A letter to Repair

[Derick Silverleaf]

It had been a long while since Derick was within the walls of Tel'Ranaemyn. However, was it still too soon? The reasons for his leaving were quite legitimate. Reasons that will haunt his thoughts and dreams nearly every day of his quiet life. But, his upbringing and training would pretty much force him to return for only one reason. In the back of his mind he knew this could go very very wrong. but, that would not stop him from doing what he now knew was right. So, walking down the road to the Inn, crystal blues would gaze on. A flood of emotions starting to fill his mind, but years of hiding his emotions was able to help him keep those feelings in check.

Finally reaching the entrance to that place he once called home for a short time, form would walk in softly. For this visit, he very much wished to be done with quickly and without distraction. It was sticking around last time that got him in the state he was in now. Walking right to the front desk, blond hair would bounce lightly along shoulders. Plain tan shirt hung loose to figure as leathers moved form to a halt. there at the desk he would wait. Though, he would look down at that bell. The silver deliverer of evil that it was. But, perhaps it was his ticket to a quick exit? So, almost barely audible, he would send fingers to give the bell a quick ring. A shiver ran down his spine as the chime echoed through the empty room. Letting out a soft and long sigh, he would wait. This did, after all, need to be done.

[Rodry Pol]

Let no one question fates cruel design. For after all, wasn't it an old adage that said that history was doomed to repeat itself? Perhaps Derick should keep that in mind and stop beating himself up on his apparent need to return. Especially if the cause for his journey was just and right.

While the inn was quiet this time of night, usually, the sharp tone of the bell was enough to perk up at least one set of ears. Even if the accompanying body was reluctant to abandon the heavy plush chair that their owner had settled into. A quiet groan and creak from those rough old bones and he was managing to get to his feet. Cane as always kept close at hand so that he could use the blasted crutch to make his way a bit more steadily. The soft drum of booted feet, broken by the staccato note of the metal clad tip on his cane, made their way from the lounge. Glasses and the small book that he had been reading had been tucked in the inside breast pocket of the deep red smoking jacket he was wearing.

It was hard to miss old Rodry. While he wasn't the swiftest of answers to Derick's summons, he was likely one of the only ones he would get at this time of the eve! The ancient looking fellow paid more mind to his footing than his destination, which left iron hued bangs obscuring his gaunt face while he made his way to the front desk. Hands had been gloved as usual and one could almost imagine him a part of the inn's inconspicuous brigade of servants and helpers.

He straightened perceptibly once behind the desk. One palm smoothing over the mess of paperwork behind the desk to support himself. Hanging the 'T' style cane handle on the edge where it would be near enough to be used if it came to it. When he looked to Derick, perhaps the fellow would be surprised that there was no rheum or cataract to those sharp blue eyes of his. The deep sapphire glint as clear as any gem. Altogether, Rodry's bearing made it clear he was no employed man or servant! If it wasn't enough the clear sweep of his gaze over the fellow and his own garb might have helped as well.

"Greetings ... welcome to the Tel'Ranaemyn Inn. Looking to check in I presume?"

unlike his eyes, his voice was rough, husky with age and moist with something that sounded trapped in his lungs. He seemed at ease enough however to speak with the man without lowering it to a whisper.

"You'll have to forgive me the wait."

Nodding significantly towards the lounge.

[Derick Silverleaf]

Hearing the movement from a not too far away distance, wandering eyes would go right back to the forward, searching out the source. Seeing the man making his way, a slight smile would make it's way over crimsons as a small nod would be made to the man. Patience was one thing he had an abounding amount of. That's one good thing going for him. As he waited, form would shift weight from one foot to the other. Hands calmly laid out flat on the countertop as he watched the man. Though, one brow would raise just a bit. He didn't remember ever seeing this man before. Must have come on board after he left this last time.

Oh no worries, I assure you. No. Um... I am actually just here to deliver something. Does... Allissya Silverleaf still reside here? Or Az....Azlin Zoi?
His words would be spoken so fluidly, when he wasn't stammering on the pauses. It seemed for whatever reason some of those words took more effort then others to push past lips. But, they were there. And that voice, even if it were low and melodic just like his figure would lead to assume it would be, it still came out almost child like. As if he thought long and hard on each syllable. Let it be known to no one that it was taking every ounce of will he had to even be standing within these walls let alone seeking out the ones he was.

