Path 3
Bonesinger
The song all but wove itself, a tapestry of complex notes created as Yaidev's fingers danced across the curved Bonesinger-flute. Her eyes were closed, her mind devoid of conscious thought, except for the music she played. She was calm and focused, her heartbeat slow, almost as if she was sleeping.
Yaidev could sense the wraithbone she was working on, felt how a net of fibres connected the edges of a large hole, before becoming so dense that it was closed. She continued, letting the material grow further and mature, until it became indistinguishable from the surrounding tissue. Only then did the song stop.
The sudden silence was strange; all her senses still seemed heightened, but momentarily bereft of stimuli it briefly felt as if she was in a vacuum. Only when Yaidev opened her eyes and disconnected the flute from her lips, taking a relaxed breath, did the illusion break.
With a smile on her lips she regarded her project and let her finger s run across the smooth surface of wraithbone in front of her. Her eyes wandered further along the entirety of a cruiser's hull, which had once been damaged and blackened by projectiles and fire, now healed and as pristine as on the days it had first been sung from wraithbone.
Her keen hearing picked up footsteps and she turned to see her current employer. He was an eldar centuries older, his hair dyed to a deep blue, matching the ornamentation on his otherwise anthracite coloured clothes. The black cloak that billowed gently with each step was rimmed with grey fur from some alien animal, but failed to hide the currently empty holster of a shuriken pistol and vacant sheath of a sword. Outsiders were advised to wander Saim-Hann unarmed to avoid unintentional provocations or escalations.
His gloved fingers examined the surface of the hull same as Yaidev's had done and he nodded with a satisfied smile. "I'm pleased to see that Halandur remains a skilled teacher. Your work is admirable, young one."
Yaidev bowed her head, delighted to receive such praise. "You have my thanks, Valenon. The internal damage however was the more challenging task. You said orks have caused this damage."
His earlier smile vanished. "We were assisting the observation and reduction of the ork threat on Ashtar'shir. Another band of Outcasts came to relief and take over from us, but as we left the planet we were discovered by a small fleet of pirates entering the system. We had momentarily de-cloaked to access the webway and were thus forced to rid ourselves from the orks or they would certainly have destroyed the gate."
Yaidev flinched at the thought; such a thing would have been unacceptable, but a small eldar vessel engaging one of the massive conglomerations the greenskins dared to call ship. "Have you suffered losses?" She asked, worried by the odds they had faced.
To her relief he shook his head. "Thankfully only damages to our ship. We destroyed one of their vessels and lost the remaining in the planet's asteroid ring."
"Still, that outside orks come to Ashtar'shir does not bode well, if I may dare to say. Could they not disrupt the infighting among their currently planet bound ilk?"
The Outcast seemed somewhat surprised by her input and for a second he eyed her curiously. "A danger the seers and Autarchs of this craftworld are now aware of. We will soon see what steps they will take, but I am confident my fellow Outcasts on that world will do their best to keep them divided." He sighed. "But let us not dwell on such a dismal topic; I've had enough of greenskins. How long have you been Halandur's student?"
"A little over a century now, the longest I've ever been on a single Path." Yaidev admitted.
"Truly? How many Paths have you walked before?"
"Merely two, one of which was that of the Warrior." It certainly was the more impressive of the two.
"Ah; 'tis usually a briefer one, though I suppose it depends on what drove you there to begin with." Valenon thoughtfully looked at his ship, as if he was reminded of something, thankfully not inquiring about her own motivation for becoming a Warrior.
"Valenon, I'm curious." Yaidev spoke, desiring to change the topic of their conversation. "Seeing as you are of the Outcasts and a frequent visitor to Saim-Hann, are you familiar with another called Nizerah of Biel-Tan?" She had not seen her friends in some years and was eager for any word.
The Outcast took a few moments to remember. "I wouldn't say we are well acquainted, but we have met, last just two years ago at a webway port. Among our own her band is deemed small and reliable, though I myself did not yet had the pleasure of working alongside them. Still, from what I've heard her ideas tend clash with others. "He chuckled. "Then again I believe most of us Outcasts always like our own way best. May I ask why you are interested?"
"They are friends; I've known them ever since I was old enough to walk the Paths. I was merely curious."
"I see." He replied with a warm smile. "Speaking of old friends, how is Halandur?"
Evening came and the illumination took on the warm colours of dusk, from bright orange to soft pink. Yaidev retired for the day, once more taking her favourite, yet longer route through the nearby gardens to the dome of the Stormriders. Today she was hoping to find Ilthaldir here, well aware that her other friends were sadly rather occupied with their own duties or simply unavailable.
