Keyleth, I wanted to talk to you about us opening a bakery here in Folkmore. Probably somewhere in Epiphany to get the most traffic. I do have other people in mind to help us, but until this.... camp fiasco is over, I want to hold off on looking for viable space.
The pair had first run into each other in a memory that was floating around Folkmore in the form of a large glimmering bubble. It was a moment in time that Keyleth had told Vxa about but the skilled assassin had yet to experience first hand. Words didn't exist to describe how awful it had been. They had awoken the Kraken and while many have been rendered unconscious, Vax had left them completely. None of them were ready for it and Keyleth blamed herself as they had been helping with the final mission of her Aramente. Thankfully, Vax had been saved but the memory had been scarring.
Vax, now understanding the trauma that Keyleth and Vex had experienced, had a lot to think about. Keyleth and Vax didn't talk about the memory at first but let it all sink in as they held onto each other for comfort.
A few days later, Keyleth began to experience changes due to the floods. Her voice became hypnotic, she could breathe underwater and even talk to fish without casting a spell. It didn't matter if she could perform all of these tasks, the recent memory had inspired a new fear of water, knowing that creatures like the Kraken existed in Folkmore as well.
Vax also changes after seeing the memory and strange scales begin to appear on him. He falls into the flood waters but doesn't drown. He has to figure out what the hell was going on and goes to find Kiki while she's panicked and handling her own changes. It was finally time to talk.
Keyleth came clean about how she felt. Telling Vax that she was terrified of losing him again and that their time in Folkmore didn't feel like it was enough, which in turn made her feel guilty since most of the people brought to this world wanted to go home. Vax admits that he has struggled with depression and always has, but for Keyleth he will try and work on it. Keyleth lets him know that she will be there to listen and support him. Vax doesn't want to leave her and while there never seems to be enough time, he wants to make the best of it. He wants to see if they can change things for the better.
[Vax’ildan Vessar promised he would work on his problems. Not just give lip service or try to be distracted by other things. Really work on it.
And that means trying to figure out ways to deal with the past. Letting go of it all.
Not the easiest of tasks. To start, he offered date nights. Twice a week whenever they both want to. Starting today. He has a basket over one shoulder and a small surprise planned. He tries not to jitter about it as he leads her to the spot he found.
It’s a hill over looking a wide stretch of forest. The leaves fall like a colorful rain. He smiles for her as he offers her to basket.] This is the spot I found. Does it work?
[The breeze tugs at them as he turns slightly to feel the elements around him.
It’s a new path. And he feels better having taken this small step.]
[Keyleth knows Vax's past and has interacted with those who have left scars. It won't be easy but she wants to be there for him. She loves him with all her heart, not because he's perfect, but because he is himself.
Vax purposed these dates as a way to move forward and heal but, Kiki is simply excited to spend more time with Vax. It's silly but all the time they spend together is precious. She gets to see him each night and wakes up with him in the morning and then does things like this. She skips up to him and takes the basket with her usual energetic bright smile.]
Yeah! What did you pack? [Kiki sets down the basket and pulls out a blanket for them to sit on. They don't need it but it's easier to keep bugs off of their food with the thin barrier between them and the ground.] It's beautiful here.
[She tucks her hair behind her ear and looks out over the trees cascading below them.] I think this is my favorite time of year. [Then again, Keyleth likes all the seasons.]
I like it too. It’s always pretty no matter where you are. It’s peaceful. [Vax says as he sets the basket on the blanket. He sits down beside her. Having this time with her. Living. It helps continue what he has begun to work on here.
The fear always ebbs a little because she is the sun walking the earth. He opens the basket and draws out a bottle of apple cider and shows her the carefully wrapped sandwiches. It’s easy to hold and eat food. Perfect for this weather.
He sets the bottle and mugs down outside the basket. Then he looks at her.] And I have a surprise.
[He holds his hands together and focuses. His lips move with the words of a spell he learned. Then he opens his hands and resting in his palm is a tree seed. He offers it to her.] Everything we do together is as precious to me as it is to you. I don’t remember everything you do but that just means we can make new memories and grow.
Just like this seed. [He looks at it and adds,] I hope this one will grow. I feel the life in it.
[Kiki tears her eyes away from the cascading visage and turns towards Vax. She inspects the sharp angles of his features before briefly meeting his soft warm gaze and taking the cider to fill the mugs. Her heart flutters as if it's the first time they've been like this and it summons a soft smile to her lips.