[Rodry Pol]

Aye. Luckily for Derick he had been lucky enough to find someone awake at this hour! Though despite the man taking his sweet time making his way behind the desk, it wasn't as if he could go much faster, right? His easy gait with his cane made it clear that it was something he had used for quite some time! It was good that Derick was patient! This fellow had the air of one who would get things done when he wanted and would be difficult to budge, even if not physically so!

And if Derick thought his little anxious dance was going to get anything out of Rodry any faster he was mistaken!

"The latter name is familiar ... though the first is not. Let me take a gander in the ledger ..."

Which he was in the process of digging out from it's place. He pulled it closer to himself, fingers trailing over the beaten leather-bound cover. Honestly, Rodry had to wonder how many people from his past had gathered in this little settlement. For it seemed the longer he was here ... the more he heard about. Rodry's glove coated fingers flicked the covers open. Paging slowly through the book. He had to wonder how anyone managed to make heads or tales of this dreadful thing.

The pages were full of scratched out names, scrawled notes, doodles. Things that honestly he didn't think had any place there, but hey, who was he to judge, right? Finally he found a listing of room assignments that seemed to have been made separate from the actual sign ins. He ran a finger down the list slowly. Even while he read he was speaking as well. Eyes never leaving the page as he mentally checked the list of names against his memory as well.

"So you won't be checking in then ... Mr. ...?"

Prompting for a name. After all, he imagined he needed to get at least some sort of identification from someone asking for the whereabouts of someone in the inn.

Rodry was making quick progress down the list, he had already seen no mention of the names he was looking for. Perhaps they had moved on? When he finally made it to the third floor, his finger jerked to a stop. A long, pregnant pause seen before his finger started up again. Yet something seemed suddenly off with the old fellow. As if he were suddenly distracted.

"Azlin is here ... rooming in room 313 ... There's an Allyssia listed with her of the last name Zoi, however."

After a long moment of staring the room assignments as if he expected them to do something interesting, his gaze lifted. Slowly closing the book and sliding it back into place upon the rearside of the front desk. Interesting, very interesting indeed. Rodry nodded towards the stairs pointedly, not even noting the fellows name or his business on a sheet behind the desk as he had meant to.

"I would offer to accompany you, but you seem to have something on your mind and the stairs treat me foully."

Cane drummed against the floor, after he had retrieved it, for emphasis. Oh he was going to be having an interesting talk with his children when they managed to visit. Conniving little ...

"However, if you care to stay or have some company, I will be in the lounge for a while longer. In case there is no answer at the door."

[Derick Silverleaf]

With his queries out there in the open, hopeful eyes would be looking to the man helping him with his most interesting request. A part of him was curious as to if the man would come to his senses and not supply such information to a perfect stranger. but that is something he would not be saying out loud so to not give him any ideas. Besides, he knew his intentions were pure. Something that, character flaw or not, would always be the results of his actions. So, as those thoughts were trolling around his mind, crystal blues looked between the man's face and his hands and fingers looking through the legendary book. He desperately hoped either of the two were still here. It really would make this that much easier. Of course, he knew others that could most likely be able to reach them as well, but the less exposed he had to make would be for the better.

No, I will not. Thank you. And....please just use Derick.

He knew it would not make any sense to not leave a name. If nothing else, to just leave the man with some security of knowing who left a strange letter. Though, since he was not staying, and did want to leave as soon as possible, there was no reason to give a last name that could possible spark up further questions. And then there it was. The words he was hoping to hear. A very barely visible smile would creep over lips hearing the news that she was still here. And, if he remembered correctly, the exact same spot. the brief thought entered his mind if the decorating kept being changed from time to time as he remembered. But, with a shake of his head that thought would be pushed aside as he would nod to the gentleman. And turning his form just a bit, arm would reach back to rear pocket where a folded up parchment would be produced and laid out on the counter. There was no envelope, but rather the page itself was folded in a way that it sealed itself and, just to be sure it did not come undone, a dark green wax seal with the marking of a maple leaf would be there. And if the opposite side was ever examined, it would simply have the name Allissya written is very elegant pen.

No thank you. Um....if this could just be given to Allissya I would appreciate it.

His business was done. Taking one last look at that letter that he had placed on the counter, he would look back to the kind man. Though, he would not leave until he had some assurance that his goal could be met. Seemed simple enough. And he could even deliver the letter himself, but this would be much much easier. On them both he thought.