Derahnim had begun to walk a new Path in recent years and his studies as a scholar often kept him busy until late into the night, while Elowyn, still a musician, had mastered several more instruments and was currently preparing for her next concert. Meanwhile Talranis was attending to the Coming of Age ritual of another Bird of Kurnous and wouldn't return for a few days. Naverhan too wasn't on Saim-Hann as he now worked on a merchant ship, travelling between the craftworld and the Exodites Worlds, or ports within the webway itself; he was dearly missed by all, during their weekly meetings, a tradition they had thankfully been able to mostly keep alive during the past century.
The goods traded usually weren't essential, but it had become fashionable on Saim-Hann to carry or wear items made from the hide of a true, wild dragon or have plants from an Exodite World in one's garden. Some even went so far as to travel along with the merchants and go on the hunt themselves to prove their valour. Sometimes Yaidev wondered if this was a reaction to the lack of combat in the recent past, but regardless, there was something about those actions she found rather immature. Not that she didn't understand the thrill of the hunt, but the bragging that followed felt unbecoming. Concerning the peacetimes themselves, Yaidev felt split, more than she had expected or ever wanted to.
The Bonesinger released her crimson hair, undoing the long ponytail, allowing the artificial wind to run through it. She tugged a few strands behind one of her pointy ears, her fingers briefly lingering on the one piece of jewellery she wore; an earring, fashioned from a tooth of the dragon she'd slain more than a century ago.
Truthfully she had hoped to have completed the next ritual by now, but she hadn't even fulfilled the necessary conditions yet. And with the triumvirate's decree, she wouldn't be able to partake in battle alongside her clan for years to come. Admittedly this had begun to bother her increasingly over the past few decades. She simply didn't feel like a true Wild Rider without this accomplishment, still felt apart from the rest of her kin. One battle by their side would be enough to change that. Of that she was convinced.
Yaidev sighed and pushed these thoughts aside as she walked between the lush, green trees, the birds singing brightly around her. They flew back and forth above the path, their feathers as colourful as the countless flowers, lining it. She loved these areas. Despite the elegant grace of Saim-Hann's every structure, the serenity and the genuineness of the gardens cheered her heart.
Even though the eldar had shaped all here to their pleasure, there was still a sense of the wilderness everything had been taken from so long ago; in every crooked branch and twig, the occasionally lopsided flowers or ruffled feathers of a bird. Somehow Yaidev adored these imperfections, it made this place feel truly alive and as she continued on, a little smile came to grace her lips.
Knowing her fondness for such natural beauty, Naverhan would often bring her a little memento, when he returned from his journeys, like an amber gem from an Exodite world; with its entrapped insects or leaves she found those to be particularly interesting. Other times it was just a single flower or plant, one she had never seen before, not even in the gardens of Saim-Hann. Then again she only knew comparatively few on this continent-sized vessel. Who could say what was hidden in the countless domes and halls all across the craftworld.
The rushing of water reached her keen ears and the flora parted to reveal a clearing, a lake at its centre. Straight ahead Yaidev looked upon a cliff face partially covert by an evergreen climbing plant, while a stream of water tumbled down from its top to the lake fifteen meters below, though she was not yet close enough for it to drown out the brides in the trees around her.
As the Bonesinger looked about, she discovered that she was not alone, however it was not one of the gardeners, tending to this oasis. She found herself next to another eldar, who was dressed in flowing blue robes, runes of gold shimmering in the evening's warm, orange light. He was sitting on one of the benches along the path at the lake, having been concealed until now by the dense flora. His posture was relaxed, an arm outstretched, allowing a bird with shimmering violet feathers to sit on one of his fingers. As he seemed to silently commune with the small animal, meeting its round, black eyes, there was a faint, but content smile on his lips.
Yaidev felt like she was intruding, immediately recognizing his profession. "Honoured seer." She greeted him with a elegant bow; to ignore him would be highly disrespectful.
The elder psyker seemed slightly amused as he turned to her. "Please, there is no need for such gestures, not here. Not tonight." He lifted his hand, the bird flying off, disappearing between the branches and leaves. "You are one of the Stormriders, young one?"
Doubtlessly he had spotted the sigil on her garments. She had already seen his, the Witchblade wrapped by a serpent, of the Blades of Azure. Ilthaldir's clan. "Yaidev Baharothaís, Farseer." While the younger eldar had only seen him on a few occasions, mostly from afar, she was talking to none other than Methran'el, one of Saim-Hann's most influential living Farseers.
He rose and regarded her for a moment with an even for an eldar unreadable expression. Silently Yaidev hoped to keep this brief. "I can sense you are troubled." The seer stated, only cementing her feeling of uneasiness. "And in such peaceful times."
"Not all sources of turmoil are exterior, Lord Methran'el." She replied, more timidly that she'd liked.
"Ah, very true." He agreed. "Do you require someone to listen or advice you? Or perhaps you prefer to seek answers on your own?"
