Horse Eden : Imperial WBs x West

November 16, 2024 07:33 PM

Posts: 117
#1256384
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| OC Owned by Imp
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Phoebe Nightlingale

⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊☽ ◯ ☾₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

Phoebe was accustomed to being discarded in the regard of her behavior being deemed as normal although it was blatantly abnormal, so nothing could have truly prepared her for Rhys` abrupt approach and inquiry. She was taken aback from his willingness to linger a few moments longer than he needed to be, but it was the fact that he had noticed her behavior, which for once she had tried to remain normal around him, that truly bewildered her beyond comprehension. It was odd for anyone to linger with her for more than what was required, especially when she truly did not know when to cease ranting or determine whether or not she was oversharing information.

``On my mind?`` She repeated his words in a hushed whisper, narrowing her eyes as she lessened her strides before she eventually halted entirely. It was almost as if she needed confirmation that he had actually decided to reach out to her and address what seemed to be odd behavior on her behalf. With a brief shake of her head in apparent dismissal, she turned on her heels to face him directly, flinching for the briefest of moments when she realized he had literally hurried after her; this was utmost.. odd for Rhys specifically. She knew how much he would prefer to be elsewhere, but she doubted now would be the worst moment to even consider addressing it aloud.

``No,`` Phoebe replied bluntly as she endeavored to laugh it off whilst knowing simultaneously that only a fool would truly try to lie when faced with Rhys` intense, thorough gaze. She nearly cursed beneath her breath as she sighed, lowering her arms from where they had tensely resided against her chest. For a few moments, she stood there and gradually met his stare before finally relenting and addressing the reasoning behind her behavior.

``Yes, there is,`` she mumbled in a hushed voice, allowing small traces of formerly hidden emotions to lace the undertones of her intonation. Phoebe tilted her chin downwards to focus on the dirt beneath her feet, shifting and tracing patterns into the earth since she could no longer maintain eye contact with him; there were random moments when he was too intense for her liking, such as this one. ``My father was a tad vicious with his reprimands last evening. I simply.. do not understand why he feels the need to nitpick my every mistake and flaw. He probably contemplates severing me from the lineage as a pastime.``

Phoebe, once more, clearly did not notice that she had bluntly revealed what had been bothering to her; the fact that it was to Rhys, who was someone that had never dared to ask about her, worsened the situation. Ensuing a few moments of silence between them, it finally hit her like a solid wall of bricks, leading to her eyes widening and flicking upwards to meet Rhys` awaiting gaze. She smiled sheepishly as she decided to add an additional comment:

``That was a joke,`` Phoebe laughed as her arms returned to her chest once more, maintaining a somewhat defensive stance. She was usually so.. relaxed around him, but she was clearly still taken off -guard by his sudden change in behavior. Mere moments ago he had seemed so uninterested and desperate to wander off and indulge himself, but not he seemed invested in hearing her troubles. Perhaps he was merely being kind? Maybe it was an impulsive act that he had not thoroughly thought through? She shook her head slightly in response to her mental questions, receding a small step backwards as she waited for his response.

November 16, 2024 10:06 PM

Posts: 11994
#1256431
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Rhys was a bit taken aback by his own self, and his own decisions. The last thing he thought he'd be doing was inquiring about Phoebe Nightlingale on his own time. Time that he could've, and should've, been spending walking to the woods. Time that he could've been spending eating an apple. Time that he could've been spending by merely laying on the ground and staring at the sky. Alas, he was standing here, watching her, wondering what was wrong with his brain and how he could get it fixed.

As she halted, he did as well, crossing his arms over his broad chest and waiting for her to respond. He could've walked away even now, but he was still standing there, for some unknown reason. Obviously, there was something wrong in his head, but that wasn't really surprising. He was a bit insane at times. As he watched her, he could guess what she was thinking, especially when she flinched. She was wondering why he would ever take a spare moment of his day to run after her, something he didn't do for anyone. He'd had people do insane things, and he had never so much as shown interest in whatever they thought about, but here he was, standing in front of her. Honestly, he didn't know why, but he was worried. He ... internally liked and appreciated that she behaved like herself instead of the princess around him. She was Phoebe instead of Princess Phoebe around him. He liked it. He liked being able to see the real side of people and not have to go searching for it. When she had outright lied and gave him that fake smile, he felt almost... hurt. Which meant he needed to understand what was going on.

