The Wonder of the Symphony

Times have changed, Ioder no longer the man he was during his rein in the Hierarchy was now a free soul. With the wind at his back the Seraphim and his faithful crew began traveling the countryside of the Isle Corone. He and his men only worked toward one outcome, bolster their alliances, gather troops, and overall growth within their nation without boards. Traveling in small groups under a new banner, The Monarchy, and bearing patches on their shoulders to show it. Though true the stories of old remarking the former Monarchies have been lost from recent history; the aristocracies of The White and The Dark have changed and shaped the world a number of times over. It was a nation that superseded boarders and boundaries, one whose rule was noble and happily loved by their masses.

His travels have changed the Seraphim, he was no longer the happy man he was and his grip on reality seems to leave him often. He can feel it every time as his mind is lost to the great power of The Void. Almost like a black out at times his laps of control often leads to disaster. Now he chooses to work alone, without anyone he cares about tagging along. It puts his mind at ease knowing that he couldn’t hurt the ones he loves.

This now brings us to the quant little town of Bleak Rock just south of the White Monarchy’s castle. Nestled in the southeastern seaboard Bleak Rock was the home to nearly five hundred men, woman, children, elves, and the of hand orc or two. A hub of activity centralized around the arts of this wonderful island nation. In the center of the town stood the city hall where aristocrats operate their day to day business and the even larger theater, where the real business is done. It was quite an honor to be allowed to perform in this famous venue.

Ioder found himself here on a whim, the notion that music seemed to sooth his wayward soul. Nowadays he didn’t where the façade of faces he did before. When he was himself, truly himself, he appeared to be a middle aged man for the time. About twenty eight years old with medium length dirty blond hair. His eyes were a solemn brown color and he had a well-trimmed but thick beard, wings non-existant. As he strolled through the bustling streets he could see and hear nothing but utter brilliance all around him. There were musicians playing and street performers dancing away in this colorful and vibrant port town. Small businesses and eateries lined each side of the street tattered in flies of all shapes and sizes.

“Excuse me sir,” a young frail voice said tugging at Ioder’s coat tails. This sent a jolt though his system as he turned to see as small child. Ioder let out a low growl eyeing the boy. His arms were stuffed with stacks of parchment with many more stowed in a sack hanging at his waist. He raised up a hand offering him one before running off to the next person he could.

The parchment was advertisement for a small band gathering at the end of the north dock at sunset guaranteeing a grand time to any who attend. Ioder studied it for a moment before crumpling it up and tossing it on the ground. Fat chance he thought to himself before turning face and continuing toward the town center. He wasn’t one for a small time group; he wanted to know who the main act was. He needed to find some way to calm him nerves, being an agent of The Void he was at constant war with the Other. While calm he was in perfect control of himself but otherwise his actions were not his own.

Today is the day!

Oh gosh I am sharing my music will all these people..

Icy blue orbs that were tainted with a look of fear and excitement in them looked among the crowded square. McKinley's heart was pounding as she couldn't tell whether or not she was overly excited or frightened to death. She was hidden slightly behind the stage area just looking out at her view that she would have later on tonight. Her rather large dire wolf pushed her head on the back of Kinley's knees. Looking down at the once ball of fur that now stood at the height of her hips before giving her soft smile that didn't really reach her eyes. Running her hand down the length of the wolf's spine before making her way too the main area. The day was slightly warmer for the harsh winter climate they had been getting. The sun was slowly cascading from the colorful sky only a haunting reminder that McKinley's performance would be coming up shortly.

Looking back down at Nymeria she flicked her wrist which was the sign of go and be free for a bit. Watching her companion scurry off into the shrubbery Kinley than gave herself a simple look over. She wore her brown leather boots that had four inch heels, than came the simple dark washed skinny jean pants that hugged her small frame. A simple white tank top slightly showed with a brown leather jacket that clutched on to her small waist. Her fiery red locks fell in loose beach ways, framing her face. Her slightly pouty lips painted a light pink off setting the freckles that are splashed across her nose. The snapping of a tree branch tore her thoughts away from her attire as she fidgeted with her fingers slightly.

"Nym..."

