Chapter Text
Time works in strange ways. Decades turn to centuries with years of knowledge woven like a braid within the gaps, painting the lives of most from start to finish within a single strand. Jornir has lived many centuries before now, seeing both old and young be taken by the passage of time without care. Their names and faces having long since faded from his memory. Spending many decades learning why attachment was unwise for a Shaman like himself.
Attachment meant mourning a loss of comfort. Watching as that comfort is swept away on frosty winds, leaving him alone once again. He grew used to the feeling, staving away the warmth that tried to fester when he stayed too long in one place. Yet, despite his many years of teachings to keep his heart cold, he found it to be slowly thawing out. Leaving him worried with the harsh reality of what it meant for not just him, but Taishen as well. As that warmth continues to grow hotter in an attempt to snuff out the frigid cold hidden within.
That is the reality that Jornir faces now as he stands nervously in front of a wooden door within their gifted home in the city of Argentholme. The low light of the setting sun cast shadows onto the door through sheets of snow, allowing for moderate visibility in front of him. At the reminder of the snow he shuffles the pelt along his shoulders, making his mind wonder back to the many months before now. He tried desperately to pinpoint the exact second that his heart had finally given way to Taishen's magics, but in the end, he came up with nothing. ‘Maybe in the cave when we almost killed him? Or perhaps, when he got wine drunk in Ogretown? No, surely it had to be before then.’ Jornir’s thoughts wondered further back as he closed his eyes to focus on how he felt in those moments. ‘Could it have been at the falls? No. I felt it then too. The ship? The egg?’
All these memories came rushing past him as he stumbled back on his feet, before it clicked like the opening of a door. ‘The tavern!’ His eyes shot open in realization as the creak of metal hinges squeaked out in front of him.
“Oh, Jornir,I didn’t hear you knock. Is everything well?” Taishen’s voice rang out like beautiful chimes in the winds of Mamut, drawing the watchful gaze of Jornir as he spoke. Despite the biting cold of Drakkar, Taishen was dressed comfortably in his green robes with the fluffy winter gear folded neatly on the table within the room behind him. “Have you come seeking conversation, my friend?” Once more Jornir heard those chimes, clearing his throat before responding.
“Yes. I have come to discuss a matter with you, Taishen. May I enter?” His voice held strong but earnest. One striking blue eye shining brightly in the light of the hearth, gazing upon golden scales as they moved aside to allow him entrance. “Of course my friend. I’ll make us some tea. Please, have a seat~” Like second nature, Taishen began to work orderly in making them drinks for their coming conversation.
Without another word Jornir entered and found a suitable spot to sit. Unfortunately, that spot happened to be on the floor due to his height. He didn’t seem to mind however, gathering his chaotic thoughts as he awaited Taishen's full attention. ‘The tavern. That spark of heat within my chest started there it would seem. I wonder if yours was the same.’ Jornir steals a knowing look across the room at the lithe body that swayed where he stood.
A familiar sound of blissful hums fell from Taishen’s maw as he steeped the dried leaves within the pot held aloft in his hands. His body moved with a sense of elegance as his feet shuffled in a dance against the floorboards. Floating with each step as it matched the song he hummed out of habit. For just a moment, it felt like he was back in his tea shop again. Providing comfort to those of JadeShell that sought his guidance for their troubles. A smile pulls to his face at the fond memories– only now, they felt like a distant dream.
“Just a moment more, Jornir. What seemed to be the mat– WAh!” Taishen spun around quickly to make his way to the table, tripping over himself as he all but ran into Jornir’s seated frame. Green eyes shut tightly to brace for impact with the floor, only to be met with firm hands bracing his fall. Peaking his eyes open cautiously, Taishen looked down at the hands that held him aloft by the waist. Nervously glancing up at the Firbolg whose face held a surprising amount of concern.
“Are you alright?” Jornir spoke with reverence as his brows knitted together tightly. The concern that had filled his face seemed to soften once more as he placed Taishen back on his feet. Gazing over his body for any possible injuries as large hands stayed firmly in place.
With cheeks dusted a light pink Taishen all but froze in his wake, standing dumbly in front of Jornir’s large frame. His heart thumped loudly in his ears as that familiar burning took hold within his chest. ‘My god,he's so close. Calm yourself Taishen! You are no teenager! ’ With these racing thoughts, he proceeds to huff out a quiet frustrated sigh at his own clumsiness. Accidentally drawing Jornir's eyes back to his own at the embarrassing noise.
Silence seemed to settle between them as their shared stares held true to one another. Many words bubbling to the surface before disappearing with a pop, leaving them truly wordless within each other's knowing grasp. Seconds felt like hours before the tension finally ebbed away with the sound of an airy laugh. “I.. apologize for my clumsiness. I wasn’t aware of your seating choice, my friend.” Taishen’s voice held a strand of playfulness as he began to laugh lightly. Taking only a moment of respite before continuing to speak, allowing a gentle smile to ease onto his maw. “Thank you for catching me, Jornir. Both now, and for the many times before. May we sit and speak?”
At the reminder of their gathering, Jornir merely hummed. Retracting his hands from where they had been comfortably laid on the Dragonborn. “Yes, we may speak now, if that is alright with you.” Though his words were more of a statement rather than a question, he allowed the Dragonborn agency on the matter– being met with agreement as Taishen kneeled on the floor before him. Without holding up any more of their time Jornir began to speak with more urgency.