As she replied, he arched an eyebrow, not moving otherwise. He could easily tell that was a lie. He had known her for more than a decade. His dark blue gaze seared into her, waiting for the truth. He knew it was coming... she couldn't lie to anyone for long, not if they directly asked or challenged her on it. All he had to do was wait until her conscience got the better of her. That happened less than ten seconds later when she sighed heavily and lowered her arms. A good sign, meaning her want to talk was winning. It only took a few moments more before she spoke again. He waited expectantly for her to continue, averting his gaze every once in a while to glance around the gardens. Although he knew his intense stare made her uncomfortable, he didn't really care... usually... except for now, really. He didn't want to scare her off. So he pretended like he was glancing around, although he could hear that no one was approaching.

As the words finally came spilling out, he tilted his head slightly, listening intently, his dark gaze having returned to her. Any complaints about parents definitely hit home with Rhys, considering his background. He understood her troubles, and they seemed rather valid to him. It would be hard to be the daughter of a royal, and have to uphold your status wherever you went. "I'm sure he doesn't do that." He stated quietly, his voice the slightest bit less gruff than usual, which was honestly a huge improvement on the whole terrifying 6'5 storm cloud thing.

He could see when she realized when she had said, when she glanced up and flashed a sheepish smile. She obviously hadn't thought about telling him, whom she disliked, her troubles, just as he hadn't thought about approaching her, whom he disliked, to ask what was troubling her. His eyes darkened slightly, if that was even possible, as she quickly went to correct her mistake. He stayed silent for a couple moments, observing her defensive stance. Why was she so tense around him all of a sudden? He almost felt... offended, and he didn't know why. He didn't know why he even cared. As she took a small step back, he finally spoke. "No, it wasn't." He outright rejected her claim that it was 'a joke'. Rhys could tell it was not. It was as plain as day. "I understand. Parents are hard." He stated quietly, yet firmly, each word holding meaning, even though they were few and far in between. He shifted his weight slightly, again glancing around the terrace, though this time to sooth his own thoughts that were running around his head like wild rabbits. "People make mistakes. That's what makes us human. Don't take it too harshly."

November 16, 2024 11:06 PM

Posts: 117
#1256449
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Phoebe Nightlingale

⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊☽ ◯ ☾₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

``Mistakes have repurcussions,`` Phoebe replied a tad too quickly, snapping her azure eyes towards the nearby roses in an effort to distract herself of the unfolding conversation betweeen them. In the world of royals and nobles, mistakes were incredibly despised and frowned upon, regardless of their severity and impacts on other families or innocent citizens. The mistake she had made the previous night had not been remotely close to severe, but the stinging words from her father were drowning out that unwavering fact. ``And my mistakes have graver ones.``

A heavy sigh slipped between her lips as she pressed her arms closer against her chest in an instinctual response to the emotions building up within her; this was yet another flaw she had identified within herself: the inability to control her emotions. Phoebe was silent for a while as she descended into her mind, consumned by a multitude of thoughts that raced by as fast as they emerged. She slowly returned her gaze to Rhys` and found herself growing even more confused when she noticed his eyes darting around; that was incredibly unlike him. The urge and need to know what was running through his mind was building further within her, nearly rivaling the emotions he had conjured by a few reassurances.

``I`m being a bother again,`` Phoebe whispered beneath her breath, silently praying that he had somehow managed to not hear her words; a part of her expected him to retort against her words. She despised being perfectly and utterly aware of the parts of her that everyone seemed to disdain or refused to tolerate the even slightest bit. The standards and expectations she was consistently held up to seemed to always worsen these flaws as well, making them stick out like a sore thumb compared to the one or two traits that a true royal was meant to have. Her insecure, timid behavior was the main thing that was causing such disruption and doubt within her parents, especially when such things were what enemies and rivals feasted upon; however, internally, she was not as pathetic as this regarding her view of her own capabilities. It was also apparent that her behavior easily fluctuated between two personas, one being calm and somewhat composed whilst the other was.. an outright mess.

