened glance at Elise's still stretched pinky. A strong emotion flashes across his face before lowering his head further to use his bangs to block it from Elise. In a beat of silence, August's shoulders shake minutely, before he twists his head in the exact opposite direction from where Elise is sitting, still looking down. At the same time, he slowly raises a shaking hand to Elise and sticks out his pinky. "... You are a very annoying person to argue with." He says in a bit of a choked voice.

WC: 404

these games where ones August would have to get use too, If anything Elise was taking it fairly easy on him even warning him in her own way."If you think I am hard to deal with, Then you have a lot to learn dear brother."August was young so if anything he still had a chance for many things. If anything after making they pink promise Elise would show that her stubbornness was not foolishness, It was just in some manner just massive gambles she knew that could work for her.

Then she would get up from her chair knowing very well she was about to annoy in him some what. Stopped in front of where his face was hiding with the oddly most gentle of touch of his face. Slowly guiding him to look at her in the eyes."Risks are many things we must take in life, I am equally prepared mentally even if my trust is broken but want to have faith in you to start with,Not just for you to believe."She pause for a moment because for once Elise would show a bit of vulnerability."But so I can get myself to actually trust other people as well August."It would be odd to mention but the entire point was Elise was doing this so she could try and trust other just as much as he could try and trust her as well. It was almost as if she was kind of mentioning in her own way that Elise was trying something unexpected.

After all she had shown she had emotions, But not at this level."So understand, I need to understand what trusting another feels like, just as much as you need to me have a chance to earn it."This was also a major risk but in some manner maybe this was the entire risk that she was trying to expose herself equally but she was proving her point, Then almost like she knew it was almost a cruel grip Elise then walked back to her sit and sat down waiting to see if he did anything with that admission. She was just casually sipping her glass of wine seemingly trying to keep her own personal facade breaking slightly for a moment. After all it was not something she entirely planned to do to start with it. But figured it might be something good.

WC:403

August gives gives her a quiet borderline hysterical laugh at her first words, still looking away while trying to recover his composure after they made their pinky promise. Because of this he was reluctant to follow Elise's unsaid request to look towards her, and if she was even a bit more forceful he would have. Be she was so slow and gentle in her touch and movements, his head turned without his permission. Her logic, once again, made sense. She wanted him to trust her, so that meant she needed to trust him first and take that leap of faith in him. It once again occurred to him that she could be lying, saying pretty words as he does to others, getting them to lower their guard so they can be used. But her next words, her struggles to trust others, somehow ease those worries that she was like him. She was, but while they both had issues trusting, Elise was the better between the two of them. She was actually making an effort to better herself, which August could only respect.

"I... am starting to." He admits. "I'm not sure how much you can tell but... I do not usually wear my heart on my sleeve. This... situation between us is new for me. I am not used to being taken off guard so quickly and thoroughly." He complements her in a joking tone, trying to lighten the mood a bit. He's not sure if it's working. "I never expected this conversation to twist my perceptions so much. Tell me... sister. What caused you to decide to trust others?" He asks, wanting to know what caused a woman he took as so guarded and standoffish by reputation and at first glance to become so... warm. He was looking into her eyes almost desperately.

WC: 306

Elise had gotten a connection in some manner she wouldn't abuse it on him either. Because this was not the entire matter at hand, getting that connection was the matter at hand. Elise wanted to say she knew everything but she didn't know everything. She was only making guesses that just worked out."No...We're family we need to hide our true selves is something we have to do...we are merely pushing our limits by trying to be honest."Elise said because it was a struggle she still had today. But alas unless he picked up on it Elise would not mention it to him because in some manner if she was too weak and he was lying to him it lead to bad things.

But why was Elise this way, The answer in some manner might be so simple and stupid sounding that it might almost be parody."Because I would like to see a world where i don't think everyone is going to pull out a knife and stab me..."It sounded so stupid and she knew it.

