Flashback Celebrating With A Pint-Or Two.

[Artifex]

35th of Summer, 490AV, Night Artifex strolled through the plaza, with a careful-yet relaxed-stride. Each step was taken with delightful care, so that he never once collided with another passerby. His motion was rhythmic, as if he were actually dancing through the crowd as apposed to walking. He enjoyed the action, and he enjoyed the scene that unfurled before him. After some mingling among the crowd Artifex found himself admiring the beautifully rendered relief that marked the entrance to The Brew. As he departed the crowd, he took notice of the beautiful pillars that stood outside of The Brew; each one sculpted into the image of an isurian hero. There was also an array of benches that line the outside of the tavern, thus offering those who wished to take in the majesty of the plaza could do so. He had to admit that he could only look upon the architecture in awe; for he could never imagine himself building such magnificent structures. However he had always wanted to be a craftsmen proliferated, but that had been back in the days of his earlier youth; when he fancied himself to one day be a craftsmen of all things. With a readied smile and mild air of charisma he opened the door to the establishment, and descended the short staircase that led to the tavern floor. As soon as he made his descent a cacophony of voices billowed into his ears from various patrons were knocking back drinks in celebration of something or other. They were seated in one of the various stone tables that were simply cut from the stone that had been here before The Brew's construction. He admired that craftsmanship, and he always felt more at home because of it for some odd reason. The walls were as elegant as the relief on the outside; perhaps even more so because of the lighting that was precisely fitted into various points. Artifex shook himself from the wonder of the architecture, and slowly made his way to the bar. Upon arriving at the bar he removed a small leather pouch from his side and pulled out two silver mizas. He smiled and ordered a loaf of bread, a hunk of cheese, and two mugs of ale. He then pointed ruffly to where he would be sitting, and went to take his seat to patiently await both Ly'an and the delivery of his requests from the lovely Rinna; who despite being so lovely was not the women who'd won his heart. As he made his way to the table which was situated so that they weren't to far removed from the rest of the tavern, but were still afforded a small amount of privacy; and a good view of the depictions on the walls. He thought back to his work, which by all regards had tired him out rather well. None the less he was pleased by the results that now sat in his house awaiting the imparting of his izentor. All in all it had been a delightful day of crafting, and he was more so pleased that he had been fortunate enough to have been able to share that time with Ly'an. A few minutes-and friendly patrons who stopped to jest with Artifex-went by, as finally his orders had been delivered. Rinna flashing a provocative smile his way, but he payed it little heed and simply smiled in return. He waited patiently for Ly'an's arrival. He did not wish to partake in the food or drink until her arrival. They would toast, jest, and talk away into the night; of simply things, and difficult things. He had much to say, but he wasn't sure if he could say it; it left a lingering look in his eyes for those who could find it. Oh Father i thank you for all that lays before me; from my future to my family to my friends, and above all my ever strengthening skill in craft. I pray that you will guide me as you always have through the winding paths of life, and i will always serve you as i always have with all of my being.

[Ly'an Godhammer]

Ly'an had remained behind longer than Artifex did to finish up keeping up the forges and taking reverence in the place as a whole, she paused at the anvil in the very center of the forge and rested a hand upon the godly emblem. “Father, grant me the strength of granite and the courage of your champion to come to grips with my decision and make the right decision.” She paused, taking in a deep breath and exhaling it before taking leave of the holy sanctuary. There appeared to be quite a few people out and about this evening, more so than she thought was normal, even if it wasn't. Ly'an squeezed around pillars and statues, monuments and crowds of people. She knew where Artifex would be for their arranged drinks, but it wasn't where she would've expected him to go, but apparently the place was a homely locale. Ly'an didn't stop to admire the various statues or reliefs that Artifex found fascinating, there was much on her mind and she was still consumed by the weight of them. Marking of my sword is a task I don't understand the process of entirely. I know it is quite an ordeal. A piece of my soul, of my being, of myself... It will become a part of the sword. Am I ready to do something like that? Ly'an sat down in front of Art, no mentioning of a hello, ordering something for herself, or even acknowledging that she managed to make it into the building, located Artifex, and made her way there.