``You should go,`` she began as she slowly lifted a hand to pat his shoulder, hoping that would draw his gaze back towards her own. A smile shifted onto her face- this one far more authentic than the recent ones- before she glanced over towards the gates that led out of the gardens and into the world she was far too scared of to even contemplate entering. ``You deserve to take a break and relax, especially when you`ve already been working so much.``

This was the only authentic moment with Rhys she had ever had in the regard of her truly wanting him to take a break. It was a foreign feeling, the one where she genuinely did not want to bother him since he had already seemed so.. off earlier. Phoebe understood boundaries far more than anyone else, but she was not aware of what Rhys` were; she talked about herself and seldom asked about others out of the fear of overstepping. Other than her parents, she had never felt obliged to act like this with anyone, almost as if she.. No, that was a sentiment reserved for family and family alone.

She cleared her throat before returning her gaze to his familiar face, waiting for him to respond in any manner. His behavior was still confusing to her, especially when he seemed to be far more considerate and observative before, but more specifically when it involved her. Most likely, this was a day where exceptions were being made from their typical conversations and exchanges, one where it was simply them with no harsh feelings.

November 16, 2024 11:40 PM

Posts: 11994
#1256459
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"Not all mistakes should." Rhys countered firmly. Especially small ones, like he was sure she was talking about. Things that wouldn't even matter had she been a normal person. Not of royal lineage. Small things that most people would correct and move on from. Surprisingly, he felt the slightest bit of irritation at her father prickle in his stomach. How could any father- spare his own, that guy was a jerk- just ignore their child's feelings and reprimand them for the smallest of offenses? How could any father knowingly hurt their daughter just because they were irritated? Honestly, it made Rhys want to strangle someone, but he didn't voice his thoughts. He could technically be killed if he mentioned the fact that he may have been thinking about strangling the king. Even if for a good reason.

He frowned slightly as she added onto her first sentence, his mind already running at top speed. Perhaps even more so... he may have been burning out the motors. In any case, he hated the thoughts running through his mind, but he could not get rid of them. She shouldn't be treated like this, no matter who she was. He may have to pull a couple strings. Not that he could change anything, but he had an idea in mind that may help. Or it may not and she may want to never see him again, but either way, it was the thought that counted. Right?

He pinched the bridge of his nose as he thought, his mind plagued and crowded with many things. Thoughts and memories. Memories of his own father. He wished he could just stop thinking about it and worrying altogether, as this wasn't normal. Obviously, today was an off day in his brain, as he was... worrying about the princess. That was most definitely a first. He raked the same hand through his hair again, letting out a low breath as he contemplated what to do. Or say. Both he was at a loss on. As she whispered lowly, his ears picked up the sound, and another small frown played on his lips. "It was my idea to come over here." He muttered quietly, enough for her to hear, but still... quietly. That was also true.. he had decided to walk after her, and ask what was on her mind, and that was his cross to bear. He would listen to every word she wanted to speak, as he was the one who had decided to bring this conversation about. Although it was unusual, and although he may not appreciate his decision, he'd go through with it. He may be a lot of things, and his good traits were few and far in between, but he was not a quitter.

Her words and the heat of her hand on his shoulder radiated into his mind, bringing his dark gaze quickly back to hers, like a ground wire had just zapped his mind back into place, the mere touch of her hand causing him to flinch. He mentally cursed himself for doing so, shaking his head, as if silently telling her not to read into it. Another one of his burdens to bear. He silently observed her smile, pleased to see it was a little more authentic than the last one. If he was being optimistic, like he never was, it could be considered completely real. Rhys paused as she spoke again. He was almost confused, especially since she had never shown any care on whether or not he was working, or how much work he did. He was tempted to ask what was wrong with her brain at the moment, but since they both seemed infected, he kept that idea at bay. After a couple more seconds of silence and observing, he slowly relented. He nodded curtly. Technically, he couldn't refuse. Her words could be taken as a command, and he wouldn't go about disobeying it. "Of course, princess." He inclined his head, his voice quiet and resigned. "Enjoy your evening." He stated, letting out another small breath before turning around and striding off, like she had suggested. If she had wanted him to leave, then he was doing what she wanted. In any case, he should focus on himself more, anyway, and hope that the spell lifted when he got outside the castle walls. He disappeared outside the gates in a matter of seconds, his long strides propelling him towards the woods, where he could be alone with his thoughts.