It's perfect and she's thankful for this time.]
Mmm? [With their mugs filled she glances up at Vax, her gaze shifting from his eyes to the cupped palm of his hands. Bright green eyes widen as pure excitement washes over her features.] Vax! That's amazing!
[Keyleth cups his hands with hers and gently rests her forehead against Vax's. She closes her eyes and feels the soft hum of magic and life held between them.] Me too. I feel it too. [And with this seed it'll grow.]
Let's plant it here, over looking everything.
[It reminds her of the cherry tree in Zephera. A symbol of memories, light and joy.]
[Vax gently slides the seed into her hands. Then he turns and starts to dig a hole at the spot that feels right. Keyleth will protect the seed.
It is important and a sign of…finding his way. He wants to live long enough to grow old with her. She will outlive him as a druid. But as he becomes a druid too…could he catch up?
It’s a thought as he finds the hole is deep enough. He motions for her to come close. They’ll plant it together. Believe in the sense and feeling of it all, together. Because this is real. This is what he wants. Life with her and finding the beauty of living.]
[Percy's gift to Kiki, left just inside her room (so Grog doesn't steal it), is a six-pack of what looks at first glance to be beer, but in fact reads as non-alcoholic. A note is attached.
"Keyleth - I found the best-tasting near-beer in the area. I know you hate feeling left out even more than alcohol hates you, so this might be the best of both worlds, and I'll keep your tab for the next year. -Percy"]
[She obviously left it outside, but it was probably brought in by her brother. It's a garment box with Keyleth's name written out in Vex's familiar hand. Lifting the lid reveals a dark green velvet cloak, with three clasps made of golden leaves and golden ravens embroidered on the edges.
It's made to complement the new cloak Vex bought for Vax as well.
And, of course there's a letter.]
Keyleth, you are my only sister-in-law, and I love you for yourself and for the way that you've made Vax a better man. He adores you more than words can say, but I'm sure you already know that.
It never hurts to say it though.
You will always have a place with me, no matter what happens. We're family. And I cannot imagine not having each other as the years pass.
That being said, I hope this keeps you warm and makes you feel beautiful. It's the companion to Vax's cloak. I thought it only fitting, since you are the companion to his heart.
[ In Keyleth's mailbox one December morning, she can expect to find a parcel with a small watercolor painting in it, of lots of flowers.
There's a note that reads "To Keyleth - Every year at home we exchange gifts between friends on the 25th of December. I hope you enjoy this. See you soon! -Steve" ]
[Outside of Keyleth's room is a small box, wrapped in blue ribbon. Pike had kept an eye out for the perfect gift for Keyleth while she had been shopping, and it was one of the last she picked up.
[Vax’s gift to her is waiting on her side of the bed just after breakfast.
There is a letter on top of it. The package itself contains a long evening shawl that is hand stitched. And a blanket for their bed. Both are in the same colors as her mantle. Hidden in the middle is a bracelet that is a styled to look like raven feathers and leaves woven together. The metal and wood of it is in their colors.]
Keyleth,
I made these for you to remind you that you are the spring to my winter. You took a chance on me. I know it hasn’t been the easiest time. Life has been hectic from the moment we met but they are all days I cherish. Because I met you.
I met our family. And while I struggled against it I found purpose and a place to belong. And every day we live I love you more the next day. I want to see many springs with you. I want to give you everything, if you’ll have me as yours forever.
I don’t know how much time we have but I’ll fight for every moment. I love you. I will always love you. It took a while to find a shawl pattern that looked like your mantle. I’m sure you’ll notice I woven some of my feathers in too. I wanted part of me with you.
The bracelet is adjustable. I’ll show you how to put it on.
[ On Christmas Eve, Henry stops by Greyskull Keep with packages for his friends who live there. Keyleth's package, wrapped in recycled paper, contains a leatherbound notebook, inside which Henry has diligently copied notes from his father's druidic texts. ]
Happy Holidays, Keyleth! I thought you might be able to get some use out of my dad's research. He and I may have never quite seen eye to eye, but he was a powerful archdruid. My hope is that his research can be used for something better, in the hands of a good-hearted person like you.
