The Nightfall Saga: Moving Pieces (Part 5)

It was the normal exchange that Cixi had become used to seeing and yet didn’t quite understand why it was done. She stood quietly while Matthias went and spoke to Tobias on her behalf in order for Matthias to alert Lord Jaias that she wished to speak with him. Cixi didn’t understand why couldn’t she just walk up to the door and knock on it. However, she simply watched the two elves cloaked in brown whisper to each other. The older slowly shook his head and walked away from the younger, disappearing behind a closed door. Matthias turned and walked back to Cixi, bowing his head when he was within earshot.
 
“Lord Jaias is in a meeting right now. His manservant has gone to see if he will accept your request to meet with him.”
 
“If he is busy, then I can come back later,” Cixi replied, “No reason for Lord Jaias to interrupt anything.”
 
“Unless the interruption happens to be something more important.” 

The closed door was now open and Lord Jaias darkened the frame. A hint of a smile was on his face as he walked through it. He signaled for the door to be closed behind him as he walked over to Cixi, robes swishing about his feet.
 
“You wished to speak to me, Cixithara?”
 
“Yes,” Cixi replied nervously. The more she thought about what she wanted to say, the more the words kept evading her. Suddenly she couldn’t help but feeling that this was a very bad idea.
 
“Well no reason to mince words,” Lord Jaias said, noticing that Cixi was pausing longer than usual and was fiddling with cuffs of her sleeves, ”Tell me what it is that you want.”
 
“I was hoping…”
 
Again, there was a slight pause. Cixi turned her head away slightly. She just couldn't look her uncle in the face for some reason. She knew who he was now. The status that he held. How the entire House viewed him.
 
“I was hoping that you would stop requesting that I accompany you for the rest of my stay here.”
 
Cixi kept her eyes averted when she spoke.Lord Jaias had nothing but protect her since she had walked into his home, wide eyed and naive. He had never looked down on her, never made her feel less. In fact, he had done quiet the opposite. And now she was asking him to leave her be. Cixi half expected a response that was something along the lines of anger or maybe grave disappointment. Part of her expected to be rejected again and things would go back to the way they had been before.  So the soft return caught her off guard.
 
“Have I done something to offend you?”
 
“No,” Cixi answered quickly, her eyes meeting Lord Jaias' concerned face,”You haven’t done anything. It’s just that…”
 
“Your mother,” Lord Jaias interjected.
 
Cixi chewed the inner part of her bottom lip. She didn’t want to lie, but she didn’t want to mention this being her mother's doing either. There was a heavy silence however, it only lasted a few moments. Lord Jaias put both of hands on Cixi’s shoulders and lightly kissed her on top of her head.
 
“Your mother has not changed a bit since she was young. If she is having that much of a problem with us spending time together, I will no longer ask that you join me for anything else. The last thing I want is for you to be fighting about me with your mother. However, if you change your mind, there will always be room for you at my table.”
 
“Thank you, Uncle!” Cixi exclaimed. She gave him a quick curtsy and left. Now her mother would be pleased and things would go along smoothly from here until the end of the Gathering.
 
Tobias spoke up as Lord Jaias walked back to the door, “I am very sorry that happened, sir. I know that you wanted to make a good impression on the young lady. It would seem that Lady Alara is very much against you having any type of relationship with her daughter.”
 
Lord Jaias only gave a slight grin as a response, “Did you hear her, Tobias? Cixithara referred to me as her uncle. My sister has failed. She simply has not realized it yet.”

The Nighfall Saga: Moving Pieces (Part 4)

“I have been trying to see you, Mother, but it has been really hard to get away. It is  like Lord Jaias is trying to make up for all the lost time between us in a matter of a day or two.”
 
Most had gone to bed quite a while ago. Now was only time that Cixi wasn’t being primped and preened by a team of hand maidens. Or tethered to Lord Jaias’ hip. Ever since the spectacle at dinner, Cixi had been asked to accompany Lord Jaias everywhere he went. She knew that everyone was still talking about her. Even more now that she had become the "favored niece". But, at least no one would dare to do it to her face. 

In her mother’s bedroom, they both sat  quietly in the darkness. Darkness which was only lifted by the moonlight spilling in through the windows and the outdoor lamps on the city streets. They spoke in whispers to each other, so as not to wake anyone. But mostly to not be overheard.
 
“I can’t really tell him no. I am staying in his house,” Cixi explained,” I am eating his food. All these clothes I wear every day are things that belong to him. I can’t just be openly defiant. You and Father taught us better than that.”
 
“Cixi, sweetie,” Alara said, gently grabbing onto her daughter’s forearms, “I do not like you being around my brother. I know him better than anyone. I don’t want you getting close to him.”
 