Yet before words can cascade from his lips, he is handed a warm cup of lavender tea. Taking but a moment to bow his head in appreciation. “This, warms me greatly. Thank you.” His words felt almost soupy as he peered into the lilac colored liquid, giving himself that last push to speak forth the truth. “I have thought much on these passing months. Landing on Drakkar, finding Daisy, helping the Ogres, aligning with the princess; it was all fate set by the Gods, I know this to be true–” words pause for just a brief moment before continuing unhindered. “So I feel it would be foolish to assume that…fate, did not bring us together for another reason as well, Taishen.” Jornir spoke with measured precision. Sipping slowly from the cup as he awaited either Taishen's response or a motion to continue.
“You feel that our meeting may be– more forthcoming?” The blush that had started to simmer under golden scales began to arise once more as he mulled over the meaning of Jornir’s words. ‘Fu Zhao, give me guidance to not misunderstand this situation.’ Saying a quick prayer, he dropped his gaze to the cup within his own grasp before speaking again. “I think– I think I understand your meaning, Jornir. I had thought this feeling was one sided. Though it would seem, perhaps, you feel the same?” Although Taishen was fearful of the answer, he knew deep down that he had been right in this assumption.
“Yes. I do believe these are mutual feelings. Though, I see it not wise to act on them, for they will cause issues later.” Jornir spoke with a solemn tone. A pained expression knitting itself subtly into the creases of his brows, making it obvious that his words held more concern than he was letting on. Almost like he was holding something tightly within his chest.
Taishen peered away from his hands at Jornir's saddened tone. His own gut churned in a moment of disappointment before shaking the feeling entirely. Setting the porcelain cup aside as he reaches forward to cradle a much larger hand within his own. “I do not understand, my friend. May I ask why you see it unwise?”
With warm scales pressing into his own chilled furs, Jornir could no longer avoid Taishen's gaze. Finding not sadness within the jade green scleras, but rather a sense of longing for answers– And who was he to deny answers. “I have lived many centuries, Taishen. And I will live many more after you are gone. What will become of us when you die, and yet I continue to live? This is why I see it unwise.” The words felt harsh but truthful, hiding behind the subtle fearful cadence that wavered for but a moment as Jornir spoke.
And yet– despite the harsh truth– Taishen's face began to turn up into a loving smile as a quiet–almost breathless– voice rang out between whispered coos. “Oh my love, you know better than myself what will come of us. I need not remind you. Even when I no longer walk the path beside you-” Removing his hand from its hold on Jornirs, Taishen proceeds to press his palm flat against the Firbolgs chest as bright golden energy emanates from his touch. “-I will remain warmly inside you. And when the time comes for you to pass as well, I will await your arrival like an old friend.”
With warmth wrapping tightly around his heart, Jornir watched the golden glow burn for a moment longer before snuffing out completely. His ears ringing pleasantly with the words that now swam around in his head.
‘My love.’
That phrase of adoration wasn’t one to take lightly. It left Jornir simply speechless at the promises he seemed to proclaim so easily. Yet fear still weighed heavy within himself. Drakkar was a harsh land with no guarantees of living to see the next coming season, let alone the next day. Knowing deeply that if they allowed this mutual fawning, it would lead to certain doom for the both of them. Leaving him to struggle against the words he'd wish to say. “It is not wise.. but-”
A hand raises in a manner of haste to stop him from speaking. “Do not feel like you must answer now, Jornir!” Taishen's voice was quick to speak over his own. His words of panic seemed to wash them both into a silence, allowing the space between them to be littered with nothing more than the subtle cracking of burning wood.
As the burning hearth at their side casted a beautiful orange hue over the both of them, Jornir exhaled quietly before nodding in agreement. “May I, have the night to think this over?” A singular blue eye watches cautiously for Taishen's reaction.
Tensions quickly fall off of shining scales as the Dragonborn breathes a sigh of relief. His voice fluttering like a billion butterfly wings as his posture sank where he kneeled. “Of course, my friend. I am no impatient man. You may take all the time you wish.” Even with less tension present within his body, his face still read that of worry.
Noticing the worry woven into Taishen's brow, Jornir reaches for the hand laid against his chest. Speaking quietly into the space between them as he holds it closer to himself. “You need not worry, Beloved. Come dawn I will have my answer. That I can assure you of.” Without hesitation he brings golden scales to press lightly into blue lips. Placing a tender kiss to the hide of gold that adorned his beloved's hand, In hopes of reassuring Taishen's spirits on his future answer.
Then without saying much more, he rose from where he had been sitting. Helping the smaller man to his feet as the blushing Taishen stood completely speechless– just the same as himself mere moments before. “This is all I had wished to speak on. Upon our first meeting in the morning, I will have my answer. I will leave now. Goodnight, Taishen” With great care Jornir gave the hand still held within his own a tight squeeze before letting go. Making his leave out of the door as he hears a timid, “Go-goodnight, Jornir!” from behind him. The words are quiet and muffled, leaving him to assume it had been spoken from behind a hand in some form of shock or shyness.
A small grin slowly pulled at the corners of Jornir's lips, painting his usual expression into one of love. ‘I will not make you wait much longer, My Beloved. You will be mine, but I can not risk your life. This must be done properly.’ With a new found determination, he moved with haste to the other side of the home to retire to his room. Only he wasn’t going to his own room– no of course not. If he was to do this properly, then he needed help; And he only knew one person he could trust with such a task– Queenie March.
With the setting sun finally falling beneath the horizon, darkness consumes the cold night of Drakkar. Allowing for the dim lanterns to shine their brightest within the cozy walls that they now called home. The shambling frame of Jornir could be seen casting grand shadows behind him as he walked down halls adorned by those same lanterns. Ending up once more at the frame of a wooden door as he lifted his fist to knock lightly.