[Artifex]

Artifex smiled as Ly'an sat down across from him. However he noticed that as she had made her way to him and as she sat before him that there was something amiss about her. Ly'an seemed aloof. Something was clearly plaguing her thoughts. He wondered what it was, but he didn't have to think to hard in order to assemble the answer. It had to have something to do with the use of her izentor. He wondered why it was such a difficult decision for her, but then again it hadn't been an easy choice for him to make. Still he had prayed, for some time, and looked into himself for the answer. It had taken time, and he hoped Ly'an would not rush in her decision. He felt a little bad for bringing the question up so suddenly. Yet he smiled. He shifted his thoughts, and decided that he'd make it his mission to see Ly'an have a good time, no matter what the cost. Oh Father, please heed my prayer and help Ly'an find her way through this difficult decision. Help her so that she may honor you justly. With a smile still lingering on his face he stood and walked around to the side of the booth/table that Ly'an was sitting in. Ly'an still seemed locked in her thoughts and didn't seem to notice even this shift in positions. He pushed her drink to her and put his right arm around her. Then he leaned in and kissed her on the forehead. "Come now Ly'an we have much to celebrate, and a man can't toast alone. I will need your help for that-and more".

[Ly'an Godhammer]

Ly'an couldn't help but blink as Artifex planted a kiss on her forehead, “Uh... Yeah, you are right. Celebrating. That's what we came for...” She shook head head a little in surprise that she managed to not get lost on the way here. “Sorry, I didn't meant to space the whole time, I had some important... Internal discussions to hold with myself. Still didn't come to any conclusion yet.” Later Ly'an, you'll be able to rant and rave all you want later about it. The Isurian weapon smith managed a weak smile as she looked at him, “Yes, I want to congratulate you on shield well crafted!” She take hold of one of the two pints on the table and held it up in toast. “To Father and the Hammer. May your shield be forever protecting.” She nodded to Artifex and set the mug back down on the table, she didn't feel like drinking, her stomach was already in knots as it was. Ly'an ran a hand over her face and bald crown before she looked at Artifex, “Look, I wanted to ask you something. It may be rather personal, and I would understand if you didn't want to answer.” Great, now you sound like you want to ask him how he feels about you... Ly'an took pause at her thoughts and grimaced, How does he feel about me? Looking at the mug she had used for the toast and sat it before her, Maybe I will take a swig after all... Might calm the nerves... Taking hold of the mug's handle she lifted the pint up and took a small swig of it. “I wanted to ask you why you decided then to place your mark on your shield. I understand the affects it can have on one's craft.” Why not ask him the other question while you're at it there Ly'an. Once more a small grimace formed on her face and disappeared as she once more took a swig of the pint before her.

[Artifex]

Artifex smiled as Ly'an came back to her senses; clearly he had struck a chord somewhere in her thoughts with the kiss to the forehead. It had done the trick though and he was glad to see that she was-somewhat-enjoying herself at last. Though he figured something was still amiss as she hesitated with her drink. Clearly she was still at war with herself over something, and he imagined it could only be the imparting of the gift. He still felt a little responsible for her woes for having brought the matter up in the first place. Yet he knew it would leave no lasting effects upon her in the end. He smiled and enjoyed the toast, uttering his own when she had finished and already placed her mug down "And may your sword be ever sharp, and accurate in its slaying of all those who would deliver us harm". He took a large gulp of his ale, and wiped the remnants that had splashed onto his face. He loosed a jovial sigh. He tore away a piece of the bread and cheese and swallowed it, which he found to be rather delightful. He noticed however a look upon Ly'an's face that spoke of inner conflict, like she was struggling to loose a question of sorts. Then she asked it again, as she had while they'd been crafting. He knew the answer true enough and he found it no personal slight that she asked him at all. In fact he was proud to enunciate his reasons for honoring Father. He collected his thoughts-and another swig of ale-and began: "Well lass i don't mind answering, and it is good of you to ask, for it may be one day a simple question that leads someone away from folly. Why, why, why did i decide to do as i shall do?..." he said musing to himself "well it is for a simple reason, and i assure you it had nothing to do with simply enhancing the shield-though that was a fine touch. I have crafted many odds and ends in my brief life thus far. All of them trinkets or practice, but nothing of importance. I have thus only ever been practicing it seems, and while nothing is wrong with that, it leads me to believe that i must make my first true step into the world. I must do take that step regardless of the risk, and trust what brews within my heart. Doubt is a necessity i know, but if i cannot trust my own judgment at times, then how will Father ever trust it. I am not saying i threw caution to the wind and acted in haste, no far from it. I thought long and hard on my decision, and in fact i prayed even longer and harder. Once the idea for the shield solidified in my mind, it felt right. It felt just simply right, and it was then that i knew that my decision had been made, and i was proud, not afraid. I would succeed or fail, and still i would learn from that experience all the same. I know that you are still warring within yourself about the matter lass, and i wish there was something i could do to aid you in your qualm, but alas it is ultimately up to you, i-and Father-can offer you guidance as best as we know how, but in to end it comes down to you. I know that you will look into your heart and choose wisely, and i know you will succeed. Fret not lass, the road ahead may be littered with obstacles, but with your faith and strength, and the support of others you will see yourself through them." With that he took another swig from his mug, which was becoming empty at a rather fast pace. He smiled at her, and patted her on the back. "Through faith we will forge the future lass". His family phrase mingled with the echos that surrounded them and he awaited for her response, or at least another question, for he felt that she was holding one back. It was something in a quick change in her face that gave it away, but he couldn't tell what it was. He was sure that she would tell him when she was ready. "Anything else" he said with a delighted smile as he pulled he close and squeezed her in a mock sideways hug, and then laughed a hearty laugh that was not a insult at all. He kept one arm around her, as he awaited her response.