“Why?” Cixi asked.
 
“Just listen to you mother, sweetheart. I know best about these things.”
 
“i have done a lot of growing up while I have been away, Mother,” Cixi answered, “I can handle whatever it is that you think is bad about Lord Jaias."

Alara did not answer, so Cixi kept pushing.

"We are already keeping our being here a secret from Father, Taulithran and Zendier. And I have not asked why we are doing that. But the least you can do is tell me why I have to stay away from someone whom I share blood with.”
 
Alara sighed, seeing that her daughter was not going to let this go. She straightened a bit in her chair and let her hands slide down to Cixi's elbows. Alara looked at Cixi earnestly.

“My brother always has a reason for doing things,” Alara replied, “And most of his reasons are self serving. I don’t know why he is doing what he is doing, but I am sure that it can only hurt you once it is all over. It is what this family does.”
 
 “He doesn’t really seem all that bad to me,” Cixi whispered back, "He has done nothing but try and make me feel welcome."
 
“He isn’t bad, not entirely” Alara replied, “He was a kind man once. And he will continue to be kind until you decide not to fall in line with his plan. Then you will see him for what he truly is. I want to get you away from him before it ever reaches that point.”
 
Cixi made to promises to her mother that night. In fact, despite her mother’s warnings and pleading, Cixi found herself at Jaias’ side more times than not. At meals, she was requested to sit at his table. Evening activities, she stood at his side. There were even times where she was called to his study, where no one was allowed in but him and her. The two of them shared small conversations about things that seemed inconsequential. What was life at the village like? How did she get along with her brothers? How were things growing up? And the more she shared about the Daybreaker Clan, the more Lord Jaias would share about House Ebonlynx
 
Despite Cixi feeling very awkward around her uncle, she could not see what her mother was so worried about. He was genuinely nice, even if it was wrapped in a chilled and stilted distance. However, every night, Cixi’s mother implored her to stop saying yes to Lord Jaias when he requested to see her. And even though Cixi could not see the justification in it, she could not ignore her mother’s fear forever.

Hair Journey: Flat Twists

May marks the one year anniversary of when I last used a relaxer in my hair. I really thought I had my hair management down to science at this point. Nope! Not even close. My hair is showing me that I have absolutely no idea what is it is capable of doing and becoming. My hair has hit it's unruly teen years, where it has no idea what it is or what it wants to do in life. It just knows that it is different and it wants to shout that difference from the roof tops.

My ends are relaxed still, because I just can't bring myself to do the big chop. The roots have grown out beautifully; soft, wavy and healthy. But I don't know what to do with it. I haven't had this kind of texture in my hair since I was 13. This is the point where I am so tempted to put that creamy crack right back on there and forget I ever started this. To fight this urge, I am going to find a hairstyle that is works while my hair gets through this phase in it's life.


 


















I was never the master of cornrows or braiding in general.  I know how to do it, but they weren't the prettiest things one to look at. Recently I was introduced to the Flat Twist, the simpler cousin to the cornrow. The basic principle of between the two styles are the same. The only difference is instead of braiding three strands of hair, you twist two strands of hair. I don't know why that makes it easier, but it just does. Trust me.

It took me some practice with this hairstyle before I managed something that I was okay with wearing out in public. I watched several YouTube videos, Googled tons of images and read so many articles, I felt like I knew everything there was to know. I keep my twisting routine simple. I brush my edges and put aloe vera gel on them to tame some of the unruliness. I divide my hair into sections and decide what pattern I'm going to twist my hair in. I part with a rat tail comb (because it makes the parts cleaner) and add hair lotion to my hair before I start twisting.

While this style is a bit more frustrating to do, I think it is worth it. Once you get the basics down, you can be as creative or as simplistic as you want. And personally, I like styles that are versatile. Is flat twists something you have done before or have wanted to try? Any hairstyles you have wanted to do yourself, but got frustrated with? Keep practicing and one day you might surprise yourself.

Nightfall Saga: Moving Pieces (Part 3)

Utensils clicked on plates as lively conversation filled the dining hall. That table were Cixi was seated was no different. However, Cixi really didn’t have much to say or add to the conversations being had. She wondered if this was what it was like to be the Seneschal or someone who had the last name, Silvacce. Blathering on about things which were only important to those seated around the table. Cixi believed it all rather dull, to say the least. So, she sat quietly and chewed her food as those around her battled with words and wit.
 
“So tell me, Young Lady Cixithara, how do you spend your day?”
 