Frankly Yaidev was surprised by his offer; this was highly uncommon, especially given that he was not even of her kin. Still, as far as she could discern, his entire body-language was relaxed and indicative of honest intentions, yet she remained suspicious nonetheless. "I would merely be wasting your time." She claimed in a friendly manner.
To her surprise he briefly chuckled. "I came here with the explicit purpose of wasting time, or more accurately, recuperation after my long studies. A mind can only take so much and so I'd welcome a chance to connect myself with the physical plain a little more thoroughly. It would be unfortunate if I lost sense of reality admits the countless futures and possibility." He smiled at her kindly. "So you see, I'm not entirely selfless."
Yaidev hesitated; she preferred to share her thoughts with friends, not a stranger from another clan and a high ranking member of the Seer's Council. But it seemed almost discourteous to completely decline his offer and not at least reveal something.
Methran'el appeared to be sensing her trepidation. "Of course, this is merely an offer."
Yaidev bowed only her head this time, a hand placed on her heart. "I appreciate your consideration, honourable one, but these are matters I'd be more comfortable discussing with those closest to me. I mean no offense."
The Farseer lifted a hand and shook his head. "Worry not, child. After all, regardless of my title, I'm but a stranger to you, not even of your kindred."
It was almost as if he was reading her mind; she'd rather speak with an Aspect Warrior, but here she was. Then a thought occurred to her. "May I ask a question?"
"Naturally."
Yaidev hesitated, considering her words carefully. "It's said the seers spend much of their time examining the ever-changing tapestry of fate, following the countless threats that might be woven into it. With such knowledge, is there ever true certainty in even one's own future?"
"No fate is ever truly fixed. Certainty is an illusion, but I suppose the future is a challenge more readily faced if one has the awareness of a seer. Frankly I've walked this Path so long that I've quite frankly forgotten what it was like before." He studied her, but longer than the Outcast early today and this time it was making her feel uncomfortable, yet Yaidev forced herself to hold still. "Fearing what might come is not uncommon. Many have a tendency to image the worst outcomes, but we have our clans. Whether they are loving or harsh, they stand by their own; especially by one of your blood."
Yaidev eyes narrowed ever so slightly. "Frankly I do not like to be solely defined by my parentage, but sadly as of now that is all I have."
"One is indeed poor, if lacking in self-confidence. You worry about the opinions of others? Now, how are they supposed to have faith in you, if even you don't have it in yourself?" He replied, a brow raised questioningly.
With arms now folded she turned her eyes away from the Farseer, watching instead the ripples run across the lake's surface. Perhaps there was worse than speaking more with him. "I'm expected to grow into a warrior and a leader for my kindred. My father teaches me, but I lack experience in every area. For now we enjoy times of unprecedented peace, however I feel woefully unprepared for what is to come after."
"I can see parts of the future and even I get surprised every once in a while, despite my many centuries." The Farseer admitted. "What of your Path? I can see you are Bonesinger."
Yaidev could feel how her posture relaxed. "I enjoy my work, though I wish I could do more. Not that I could say with certainty what that is, but it sometimes feels like I am waiting…for something." Whatever it was, changes, opportunities or an even end to the peace, the anticipation coupled with uncertainty was disconcerting.
"Well, I fear I cannot give you the answer either." Farseer Methran'el told her, the briefness of his response disappointing her somewhat. "But as for the friend you've been waiting for, I believe he has arrived."
Quickly Yaidev turned back, looking surprised at the older eldar. "My friend?" Past him, on a path leading around the lake she could indeed see Ilthaldir, making his way towards them. He couldn't have been looking into her mind, she hadn't felt anything. "How did you know?" Someone of his power and skill could easily overpower her if he felt so inclined, but not without her noticing something.
Lord Methran'el ignored her confusion, smiling once again. "Farewell Yaidev Baharothaís." He simply said and departed, taking the way she'd come.
Yaidev looked after him, thoughts racing, until her friend had finally reached her. At least he picked up on her state. "One of the seers?" Ilthaldir asked with a frown, watching the other eldar disappear beyond the trees.
"Farseer Methran'el." She replied, still not facing her friend.
"Of the Council?" From the corner of her eye she saw his expression quickly changed into one of concern. "Should I worry for you?"
After a moment's hesitation Yaidev shook her head. "Kind of you, but it is nothing. We were merely exchanging a few words."
Ilthaldir however was clearly unconvinced. "One does not simply speak with a Farseer." He reminded her.
"True, though I suppose it was the closest thing one could have to a simple conversation." Yaidev promised him with an encouraging smile, trying to brush away her feeling of discomfort.
Thankfully her friend could tell that she didn't wish to discuss the matter further and changed the subject. "So, I assume you are done with work for the day."