November 17, 2024 11:29 AM

Posts: 117
#1256498
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Phoebe Nightlingale

⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊☽ ◯ ☾₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

Phoebe silently observed Rhys as he replied to every statement she had verbalized aloud, meticulously noting every single word as she usually would with anyone that conversed with her. She could tell he was genuinely trying to provide her with not only words she wanted to hear, but what he also viewed as the truth; it would seem they had different opinions on the matter. When he flinched at her touch, she immediately retrieved her hand out of a consilidation of reflux and uncertainty. Although she presumed it was a result of her successfully regaining his unwavering attention, it still stung a tad to watch him, someone who she sometimes viewed as a pillar of strength, flinch because of her gentle touch.

``You too,`` She whispered beneath her breath as she tilted her chin a mere inch, eyeing him as he turned on his heels to wander off into the woods. It had been a few months ever since her right eye had started losing its vision, but it was still taking time for her to get used to it; the fact that it was progressively worsening with every passing day did not help the matter. The moment Rhys left her field of view was the moment she suddenly felt.. cold. It was not the same type of cold she had felt for years as a result of not truly having anyone to consider a friend, but the type of cold that made one feel.. empty.

Phoebe frowned as she decided to no longer linger in the gardens alone, knowing that her parents or other individuals that would undoubtedly search for her eventually. She lowered her arms from her chest and started to head towards the double doorway that led to one of the two colossal dining rooms within the Nightlingale Palace. Her steps were slow and methodical as she walked, almost as if her uncertainty was slowly spreading through every fiber of her being. When she finally opened the doors and crossed the threshold, she was met with the sight of looming portraits of her grandparents, great grandparents, and even a singular one containing her and her parents; it was simply royal tradition, but those portraits seemed to haunt her and her feelings of not belonging in these grandeur halls.

``Lost in thought?`` A voice, a familiar one, penetrated her thoughts and caused Phoebe to halt in her steps, sighing softly beneath her breath. Morana, the one that had spoken to her, was one of her aunts, but, more specifically, the only one that seemed to have empathy and understanding; maybe that was precisely why her parents despised them interacting and had forced Morana to constantly be away from the palace. She turned towards the older woman and visibly relaxed when she noticed that Morana was approaching her with a warm, compassionate smile.

``Always,`` Phoebe replied as she met her aunt`s hazel gaze, returning her smile with one of her own. She allowed Morana to take hold of her arm and guide her through the halls. Although Morana had not spoken or addressed anything, she knew that it was because of her being aware of her boundaries; Morana never pushed or proded for information, instead allowing her to take as much time as she needed. ``What brings you home?``

``Duties. Your father requested my presence, which we both know is odd,`` Morana replied as she glanced towards her, seemingly taking in the sight of her. Phoebe nodded in agreement as they conitinued to walk through the halls, pausing every few moments to gaze out of the floor-to-ceiling windows and across the palace grounds. Depending on where you were, you could either be met with the sight of the gardens, the medium-sized stables, or the large vineyard that was a part of the flowing income.

``Have you made any new friends since the last time I visited?`` Morana`s inquiry nearly caused Phoebe to laugh aloud, especially when they both knew that friends were practically nonexistent in her life; no one truly wanted to befriend someone that did not belong. Instead of providing an explanation or a verbal answer, Phoebe shook her head and glanced out of the nearby window, taking note of the darkening skies. For the briefest of moments, she found herself wondering what Rhys was up to and if he was enjoying himself.

November 17, 2024 12:33 PM

Posts: 11994
#1256530
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Rhys did truly believe that no one, not even of royalty, should be punished for mistakes they made. As long as they learned from those mistakes, then they were in the clear. However, life was not as kind as he wished it was. He knew this firsthand, and it seemed Phoebe got a hint of it. He knew it very well, really, and carried it everywhere he went. The scars marring him were not all from accidents, and the burn marks were not as well. When life gave him lemons, he tended to squeeze the juice in life's eyes, whereas most people would make lemonade. He didn't even like lemonade. It was too sweet.