Cixi snapped her eyes up and over to the woman who had addressed her, being painfully obvious that she had not been paying one bit of attention to the rambling that had been going on since she had sat down. Even with the smile on the woman’s lips, Cixi could tell that the question wasn’t really one of curiosity so much as it was for malevolent intent.
 
“I am under the employ of House Silvacce,” Cixi answered simply.
 
From the reaction of the table, the answer had been unexpected. Maybe they had wanted her to say something like she swung from tree branches all day and slept with dragonhawks. Or that she rolled around in mud pits. A part of Cixi had a small bit of satisfaction that she had shocked them.
 
“Ah, House Silvacce,” the woman continued, that viper-like look still in her eye, “I have some familiarity with that name. Tell me, what does someone of your upbringing offer to a House such as them?”
 
“What do you mean by that question?” Cixi asked, eyes narrowing.
 
“Even though we are not known to you, that does not mean you are not known to us,” the woman quipped haughtily, “ It was quite the gossip when your mother ran off to live in that little village with those people. I wouldn’t have expected anyone from there to been able to find any place among any house that has such a renowned name. Unless you clean out their stables, of course.”
 
Cixi could feel her ears burning again. But this time it was not embarrassment. She hadn't realized that she gripping her knife as tightly as she was until she felt a hand lightly rest on her wrist.

“You are quite bold, Millicent. You would dare open your mouth and insult a guest at my table?”
 
Cixi hadn’t noticed that Lord Jaias was paying attention to this side conversation. Though his voice was calm and serenely placid, a commanding quality laced around his words. His eyes slowly slid effortlessly over to the woman who Cixi had been speaking with.
 
“It would be best if you remembered your place while in my house. I hope that I do not have to repeat myself after this.”

Part 4 

The Nightfall Saga: Moving Pieces (Part 2)

One of the many things that Alara didn’t miss was –this- part of her past life. She watched as the parade of fine tailoring and haughty countenances clacked their way over polished floors to their seats in the dining hall. Burning eyes and smoldering glances were tossed her way. The prodigal child of a former Head, the sister of the newly appointed head; jealously still flowed freely from those visages. Alara was still envied. And no measure was taken to ensure this jealousy was hidden from her. However, with a gracious nod and an even more gracious smile, Alara greeted every single person who looked her in the face. Just as she had been taught to do all those years ago. No matter what was going on, she was still to act in a way befitting a lady of her status. Her mind wasn’t on her covetous family members anyway.


She looked for one person, her daughter. It had not taken long for Cixi’s name to be on the lips of everyone there. Her powder white hair set her aside from all the crimson colored tresses of the Ebonlynx House. She had no magical prowess, had not studied any magic in any fashion, had no knowledge of the Ebonlynx family or their maneuverings. Her attempts at friendly conversation had been met with snide comments and mockery. The poor girl had been thrown into a pit of snakes.

Alara watched as she daughter had simply given up on introducing herself. She simply sat next to Alara quietly, watching everything else that was going on. Cixi refrained from asking questions, seeing how most of her inquiries were met with degrading snickers and, at times, boisterous guffaws. The first few times, Cixi had worn her feelings on her sleeves, feeding the fires of those who enjoyed seeing the outsider falter. Now, there was no reaction, just a short curtsy and a muttered greeting. Alara could not wait until this whole affair was over and she could take her daughter home.

Cixi was one of the last to finally make her way into the dining hall. The handmaidens had tried their best to lightened her sunbronzed skin and curl that cornsilk mane of hair that had only known ponytails and the occasional braid. Alara caught her daughter’s eye as she walked in. Cixi looked nervous.

“Ah, Cixithara, you do look quite stunning this evening.”

Alara felt her stomach starting to twist in knots as her brother approached Cixi. He placed his hands on both of her shoulders and kissed the top of her head. Alara’s jaw tensed, teeth pressing down onto each other.
 
“Thank you, Lord Jaias,” Cixi replied in a low voice. Cixi was not sure how to address him. On one hand, he was her uncle. But on the other, he was a very important person in this House. A house that she was not entirely sure if she fit into or not.

“I hope that one day you will be comfortable enough to address me with a much less formal title. However, until then, please, come and sit.”

Cixi followed behind her uncle, feeling the crowd of turning heads that were all aimed in her direction. Lord Jaias pulled a chair out for his niece. She tried not to take notice of the multitude of eyes that were burning holes through her as she took her place at the table. She could feel herself getting warm and no doubt, the edges of her ears were turning pink. There was nothing but silence. Silence and staring. However, with a single, Lord Jaias sat down and waved his hand. Like magic, time had started again and the silence disappeared.