"Indeed, so I thought I stop by, since we don't see each other as often as we used to." She smiled at him and winked. "Unless of course you have something planned with Elowyn."
Ilthaldir sighed. "Sadly no, and it would be suspicious, if we were seen alone together too often."
"I'm sorry."
He shrugged, tying to muster a smile. "We knew this, when we decided to pursue our relationship all those years ago. Though I will not lie that keeping it a secret is becoming increasingly difficult. Besides; I despise lying to my kin."
Yaidev quickly placed a hand on her heart. "Apologies; I should not have addressed the matter." About the last thing she wished to do was to upset her friend.
"Worry not." He assured her. "Tis something I find myself pondering all too often on my own. But what of you?"
"Of me?"
He gave her a meaningful look. "I was wondering if perhaps you have yet been pushed into a liaison."
Her dark eyes narrowed. "If you speak of some political arrangement, I thankfully have been spared. At least for the time being." She briefly clenched her teeth. "Though I fear I will not be escaping that fate forever."
There was pity in his violet eyes. "Does it worry you?"
"A little. The prospect to be used as a piece in a game, even by my own families is…unsettling. To have so little agency concerning something that will impact the rest of my life."
To her surprise he suddenly chuckled. "I fear we both are terrible friends." Ilthaldir explained. "Perhaps a different subject would be for the best, before we both find ourselves walking the Path of the Mourner."
"A dreadful prospect." Yaidev admitted jokingly, her mood lightened. "Now, do you have any suggestions what we could do this evening, with all others preoccupied?"
"If we were to take a shuttle we could travel to Ritairrach an- Ealasais; there are several performances tonight, from swordfighters to acrobats." The dome was known across Saim-Hann, providing the stages and arenas for her best performance artists. Spending an evening there would surely be worthwhile, even if it would take them at least an hour to reach it.
With a hand Yaidev gestured towards the nearest path. "Lead the way."
"As you wish, milady." He replied teasingly with a bow, referencing her higher rank, as he often liked to do. "Still, you must tell me what has you troubled, if it's not the Farseer."
She twisted her mouth a little; this wasn't exactly changing topic, not the way she had imagined, but her friend could be quite persistent. "It is that obvious?"
Ilthaldir shrugged as they started to walk. "We've known each other for more than a century. Just the way you keep your shoulders is enough to give you away."
"Well, I had meant to bring it up at some point, though I hadn't yet decided which evening to ruin with my personal woes." Yaidev responded dryly.
"Ah, but that is why we are friends; you ruin our eves, and whenever our souls are burdened we devastate yours. Like the night I shared my worries concerning my relationship with Elowyn. And the night after she came to you for the same reason, unaware of my visit."
The Bonesinger chuckled. "I didn't mind; it was amusing how similar you two sounded. I took it as a good sign." Yaidev smiled at him encouragingly. "And you two have been happy together."
Ilthaldir too smile, but different for hers it was a content expression. "I have been fortunate and I hope we will last for a long time to come."
As did Yaidev; she loved her friends and perhaps it was what made her so confident regarding their future. In her mind they would stay to together for centuries to come.
Days past and Valenon with his fellow Outcasts left Saim-Hann again. With no current assignments, Yaidev used her time to further perfect her skills, choosing objects she rarely handled. Decades ago Halandur had given the Stormrider her own premises in his workshop on the first floor, a tranquil place for her to practise and work.
Over the years she had changed quite a bit. These days the walls and pillars were covered with intricate designs, while in the corners she'd put small trees sung from wraithbone. As a matter of fact very piece of furniture and décor Yaidev had crafted herself, often reworked across the years.
Today however her eyes were on her newest creation. As she blew gently into the Bonesinger-flute, fingers dancing, a slender piece of wraithbone turned slowly about a meter above the ground in front of her, as if the craftworld's gravity had no effect on it.
Yaidev watched as the handle formed, the blade became longer and flattened. Weapons and armour were something Saim-Hann had in abundance, due to the decline in population since the Fall. Still, every bonesinger learned to create and repair them and occasionally personalized equipment was requested by Wild Riders, who took great pride in going into battle with gear exclusively their own.
The crafting process to her was remarkably similar to mediation in way, with a calm and focused mind. Her sense of time also tended to be somewhat derailed, yet Yaidev knew hours had passed, when she sensed a presence entering through the open arches, leading to the balcony to which the stairs were connected.
She stopped her song, letting the unfinished blade gently float to the low table beneath it. When Yaidev looked up however, she saw someone she had not expected to meet again so soon.
"Honoured Farseer; what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?" Frankly, his presence was not truly welcomed however, still she bowed and smiled kindly.
He stepped inside, once more dressed in blue robes, though this time the right half was dominated by the design of a giant silver serpent. "I have been musing about our conversation, young one. It's implications."
