artillunis

[artillunis]

«The Hermit»

Even decades later the crumbles of a temple reeked of smoke. Once white marble columns now wore the mourning shrouds of ash. In place of song and prayers only the haunting cry of rusty wind. The base of the arching structure still remained, and beneath its dome a pond, its water stained maroon. The only other smell was one of iron, cutting inside the senses of unwelcome visitors. Fresh flowers, neatly placed among the broken pantheon, had none. 

The Sun too did not dare to disturbed their vigil with its rays. The darkness spilled if the place, like, spreading disease, it rooted its poison deep inside a soul, letting the flower grief to bloom. That dark was nothing like the blackened night sky nor depths of the river stream. This Dark was allconsuming hole in one’s very being. An endless hungry void feeding upon uninvited guests. None dared to cross its ground yet those few who did, spoke of crimson robe, burning amidst the lifeless scenery.  

A ghost of flesh and blood. Raven hair messily felt on her shoulders, skin even paler than ever. Eyes, once soft, now sparked with steel. A shadow brought to life. Last sister of a once thriving clan. 

Alcmene. Name felt so foreign. The river healed her that day. Gods watched her rise. They saw her fall. A cruel joke no less. What is to be alive? Her spirit burnt along with her sisters. Her heart.. Alcmene held it in her hands as it skipped its last beat.

Even now, she only dared to speak its name to wild winds.

A mere half-whisper.

Deya.

~ 1 ABY

[artillunis]

Night of Flames

«For Mothers’ Sake, Deya put me down!» — Alcmene screamed at the top of her lungs in a desperate attempt to escape Deya’ arms. All in vain: in swift motion Deya pulled her on the shoulders and carried from the healers’ hut. Crimson sun drifted slowly to the edge of the mountain.

As they got closer to the small centrum more and more colourful torches appeared, burning all the colours ones’ could see. From teal greens and purples to bright yellow-red. In the very heart of the village other sisters were neatly composing pyres waiting for night to take power.

«Dey-Dey I’ve work to finish» — the please continued

«No, I refuse to have you spend today’s night working,» — with free hand she gestured around: the streets were drowning in light and colour — «It’s night of Flames. Don’t want to join, fine but then i’m bringing you as my catch»

«A catch?.. I’m ot a rabbit or something like that» — Alcmene raised her eyebrow

«On contrary you and rabbits have a lot in common: stubborn, adorable when mad and share a love for greenery»

Alcmene grumbled.

«See?» — Deya chuckled. Alcemene let out a smirk.

«In any case I can walk myself»

«And where’s fun in that»

~ 23 BBY

[artillunis]

«Gold and Silver»

Aroma of freshly brewed tea spilled around every corner. Sweet like summer rain, it smelled of floral petals and berries. Colorful tapestries covered walls creating a sense of warmth and comfort. In morning rays the room seems bigger: light dancing on jars and bottles added even more colour.

A woman placed her cup on the table and got back to wrapping her feet in dark red cloth. The same already covered her arms. Strains of straight raven hair fell below her waist, contrasting with alabaster skin they always got in the way unless braided properly. Alcemene brushed them away yet again. A sudden touch of hand on her shoulder brought her from the thoughts.

«Let me» —  a woman whispered, tracing her other hand along Alcmene’s hair. Her voice was sleepy. Receiving a tiny nod of approval she separated hair in three parts before starting on braiding two lower parts in tight braids. 

«Didn’t want to wake you» — said Alcmene, turning her head. Deya’s eyes shone bright violet when the sun hit them. Hair, too, dark had strains of silver-grey. They weren’t always there. Wise-one said, the river left her a reminder of the cost of reckless acts. When Deya earned her first small circlet, she nearly paid with her life. Now she had a dozen or so. Neatly braided into her locks, silver rings were symbols of achievements and good hunts. Alcmene had six herself, but golden, the colour of healers.  

Deya yawned and chuckled:

«Sit still, would you?» — She took two gold circlets from the table, attaching them to the ends of braids. — «You know you’re horrible at doing your own hair» — Then grabbed a big thin one, attaching it to the back of Alcmene’s head with thin strands of hair. Of all the rings, that one bore the biggest meaning: when a sister proves her skill to the coven, she gets her first and the biggest of all rings. Deya’s silver one shone like the moon in her hair.

«And that’s why I let you do the job»

In minutes, a second cup was also filled with tea. Head lazily lying on the table, Deya sleepely reached her hand to Alcmene. Her gaze was set on the mug.