Before she could get the rest of the wolf's name out her air way was forced shut cutting off any sound. A large man or what she thought was a man stood in a long black cloak pushed her against the building, her head clashing against the cement blocks. Thud. A small sharp pain started to ache where her skull hit the rock, tears collected in her eyes as she blinked rapidly.

"Listen! You have no right to preform tonight, you know nothing about this religion or culture!"

Black dots danced in her vision as McKinley could feel herself start to grow dizzy from the lack of oxygen. Her head lulled slightly as she tried to pick it back up. She thought for sure this was the moment death would claim her for its own seeming as how she was able to avoid it's grasp for so long.

"This is your finally warning, you will not preform tonight or you will loose your life if it may be!"

With that she watched as not just one but at least seven to ten bodies disappear in the forestry. Gripping the wall for support she coughed violently. Hunched over she forced long ragged breaths in and out of herself, wheezing slightly as she stood up straight. The director of the gathering came over looking like he would pass out at any moment. His natural olive toned skin looked slightly clammy and his handsome face twisted with stress. "Miss!! Misss!! Are you okay?!" Finally as he reached for he spun her around so she was facing him, he grasped her face looking over for any damage. Swatting his hands away from her she moved to the small room that was to be her dressing room for the night. A timid knock came from the door as she knew that it was the director once more.

"May- maybe we should cancel your performance, Ms. Pierce..."

Shaking her head fiercely which slightly agitated the goose egg she had gotten from being slammed into the side of the building. She was not going to allow some posy scare off her finally sharing her music with people. "Than if you want to continue maybe I should at least find you some security to protect you. That group has been sending letters to my staff all week but we never thought they would act on it." Looking at him she held out her hand for the parchment papers, hesitantly he handed the pile over to her.

If that little bitch plays we will skin her alive on stage, she shames the people for playing when she knows nothing of religion she is playing for!

The girl will not play for a culture she knows nothing about when there are other people, OUR people that need the money more than some foreigner!

Reading a few more that promised to dismember her body or sacrifice her to the Gods in ways that most should not picture. Her stomach flipped threatening to up chuck the contents in it. Setting the letters aside she straightened her posture as she looked at the male before grabbing her pad of paper and pen. Her pen fluidly flew across the paper before she flipped it over and it read.

The show will go on!

A low growl starts to churn in Ioder's throat as a wave of anxiety washes over him. The colors mixed with its vibrant citizens brought nothing but pain to the Seraphim. The stomach turning pain that comes from the unknowing. At any moment he could be targeted by someone in the crowd. First it was the Kinshara, then the Tarot, he did piss off the lady briarheart so she may make a move on him. And if for any reason he would have to defend himself these happy people would be in danger.

Hours had passed as he circulated the city streets. Keeping to himself to avoid any unwanted attention he waited for the performance tonight. Though he hadn't been in town long he already heard the whispers and threats being made toward the young girl to grace the stage. They were mostly about her seemingly disrespectful attitude to a specific religious group.

He found himself sitting on a bench overlooking the town plaza. It was a fairly pleasant square and already he could see the attendants of stage turning this space into viewing area. The grey dusk has started to fill this lively town with an even more solemn beauty. The seraphim couldn't help but take in all his eyes could see.

Just as his nerves had begun to settle he noticed a young boy putting up some kind of notice on the board next to the theater. From his elevated bench he could read only the bolded "Security wanted" of the sign. Does this have to do with the treats on the little lady? he pondered to himself as he rose and leapt from the terrace he was seated on. Landing softly on the ground without so much as a scuff of notice he made way to the lad. I can't just sit by and let anything happen to her. That's not what we,... I stand for.

As he grabbed hold of the notice ripping it from the board the lad putting them up turned. "Hey man, what are you doing? Don't tear that down you brute!" He was small but obviously brave for his size. He griped his nailing hammer tight in a brief show of might.

"Calm down young one, take me to the performer. I volunteer to assist in anyway I can." He said as he lifted his black coat to reveal his hidden blade. The boy loosened his grip on his tool as a relaxed and relieved look appeared on his face. "As long as I'm around she has nothing to fear. I've dealt with worse enemies than a radical cult." Ioder found it amusing to say that considering his long-term affiliation with a cult.

"Come with me then," the boy said as he turned to walk back stage. Ioder followed promptly tucking the security notice into his coat pocket. "The performance isn't for a few more hours. She was specific that we waited for the moon yo be high in the night sky before she takes the stage."