"Implications?" Yaidev put her flute down, watching as the Farseer examined the ornamentation along the wall.
With a hand he followed one of the many lines in the interwoven design. There was the ghost of a smile on his lips, but Yaidev couldn't discern its meaning. "Indeed. Your words and gestures were those of one at the crossroads."
For a moment the young Bonesinger was stunned by his conclusion. "You believe I subconsciously search for a new Path to walk." She hadn't even considered it, not consciously at least.
"This is what I'd like to confirm." Lord Methran'el explained turning back to her.
"I must admit, this comes as a surprise. I have felt no aspiration to leave my life as a Bonesinger behind." She replied honestly.
"So you would deem yourself content?"
That was perhaps too strong a word. "I'm satisfied with my Path, the work I do and perfection still eludes me."
"Perfection eludes us all, it is an illusion. In the end, what we can hope to find is an approximation." His gaze meet hers directly, making her almost step back. Yaidev couldn't shake the feeling that they were seeing more than she wanted them to. "Have you left the Path of the Warrior because your skills in the art of war, as a Dark Reaper, are beyond flaw?"
"No." She admitted, feeling a little queasy by now. "I had conquered my wrath and sorrow, my need to avenge. I was once more at balance, in control of my emotions; they no longer threatened to consume me."
Lord Methran'el nodded. "The Path of Shaping; even though you were not guided by such powerful sensations, there certainly was an emotional need influencing your choice, when you picked it."
Yaidev meanwhile looked at her hands. She thought back to her time as a warrior, but her memories vague, dreamlike, more like a story told than an event experiences. But the young eldar knew what she had done. "After all the destruction I brought, all the lives taken, even if they were indisputable evil and revolting, I wanted." She briefly shook her head, hands clenching into fists. "No, I needed to do something that was constructive."
He didn't reply immediately, as if he was considering her words. Then he stepped closer. "While the intention is to remain with a task until a certain perfection is reached, it is not an obligatory condition to fulfil. Your time on this Path may be coming to an end because other emotions and needs threaten to destroy your current balance, just as rage brought a sudden end to your career as a poet and made you a disciple of Khaine." Somehow she wasn't surprised he knew her first Path.
With a subtle frown she looked up to him again. "I suppose, honoured seer, that you have already some assumptions as to what disrupts my emotional balance."
"I propose it is apprehension." His words seemed chosen carefully. "You said yourself that you sought a constructive Path; it stands to reason that similarly you also wanted to rebuild your own life. In way you have done that. Your kindred prepares you to take your intended place. From what I know you have friends, more and dearer ones than ever before in your life, but the next steps are uncertain. And I am also well aware that you have not earned your full rank just yet." The Farseer had clearly inquired more than she was comfortable with, and she sensed hints of anger at what felt like an unwelcomed transgression on her privacy."Nothing what you've gained is yet secured. You stand to lose what little you have managed to gain, without ever reaching what you are aiming for. And it all depends on what the near future holds."
Despite her displeasure, she couldn't deny that he was correct. "We spoke for but five minutes." Yaidev noted evenly, torn between wanting him to leave and wishing to hear more.
He tilted his head a little. "What you seek is certainty, is it not? Control; to be able to act, rather than to merely react to what happens around you."
It was all too obvious to her what he was hinting at. "And you believe the Path of the Seer could offer me that?"
"That is why I have come." Farseer Methran'el declared. "Fear is a treacherous thing; a little keeps you alive, but if you allow it to seep into your every thought and action, many more than just you may suffer. Especially if you one day take your father's place. As a seer you can shape your future, see the consequences of your actions unfold. There are important lessons to be learned for any leader."
Yaidev's eyes narrowed. "With all due respect, but my clan would be disappointed if I were to be tutored by another's Farseer." She highly doubted her kin would be thrilled to have an heir to the chief be trained and educated so heavily by others yet again, especially one so deeply involved in politics, even if they were allies.
He nodded. "True, yet if you were to take me up on my offer, I wouldn't be your only teacher. After all, as both a Farseer and a Council-member, I have many responsibilities and spent much of my time untangling the threads of countless possible futures. It would not be difficult to arrange for your other mentors to be Stormriders."
The young eldar's thoughts were racing; she couldn't help but feel like the piece in some game. There had to be a reason, a new sense of curiosity tempering her anger. "May I ask as to why you are so interested in me in particular?"
"Would you believe me if I told you that you happen to be the only potential student I have met in quite a while?"
No Path was more rarely taken than that of the Seer, there could be years between new students, but Yaidev remained unconvinced. "Not entirely, even if it is a possibility."
"Quite understandable." Farseer Methran'el smiled softly. "In the end, the decision is yours. And you can always turn to one of your kindred if you decide to take this Path." He turned towards the exit again, Yaidev walking with him to the arches. "Take your time, I do not expect you to choose right away. After all this was merely intended to be an offer."