But it explained so much of her behaviour towards other people."So I don't double lock my doors at night, because i assume it won't be broken and it is a ploy to kill me."She would use one final example."Do I don't have it poison my mind forever as mean to lock away who i am forever....around other people."It seemed because she knew acting so fake was not mentally healthy for a person. it was not helping anyone if she was lying and they did not know what she was like at all. It was in fact bad for everyone being this way. They where free for a reason.

WC:301

August nods at her reasoning. It made sense. Not trusting anyone just screamed paranoia, issues with attachment and general mental withdrawal. It was a lonely thing, something August often felt as his work for the general made him keep his cards close. It was one of the reasons he accepted his mother's warmth and affection so easily, and probably played a part in him accepting Elsie the same way. But the way she worded it... "Shall I assume trusting others is still a skill you are in there process of gaining," August says with an empathetic smile, much more genuine than he would usually have in this situation. "Well, let me tell you that you are gearing up to be a decent role model in that area, at the very least. I never had many friends growing up you know. And my late father and I were not close before he passed. The at a Rune Knight... well, politics tends to colour relationships with many complicated shades. Well, anyway, I admire you for deciding to take this step to trust others. It's a very brave thing to do." This part of the conversation admittedly had tones of the diplomatic mask he wears, full of niceties and social padding to make others feel better about themselves and him, but the level of vulnerability he'd been feeling and showing was starting to make him seriously freak himself out. But, for him, the mask was much more sincere than it usually was anyway. At the very least none of his words were a lie. Having the mask back on a bit helped him regain a bit of his courage and well power at the very least. Enough to finally check Elsie's stats via his Archive magic, which he forgot to do when she first entered.

As soon as the stats came up, August immediately banished them, face pale. He then turns toward the counter and quickly gulps down his now full wine glass. He is now very grateful he waited this long to look, because if he had seen those terrifying stats before he'd have simply left the tavern without greeting his new sister. He was immensely grateful that she thought well of him at this point.

WC: 385

August was in for an uncomfortable road it seemed and Elise would give him that final piece of advice for the moment. They both would be travelling that road together. In some manner she was unsure if she wanted to tell him or let him ride it out like she had too, In some manner it was equally as rough of a lesson no matter what happen, She would deal with it, He would deal with it and in some manner Anais were ever she was hiding was going to have to deal with it if she came to that reality herself."It won't be a easy road for me, I know that."Elise almost phrased it like it already in some manner made her feel tired mentally. But she was kind of just forcing herself through all of it.

After listening to his brother and nodding about it. Elise seem to just listen for a moment. Letting out a yawn for a moment. Maybe it was time for her to go. Whatever he was going pale about Elise would not bug him about it. Just hand over the remaining bottle to August, slide over the address of her guild hall in the north."You can find me here if i am not travelling about. Please do look after yourself."Elise left, taking all things that where not a burnt letter and the bottle of that was her's with her and that letter to Anais and leaving. Wait no much else about it.

They would meet again, just when was a good question.

[Exit}

August was still recovering from seeing those insane stats, nodding alone and thoughtlessly to whatever she was saying. Damn, did he just win the sibling lottery? SHE swore and oath of protection towards him? August has felt mildly unworthy in good things while also somehow feeling like their owed to him all his life. This was pretty firmly in the 'I'm unworthy of this awkwardly kind extremely strong woman care' category. But for now, he swallowed those feelings. He was tired of intense feelings for one night.

But when Elise got up and gave him her contact information, August could only give her a wide-eyed look. She was leaving already? Then August banished that childishness. She already showed interest in building a relationship with him. There was no reason to act like an abandoned child. So instead get got up with her and gave her a sad but warm smile. "You look after yourself as well sister. I may be a bit harder for you to contact since I live out of Rune Knight dorms. But I'm sure we'll find each other again." August says firmly. 

He then watched for a moment as the woman walked out of the bar, eyes staying longer on the shut door than necessary. He then finished his wine, grabbed his book and her note, and left himself.

It was time to fake a report to their mother.

[Exit]

WC: 239
TWC: 5,207