A few moments pass without an answer, creasing his brows in concern before reaching out to knock once more. This time, his attempts to grab Queenie's attention were met with the door swinging wide. A small Rabbitfolk now stood at the precipice of the room with a look of tired annoyance adorning her face. “Jornir, I don’t mean to sound rude, but I hope you have a damn good reason to be knocking at this hour.” Despite her clear annoyance, she stood in wait for Jornir to explain the reason for his visit.
“Hello Queenie. I have come to ask a favor of you. May I enter?” His usual cadence had shifted into one of a lighter tone, a clear indication that he seemed to be happy. This being further proven by the remnants of a smile that seemed to be–for now– permanently etched into the corners of his lips.
“Well, I would normally tell ya no, but given that loving look on yer face, Imma assume this has to be about Taishie.” The ever observant nature of Queenie made it virtually impossible to hide his true feelings. Hanging his head to hide the dusting of red that seemed to grow darker at the ends of his ears. “Yes. It is about Taishen–” Jornir shuffles the pelt on his shoulders out of habit. His words felt thick like honey on his tongue as his voice softened “-I have decided to court him. I would ask your help with this process.”
At the mention of courting Queenie’s ears perked up as her once sleepy eyes widened. “Well slap my ass and call me Sally. What happened to our stoic Jornir? You done went and fell in love~.” Her voice came out jokingly. Smirking up at the Firbolg as she crossed her arms with a knowing look.
“But your name is Queenie. Who is this, Sally...?” Jornir looked a bit confused as he began questioning her phrasing. Receiving a roll of her eyes before she pulled at his arm to encourage movement. Proceeding to shake her head in an attempt to wave off his confusion. “Never mind that. Get yer butt in here and tell me what happened!”
Being pulled into the room Jornir hummed loudly. “I simply explained the Gods have fated us to walk our paths together. He seemed to agree. Though I advised it unwise–” At the reminder, he felt his heart warm as a remnant of Taishen's magic buzzed within his chest. Sparing a glance around the room in hopes of calming the heavy fluttering of dragon wings that tried to consume his every thought.
The room itself was not much different than his own sleeping quarters. A warm hearth burned brightly inside beautifully crafted stone that pressed almost flush to the wall on his right. Casting a very similar orange hue around the many surfaces that laid beyond the stones barrier. Along that same wall stood a tall cabinet with exposed shelving. Littered with old knick knacks from the previous occupants, alongside many of Queenie's own bits and bobs. The rest of the space was also much the same of his own. A bed laid well used within the opposite corner of the small room, allowing for a warm rest without fear of being set ablaze by the flame.
Although the rooms seemed much the same, one thing was certainly different. Much like Taishen's quarters, a small table was sat by the door accompanied by two chairs that seemed to fit snuggly beneath. A familiar bow laid atop the wooden surface alongside Queenie's own winter gear, seemingly discarded half haphazardly in favor of the hearth's warmth over the furs.
That table is where Queenie rested now as her foot tapped against the leg of her chair. The familiar thumping doing well to draw Jornir's gaze– and mind– back to the present conversation.
“So let me get this right, Jornir. You told Taishie that yalls paths were fated by the Gods or whatever. And instead of kissin yerself a dragon, you told him these feelins were– unwise. Do I got that correct?” If looks could kill, Jornir was sure he’d be feeling pain presently. Queenie's nose twitched angrily despite the unimpressed look of disappointment that read clear as a cloudless sky. Despite her bubbling rage, Jornir nodded slowly where he stood.
“Yes. It would be unwise for us to act foolishly on these feelings.” Meeting her gaze he spoke with a show of conviction, standing firmly on what he felt. “I believe the Gods have woven our paths together on purpose. We were fated from our first meeting within the tavern. I felt it then just the same as I do now–” He exhales a heavy breath that he hadn't realized to be holding, allowing himself but a moment to observe the Rabbitfolk sitting before him. It didn't take more than a glance to notice Queenie seemed to be more relaxed, clearly understanding his intentions without question. “The courting ceremony I will perform should grant Taishen protection– for our time in Drakkar and the after. In doing so, I will be binding our strands together, and our fates will be of one. That is why I come to you, Queenie. I ask for your help in procuring an item for this ritual– as it is one I can not procure myself.”
With a thoughtful hum she crosses her arms over her chest. The thumping of her foot coming to a halt as she weighed his words carefully before responding. “Well alright then. What would I have to retrieve exactly? Must be something awfully special if you can’t get it yerself.”
Once more Jornir nods in confirmation. “Yes, it is indeed special. It is something of Taishens posses–” Before he can even finish his sentence she is quick to cut in. Furred hands landing with a thud against the table in front of her as she pushes herself to stand on the chair. Trying desperately to stand eye to eye with the 8 foot Firbolg.
“Hold yer horses Jornir. Are ya asking me to steal somethin’ of Taishies just so you can do this ritual thingy?” Given the cadence at which she spoke, it was clear she did not like the idea of doing Jornir’s malicious bidding. Foot once again thumping loudly as Queenie all but huffed at the surprising request that had been asked of her.
Jornir himself felt a little confused by her explosive reaction. Collecting himself briefly before deciding it best to explain a bit more. “Well, yes. In my circle, we believed that the ritual would require a possession from both partners. In order to bind fates properly, I require one of Taishens Fireblossoms. I would retrieve it myself, however, I have informed Taishen that upon our next meeting I will have my answer. I– would hate to instill doubt in his heart if he were to see me before dawn.” Providing an honest hum as he watches in silence.
The thumping of her foot once again slowed as Queenie continued to give him a look of suspicion. With the way her ears seemed to twitch, it was clear she was thinking hard on her decision to help. Especially now after learning the requirements of her task.