Much relieved to see him leave again, Yaidev bowed. "I thank you, for taking your time to talk with me, honoured Seer." Surprising herself a little, she actually meant it. There was much to think about now.
He gave her a respectful nod. "A pleasure, Baharothaís. I wish you good fortune, whatever you decide."
...
"Meathalaim, may I have a moment of your time?" Yaidev had attempted to return to her exercise, only to find her mind too preoccupied to adequately focus on her task. Now, an hour later she turned to her mentor, needing to speak with someone.
"Certainly, Yaidev." The elder Bonesinger replied, stepping away from the array of instruments he'd been tending to. "It concern's Farseer Methran'el, does it not? I saw him walk past the shop earlier."
His student nodded, and with a gesture he invited her to take a seat. "He came to visit me. To give me 'advice'." Yaidev began as they down on the seat cushions next to one of the windows. "Halandur, I've one been a Bonesinger for a little over a century. Would it not be rash for me to change my Path so soon?"
Halandur hesitated, his expression contemplative, stroking his chin slowly. "Not necessarily." He began. "You are still young, your emotions and your mind are thus more tumultuous and our subconscious is perhaps far more important in choosing our Paths. After all, when you came to me all those years ago, did you decide that it was right to walk a Path of creation, or was it a feeling?"
The elder Bonesinger was right, and his words were very similar to Methran'el's. At least her two quickest changes in Paths had been somewhat beyond her control. She had merely accepted them. This time she was aware of it, and the agreement both her mentor and the Farseer showed, was rather convincing to her. Was it indeed time?
Halandur meanwhile continued. "Even if it's perfection you seek, 'tis rather the route than a destination; you reach its approximation by constant improvement, never allowing yourself to stand stills at the level you've reached."
Frankly their words were too alike. "You spoke with the Farseer as well." Yaidev concluded.
"We may have exchanged a few words a couple of days ago." Halandur admitted, giving her an apologetic look. "He didn't want to potentially steal away a student of mine."
Feeling a little insulted that they had talked about her future behind her back, Yaidev folded her arms, her dark eyes narrowed. "So you agree with his assessment?" She asked somewhat coolly.
He sighed and spread his arms. "There aren't any techniques left to teach you. All you need at this point is further practise. As to why you came here." Now he met her gaze directly. "When you first came to my workshop you seemed all but lost and there was a sense of guilt surrounding you. Whatever it was that brought you to me, it was not specifically about the bonesinging, at least not the artistic aspect. I think you came here to mend, maybe something in your life, maybe to make amends. And I believe that goal has been achieved. You are now a true member of your clan, one battle alongside them as a Wild Rider away to claim your true rank. You have friends that love and trust you, Elowyn only confirms this. You have served the craftworld as a Bonesinger for more than a century. Whatever drives you now, I do not think it can be confronted on this Path. Perhaps the lessons of the Seer will be just what you need, even if you face them earlier than most. Seers set their wits to more than just the future, after all there is a reason we entrust them with so many aspects of our politics and culture. Additionally, even if you won't find all the answers there, it just might provide the insight you require to go forth. Doubtlessly it will prepare you better for leadership; when and if you should one day succeed your father, or even if simply your advice is sought, the lesson on the Witch Path will certainly serve you well."
Yaidev found herself mostly agreeing; so far she'd come to much the same conclusion, but every thought was always accompanied by nagging doubt. After all, this was not a step to be taken lightly. She lowered her gaze to her intertwined fingers, running one thumb over the other as she mused.
Her mentor seemed to sense qualm; she still wasn't as good in hiding her emotions as other eldar. "Besides the Path of Shaping is closely related to the Seer's; in a sense you won't stray far. But I advise you to speak with your parents; becoming a Seer will have an impact on your clan." Yaidev couldn't imagine it being an enjoyable conversation, even if a seer of the Stormbringers themselves had spoken with her. When she looked up again, Halandur gave her an encouraging and honest smile. "For what it's worth, I've enjoyed being your teacher, you are a good friend of my beloved daughter and I wish you nothing but the best, no matter what your decision will be in the end."
...
Blades clashed, the sounds of the duel reaching Yaidev as soon as she set food on the stairs. As she ascended, she walked though delicate arches, which taken together looked almost akin to a serpents skeleton, given the way the staircase led from the second floor to the rooftop along the outer wall of her parent's home. Ahead she could already see that red silks that created a canopy above the flat roof, gently moving in the wind, the smooth surface shimmering.
When she finally reached the top she was just in time to watch her mother block a slash from her father's blade with the staff of her spear, delivering a kick to his abdomen. He blocked it with an arm, Alandis using the opportunity to swipe his sword out of the way, the spear coming down in a small arch.