Interactions in Grayskull Keep: Grog Strongjaw, Percival De Rolo, Pike Trickfoot, Tary Darrington, Vax’ildan Vessar, Vex’ahlia De Rolo, Caleb Widogast, & Peter Rumancek
Interactions at Bakery - A Slayers Cake: Pike Trickfoot, Bella Swan
General Passing Interactions: Henry Oak, Yuri Lowell
❅ Grog hanging with Kiki and watching Baby Bandersnatch. Baby Bandersnatch likes to gnaw on Grog's hand and he thinks its the cutest thing ever. ❅ Baby Bandersnatch also hangs out with Trinket when Keyleth goes out without him. Baby Bandersnatch is also still without a name and simply called baby. ❅ Kiki helping with Vex & Vax’s November disappearances. Vex & Percy being married. Vax's return and reiteration of his efforts. ❅ Low key hang-outs with Pike: braiding hair, girl time, Kiki attempting to get her alcohol tolerance up with Pike's help. Sometimes Vex or Vax joins them. ❅ Light chats with Henry & Kiki randomly asking druid questions but changing topics quickly when Henry looks uncomfortable. Never pushing. ❅ Randomly bothering Percy to first make sure he's eating and taking care of himself and then to ask him what he's up too because checking in on friends is important. She also asks him if he has his transformation under control now and helps if needed. ❅ Keyleth tries not to bother Caleb but randomly brings him tea or snacks to make sure he eats while he's working. ❅ She hangs out with Tary mostly at the bakery but also consults him before going shopping. After December she has a new wardrobe and is excited to wear everything. Sometimes Vex joins them in their shopping trips. They also all sometimes buy items for Caleb & Peter. ❅ Keyleth maintains her garden and the circular forest grove she'd created for Peter & Vax. She starts to think about collecting animals along with her garden but decides to wait until after the winter. ❅ Peter, Vex and Keyleth often make breakfast and dinner in the keep together.
Oh yes! Thanks to my magic I don't have too much to worry about the blackouts. My friends and I used to camp a lot too, so, you know. It's pretty normal.
Yes!
If you want I can come get you and bring you back to Greyskull keep. That's where my friends and I live. We have a lot of room here for magic so I can show you some of what I know. I also have some books you might be interested in.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
Backdated to 7/4; un: Lady_Ranger
Date: 2022-07-25 11:32 pm (UTC)Would you be interested?
Backdated to 7/4; un: Lady_Ranger
Date: 2022-07-26 10:44 pm (UTC)I'd be happy to help.
no subject
Date: 2022-07-27 05:13 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2022-08-04 01:00 am (UTC)I can't see Vax baking... I wonder if he would.
But that aside I'm excited to meet him!
no subject
Date: 2022-08-04 08:07 pm (UTC)You should test it out, Keyleth.
And I'll make sure to introduce you sometime during camp. Yuri's a very nice guy.
no subject
Date: 2022-08-04 08:16 pm (UTC):)
And that sounds good! I can't wait to meet him!
August - Summary of Vax & Kiki during flooding
Date: 2022-09-26 10:03 pm (UTC)Vax, now understanding the trauma that Keyleth and Vex had experienced, had a lot to think about. Keyleth and Vax didn't talk about the memory at first but let it all sink in as they held onto each other for comfort.
A few days later, Keyleth began to experience changes due to the floods. Her voice became hypnotic, she could breathe underwater and even talk to fish without casting a spell. It didn't matter if she could perform all of these tasks, the recent memory had inspired a new fear of water, knowing that creatures like the Kraken existed in Folkmore as well.
Vax also changes after seeing the memory and strange scales begin to appear on him. He falls into the flood waters but doesn't drown. He has to figure out what the hell was going on and goes to find Kiki while she's panicked and handling her own changes. It was finally time to talk.
Keyleth came clean about how she felt. Telling Vax that she was terrified of losing him again and that their time in Folkmore didn't feel like it was enough, which in turn made her feel guilty since most of the people brought to this world wanted to go home. Vax admits that he has struggled with depression and always has, but for Keyleth he will try and work on it. Keyleth lets him know that she will be there to listen and support him. Vax doesn't want to leave her and while there never seems to be enough time, he wants to make the best of it. He wants to see if they can change things for the better.
A day out
Date: 2022-10-07 03:45 am (UTC)And that means trying to figure out ways to deal with the past. Letting go of it all.
Not the easiest of tasks. To start, he offered date nights. Twice a week whenever they both want to. Starting today. He has a basket over one shoulder and a small surprise planned. He tries not to jitter about it as he leads her to the spot he found.