After a few moments of measured silence, Queenie finally broke. Letting out a deep sigh as her shoulders shrunk slightly where she stood. “Under any other circumstance Jornir, I would have told you to go take a long walk off a short pier at you even entertaining the thought of stealing from my sweet Taishie. But I suppose if this– ritual ceremony thing will keep him safe, then I’d be willing to help. Under one condition” Despite her attempts to seem stern in her words, the small knowing grin that pulled at her lips gave way to that of obvious intent.
“A– long walk, off a short pier?” Jornir's face scrunched up in even more confusion as he mumbled the phrase in uncertainty. Giving a small tilt of his head– like that of an animal trying to understand something– before correcting himself. “What is your condition?”
Queenie's small grin turned quickly into one of a wide wry smile, looking at her paw like it was worth more of her time than the tall man in front of her. “Well, I’m just so glad you asked Jornir.” With a devious chuckle she glanced back up at him, voice taking on her normal playful cadence once more. “Ya see, I am willing to risk my life to get this item for you and your little, love ceremony of sorts. However, if I go and take one of Taishies Fireblossoms I’m almost positive he ain’t gonna be too happy to learn it's missing. I wanna make sure that fiery ire ain’t laid upon me when this is all said and done. Does that seem like a fair trade to you, Jornir?”
“This is a fair trade, yes. I will make sure his, ire, does not reach you for the missing flower. Should it arise.” Giving a stoic nod Jornir agrees, stealing himself against a smile at the thought of Taishen's ire becoming a possible ‘issue’ in the future. Though despite his attempts to keep his expression neutral, a small grin arose as he looked away to compose himself. Blushing deeply as Queenie began to chuckle at his obvious interest in the idea of Taishen being wrathful over his blossoms.
“My oh my, Jornir. I didn’t take you to be into such things. Does the thought of Taishie being mad just do something for ya?” Queenie teases him as she tries to meet his gaze. Once again tapping her foot to draw his attention back to face her. Getting but a mere side glance from Jornir as confirmation before she busted into laughter, folding over in tears at the revelation.
Despite the blush that covered most of his face now, Jornir tried to correct the situation. “It would be like watching a small animal, angrily biting at your hand. I do not believe Taishen can embody such fits of anger within himself. I simply find the thought– endearing, Queenie.” With a far more composed voice he explained himself. Leaving out the part where he agreed with her previous statements.
Wiping tears from her eyes she spares a look at Jornir once more, waving a paw between heavy breaths to call bullshit on his statement. “Yeah, whatever ya say Jornir. You said ya need that blossom tonight right?” Queenie took a moment to fully compose her breathing as she removed herself from the chair entirely. Fixing up the fur around her face that had been disheveled from the tears.
“Yes. I will need it before the end of the night. I will be working on the gift in my room when the time comes for you to return. Goodnight Queenie.” Thinking this was the end of their interactions for the evening, Jornir hummed as he turned to leave. Soon finding his way out to be blocked by Queenie once more.
With a paw held up to stop him, she gave a look of curiosity at the mention of this so-called gift. “Now Jornir, you didn’t think you could leave without telling me everything that this courting ceremony entails. It surely seems to be more than just some flower. What's with this gift you mentioned?” With a determination to learn the whole truth she didn't budge from her spot in front of the door. Even knowing full well that Jornir could simply move her if he had wished to leave without answering.
And although Jornir did wish to leave, he knew it would be best to explain the whole ceremony to Queenie now, rather than struggle to explain it later if he needed more help. So despite his better judgement, he let out a sigh of defeat. “May we sit?” The question came naturally, yet he did not wait for her answer before turning around and moving towards the hearth. Sitting on the floor with a small pained hum as his aching knees settled against the wood.
He waited only a moment for Queenie to be seated before he produced a handful of magical snow, beginning to explain the scenes depicted as he crafted them. “In my circle on Mamut we had courting ceremonies much like the one I will perform tomorrow. The ceremonies contain four major requirements for them to work. The first is a bond tied by fate–” as the words leave his mouth he blows air into his palm, shaping the image of two figures within the snowy mounds placed in his hands. “This part is the most important, as it can not be faked. Only the Gods can fate bound you to another, and the ritual will not work if you are not bound.” With a simple patting of the snow he built it into something of an animal. “The second is a token of the land, carved in the bone of a great beast. Back on Mamut we would carve woolly mammoths as a symbol for the land we worshiped.” Once more he flattened the snow within his palms. Drawing pictures of herbs with an artist's precision. “The third is a band woven from herbs and sinew. A representation of the strands of fate becoming one.”
“Is that the part you need the blossom for?” Queenie’s voice was quiet in awe. Eyes peering away from the druidic magics to look up at Jornir. Being met by his eyes as once again that loving look was present on his face. His voice was sweet like the smile that he couldn't care to stop as he spoke. “Yes. Most of the blossom will be used during this part. Woven alongside my runes. It will bind us physically to one another… Like that of a wedding band.” At the mention of it being like a wedding band Queenie gasped, feeling happy tears pricking at her eyes. “Jornir–” Her voice was one of a whisper as she reaches out to pat the side of his wrist. The two shared a silent moment of acknowledgement of the true weight this kind of ritual could really hold before he continued to explain.
“The fourth and final part is the ritual. It is to ask protection from the Gods upon the gift. Allowing for safe passages in both life and death. If I do it right, it will be the only way for Taishen to stay bound to me even after his inevitable passing before my own. And if my assumptions are correct, the blossoms should be enough of a tie to his home for me to ask for the same protection from his god Fu Zhao.” As his explanation comes to an end he dismisses the snow within his palms. Making a motion to remove himself off the floor with a bit of a struggle, wishing he had now retrieved his walking stick from his own quarters before he had left.