[Rodry Pol]

None could say that trust was something that many in Rhy'Din displayed readily or easily. Rodry was probably one of the few who early on in life had decided to give others the benefit of the doubt when he could. A subscriber in the belief that distrusting everyone one met, was a poor way to live. Then again, few who knew Rodry ... well ... would consider it to be wise even considering doing something that he might take offense to!

Rodry didn't comment on him only giving one part of his name, while he had met some who claimed that they had never been graced with a full name, of those he knew several who simply chose that affectation to increase their mysterious natures. He however knew the value of names and wouldn't allow Derick's lax nature effect his own! That certainly wouldn't do. The faded black leather glove on one hand lifted, offered to Derick in the universal sign of greeting. A handshake.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Derick. You may call me Rodry Pol ... Rodry for short. I suppose."

Though while Derick felt relieved at Rodry's findings, Rodry was surprised by his own. In fact he was ready to go and mull over them and consider what to do with them when Derick was producing a letter. He made his way around the desk, since he had already been moving anyhow, glancing at the page briefly before looking back to Derick. Those piercing blue eyes of his studying the man carefully. Almost as if to ask if he was serious! Yet, after a moments thought and hesitation, his free hand was sliding the parchment off the edge of the desk. Glancing it over momentarily before tucking it into his coat. He could do the boy that favor at least.

"Very Well Derick, don't say no one ever did you any favors, eh? Perhaps you've got some roses you'd like brought to her as well?"

This was said in jest of course, if Derick was going to get defensive, he was quick to raise a palm in a slowing gesture. He just could tell that he was fidgety and would no doubt remain so until he had time to go and calm down! Rodry however didn't let him go just yet. He was quick to speak up if Derick tried to make his exit!

"And if she wants to send a response, what address should I give her?"

[Derick Silverleaf]

Derick was starting to get all too anxious to go back out the doors he came in not too long ago. Every moment he stood here he thought he was vulnerable to his own emotions. He knew people here. And, at the moment, he would much prefer to remain a ghost in these walls. But, at the same time, there was no getting rid of his hard wiring. For certain actions, he would demand a certain reaction. So, as that hand was offered to him, his own would reach out in kind, delivering a firm shake in greeting.

Likewise.

Simple words and gestures were his way. Oh if only all the people he knew and met here knew him in his hay day. he was practically a hub of enjoyment and action. he could gather a crowd of strangers with his charismatic persona. But that was the past. If a poet could truly capture his current mind on paper, the world would truly know a darker side of drama. But, maybe, he was on the road to change all that? He didn't know, nor did he even think on it. All he knew was that something changed in his brain. Something that made him want to.....want to make things right. Seeing that letter disappear into the man's coat, a more satisfied look came along features. Though, his next comment brought a bit of a sigh with frown. But it wasn't until Rodry was completely finished when he would speak back up as body did indeed turn to start heading for the exit.

She....she will be able to contact me. But, no other deliveries will be needed. Thank you for your kindness.

[~*~ Azlin Zoi ~*~]

It was perhaps a strange coincidence or maybe it was because her name was spoken. Not that her name spoken in just any area would have made it’s way to her ears, but she did keep a residence here, and with that a small trinket was she would know when people were talking about her. It was true she did not just appear as she had to finish what she was in the middle of. But as it would seem that she might of shown up to late, as she heard the words that passed between the two men, paused on the stair case.

She could of let him continue on without saying a word, she could just stand silently on the stairs. She could but she wouldn’t. He had come here, he had spoken her name out loud, and now he would know he wasn’t alone in the common area with Rodry. “Leaving so soon, Derick?” The words came out and perhaps a bit of a bite could be heard in them. Though it wasn’t because of anything really between the two, it would have to do with the way things had happened and him deserting their daughter.

Sure, she knew that it was a lot to take in, it had been a lot for her. But she did not expect him to react the way he had. It made her wonder about some things.

Stretching as she took another step down she was on the last step before the flat ground. Feet were bare as always, very rare was it that they were inside of anything as confining as shoes. The white gown was not the normal white gown she wore. The white gown was cinched at the waist, and it still had a flowy skirt but the skirt itself was only mid thigh length, the top was rather simply, square cut with spaghetti straps, if one looked closely they would notice small lilac flowers embroidered on the top. Her long wavy locks were pulled back today away from her face, and her baby blues were flickering between the two men.

A single hand was resting lightly against the barrister the other was hanging at her side, nothing was in it and the hand was slightly curled in a peaceful way. Not a battle stance by far.