As she quickly pulled away when he flinched, he tried to think up a viable excuse other than 'you startled me'. The truth was that he hated being touched, and his PTSD always acted up when he was touched, causing him to flinch, but he wasn't saying that. He was usually an unmoving force, and he knew it, but he couldn't stop reactions because of his royally messed up mind. He couldn't change what his father had done to him, and he couldn't change the fact that he was destined to live a life alone and hurting. In any case, he knew she had pushed him away, so he didn't speak another word on the matter.

Although, internally, he didn't really want to leave, he felt himself letting out a breath as he melted into the shadows in the woods. He wanted to figure out exactly what had suddenly made her seemingly not trust him at all, and he knew it would plague him for the rest of the night, but he decided to try and focus on the good things of the day. Something he very rarely did.

Rhys pushed all thoughts of anything but the lake out of his mind and stalked the mile through the woods to the small lake that he spent a good chunk of his time at. He had a small boat that he had built nestled at a dock there, with his tackle gear, fishing pole, and other random things in it. He didn't waste any time getting in and starting up the small motor to bring him out to a deeper part of the week. At this part, the sun warmed the water considerably, and he bet he'd have to swim to a cooler part to actually feel relief from the sunburn. He gripped the bottom of his shirt in his fingers and pulled it over his head, knowing that the chance of anyone coming way out here, into the woods, was very low. He put his foot on the edge of the boat and took off his boots and socks, then dove headfirst into the cool water, not bothering to worry about his jeans. They could dry later. He relished in the feeling of the cool water soothing the burn of the sun, letting himself sink deeper into the water, until he hit bottom, about 17 feet down. He pushed off the bottom and surface again, sucking in a breath of air and letting his eyes drift close as he waded in the water. This was where he felt the more relaxed.. alone, near his boat, in the lake.

After letting the chilly liquid lap against his burnt arms for a little bit, he pulled himself back into the boat, shaking his head, water flying everywhere from his hair. He then sat on a seat and grabbed a fishing pole, putting a lure in before casting out. It was close enough to evening that the fish would be Biting. He spent hours sitting right there, fishing, occasionally jumping in to cool down, moving to another spot, fishing again. Rinse and repeat, over and over. It was as relaxing as anything he ever did. Every once in a while, he laid in the boat and just stared at the sky, thinking. He would then resume fishing. Everything he caught, he threw right back, after measuring it and recording it... if it was big enough. Every time he dove in, he moved to a different spot, knowing he had disturbed the fish there. Even as it started to get dark, Rhys continued his slow cycle.

November 17, 2024 03:33 PM

Posts: 117
#1256610
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Phoebe Nightlingale

⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊☽ ◯ ☾₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

Phoebe and Morana wandered the halls together, seeking solace in each other`s silent, yet welcome, presence whilst occasionally asking a question or revealing recent events in each of their lives. In her eyes, Morana was the closest thing she had to a friend, but she did not truly consider her as one; as a royal, you were meant to be incredibly independent, viewing others as potential associates, not friends. She would occasionally glance over her aunt in order to take in every little detail, which was caused by her unrelenting curiosity and childish fascinations regarding where Morana had been for the past few months; for all she knew, Morana could have been lingering in the outskirts of the palace, but she knew better than to prod.

``It is growing late, so you should return to your chambers, child,`` Morana`s voice invaded her trail of thought once again, luring her back and leading to her tilting her chin so she could see her aunt more clearly. It was rare, but not unheard of, for Morana to address Phoebe in such a manner, but it was a mere reminder of her place within the family; she may have been her parents` only child, but she was the youngest in the entire lineage itself. She frowned at the idea of returning to her chambers for the first time in years since, for some unknown reason, she wanted to remain in the serpentine halls. It was almost as if something- more specifically, a feeling- was urging her to remain accessible if anyone needed her. Today truly was odd.. and she was gradually growing annoyed by it.

``I will,`` Phoebe stated simply, her voice evidently softer than it typically was; such things were a mere effect of her aunt`s calming presence. She offered Morana a small smile before she outstretched her hands to embrace her, closing her eyes the moment it was reciprocated. ``Have a good evening and do enlighten me if the King is being a nuisance with his requests.``

``His foul moods will always remain foul,`` Morana laughed gently into Phoebe`s hair before she withdrew and waved goodbye, heading in the opposite direction of where she would be heading. The moment her aunt faded from view her smile and blissfulness faded until a frown and uncertainty were all that were left. It was so familiar yet so odd for such moments to be constantly fleeting, almost as if happiness and tranquility were things she did not deserve. Ever since the accident that had occurred after her eighteenth birthday, it was almost as if the world was no longer bright and vibrant, but dimmed and almost grotesque; logic and rationality no longer ruled her world.. Fear of the unknown and pain had now taken over. Back then, she truly had the chance to be the ideal, perfect princess that her parents wanted her to be, but accidents did happen; the repurcussions.. they were practically unspeakable throughout the palace.