"She knows what it means to play tonight right? You all must know the risks of upsetting zelots."

"Sure, but this town was built with the intent to share art with everyone. No radicals are going to scare us into holding back from our work. We are hardy people and more than a few of us have been trained with a blade or spell."

"You're ready to risk this just to perform?" He asked as the two push their way backstage. Scaffolding and wires entangled above their heads as people rushed around getting prepared. There were many hands doing many things and Ioder realized the effort put into this.

"Some people would die for their lord, we or at least most of us would do the same to keep the ideas of this place alive. Free expression is one of our town founding principles."

The angle nodded understanding what it meant to fight for what you care about. Even though her life was in jeopardy she still wishes to go on. That adamant determination with odds against her was interesting to the warrior. He needed to meet this brave lass, she would be perfect for his aristocracy.

McKinley looked at herself in the vanity mirror, her long fiery locks had been re-curled so that the curls were still beach ones but slightly tighter to last longer. The curtain of her red mane fell framing her face elegantly making her high cheek bones look sharper, the angel of her jawline more defined. Sighing softly she opened one of the white drawers looking for the makeup that the makeup lady had applied. Kinley didn't mind that her lips were painted a soft pink but she didn't like how dark and heavy the rest of the makeup was. It seemed to weigh to heavily on her pure soft skin. Thoughts rolled rapidly around her mind as she tried hard to concentrate on wiping away the makeup with a wet rag she had asked for. Gently rubbing off the eye shadow, mascara, eyeliner, blush, bronzer and concealer. After her skin felt free of the paste she simple reapplied the lip liner to make her lips look fuller. Than taking some eye shadow she did a simple soft smoky eye affect that brightened her already dazzling blue orbs.

She had finished and her lips were more noticeably fuller and her eyes popped now, though she had applied the makeup it was with a deaf hand. A sigh parted her lips slightly as she pinched her cheeks causing a soft pink color to dance across them. Finally pleased with her simple yet stunning look she looked around the room. The walls a simple peach color with a couch and a vanity and a desk in the far corner that held her beloved instrument. The desk also held a bouquet of flowers, a small smile slipped across her lips. The flashy colors of the lilies and the cattleya orchid danced around each other. The wild flower scent perfumed the air wrapping a calming feeling around the red head.

A soft knock made her jump bringing her out of her day dreaming, going to the door she slowly opened only to hear a soft shriek come from the makeup artist. "Wh- what did you do to master piece?!" Tilting her head slightly at the woman Kinley shrugged her shoulders slightly. The tall woman pushed past her still grumbling about McKinley being ungrateful of all her hard work. Huffing she placed her arms folded under her breast as she tilted her head at the stretch of a woman. She really is pissed that I wiped all that crap off my face? I could feel my pores suffocating! Her thoughts made Kinley's face crinkle up with distaste as the makeup woman finally turned to face her. Taking in her state of stance of annoyance that Kinley was putting off the woman's tone changed.

"Right sorry, any way the director said you liked wild flowers so the bouquet is from him but he also thought that a flower crown would make you feel better as well."

The crown was beautiful as she looked at it closely, gorgeous green vines and bright purple and blue poppies wove through out it. Thanks. McKinley scribbled on her note pad before she ushered the woman out of the room to find some peace of mind before the show in about an hour. Taking a slow calming deep breath the small framed girl walked over to the desk that held her violin. With such tenderness she stroked the black leather case that shielded it from wear and tear. Opening the case there sat her beautiful cherry wood violin. Caressing the smooth wooden instrument before she picked up her bow. Fishing her rosin from it's storage space in the case she ran it back in forth on the horse hair generously. Satisfied with the stickiness of the bow Kinley placed her chin in the chin rest before squeezing her chin pinning it against her left shoulder.

Testing her notes and chords giving a few tweaks here and there before she played a few quick melodies making sure the tune was just right. Finally a small smile spilt across her pink lips as she started to play Clair De Lune for the first time in many years. The melody was slow and drawing out the notes at first with a few staccato notes snuck in there. The beautiful strain of notes flood in beautiful harmony, the small confined space soon filled with the serene tune.