It was in that moment that Thalduin spotted their daughter, ending the duel with a gestured command and sheathing his sword. Alandis lowered her weapon and turned around, the expression of concentration quickly exchanged with a warm smile. "Yaidev." She welcomed her daughter as she joined them. "We didn't expect you to arrive this early." Several times a week Yaidev would visit her parents, be it for conversation, training or additional education. Today however she was indeed early, having left the workshop right after speaking with Halandur.
"Athari, Ishar; there is something I wanted to talk about."
Her father frowned. "You seem concerned, Nionis. What troubles you?"
On her way home she had pondered how to explain those matters. In the end she had decided to be rather straight forward with them. "I was approached by a member of the Seer's Council. Farseer Methran'el. He is convinced that it is time for me to change my Path that I would do well as a seer myself."
Her parents exchanged glances, however Yaidev couldn't tell whether they were worried or even angered. "He came directly to you?" Thalduin questioned.
"I first encountered him in one of the gardens a few weeks ago. It seemed like a mere coincidence at the time, but I am no longer certain that is true." As a matter of fact she was all but positive that he had intended to meet her there.
"With a Farseer that is rarely the case." Her mother agreed, a hint of concern becoming discernable.
"Do you think you belong on the Path of the Seer?" Thalduin asked. "You are aware of the dangers."
Her father's question surprised Yaidev a little; she'd expected him to inquire more about Methran'el first. "I am not averse to taking it." She began carefully. "I am not afraid and he Farseer's reasoning was sound. Still, I cannot help but wonder about his motivations."
Thalduin's expression remained unreadable. "He is of the Blades of Azure; we are currently allied and mentoring you would only strengthen that bond. I wonder if our alliance as a part to play."
"On the other hand perhaps he wishes his clan to have more influence in our decisions." Yaidev's mother pointed out, her eyes slightly narrowing at the idea.
Thalduin briefly seemed to consider her words, though he kept his gaze on his daughter. "Yaidev could turn to other teachers; we have enough Seers of our own to mentor her. Still, if he wishes to influence us that could go both ways."
"Cildari?" Alandis's surprise was unmistakable as she turned to him. "You wish her to act as a spy on our behalf?"
"Only in part." He assured them both. "I do wish for our alliance to remain strong, I bear the Blades no ill will, but it could proof beneficial to have eyes and ears to one so high their hierarchy as Methran'el. Besides, her tutoring under a Windserpent-Bonsinger has done much to strengthen our ties with their clan; I don't see why it would be different with the Blades of Azure. And when one day war returns to our craftworld, we may emerge with more influence than we've had ever before, other than the Zephyrblades, who have lost much of their support in the past century."
Yaidev understood her father's reasoning. Nonetheless she felt anger flicker in her heart. "So you wish me to take the Path?" She clarified, cautious not to betray her emotions.
Once more her parents exchanged glances, her mother silently nodded, before her father answered. "We are not opposed to it. If you feel inclined to become a seer, you have our support." Gently he placed a hand on Yaidev's shoulder. "Should you, I encourage you to accept Farseer Methran'el offer to be your primary mentor and I'll speak with our own seers, see to it that they'll teach you as well."
This was not quite how she had imagined this conversation to go. Among others Yaidev had expected much more opposition. "I will meditate and give you my decision in the morning."
...
Some time later Yaidev sat in front of her tree in the Hall of Remembrance, absentmindedly running her hands through the grass. Truthfully ever since her conversation with Methran'el her mind had not come to rest.
It was night by now on Saim-Hann and no lights illuminated the dome, yet beyond the transparent wraithbone ceiling she could see the craftworld's myriads of towers, both slender and vast, their windows and connecting bridges brightly lit. Even further above countless stars glistened in the darkness of space, while the pale, white light of the sun they were currently orbiting made any surface it touched look frozen; or a least it looked like what Yaidev imagined frozen things to appear.
She loved these moments, the quiet beauty. Yaidev leaned back until she was lying on the lawn, arms spread, her hair a crimson halo around her head. For a while she simply enjoyed the view, but her mind did not stay quiet for long.
She couldn't deny that her parent's reaction, while unexpected, had upset her.
Instead of being primarily concerned about the dangers she would face as a seer, exposing her mind and soul to the terrors of beyond the veil, they first thought of how it could potentially benefit the clan. Yaidev knew they still cared regardless, but this left too bitter a taste in her mouth nonetheless.
She looked up, meeting the hollow eyes of the dragon skull. That it had already been a century since she'd slain it. Yet even in death it glared down upon her lying form like a predator, both threat and challenge.