With her frown remaining plastered across her features, Phoebe turned away from where Morana had left her and resumed walking. Since there was a seating room across the hall from her chambers, she had decided that she would spend the remainder of the night there; insomnia was a problem she had struggled with ever since the accident as well. It was not long before she reached her room, briefly entering it to grab a book before heading into the seating room. She plopped down on one of the many couches and curled up against the armrest, opening the book and meticulously beginning to read every word. Every now and then, she would take the time to write a brief notation or underline a certain phrase; she loved distracting herself with realities that were fabricated.

Edited at November 17, 2024 03:34 PM by Imperial WBs

November 17, 2024 10:46 PM

Posts: 11994
#1256809
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Rhys spent the entire afternoon at the lake, enjoying every second of his time and managing to put Phoebe out of his mind for the time being. As night fell and the moon slowly rose, he reluctantly motored his little boat back to the dock, tethered it up, and put stuff away. After grabbing his socks, boots, and t-shirt, and putting them all on, he started his treck back to the palace. 30 or so minutes later, he entered through the small hidden gaze.

His job included going around after dark, locking the main gate, the main doors, and making sure there was no one inside the castle or the castle grounds that shouldn't be there. He started by locking the main gates and main doors, then silently stalked around outside. He first circled the perimeter of the walls, meticulously scanning each and every surface. Although he didn't love the royals or appreciate their methods, he wasn't fond of them getting assassinated in their sleep, so he took this job with great care. After checking outside for an intruder, he headed into the castle itself. This would take much longer, but he didn't mind. It gave him time to think and plan.

He started in the first hallway, his mind already wandering, although his steps stayed silent and senses alert. He wondered, now, what Phoebe was doing, and if she was okay. Was she sleeping or laying awake? Reading? Staring out a window? Thinking? He wondered why he even cared what she was doing. Today had been a strange day for him. It could have something to do with the fact that she had been acting off.. he disliked change, and disliked the fact that she suddenly became so stiff around him without any warning or reason. Usually there was a logical answer, but when it came to humans, logic was never top on the list. That's why Rhys avoided most people, and attempted not to care about what they said or thought. It just made his life easier. However, he was thoroughly worried about what Phoebe was thinking about, and it was annoying him.

He was so deep in thought that he didn't notice the soft footsteps until a second after he usually would've. He froze, cocking his head to the side. There was definitely someone walking towards him. He ducked behind a corner, knowing it was most likely one of the royals, but not wanting to get in their way. The sight that greeted him was far different than any he would've expected. A young man, rather disheveled, holding a gun, looking angry and scared at the same time. Rhys barely breathed, but the man saw him anyway, turning to him and pointing the shaky gun at him.

"W-who are you? You're not one of the royals! Why are you here?" The man asked in a tremulous voice, his hands shaking like an earthquake as he put his finger on the trigger and aimed the weapon at Rhys' heart.

Rhys let out a slow breath. Of course, tonight this had to happen. He was tired enough already, and worried about other things. "Get that fluffing gun outta my face 'fore I remove it for ya and stick it somewhere you won't like." He growled lowly, his black eyes narrowing to slits.

The man let out a terrified squeak, the gun shaking harder. "I-I have the g-gun! Don't tell m-me what to do!"