[Rodry Pol]

The firm handshake was a refreshing change of pace, for he was used to those treating him as if he were as fragile as he looked if not more so. His own shake was firm, his large hand graced with especially long fingers that exerted firm even pressure. Yet just as quickly as it had been offered it was retracted. Along with that note that was now riding comfortably in his breast pocket.

Speak of the devil it seemed. For no sooner had Rodry been ready to disengage after getting that response than Azlin drew attention to herself. Seemed as if poor Derick's worst nightmare had been manifest and had chosen to flow down the stairs to greet him!

Rodry's gaze lifted at the words, his gaunt face flashing a brief smirk back Derick's way. Rodry was, if anything, a flexible fellow and smoothly moved along with his cane to the base of the stairs. Though perhaps Derick would be surprised at Rodry's words.

"Good evening Azlin, Derick was just telling me of the pressing business that kept him from delivering his words in person, otherwise I am sure he wouldn't have passed up the opportunity to visit, with us all, here."

Providing the fellow a convenient out, an excuse and explanation that would of course allow him to disengage and be on his way as quickly as he had originally desired. That letter was produced after just a moment. Held aloft for Azlin's perusal, trapped in his gloved hand and waiting to be taken. The note was for her roommate, her name was upon it after all.

"You would do an old man a service to provide this letter to the woman you are rooming with, my old legs aren't what they used to be and I find that the stairs can be a bit much for me at times."

A deliberate lie upon his part, for today, he was feeling as if he could take the stairs and even a hike to go and explore the eastern forest for good measure! Of course, there was no reason to waste the excuse his cane provided. Last thing he needed to do was go that far up the stairs. For it seemed that he needed preparation for a deed that was in need of doing.

If or when Azlin took the letter, he would offer them both a half bow. Never mind that he didn't explain how he had known Azlin on sight, or why he seemed suddenly in a hurry to be on his own merry way! After offering that final courtesy he was nodding towards the hall.

"Considering the hour, I believe it would be wise for me to retire to my chambers. I bid you both good eve, unless you have need for an Old Man to chaperone the two of you."

Even a hint of sarcasm there, someone needed to find the bee that had flown into Rodry's bonnet before it found a more capable host!

[Derick Silverleaf]

Well of course! I mean, what better way for this to go then for the exact thing he didn't wish to happen... happen. He should have felt something coming, this at least. He had no magic in those young but aged bones of his, but there was a time when he could feel when certain individuals were around. However, those were many many years ago. A fact that seemed to constantly be reminding itself to poor Derick. None the less, when he heard that voice, there would only be a slight hesitation before those crystal blues were gliding their way over to the stairway where she stood. Instantly he found his throat dried up worse then a prune. And on those chiseled features of his would be just a blank gaze. Not happiness. Not sadness. Just a glance of pure recognition as to what this day had destined for him. because by god he knew what sort of bottle he had in store for him whenever he was finally able to leave back out through those doors.

Hello, Azlin. I didn't seeing you coming in.

After those few words he would push a slight smile onto those crimsons. It wasn't fake by any means. No matter how heavy his heart was or what sort of mood he was in, he could never speak or even look to her without some sort of smile falling to those lips at some point. However, those words were all he could muster for the moment. Which is a good thing that Rodry spoke up like he did. Save a poor bloke, he did. So as he spoke, he would just look between the two. Staying perfectly silent. No need to add in what was either better left unsaid or unnecessary. Though, when Rodry pulled out that sealed paper address to Allisya, Derick would pull in a deep breath, looking to Azlin.

Leave Derick. Just turn...and leave. It's all there in the letter. No reason to strike up those fragile emotions. Just...leave. Well.....who ever said he listened to his inner thoughts a majority of the time?

It's for Allisya. Please....give it to her. If she wishes, it has a way of getting back in touch with me. Good to....Goodbye.

And with a stammer of last uncompleted phrase he would nod his head to them. Though, seemed Rodry knew the signal way before Derrick did as he was already heading off. So, hopefully he would be able to make a clean getaway. Looking up to her, then down to the letter in her hand, he would show off that almost depressing smile he had come to be known for. And eyes would trail from her, almost having to be forcefully pulled as his body did a couple backward steps towards the door before form started to turn to make his exit.

[~*~ Azlin Zoi ~*~]

Was she going to finish coming down the steps? At the moment she was paused where she had stopped when she started to speak. But that did not mean that she could not change her moment in a instant and continue down, she was a female that was oft to have a swift swing of impulses and for the most part, she acted upon them. Not often thinking of consequences but simply reacting.