Part 3 

I might be a Whovian

I am not sure if you guys know about this well kept secret of a show that started in the UK. Some guy is a Timelord from the planet, Gallifrey. He runs around in a police box and regenerates with a new face every few years. The show cleverly named Doctor Who. I know, I know, pretty obscure.

I had known about Doctor Who for a while before I decided to see what it was actually all about. Honestly, I didn't think  I was going to be into it. The original show started before I was born. I thought there was going to be so much to catch up on. And that would simply be too much back story for me to handle. So what tipped the scales for me? A Trock (Timelord rock) band by the name of Chameleon Circuit. Their first album was quite enjoyable. Then I wondered how much more of the music would I understand if I actually watched the show.

 I started with the 2005 episodes. It did not take long before I was all in. It was a fun show that I couldn't quite categorize. Eccleston was my first Doctor and Tennant will probably always be my favorite doctor. I was more than ecstatic when The Day of the Doctor came, posting the trailers to every social media outlet that I had access to. I watch every week that it comes on. I love the Christmas specials. I even tried Jammie Dodgers because Matt Smith had one in an episode. I have excited about other television shows before, but I must say that Doctor Who is the first show where I took it a bit further.

The first purchase I made of something that had to do with the show was a print done by Lar DeSouza. It is all the regenerations of Doctor Who up to the 11th Doctor as bunnies! You were able to buy each bunny separately, but I opted to get the print with all the bunnies together. I like how it starts in black and white and slowly comes into color. The second thing I got, was the Chameleon Circuit cd, which is pictured above. I even have an iPhone cover that looks likes the Tardis, which my sister gave me as  Christmas present.

 

















My latest purchase was this t-shirt from Teefury. I saw it and automatically knew that I had to have it. I think the best comment I have gotten while wearing this shirt was at the airport. One of the TSA guys said "Oh, so you're a 10, huh? I'm more of a (insert number here, because I forgot) guy, myself." I looked at him a little confused and then noticed he was staring at my shirt. I smiled really big after that. A kindred spirit!

This last one was actually a present to me from one of my best friends. She surprised me at PAX East and then handed me this cookie jar. I was so excited, that I nearly shook it to pieces. The light on top actually works. And when you press it, or open the lid, it makes the Tardis noise!

 I don't know if having all these things and having a deep love for the show makes me a Whovian or not. I can't quote anything and small minutia of the show tends to leave my brain after a while. I don't get into long debates or discuss the history of the show. I simply enjoy it. And I want a sonic screwdriver.

The Nightfall Saga: Moving Pieces (Part 1)

This story starts with The Nightfall Saga: The House Gathers.
 
Cixi had tamed wild mountain cats that were less aggressive than this pack of women who proceeded to "attack" her every single day. Combs, brushes, powder and lipstick were among their weapons of choice. Shoes that no one in their right mind should have on their feet, and dresses that were impossible to clasp together unless you folded your ribcage in on itself, all flooded through the doors of Cixi’s room every single day. All of this, just so she could masquerade around with these people she barely knew. They were somehow important and because of this, Cixi had to undergo this torture every morning. As Cixi’s handmaidens dressed her like an inanimate play thing, there came a knock at the door.

“Lady Cixithara, your presence is being requested,” a voice said through the door.

“She will be out shortly,” was the reply.

That was the way things worked here. Cixi hadn’t spoken for herself since the moment she was first hauled away and painted up like a life sized porcelain doll. At least not to any of the servants. Her hand maidens talked for her. She had also noticed that not a one of them would lookher fully in the eye. She was followed around all day long by a man in brown robes. In fact, it was him who was talking through the door now. She had gathered his name to be Matthias.

With a final hair pin and the last tug on her bodice, Cixi was ushered out of her room. Matthias bowed his head as she walked out in front of him.

“Lord Jaias has requested that you sit with him at his table tonight.”

Cixi stiffened upon the mention of her uncle's name. Though unspoken, Cixi knew that her mother was not going to take it very well when she saw Cixi sitting with Lord Jaias. Ever since they had arrived, there had been an unspoken tension between her mother and her newfound uncle. They had been civil to each other in public. But those cold stares let everyone know that it was all a charade, right down to every bow and curtsey. Of course, from the whispering going on, it was what everyone had expected from the two of them the moment that Lady Alara had arrived.

“With him?” Cixi stammered, “I’m sure that there are others who he would rather have sitting there. Someone that is more important?”

“Lord Jaias made his request quite clear. Would you like for me to tell him that you are declining his request?”

Cixi looked at the top of the reddish blonde head that was bowed before her. She sighed and shook her head. It could not be helped. Her mother would just have to be upset.

“No. Let him know I will sit with him at dinner tonight.”

“He will be pleased to hear this.”

Part 2