Rhys clenched his jaw, moving forward in one swift movement. A couple things happened at once, including the gun going off, the man getting hit in the head with Rhys' fist, and the man letting out a terrified scream while Rhys let out a snarl of pain. He had grabbed the gun successfully, but in the process, he assumed his shoulder had gotten tweaked. He had injured it a couple years ago and it had never healed properly. It did this every once in a while. He unloaded the magazine and set the gun on the ground, hauling the shaking man up by his collar. "Damn you insufferable sludge pigeon bird brained kickin' jerks." He muttered, dragging the assaulter out by his clothes, all while he was whimpering in absolute terror. Rhys threw the man outside the gates, slamming them shut behind him. "Don't ever come back here again, you here me!?" He snapped, heading back inside to retrieve the gun when he noticed blood on the floor. Confused for a moment, he scooped up the firearm, glancing around. Blood on the wall. The man hadn't gotten hurt. However, the gun had fired. With a sinking feeling, he brought his hand to his shoulder. He felt a jab of pain as he touched it, and his fingers came back red with blood. The freak had shot him. His eyes widened slightly with surprise and irritation, his mind already running through the possibilities. He must be in shock, that's why he wasn't feeling the pain, or it could be the adrenaline. That would wear off soon. He should get it bandaged to stop the bloodflow. He knew that. Apart from that, the bullet had gone All the way through, so he didn't have to worry about retrieving it, and it hadn't hit an artery, because he wasn't dead.

November 17, 2024 11:34 PM

Posts: 117
#1256814
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|￣U U￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣|
| OC Owned by Imp
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Phoebe Nightlingale

⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊☽ ◯ ☾₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

Phoebe Nightlingale was incredibly invested in the book she had selected at random, so much so that she had remained in the seating room with the bundle candles, which were located on one of the center tables, alight and flickering. Books were something she sought solace and tranquility in, perhaps it was because of the unwavering fact that some characters she found herself relating to; it led to moments of introspection sometimes, but not the harsh, self-demeaning ones. Her slender fingers drummed softly against the leather cover of the book within her hand, lowering the book whenever something she read either bewildered or surprised her.

She was on the verge of believing that tonight was going to be one of her few relaxing, serene nights, but the startling familiar sound of a gunshot was what ruined it in mere seconds. That cursed sound haunted every fiber in Phoebe`s being and everyone in her family knew it.. another consequence of the accident from all those years ago. For a few moments, she simply remained where she was as she processed the sound- truly processed it- since her mind tended to play cruel tricks on her. However, the fact that lights had suddenly begun to flicker down the hallway seemed to prove that she was not going crazy.

Phoebe slowly hoisted herself off of the plush couch and tossed her book haphazardly onto the center table, briefly glancing towards it to ensure it was not close enough to the candles to engender a fire. She rushed down the hallway and towards where the gunshot had seemed to come from, her mind racing at the possibilties of what had unfolded. It could have been one of her relatives being snuck up or.. it could have been a servant being misidentified. At this time of night, the possibilities were practically endless, but she found herself silently praying that the bullet had not injured anyone; if it had, she hoped it was anyone except for Morana and.. Rhys. She nearly paused in her steps when she realized that she had willingly worried about Rhys, something that she had never done before.

However, there was no time to pause and reflect on her thoughts, especially when someone could potentially be dying or even worse at that exact moment. With her breath catching in her throat, Phoebe rounded the final corner of the hallway before bursting through the double doors that led into the hallway that seemed to have been wehre the altercation had unfolded. The first thing she noticed was the familiar stench and color of blood and gunpowder that were splattered across the walls and floor. She would have immediately left the scene to fetch Morana or one of her parents to deal with the situation, but it was the sight of Rhys staggering around as if he were.. injured. Phoebe was no fool and she immediately clicked the pieces together: someone had shot him.

``Rhys..?`` She called out to him as her gaze returned to the mess that was now present in the once meticulously cleaned hall. It probably seemed as if she were upset by the mess, but deep down.. she could not handle seeing blood. The whole situation was almost ironic, especially if one knew precisely what the accident had been. Truth be told, someone had endeavored to assasinate her a few days after her eighteenth birthday, almost succeding since they had snuck a bomb into one of the transportd. The scene still haunted her memories and it was apparent, yet it was most likely that Rhys was perfectly unaware of it; the accident had only been discussed and handled by royals.

Phoebe truly would have moved to help him and examine his wound, perhaps even try to rip a small part of her nightgown to use as a makeshift bandage. But the blood, it was a cruel reminder of the scene she had scene all those years ago. Her breathing hitched as she slowly drew her gaze back onto him, trying desperately to compose herself since he was the one clearly in need of help. However, she could not bring herself to move, not even an inch.

November 18, 2024 09:10 AM