With a grumble of pain Jornir stood, once more helping to lift yet another body from the floor tonight. “If that suffices your curiosity, I will be leaving now. I appreciate your help with this Queenie. You know where to find me once you have the blossom. Goodnight.” And just like that, he left the room. Shambling his way back to his own quarters to start his long night of carving and weaving.
Being left in almost complete disbelief, Queenie took a few minutes to think about the information she now held. Letting a long drawn out groan leave her lips as her shoulders sank, mulling over the task she was bestowed to complete. “Dammit Jornir. Why ya gotta be such a sap? Now I gotta go find a way to steal a whole fireblossom without being caught.” The words come out in small huffs of frustration, shaking her head at the sudden change to her nightly plans.
That got her thinking however. How was she supposed to take the blossom? It's not like Taishen to walk around without his tea bag with him. So how exactly could she get her hands on it without some kind of a distraction.
This realization made her pace in thought. Tapping her chin as her brows furrowed in concentration. ‘A distraction. If I can find some way to distract Taishie then I’ll be right as rain to take that blossom. But how? I can’t just push Jornir into him– although I’m sure that would work greatly to distract him. Hmm, who else would be good to keep Taishie busy…’ Her thoughts wavered as an all too familiar hum could be heard from beyond her door. A smirk grows devilishly on her lips before she races to the handle to yank it open without care. Yelling half haphazardly into the hall as the door swung wide. “Skrimm!”
With a surprised yelp Skrimm launches into the air like a cat. Looking to the door on his left as he holds a hand against his chest to calm the rapid pounding that shook his frame. “By the Gods Queenie! Can we maybe NOT do that?!” He cried out in a desperate attempt to calm both his voice and heavy breathing. Being even more dramatic as he lets out a fake pained sigh. “I think– I think I might be having a medical event.”
Queenie rolls her eyes but can’t seem to argue against his faking. Crossing her arms with that same grin plastered on her face as she teases him. “Uh huh, I’m sure you are Skrimm. When you’re done being all dramatic and stuff, would you mind doing a favor for me?”
At the mention of work, Skrimm seems to scowl. Standing up slowly to his full height as he fixes his jacket. Sparing a glance at Queenie as her grin seemed unmoving, awaiting his response. “What kind of favor?” His voice falls a little flat as he clears his throat. Trying hard to not seem interested in whatever this ‘favor’ could entail.
With a knowing look she hummed happily at the Goblin. “Well, ya see Jornir has kinda tasked me with retrieving something of Taishie’s from his room. Only problem is, he can’t know I’m in there takein’ it. So I’d ask your help in keeping Taishie distracted while I retrieve what I need for Jornir. Think ya can handle that?” Queenie’s voice held a level of confidence when she talked, knowing that by keeping her head held high that Skrimm would try to do the same.
And keep it high he did. All but scuffing as he waved a hand in a way of saying ‘Thats easy’ before grinning back at Queenie. “I can distract Taishen with my eyes closed! All I gotta do is show him some new card trick or game and BAM! Like a baby to a rattle.” Skrimm laughs loudly as he gives the coin from his pocket a knowing flip.
“Perfect. Thank ya Skrimm~.” She quickly said her thanks before trying to squeeze past the other in an attempt to remove herself from the situation. Not being the slightest bit surprised when he stops her promptly before she can get any further down the hall.
“Woah, hold up Queenie. Skrimm doesn’t work for free, and you said Jornir tasked this on you! So I want half of whatever he offered you.” Crossing his arms he furrowed his brows to seem more intimidating, being met with nothing more than a questioning look in return. He was a true conman at heart. Doing absolutely no work under his own free will, unless he was paid handsomely in gold. And even then, there was no guarantee he'd ACTUALLY do the work.
With a roll of her eyes she crosses her arms to match Skrimm's own stance. “I hate to break it to ya Skrimm, but I ain’t getting no kinda pay for this task. At least not the kind you like. So unless you are willing to take a sappy love story as payment, I’ll find another way to distract Taishie.” Turning once more she proceeded towards the common room. Hiding the grin that etched onto her lips as the sound of rushed footsteps soon followed in her wake.
Unsurprisingly, the body of Skrimm was right up next to her in mere moments. A look of curiosity and anxiety littering every scrunch and twist of his face as he spoke in a hushed tone. “Woah hey, I’m not done talking to you. Firstly, What do you MEAN you aren't getting paid? Have I taught you NOTHING?!” A surprising fit of frustration wormed through even his most whispered of voices, causing his body to be rigid with tension. “And secondly, what kind of sappy love story? Does it have something to do with Jornir? Why do you need something from Taishen's room? Does Jornir have some sick fetish involving teabags? –I knew it. Come on woman, tell me!” With every question he asked his FOMO peaked even higher until he finally broke. Letting a pitiful grumble of frustration fall from his lips as he shook the Rabbitfolks arm like a child throwing a tantrum.
Stopping at the end of the hall Queenie watches with amusement as the Goblin all but melted to the floor in his frustrated state. Allowing for his grumbled pleas to quiet before she acknowledged him at all. “Are ya done being dramatic, Skrimm?” Her question was answered quickly with a whimpered, “Yes…” before she proceeded. “Are ya willing to do what I asked if I answer all your questions?”
Glancing up at her, Skrimm's lips turned down into a pitiful pout. Taking a moment to weigh his chances of begging for gold and still getting the answers he so wanted. Finding his chances of success to be nearly impossible under Queenie's intimidating gaze and firm footing on not paying him in such a way. Allowing a defeated sigh to deflate him fully as he nods. “Yeah I guess– I guess that's fine. Stupid Jornir, always asking favors butneverpayingingol–” Pushing himself off the ground once more, his words started to turn into low grumbles under his breath. Soon turning into almost full Goblin speak as he curses Jornir's name between vivid gestures of his hands.