It’s a hill over looking a wide stretch of forest. The leaves fall like a colorful rain. He smiles for her as he offers her to basket.] This is the spot I found. Does it work?
[The breeze tugs at them as he turns slightly to feel the elements around him.
It’s a new path. And he feels better having taken this small step.]
A day out <3
Date: 2022-10-19 12:43 am (UTC)Vax purposed these dates as a way to move forward and heal but, Kiki is simply excited to spend more time with Vax. It's silly but all the time they spend together is precious. She gets to see him each night and wakes up with him in the morning and then does things like this. She skips up to him and takes the basket with her usual energetic bright smile.]
Yeah! What did you pack? [Kiki sets down the basket and pulls out a blanket for them to sit on. They don't need it but it's easier to keep bugs off of their food with the thin barrier between them and the ground.] It's beautiful here.
[She tucks her hair behind her ear and looks out over the trees cascading below them.] I think this is my favorite time of year. [Then again, Keyleth likes all the seasons.]
no subject
Date: 2022-10-19 05:29 pm (UTC)The fear always ebbs a little because she is the sun walking the earth. He opens the basket and draws out a bottle of apple cider and shows her the carefully wrapped sandwiches. It’s easy to hold and eat food. Perfect for this weather.
He sets the bottle and mugs down outside the basket. Then he looks at her.] And I have a surprise.
[He holds his hands together and focuses. His lips move with the words of a spell he learned. Then he opens his hands and resting in his palm is a tree seed. He offers it to her.] Everything we do together is as precious to me as it is to you. I don’t remember everything you do but that just means we can make new memories and grow.
Just like this seed. [He looks at it and adds,] I hope this one will grow. I feel the life in it.
[Its the best thing he has druid crafted so far.]
no subject
Date: 2022-11-01 01:37 pm (UTC)It's perfect and she's thankful for this time.]
Mmm? [With their mugs filled she glances up at Vax, her gaze shifting from his eyes to the cupped palm of his hands. Bright green eyes widen as pure excitement washes over her features.] Vax! That's amazing!
[Keyleth cups his hands with hers and gently rests her forehead against Vax's. She closes her eyes and feels the soft hum of magic and life held between them.] Me too. I feel it too. [And with this seed it'll grow.]
Let's plant it here, over looking everything.
[It reminds her of the cherry tree in Zephera. A symbol of memories, light and joy.]
no subject
Date: 2022-11-05 03:12 pm (UTC)It is important and a sign of…finding his way. He wants to live long enough to grow old with her. She will outlive him as a druid. But as he becomes a druid too…could he catch up?
It’s a thought as he finds the hole is deep enough. He motions for her to come close. They’ll plant it together. Believe in the sense and feeling of it all, together. Because this is real. This is what he wants. Life with her and finding the beauty of living.]
WINTER'S CREST GIFT
Date: 2022-12-17 09:38 pm (UTC)HAPY WINTRS CREST FRUM GROG
no subject
Date: 2022-12-17 10:26 pm (UTC)"Keyleth - I found the best-tasting near-beer in the area. I know you hate feeling left out even more than alcohol hates you, so this might be the best of both worlds, and I'll keep your tab for the next year. -Percy"]
Left on her doorstep, Mid-December
Date: 2022-12-18 05:51 am (UTC)The package itself is a little ceramic pot with a strangely endearing venus fly trap growing in it. For some reason it reminded Caleb of Kiki.
The note reads: 'Keyleth - For you for Winter's Crest. I have not named him yet, as I figured I would leave that to you. - Caleb]
12/20 (Winter's Crest) On her dresser in her room
Date: 2022-12-20 03:20 am (UTC)It's made to complement the new cloak Vex bought for Vax as well.
And, of course there's a letter.]
Keyleth, you are my only sister-in-law, and I love you for yourself and for the way that you've made Vax a better man. He adores you more than words can say, but I'm sure you already know that.
It never hurts to say it though.
You will always have a place with me, no matter what happens. We're family. And I cannot imagine not having each other as the years pass.
That being said, I hope this keeps you warm and makes you feel beautiful. It's the companion to Vax's cloak. I thought it only fitting, since you are the companion to his heart.