This is my haven and the reason why it is worth risking everything.

His eyes darted left and right scanning the scaffolding and crew as they put together the scenery. Many hands hard at work all with the determined concentration and meticulous attention to detail. A pair of elves hoisted the wooden clouds up by ropes suspended in the ceiling. Another group painted the cloth backdrop with such pristine detail it was clear these men were dedicated to this. None other than the boy Ioder followed seemed to show any concern for safety.

He lifted his tattered black hood over his head shading his face from view. It was strange that even a man such as himself found discretion necessary. The only noticeable feature on his body was the ornate crown stitched in his cloak. Now a days the masses didn't know the meaning of it but in time this emblem would mean something. The boy leading him took a tight turn bringing Ioder into a tight corridor with rooms on either side.

"Its the last door on the left Sir," he said as he ushered Ioder past. "Follow the music and you can't miss her."

"Much appreciated," he said waking past. "Is there anything I need to know about her first?" He asked without turning back.

"She doesn't speak much but is a talented musician. Possibly the greatest of our time I might add." He said as he returned to his previous duty.

Just before they were both out of ear shot Ioder called back, "Don't be looking for any more security, my team will be ready to act if needed." This was false but for the sake of discretion he needed to keep his presence here as discreet as possible. He walked the halls as the sounds of a violin filled his ears. The hall was filled with people just the same as the stage all working to get ready for the show.

As he reach the door labeled "McKinley" he assumed it was the place. Inside the violin played with such a solemn tone and a vibrato masterfully executed. She sounded like a astute master of the trade. He stood the a moment before leaving three knocks at the door.

Knock... Knock... knock...

"Ma'am, you security has arrived." Ioder said through the door. He heard the music stop but no response."May I enter to learn the face of whom I am to protect?" He could hear a rustle on the other side of the door just before the door opened. Out came a larger woman pushing past him.

"Not me," she said with an attitude. "Its the girl who destroyed my makeup." She said pointing inside. He looked within to see a younger lass with fierce red hair. She was small framed but looked to be well put together. In her hands she held the her violin and a bow.

"So you must be the beautiful lass I get to protect tonight? Its a pleasure to meet ya, my name is Ioder."

McKinley was so in tune with the harmony that was flowing from her head, weaving with the notes of her violin that it she hadn't heard the knock until the second one. Blinking slightly she was surprised with the interruption, tilting her head ever so slightly at the announcement of her security arriving. Her heart beat quickened as she all but shoved the makeup artist towards the door. Tripping over her own feet on the way. The door opened it felt like her heart had dropped to the pit of her stomach once his lovely comment caressed her ear. The blush crept up her neck dancing across her cheeks as her violin and bow fell to her sides. As the door was pulled open she heard the larger woman mumble about the blasted makeup again. A small giggle slipped past her pink lips as a small smile replaced her serious look.

Her icy blue orbs drank in the rugged man as she nodded finally to his question. The movement caused her red curls to bounce and sway slightly. It took McKinley a moment to realize she hadn't introduced herself, frantically looking for her note pad. Setting down her instrument she scribbled quickly but legibly in her pad. Flipping it over she offered him a kind yet nervous smile.

Lovely to meet you Mr. Ioder. I am McKinley, well obviously because the sign says it on the door- But you can call me Kinley, Kin or Red. Thanks for offering up your services and I will try not too much of a hassle to you.

Slipping the pad back on too the table she chewed nervously on her lower lip fidgeting with her fingers. She had hardly had interactions with most people let alone a male. He really was rather dashing, from his rugged- rough look to the kind of lost look in his eyes. Not to mention he had some muscle which didn't go unnoticed. Kinley could feel his eyes watching her as she all but announced she was checking him out. Checking her lower lip with her teeth as she looked down at the ground kicking at imaginary dirt off her boot. A shuffling drew her attention towards the male known as Ioder.

Picking up her violin she tossed herself on the couch in an unlady like as she motioned for him to step into the room. Plucking the strings to create an up lifting beat. Music made her at ease in a way as she could feel the man's eyes on her but with the melody wrapped around her it didn't bother her. Her head swayed to the beat as her fingers fluidly moved up and down the frets creating different chords. Softly she started to hum gently adding another sound that wove beautiful with the harmony she was making. Sighing softly she looked up too see not one but two sets of eyes watching her. Smiling sheepishly at not only her personal guard but the director of the show.