Queenie gave him a few moments to calm his grumbles before grabbing his attention fully as she began to speak. “Okay well, I don’t know the full story but to make a long story short, Jornir thinks him and Taishie have been fated by the Gods.”
Skrimm's face turns up into one of confusion as he scratches at his chin. “Fated by the Gods? Like, they are destined to be together kinda thing…?” Before she can respond he laughs playfully and nudges her shoulder, proceeding to joke around. “Talk about a fairytale. I think the big guy has finally lost his marbles, am I right?”
With a pointed look from Queenie, his laughs seemed to die in his throat. “This is serious Skrimm. I’ve only seen Jornir this serious about possibly life ending things. Ya really think he’d let himself fall for this kind of delusion if he wasn’t at least a little certain it were true?” She spoke strongly as she put her foot down, defending Jornir.
“Alright alright, jeez. So he thinks they are fated. What does that have to do with this item he needs you to steal from Taishen? And how exactly am I going to be a part of this?” Despite Skrimm's previous attempts to joke around, he gives her an honest look of curiosity. Crossing his arms over his chest to listen once more.
“Okay so, Jornir said that because they are fated or whatever, that in order for him to make sure Taishie was protected that he’d need to do some kinda courting ceremony. It has like, four steps or something and it's kinda like a marriage thing– anyway, one of the steps requires an item from both partners. He’s asked me to retrieve one of Taishie’s Fireblossoms for him to use. That's where you come in. I need you to distract Taishie so I can grab it without him noticing.” As the words cascaded from her lips, she watched Skrimm's eyes grow wide and his jaw drop open in shock. Raising a brow at him before taking a step back, fearful he was about to have another outburst.
Silence was hung between them for just a moment before Skrimm's voice boomed loudly down the hall. “IT'S A WHAT?! JORNIR’S GONNA PRO–” before he could say anymore two furred hands pressed firmly over his mouth. “Shh, Shut up! I swear, you and Barnabos need to learn some volume control.” She grumbles angrily at him as her ears move quickly on their own. With the fear of Taishen hearing them, Queenie listens for any movement in the other parts of the house. When she confirmed it was clear she removed her hands from Skrimm's face.
“What do you mean it's LIKE a marriage, Queenie? What if Taishen doesn’t actually feel the same?” Skrimm huffed in quiet disbelief as he glanced around nervously. With a better understanding of the situation now he felt extremely exposed talking about this in the hall.
“Trust me Skrimm. If anyone were to say no, it certainly wouldn't be Taishen. I’ve been on the receiving end of many of Taishie’s rants about that man. And let me tell ya, he ain't as holy of a soul as you think.” With a mischievous chuckle Queenie hides a blush behind her hand. Remembering the many nights she sat in silence while listening to Taishen's very vivid –and imaginative– rants involving Jornir in all his 8 foot glory.
Letting out a nervous laugh, Skrimm clears his throat to cover up his own timid blush . “Oh Gods. You’re telling me Taishens a pervert to? What kinds of things would he even say? Like, ‘oh Queenie, did you see how Jornir braided his hair today with all the flowers? That kind of thing just gets me all fired up.” He tries his best to impersonate Taishen as he holds back a laugh. Once more sparing a look at the Rabbitfolk. Being met with a grin that now plastered her lips, almost like her next words were about to change Skrimm's whole opinion on their noble Dragonborn.
With a knowing ‘tsk’ and shake of her head she proceeds to place a hand on the Goblins shoulder. “Oh Skrimm. I’ll spare your ears this time. I promise you, it's bad.” She all but hums the words. Creating a sense of curiosity that starts to eat away at him almost immediately.
“I– I mean… how bad can it REALLY be, Queenie?” Skrimm copies her quiet ‘tsk’ as he waves a hand in front of himself. Clearly trying really hard to seem Stoic in his actions.
While Skrimm's performance was pretty convincing, Queenie could read him like a book. Letting the hand that rested on his shoulder pat it carefully as she started to move past him. “Lets just say, Taishie has some very strong opinions on how the ‘Fertility’ spell could be used.” As silence started to surround them, Queenie watched the green of Skrimm's cheeks become a bright red as his nervous laughter filled the space once more with noise.
“Oh Gods, Taishen IS a pervert.” Skrimm chokes on his words, smacking a hand against his chest as he coughs. His attention being drawn to the Rabbitfolk as the sound of Queenie's laughter makes his cheeks hot all over again.
“Yeah, he’s a little freak. Now come on, I’ve got a blossom to take.” As she walks past him, her head nudges towards Taishen's room. Imploring Skrimm to make his distraction now before disappearing into the shadows only moments later. Leaving Skrimm stood in the common room– alone and beet red.
With the growing quiet of the common room Skrimm all but scuffs. Mumbling to himself as he dragged his feet towards Taishens room. “Gods… what did I do to deserve this punishment? I gotta look Taishen in the eyes now and act like I don’t know he wants to be viciously stuffed like a thanksgiving turkey? Jornir better be happy I'm feeling generous tonight.” He shakes his head to himself before stopping at the wooden door.
He waited but a moment before knocking with a loud THUMP THUMP THUMP of his fist. Hearing a shocked gasp come from beyond the door as a quiet, ‘Who is it?’ followed shortly after. “Hey, Taishen. Are you busy? I’m bored and want to play a game.” Skrimm scratches at his chin as he awaits the other to answer his call.