There was a reason the Path of the Seer was the least taken on by the eldar, except for Ulthwé perhaps, and even then those choosing it could already look back at centuries of experiences in various fields. Their minds and souls were fragile things, easy prey for the horrors beyond if one was careless, yet seers constantly exposed their vulnerable spirits be it to untangle the future or call upon unnatural powers in battle in order to vanquish their enemies. It was not place for reckless youths.
Yet despite the dangers, Yaidev couldn't deny that the prospect fascinated her. So much she could learn and experience. She chuckled briefly, a self-pitying smile on her lips; her own curiosity was getting the better of her.
But there were undeniable benefits.
If she became a Warlock, acquired their skills, not only would she be a participant, but a true credit to her kindred in battle. Given that she'd been an Aspect Warrior in the past, she did have the necessary qualifications for this more aggressive facet of the Seer's Path. In the armoury of her former Dark Reaper temple she'd seen the vestments reserved for those combat specialized psykers; robes of scarlet red with light armour of pale gold, as well as white helmets with black faceplates and emerald eyes.
It was customary that at the eve of battle a Warlock returned to the temple where they'd been trained, and donned those vestments alongside their former brothers and sisters in arms.
To then join battle either at the side of her chief and father or fellow seers, to be more than a novice rider. The prospect was thrilling. Seer Yaidev, Warlock; not just nionis an-Thalduin.
But what would her friends say? Her blood had never mattered to them, she'd always been just Yaidev, for which she was grateful. Would they be concerned for her? Ilthaldir had fought and trained alongside her, he'd never doubted her skills. Elowyn was an optimist, even if she was concerned, she always had faith. Derhanim and Naverhan would certainly be worried for her and urge her to reconsider, though at least the former would concede given good reasoning. Talranis on the other hand would probably find the idea interesting. Danger wasn't something that deterred him; after having learned that she'd never ridden into battle with her clan, he'd started giving her all kind of advice and offered to teach her some of his more riskier manoeuvres that could get her out of a tight spot if needed. No, he would probably be the most supportive of that choice.
At last Yaidev's thoughts turned to Farseer Methran'el again.
Was he really after political influence or desired to strengthen alliances? It seemed too obvious and yet that he wished to train her because he'd simply taken an interest felt false as well. If she refused his offer, what would he try, or would he let it go? No, that seemed unlike a Farseer. Whatever it was he wanted, there was only one thing she could really do to find out. Even if it threw her into the midst of Saim-Hannian politics.
Perhaps more importantly however, what if he was right about her? If she truly needed to take the Path, just as she'd needed those of the Warrior and Shaping once upon a time. Could ignoring Methran'el's offer even be dangerous?
Yaidev rose and gently ran her hand over the dragon's snout. Its life had been a far more simple one. Roaming freely across the Exodite world, no obligations or Paths to consider. She sighed, shaking her head; now she started romanticizing the life of an animal. After all this was far from the worst to happen and things could work out for the best. It would certainly be interesting.
Even if her family wanted to use her as a means to increase their reputation, or Lord Methran'el tried to manipulate her clan, if that even was his intention, there was too much to gain. Yes, she could live with that. She would make the most of it.
Yaidev petted the dragon skull one more time, softly smiling as she briefly leaned her forehead against it, and she knew her decision had been made.
It was still early in the morning, the lights were still brightening, yet Yaidev was already walking the halls of the artisans, knowing her mentor was already in his workshop. She found him there, waiting at entry, a flute in his hands; her flute.
Yaidev wasn't dressed in her Bonesinger vestments instead she carried them, cleaned and neatly folded. Her decision was made.
"So, you have made your choice." Halandur welcomed her, when she stood before him. There was no judgment, he merely acknowledged it.
Yaidev nodded, feeling a little wistful. "I did." And she bowed. "I thank you for all you have taught me. I've truly enjoyed my time as a Bonesinger; for that I'm forever grateful to you and Elowyn."
"You will always be welcomed in our home." Her former mentor assured her and proceeded to hold out the instrument. "Here take your flute, as a reminder of what you have accomplished, and a token from a friend." Yaidev took the tool he'd once made for her, realizing she would have missed it dearly, her heart becoming lighter upon hearing his words. Only then did he too bow. "It was an honour being your tutor, lady Baharothaís. May Morai-Heg smile upon you."
Yaidev smile gratefully, a little saddened to leave. "May Vaul ever bless your work, Soldrealach-Kionshelwe."
Eldar Language:
Ritairrach an-Ealasais = Sanctuary of Artists/Performers (based on Gaelic)
Meathalaim = Mentor/Teacher (Gaelic)
Athari = Father (Gaelic)
Ishar = Mother (Eldar)
Nionis = Tochter (Gaelic)
Cildari = Spouse/Bondpartner (Gaelic)
Soldrealach-Kionshelwe = literally: one shaping with song (Eldar and Gaelic)