"That was beautiful Ms. Kinley I was just coming to let you know that the show will be starting soon. Also I was coming to meet your new security and to thank him and his men."

Dusk quickly settled over the venue and the audience began to take seat in the great town square. The musicians previously performing in the streets and alleys all packed up in order to attend Red’s show. Though this had been his first visit to the artsy town Ioder could tell that anyone gracing the main stage was treated with respect. Normally in these instances side performers would continue to pander the crown in search of coin, but not now. Ioder stood just off stage left peering out from behind the curtains at the crown.

There sure are a lot of people out there, he thought as he counted about eighteen tightly packed rows. It's going to be hard to spot anyone out there.

Then he turned his attention upwards searching the scaffolding above. Red had mentioned that a group of assailants had already entered the amphitheatre. He squinted trying to see anything above the torches providing the light for the stage, he could not. Though he had just met this young musician Ioder was immediately stricken by her red locks and cute freckles. And maybe it was against his initial plan but Ioder had to help her. Not only was this one of the founding ideas behind The Monarchy, he couldn't let anything happen to such a pretty face.

Ioder took a moment to step away from his posts, the show was still a few moments off. Mckinley had just stepped out from her dressing room and was fighting her way past her last minute touch ups. He seeing her get flustered by the incessant staff. Being as nonchalant as he possibly could be Ioder made way over to her.

“Alright everyone, she looks perfect. I'll take it from here” he said as he took her under his shoulder. He got more than a few glares but they all got the picture. He and Red continued to the position she would walk onto stage and waited a moment. The roar of the crowd grew louder and louder. “So I don't want you to worries about a thing lass, I'll be keeping a close eye on everything you have nothing to fear. But I need you to remember something for me.” he went on.

She gave him an honest look, a smile even, she was brave that was certain. As if she had asked ‘what is it’ with her eyes Ioder could seemingly understand her. It was strange but he hadn't ever felt this way before in the many long years he has lived. Was this magic or something else, something more primal?

“The show must go on, no matter what you hear, promise me.” he said just as the curtains began to rise.

After all the introductions and what not everything had settled down yet as soon as McKinley thought she would get some peace and quiet she was sadly mistaken. The team of makeup artist and hair stylist rushed in, loosing track of Ioder she let them pick and prod at her. Time seemed to slowly stand still as they plucked away her precious violin. A void started it seep in as she felt empty for not having the one thing that seemed to ground her. Fidgeting with her hands uncomfortably as the snobby woman from before stalked in glaring at her. "Well since you have ruined what I had tried so hard to create I am just going to freshen you up." Huffing with distaste she shoulder her way to be in front of the small framed woman. With a bit more aggression than needed she applied a bit more eye shadow, redid her eye liner and mascara that made her piercing blue orbs pop.

"It's time Miss Pierce." Some one called out which they received an eye roll because he lastname was actually Parish not that it mattered all in the same.

The group of stylist still stood around her making it hard to make her way down the hall way. Kinley tried batting their hands away from her hair, face and clothing they were straightening out. In the mess someone thrust her violin into her hands that she clung onto with dear life. Taking a deep breath as the deep voice of her security guard rang out and though the mob of hands were reluctant to pull away but followed the order. Looking at him gratefully Kinley's cheeks flushed as his large arm engulfed her small frame as she was tucked safely up against his body. As he spoke to her she listened intently nodding slightly at his last command.

A soft smile danced across her lips as she batted her eye lashes waiting for him to say the last bit. After she drew closer to the stage her stomach started to flip with nervousness. Chewing on her lower lip she tucked her violin under her arm as she took a calming breath. “The show must go on, no matter what you hear, promise me.” Her breath hitched slightly at his request but she nodded as the curtain drew up revealing the crowd.

The cheering turned to hushed tones as McKinley put her violin under her chin and against her dominant shoulder. Another calming breath and the bow that she had freshly rosined up. Testing a few notes she placed her fingers on the frets she needed and let the music start to flow out of her. The melody a slow daunting one that started to build up the anticipation as some people in the crowd took a sharp breath. The song hitting the peak of its climax as the violin shrilled at bit for affect.