The familiar sound of the sliding lock could be heard before the door creaked open slightly to reveal a flushed Taishen. His hair was down out of its normal bun with his robes slightly askew. Clearing his throat before speaking. “I’m not normally one to say no to a game Skrimm, but have you asked the others? I’m sure Barnabos will happily play with you.” His voice is soft like a pillow with only the slightest hint of something else dancing between his words.
If Skrimm wasn't aware of the events that had transpired mere hours beforehand, he likely would have never assumed anything was wrong with the Dragonborn. However, as his eyes glanced over the stiff stature of his normally very calm friend, he could see the tension of worry and excitement layered on top of one another like a cake. Proceeding to speak quite plainly to not let his knowledge of Taishen's nightly ordeals be obviously observed on his own face.
“Yeah I tried already. Barnabos is being a hermit, literally; Queenie already went to sleep; And Jornir is– Jornir.” With a wave of his hand Skrimm tried to dismiss the mention of the other three. Pulling a deck of cards from his coat pocket as he spared a grin up at Taishen. “Plus, I want to teach you this game. It’s called Blackjack. I think you’d like it.” Giving a wink up at the man, he nudges his head back to the common area for them to sit. Egging him on with an elbow to the hip. “Come on. It’ll be more fun than whatever you were doing. I promise.”
Taishen seems to hesitate for a moment as he glances back into his room. “I…I suppose you’re right Skrimm. It may help me to clear my head as well.” With a subtle nod he smiles down at the Goblin. Following him into the common room as he leaves his own sleeping quarters, listening somewhat passively as Skrimm begins to explain the inner workings of the game with assured scuffs. “Okay, so the goal of the game is to get the closest to 21 without busting. If you bust you lose, real easy stuff. House can’t go lower than a 16, so you're basically guaranteed to win”
“I see. But how does the house win then?” Taishen's confusion was evident as they traversed further away from the room. Their voices turning into mere muffled murmurs as the hall was once again washed in silence.
Peaking out from her hiding spot, Queenie took a quick glance down the hall to ensure the two were truly gone. “That should keep him distracted for a good long while. Now, let's get ourselves a blossom.” She mumbles the words of encouragement to herself before slinking quietly towards Taishen's room.
With a low groan of the hinges, Queenie pushes the door open to look inside. Much like her own room, the layout consisted of a hearth on the right wall with a shelf of various storage sat alongside it. On the left of the room was a bed that looked like it had been laid on mere minutes ago, with the sheets all wrinkled and disheveled from the weight of Taishen. A table also adorned the space immediately inside the room, seemingly empty aside from some parchment that laid neatly stacked next to an equally as neatly folded coat.
‘Strange. I never realized how neat Taishie was. I suppose it makes sense– He did own a tea shop.’ These thoughts crossed her mind as she walked fully into the space before her. Hesitating in her actions before deciding it may be best to not shut the door in favor of a quieter escape.
Taking a second to look around once more, Queenie hummed with a keen sense of focus. “If I were Taishie, where would I stash my precious teabag…” As she hums the words to herself she finds her eyes drifting to land on the familiar tea pot that sat innocently on the shelf. Making quick on her feet as she moves deftly to the item.
Without disturbing the still warm pot, she proceeds to look around on the shelves surrounding it. Finding nothing but cobwebs as she starts to pull drawers open as well. To her surprise, she finds nothing laying within the various drawers either. Painting her face in confusion over the Dragonborn's strange use of the accommodated storage– or more so, the lack of it.
‘What the hell Taishie? You have drawers of storage and didn’t bother to put any of yer belongings in em?’ Baffled by the sudden realization that this would be harder than she originally expected, Queenie takes a step back to observe the room once again.
The room felt bare under her watchful eye now. Hearth burning warmly to her left, casting shades of orange on the surfaces that she now gazed at with grim determination. With the new knowledge that the shelf before her laid almost fully empty, she tried to look elsewhere for answers. Her ears giving a small twitch in the direction of the bed before she found herself moving to investigate.
Carefully pulling back the sheets, Queenie is met with two things. One of which was the teabag she had been looking for, sitting carefully on top of a half written letter that seemed to draw her full attention. Curiously, she pulls the note out from under the bag as she reads over its contents with care.
“Mei Li, I have come writing about good news! I know my last letter was a bit on the grim side, but you need not worry about your old Uncle. I assure you, I will return to Jade Shell and share with you all I have learned and seen on my travels. You know I have learned many things from my companions– though I’m unsure if you’d remember them by name. If I recall correctly, you tended to be quite poor at remembering the names of our customers that frequented the Sereni-Tea. Haha.
It is no fault of your own Mei Li, I can also be quite forgetful. Now what was I gonna write about? Oh yes! My friend, Jornir– the large Firbolg? I’ve mentioned him before~. He has informed me tonight that he believes our paths are fated for more than just our present mission! At first I was a bit dumb founded, surely he did not mean this? But It seems that these feelings are not just my own. He has asked for the night to think it over. Isn’t this exciting Mei Li?! I think you would like him very much. Perhaps when I return to you, My blossom, you will get the chance to meet him properly.
I almost forgot again Mei Li! He called me such a loving name this evening~. One I have never heard used before, ‘My Beloved’. Oh if only you were here. You’d tease me for being such a sap for such an endearing term. Haha. I miss you alot Blossom, maybe th–”
The letter seemed unfinished as it came to an abrupt ending with small wrinkles littering the parchment, indicating moisture had previously settled on top of the fibers. Realizing the marks were that of dried tears, Queenie felt mournful for Taishen. “Oh Taishie, I really hope this all works out for ya in the end…” Her words felt quieter than usual as she placed the letter back down.