[Ly'an Godhammer]

Ly'an shook head her in response to his explanation. She had no other questions to ask. She ran her thumb against the mug sitting before her, “I don't feel to up to drinking. My mind is running rampant in thought to enjoy drink. I am truly sorry.” The grimace that seemed to have found it's way back onto her face once more became prominent. Her thoughts once more directing themselves to the predicament she found herself having to deal with. No. You promised Artifex you'd be happy of your skills and task you set out and finished today! You shrink back into your shell because of what you have to do later on is wrong and disrespectful. The bald weapon smith sighed and looked at her friend and fellow clansman, “Sorry. I will try and be more happy. Just the thoughts coupled with drink just doesn't bode well with my stomach. I am sure you can understand my friend?” She didn't await for a response while she pulled her waterskin from her belt and took a swig from it's contents. The cold water from within was a refreshing blast to her throat and lips. It removed that harsh bitters from the ale she had taken swigs off just seconds ago. “I will drink water and enjoy your merriment and company if you don't mind my attempt.” Ly'an gave a bleak smile, it wasn't much and it surely wasn't very... Well, encouraging.

[Artifex]

He smiled. However it was a smile that contained two parts true happiness, and one part concern, concern for his clansmen, his friend. He didn't care if she didn't drink-it wouldn't stop him from. However it did bring to light concern to his thoughts, and worry that he had wrought these woes upon her. He attempted to cast aside these thoughts with another swig of ale. However he found that his mug was empty, so he promptly ordered two more, and then slid Ly'an's away, and into his own hand, since she wasn't going to be drinking. He smiled and chuckled as he did so. Time cascaded onwards, and a bell or two rang away off in the distance. He tried his best to entertain Ly'an and keep her mind off of the woes that were beseeching the bastion of her mind. Yet all through the while he felt that no matter how happy she got, that there was a sliver within her that ailed her still. Over the course of this time Artifex helped him to many a mug of ale, until he could only remember drinking eight...or was it ten. He had perhaps gotten carried away, but he was drinking for two, and trying to keep Ly'an's spirits up with whatever jovial trick he had. It was strong ale in the end, and the fact that Artifex couldn't recount the number, denoted something of a sign to him, but he didn't know how to interpret it in his drunken state. In fact he couldn't help but wonder why there were so many things he'd never told Ly'an; his ability to hold back being inhibited. He found himself laughing at random things that made no sense-though never did he laugh at Izurdin, or Lr'an directly, knowing that those were both not wise options. Yet everything around him seemed up for grabs-so to speak. He turned to Ly'an and said "Lass....lass have i ever...ever told you that...you are beautiful?". He smiled. Oh the things that he wished to say to her, and why shouldn't he? Why? He couldn't come up with a reason. His cheeks felt flushed, and he imagined he looked like he was blushing ever so slightly. "Oh lass, i...remember...the first time i saw ya, when we were young, but...but not too young. I knew it..i knew it then that i..." he trailed off "Oh i am drunk aren't i" he laughed. A smile held ready on his face. He ran a hand through his hair. Still it had all been true, every word, or lack thereof. Father forgive me for my drunkenness, but i do celebrate in your name, for without your guidance i would have never succeeded. He fell to the side, into Ly'an as he tried to regain himself. He laughed while doing so, and looked up at Ly'an. He righted himself awkwardly, and looked into Ly'an's eyes; the two isur were close now. He smiled, leaned forward and planted a kiss on her forehead again, and in a moment of strange speech clarity he stated "You will always have a place in me heart lass".