When Rodry came over and she stayed put on that last step. A smile slipping over her features as she looked at the man. “So, Derick was in such a hurry, that he couldn’t even bring the letter up the steps by himself? He was going to make you climb the stairs if I had not appeared?” Not saying that he couldn’t handle the steps because she knew appearances could be wrong, but still. She had a name to place with the face, having heard Derick say the man’s name.

“I am rather sneaky with these steps, no? One might say my feet didn’t even touch the steps.” A impish little grin slipping over her lips. A glance between the two, as she heard Derick saying the letter was for Al, and she heard the request from Rodry. “Derick, when Al get’s back from her visit to Earth I shall make sure she gets your letter.” She would make sure she got it, but she could not guarantee anything the girl was a bit hard headed, wonder where she got that from. Then her attention went to Rodry. “I will do that.” A small pause, “Have you had your legs massaged? I heard that it helps…” Was she offering that?

Then Derick was running out…so she would speak to him, before he turned his back and skidaddled. “Have a good night Derick, perhaps you’ll come back when you can stay a while longer.” She knew some things but there was a lot that she did not…and as he was running away things she still wouldn’t know. As the letter was in her possession she held it in her right hand, for she was right handed, and her left hand was still gracing the banister. “Did you need help getting to your room?” A most impish grin slipped over her features. “Perhaps sometime we shall spend some time together, perhaps someone will volunteer to chaperone us.”

[Rodry Pol]

Not that it really mattered, she could turn around and head back up to her room. Considering the two men both seemed interested in nothing more than escaping!Something that seemed to be only worse with Derick now that he saw Azlin. Something he found curious. After all, she was one of the people he had asked after.

Why did he seem less than thrilled to see her then?

"It was no imposition. I am worn, but I do still need my exercise ..."

Implying that the the stairs weren't quite as bad as he may have first implied, but he still hadn't resisted the chance to pass the letter off so it was out of his hands. That way there was no excuse for him to try and tackle those stairs before he was ready and sure it was what he wanted and could do.

"If had had wanted my legs rubbed I would have checked into a massage parlor, not an inn."

She best not be implying that she wanted to rub his legs. Unless of course she had a thing for older men ... much older men. If nothing else than in appearance. Rodry was old, even if the shadow of an impressive youth had left it's mark in the broad faintly slumped shoulders and the bearing. The intensity of those sapphire blue eyes bespoke of long years full of sorrows as well as pleasures.

Thanks for that Derick.

He hefted a sigh, for it seemed that Azlin seemed almost determined to pester him. Which was more than a little frustrating, as it was well past his usual time for repose! Something that she seemed ignorant of, if not insensitive to! Yet he couldn't help but give her a hard look over his shoulder.

"I think I can manage ... it is not too far of a walk for an old, decrepit man as myself."

Though when she was implying that the two of them should spend some time together, those grayed brows rose considerably. He looked stupefied, as if he couldn't believe what she had just said. He pointedly looked after Derick, as if to ask for help, but it seemed that there would be little assistance from that avenue.

"I assure you that any time spent would hardly require chaperoning..."

After all, just look at rough old, leathery Rodry. What was he going to do to Azlin, of all people?

[Derick Silverleaf]

Some things never did change. And with time, some things just seemed to strengthen with age, much like wine. So she thought she was stubborn? She knew just as well so was he. Sometimes worse depending on the situation. So maybe she was playing on that knowledge when she tired to pry him away from his departure by calling out to him counting on him to stop and say something. Well....she did know him. Coming to a stop before the entrance door, hand didn't even get to the handle yet. Though, he couldn't help but smirk just a little as he looked down at that handle that looked very familiar. Seems someone went ahead and had them installed. But hand would go ahead and continue it's trek tot he handle before he turned back to the room, giving him an easy way of escape if needed. Body rotated back, blue looking right to her. That forced smile remaining on tiers, but would turn a bit more authentic if one could notice.

Thank you, Azlin. I appreciate it. And, um.....I...may come back. Just, depends on...well yeah. Get in contact with me. Well, have Allisya....

You would never know that he was professionally tutored and educated with the way he spoke. Was it the situation, or did something seriously happen to him? The Gods don't even know at this point. But his gaze to her then would linger a moment longer. And for the very slightest of seconds as he heard her final words, he would flash a smile from the old days. A nod in appreciation was made to Rodry before he was finally pulling himself out and through the door. For good? Most likely not, but with his mind you can never know.

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