With a heavy heart she proceeds to finish the task she had been sent here to complete. Opening the bag that now sat adjacent to the letter, she deftly searched for the blossom. Taking only a moment before she pulled out two identical fireblossoms. Holding them both carefully within her hands, she gazed over the blossoms with a look of awe. Even still, it brought a pang to Queenie’s heart to know she’d be taking one of these precious blossoms. Knowing them to be the last of Taishen’s physical ties to JadeShell. Yet despite the pang of mournfulness, she couldn't help but to stifle a laugh at the realization that Jornir would surely be met with the Dragonborn’s ire within the coming days.
‘Oh Jornir, you are gonna be in so much trouble~.’ Queenie shakes her head at the thought. Taking only the one blossom before setting everything back the way she found it. Making haste to leave the room as quietly as possible as she b-lined straight to the Firbolgs quarters. Hearing the distant chuckled laughter of Skrimm as Taishen expresses some very colorful words about the state of their game.
With a few quick hops, she arrived at the door not far from her own room. Giving it a knock before entering without awaiting an answer. Inside was much the same as all the other rooms; A warm hearth, storage of sorts, and a well worn bed. However, while her room had a table, Jornir’s had a large cushioned chair. It was wide and tall, much too big for either the Dragonborn that had built this city, nor the Kobolds that had previously stayed here.
Despite Queenie's curiosity over the chair's origins, it was the person sat in the chair that she cared to see. “I have the blossom Jornir. But I may have some bad news…” As the words left her mouth she bit her tongue in consideration of lying about the blossoms remaining quantity, finding the idea humorous.
“You are…back sooner than I had expected, Queenie.” Jornir's voice held a cadence of uncertainty as his one good eye gazed up from the elk bone he had been carving. Silently taking in Queenie’s appearance before setting both the bone and knife aside. “What is this bad news you speak of?”
Without a second more to hesitate Queenie spoke loudly before thinking. “I had to ask Skrimm's help in distracting Taishie while I got the blossom. And I may have had to tell him about this whole thing or else he wouldn't have helped.” The words fell effortlessly as she chewed her cheek. Rubbing the toe of her foot into the floor as a way to distract herself from the taller man.
A deep grumbled huff cascades from Jornir’s lips before he could stop it. Rubbing a hand over his face in an attempt to stop the words that spilled out anyways. “Om någon ska dö, Odin, ta Skrimm först.” The words of his people flood past his lips as he curses Skrimm's very existence between bated breaths.
Taking a moment to compose himself, Jornir removed his hand from his face. “You got the blossom, yes? Were there many left?” He extends his hand forward as he waits patiently. His tense brows softened as the dried flower was laid delicately within his palm by the Rabbitfolk herself.
The flower itself was gorgeous. Deep green stims branched up before spilling into gentle down turned buds. Decorated by these wide, pointed petals that curled just the slightest bit. Most of the flower was painted in this deep muted orange that faded into a similarly muted yellow at the ends. Each petal seemingly dotted unevenly by bright reds and golds, giving the blossom the appearance of being scaled. Even in its dried state, the blossom looked effervescent in nature. Staving away any doubt that may have been lingering in Jornir’s mind about its tie to both Fu Zhao, and JadeShell.
“I mean, he had quite a few left so I wouldn’t worry about it too much. He may not even realize it's missing at all.” As Queenie spoke she grinned softly. Gazing away to hold back a stifled chuckle before Jornir could notice her obvious lie.
In his stunned state– due to the flower– Jornir almost missed when Queenie started to talk. Picking up on her not so subtle chuckles as he raised a brow, opening his mouth to ask if she was being truthful before closing it just as fast. With a shake of his head, he merely hummed. “I will trust your words Queenie. If that is all, then you may go. I appreciate your efforts.”
Nodding eagerly she turned to leave, stopping herself as she considered mentioning the note she had found. Under any other condition she would have kept that note sealed up tight within her chest, never to be told to anyone. However, this was different. This was the man that Taishen would be spending the rest of his life bound to. “There is one more thing, Jornir.” Queenie pauses as she stands facing away from the man.
“Yes? What is it Queenie?” Setting the blossom aside as well, Jornir turned his attention to the Rabbitfolk that stood facing the opposite of himself. A moment of silence seemed to linger into minutes before a shaky breath broke the tension.
Queenie's feet shuffled beneath her in quiet contemplation before words fell warmly once more. “I just– wanted to wish you a goodnight as well, Jornir. And I surely do hope you are right about all this.” Despite what she wanted to say, she couldn’t bring herself to tell him about the note. Receiving a quiet, “As do I, Queenie.” in return before she left without another word, disappearing into her room just a few feet down the hall to finally settle down for the night.
With Queenie finally gone, Jornir’s room was drowned in silence. He waited in that silence for some time, letting it linger and ebb away as he turned to grab his knife yet again. Proceeding to take the bone within his hand once more as he continued in his efforts to carve a wooly mammoth within the material. Spending what remained of his night to carve at the bone; Working alongside the early hours of the morning to weave sinew, herbs, runes, and blossoms into two matching bands. One of which will be the band that holds the token of bone that will bless Taishen with protection granted from the Gods.
And when the sun began to peak over the horizon of Argentholme– bringing dawn to a new day– he removed himself from the chair with a pained groan. Spine all but cracking as he stood straight once more. Proceeding to gather all the supplies he would need to perform this last step before his own Sun were to arise, awaiting his answer eagerly.
‘Soon My Beloved, I will protect you from more than just the cold. I will not let the passage of time take your name from me.’ With one last lingering thought, Jornir turned to leave his own quarters. Venturing towards the backdoor in the kitchen to leave out into the cold once more.