There is no peace, only conflict. This is the only absolute that Ioder knew to be true. Deep within his majestic form hide a beast, a being of evil and rot. One who has dwelled upon this this world for time near immemorial. Moonwing, Mother of Dragons, was once great and mighty now was reduced to a spirit and confined within Ioder. He being the legendary soul broker was naturally the only bear the mantle of host.

Yet in the moments that followed Red’s first notes all he could feel was serenity. As if her music quelled the Moonwing or simply allowed Ioder to block out her thoughts. Till now she rampages and failed within his psyche ultimately twisting and warping his mind. This made him dangerous and a treat to anyone around him. But now it was as if he was himself again.

It took him a moment to bring himself back from his serene daydream. The was a job to be done and a damsel to save. He looked once more up to the rafters above. Still nothing to be seen, yet he deduced that it would be ideal to observe from a higher location. So as if it were nothing Ioder, while no one was looking, lifted himself off the stage and ascended via his levitation. It was quick and before drawing any attention her was gone and on the hunt.

Earlier on McKinley mentioned that he assailants had vanished somewhere in the grandeur of this theater. Ioder hadn't the slightest clue where to begin looking as he reached the scaffolding yet he tried anyway. As his little confidant play to the crowd below his performance started now. He strolled over a rickety bridge pacing back and forth until he heard the slightest of voices. He paused.

It wasn't easy to place the sound with Red playing below but Ioder tried regardless. After another long pause he turned point and faced the segmented bridges holding up the curtains behind him. There was poor lighting in this part of the theater but as if it were a work of Jomile Ioder caught a glimpse of movement. And without warning the security leap into action.

With one powerful step he kicked off the railing and swiftly bridged the gaps between scaffoldings. As he did the figure lurking sprang into action bolting in the opposite direction of Ioder. He hadn't expected that, or wasn't willing to engage Ioder here. Without a second’s advance Ioder was hot on his trail. As he chased after the person Ioder reached for his hip drawing Helfa from her hilt and wielding it in his right hand.

Helfa was his memento from his battle with Moonwing and was cut from the Ancient Dragon’s finger. In terms of strength and power this was about as mighty a swords as they come and Ioder had been dying to use it. Even in the dim light a red glow emanated off the gem fixing in Helfa’s hilt and along its blade. Truly it was a weapon worth his stature.

The two continued along the bridge until the figure reached the end and like an agile gymnast began climbing the cable suspending it. He looked to trying to reach the top of the theater and perhaps get to the roof.

That's right, lead me to everyone mouse. Lead me to your master.

The music simply flowed from her core, down her arms and into her finger tips as the moved fluidly across the frets. The first song flowed smoothly into the second song, easily transitioning the smooth tempo panned out quickly into high shrills. The crowds faces all in awe as her soul poured out into her music. McKinley's facial expressions turned from somber to pained as the melody climbed high causing her fingers to dance faster across the strings. The memories the came with her music haunting her as she always put her heart and soul into her music.

A thud on stage is what caused the audience to gasp with shock. Kinley came face to face with the person that had choked her out earlier, the words of her security guard ringing in her mind. The show must go on, no matter what you hear, promise me. As the figure draped in black sauntered towards her, Kinley's fingers never stopped. Her eyes focused on the male as he tsked at her, the gleam of the blade catching her eye. Taking a deep breath as he lunged at her quickly, the crowd shouting in horror, spinning away from the blade at the last moment. The shrills of the violin growing higher and higher as the anticipation of the next move to come. McKinley tried to play this dual off as a part of the show, he lunged she danced out of his way. The crowd slowly started to accept this idea of her putting on a show with the hooded man. The last slash that he delivered made contact with her skin as she hissed in pain.

The melody faltered for a moment as she could feel the warm sensation of her blood damping the soft fabric of her clothing. The melody picked back up again, the pain was on her lower half of her abdomen on the left side. The pain made her eyes collect with tears as she blinked them away. Breathing deeply she forced herself to dance around her assailant, growing agitated he swung blindly at her. Wide strokes allowing her to sweep under, over and around. The harmony scooping in with a tempo that was up beat turning into a dance melody.

Goddess, please send Nymeria to my aid as I grow tired from playing and avoiding this man from trying to carve me alive..