[Ly'an Godhammer]

Ly'an was indeed amused at Artifex's inability to remain composed while drunk. “You be drunk my friend.” She chuckled and patted his shoulder, “Let's get you home. Sleep off the ale.” She nudged him from the booth, but right before he got to the point of tipping over, he planted a kiss on her forehead. The action stunned Ly'an, bringing a flush of color to her cheeks. “Now now... Let's get you home. You drunk fool. You may regret your words and actions in the morn...” Even though I do hope not... She smiled at the drunk clansmen, “Come now. Hands on table to steady yer drunk self and let me out. I'll take you home.” She shook her head. It took her almost half a chime to get him out of the booth, steadied on his feet so she could crawl out from behind him. Waving a kind goodbye to the barkeep and her fellow kinsmen. Ly'an was grateful that she could shoulder Arty and drag him out the bar into the open air outside. It would do the man some good to sober up on the way home. Maybe he'll regret drinking so many... How many did he actually drink? At least eleven pints... Yeah... I lost count after that. She sighed and looked up to the sky, Father, forgive him for his overindulgence... And forgive me for my next course of action. She stopped him next to a barrel just outside of a small store, one could see small fish swimming around and Ly'an just sighed. Sorry fish. With that she removed the drunk Artifex from her shoulder and shoved his upper body head first into the barrel of water and fish. The cold water would shock the drunk out of him, Arty probably wouldn't like the sudden shock, but Ly'an wasn't planning on dragging his drunk ass all the way to the Vizerian location in Sultros. Once he resurfaced Ly'an smirked, “Better?”

[Artifex]

Artifex laughed as Ly'an went about trying to get him home, and out of the bar. The flush of color that had bloomed in her cheeks had delighted him beyond compare, and it was evident in his giddy expression. "I don't think i'll regret nothin....cause...cause its all....true" he said trying to appear very in control; he wasn't. Sure enough though they made it out of the bar, and as they did he said one good last goodbye to everyone. He was impressed that Ly'an had the strength to heft him enough to keep him moving all the way through the streets. He was still having a good time even if the drinks were all gone and it was time to go. The things that swam in his head were just whispering to get out. To be heard by ears that had been reserved from them for so long. When they came upon a barrel he was amused to see the fish swimming about in it, and it cause a chuckle to ensue from him. However he was confused as Ly'an plunged his head into the water, and he found it was much colder than he had imagined it would have been. As the shock shook loose the grip of inebriation that ruled his thoughts, he pulled his head out of the barrel, and shook his hare like a dog trying to get dry. His head felt like a blacksmith was toying away with a hammer and an anvil. He did his best to mitigate the pain but he suddenly was more aware of himself. He looked to Ly'an and smiled, through the pain. "Thank you lass, i see that i may have gotten ahead of myself there. Still a celebration deserves proper justice, and i will not rest till i see that through, but i think we have done our celebration justice, or perhaps i have done more than enough" he smiled. Then it hit him all that he had said, all the words had previously held in reserve when around Ly'an, and yet as much as it made a mild blush run across his face, he felt relieved. He tried to piece together words, to explain something more..."About what i said lass...if i'm remembering myself correctly...that was...well...true". He felt like he couldn't hide from his choices and so he decided he'd better own up to it. After all he wasn't getting any younger. He had the patience for things, but sometimes initiative counted, and it had long been brewing in his heart. "So...uhm...what now lass?"

[Ly'an Godhammer]

“Your words mean quite a lot to me. Yet you are still under the influence of alcohol. Father will overlook my actions towards you I hope, but I cannot overlook your drunken actions amongst others of our kind.” She growled, “You are acting as a child Artifex. You need to recall that we aren't children anymore. Our parents are not going to be there when we make mistakes to clean up after us.” She shook her head and turned from the soaking wet man. She couldn't remain angry at the man and with a sigh she looked back at him, “You may not see it but your sobriety is a facade. The air and the cold water you are now soaked in have given you a sense of sobriety, but really what you are experiencing is shock. I would imagine that we probably ought to return you to your home so you can sleep off the rest of your drinking.” Father give him the morning he will regret. Have him swear of drinking like a fool and maybe we shall see how I feel of him. Ly'an sighed and motioned for him to get close so she could wrap her arms around him and take him to his home. “I will return you home and then head to slumber myself. Not sure where yet...” Ly'an frowned, she had left her family's abode several years ago and haven't found a place to call home for herself. Maybe I can stay at the forge again tonight, I haven't been caught there yet.