With all my love, Vex
mailbox
Date: 2022-12-20 03:43 am (UTC)There's a note that reads "To Keyleth - Every year at home we exchange gifts between friends on the 25th of December. I hope you enjoy this. See you soon! -Steve" ]
WINTER'S CREST
Date: 2022-12-20 10:33 am (UTC)Inside the box is a gold necklace with pressed flowers sealed into the pendant. Next to it is a note.
Keyleth, you bring so much beauty to our group of friends. I thought you could carry a little bit with you. I'm proud of the person you've become.
Also, this note serves as One (1) Get Out of Death Free Card, free of judgement or questions. Any after that I reserve judgement and laughter.
-Pike]
Winter’s crest
Date: 2022-12-20 04:57 pm (UTC)There is a letter on top of it. The package itself contains a long evening shawl that is hand stitched. And a blanket for their bed. Both are in the same colors as her mantle. Hidden in the middle is a bracelet that is a styled to look like raven feathers and leaves woven together. The metal and wood of it is in their colors.]
Keyleth,
I made these for you to remind you that you are the spring to my winter. You took a chance on me. I know it hasn’t been the easiest time. Life has been hectic from the moment we met but they are all days I cherish. Because I met you.
I met our family. And while I struggled against it I found purpose and a place to belong. And every day we live I love you more the next day. I want to see many springs with you. I want to give you everything, if you’ll have me as yours forever.
I don’t know how much time we have but I’ll fight for every moment. I love you. I will always love you. It took a while to find a shawl pattern that looked like your mantle. I’m sure you’ll notice I woven some of my feathers in too. I wanted part of me with you.
The bracelet is adjustable. I’ll show you how to put it on.
- Love and see you soon, Vax.
12/24 - delivery
Date: 2022-12-21 12:26 am (UTC)Happy Holidays, Keyleth! I thought you might be able to get some use out of my dad's research. He and I may have never quite seen eye to eye, but he was a powerful archdruid. My hope is that his research can be used for something better, in the hands of a good-hearted person like you.
From your pal Henry.
November/December Handwaving
Date: 2022-12-27 05:48 pm (UTC)November/December Handwaving
Date: 2022-12-29 06:22 pm (UTC)Interactions at Bakery - A Slayers Cake: Pike Trickfoot, Bella Swan
General Passing Interactions: Henry Oak, Yuri Lowell
❅ Baby Bandersnatch also hangs out with Trinket when Keyleth goes out without him. Baby Bandersnatch is also still without a name and simply called baby.
❅ Kiki helping with Vex & Vax’s November disappearances. Vex & Percy being married. Vax's return and reiteration of his efforts.
❅ Low key hang-outs with Pike: braiding hair, girl time, Kiki attempting to get her alcohol tolerance up with Pike's help. Sometimes Vex or Vax joins them.
❅ Light chats with Henry & Kiki randomly asking druid questions but changing topics quickly when Henry looks uncomfortable. Never pushing.
❅ Randomly bothering Percy to first make sure he's eating and taking care of himself and then to ask him what he's up too because checking in on friends is important. She also asks him if he has his transformation under control now and helps if needed.
❅ Keyleth tries not to bother Caleb but randomly brings him tea or snacks to make sure he eats while he's working.
❅ She hangs out with Tary mostly at the bakery but also consults him before going shopping. After December she has a new wardrobe and is excited to wear everything. Sometimes Vex joins them in their shopping trips. They also all sometimes buy items for Caleb & Peter.
❅ Keyleth maintains her garden and the circular forest grove she'd created for Peter & Vax. She starts to think about collecting animals along with her garden but decides to wait until after the winter.
❅ Peter, Vex and Keyleth often make breakfast and dinner in the keep together.
winter's crest - pretend this was on time
Date: 2023-01-08 04:26 am (UTC)Inside the package is a pair of the most luxurious, downy-soft, magically self-fluffing pillows and silk sheets one could ever conceive.]
text; un: louis
Date: 2023-01-21 07:39 pm (UTC)Weather permitting, I would very much like to meet in person soon to continue our discussion of magic. Your generous offer has been on my mind.
text; un: kiki
Date: 2023-01-24 04:04 pm (UTC)Yes!
If you want I can come get you and bring you back to Greyskull keep. That's where my friends and I live. We have a lot of room here for magic so I can show you some of what I know. I also have some books you might be interested in.
no subject
Date: 2023-01-25 04:34 am (UTC)Particularly if there are books.