«Why are they so serious all of a sudden?» — she sighed — «Whatever you're thinking the answer is not in here...» - Deya chucked, gesturing to the nearly empty cup.

«Just thoughts, Mother Reira called upon me, she wants to talk.»

Deya turned her head to the other side:

«You can always just stay here.»

Almene gently cupped Deya's face:

«Dey-Dey, you know I can't, l've patients to attend to and..»

«I know, I know..» - she sighed - «You always had too big of a heart to be selfish even for one day. And that's why I love you» - she smirked.

«I would prefer to stay, you know?»

«Of course I do.. But you can at least stay for a few more minutes?»

«Definitely»

•

My Nightsisters OCs Deya an Alcmene 🌙✨

[artillunis]

«Morning»

Fresh breeze gently touched Princess’ cheek, ruffling her hair. For a second she lifted her gaze to the sea from where the wind came, she sighed, then put messy locks behind her ear and return her attention back to a book on her laps. Dressed still in riding clothes after morning flight, she sat at window opening of the highest level of Sea Dragon tower. Always first to wake up, Alyssia preferred spending her morning away from cluttered halls. Golden rays danced on her face. One more blow flipped half of pages to her great annoyance.

«Few more page and you will miss breakfast.» — In hallway stood Baela. «Your aware that your mother doesn’t like it»

«Huh, I would’ve been done by now if not for this stupid wind»

«Or perhaps choosing the windiest place of whole island wasn’t as genius of idea.» Alyssa rolled her eyes, slamming book with whole dramatic might.

«You know I never look for easy paths, besides I like the view»

«Of course you do» Baela chucked.

Alyssia swiftly got down and grabbed her cousin’s hand.

«In all cases, I think we better hurry, we shouldn’t make my mother wait.» — a smirk appeared on her face. — «Or we might go for a flight?»

«Only after breakfast.» — she places her hand on Alyssia’s — «I’m starving! I’ve no idea how you aren’t.»

She shrugged in response.

«Alright. But only because I won’t let Luke eat all the dessert»

[artillunis]

Companions

It was said that among all ladies of the court, Lady Baela was the most trusted companion of Princess Alyssia. The two shared passion for sword training and fly as well as curious and adventurous spirit.

At court, people said the two remind of their mothers at their age but with more mischief in hearts.

As soon as their dragons were old enough Alyssia, Jace and Baela would take their dragon racing along the shore of Dragonstone. The three of them were often seen together be it in studies or balls.

[artillunis]

«On the old gods and new»

Few weeks passed since Princess Alyssia, along with her brother Prince Jacaerys, flew away to rally support for their mother. Young Prince brought support of the Vale while the Princess was said to have charmed the harsh heart of the Wolf of Winterfell. After all Alyssia possessed otherworldly to northerners Valyrian features and a bold spirit.

During the visit to the Wall, a raven brought somber news to the young Prince and Princess. Lucerys Velaryon was murdered by Aemond one-eyed in the sky above the Storm’s End.

“What?...” — a half whisper escaped Alyssia’s lips, as the news settled in her mind.

“His is gone, Aly.. Aemond.. he..” — Jace stumbled on his words. There were no “right words” for these. No way to sweeten nor soften the news.

Alyssia’s hands dug deep into the frozen ledge, eyes staring far upon the frozen wasteland. She had once pitied Aemond. She had lost count how many time she scolded Jace and Luke after mocking him, not mentioning all the altercations with Aegon. Perhaps he was always monster or it mattered little now.

Jace slowly approached her, placing his hand on hers. She did not protest.

“Fucking Coward” — she said, voice cold as century-old ice — “Next time it will not be an eye he loses, but his heart. I’ll cut it myself. For that I swear Jace”

Hot tears melted away freshly fallen snow. Bitter wind cut deep inside with its blows. The grief will have to wait. The cold emptiness will replace sorrow but not before the burning rage. The pain of loss was dangerous, one wrong step and it would’ve devoured her at once. Like snake’s poison, it would’ve infected her mind. Anger, on the other hand, brought strength and determination. She will grieve, once she feels drops of blood from her uncle’s heart on the tip of her dagger, once she feels th heat the dragon’s flame had swallowed The Storm’s End. Then she will fall apart, let the sorrow take over. But right now her family needs her.

They stood there in silence and not a living soul dared to interrupt the silent vigil.

[artillunis]

«As the stars fall»

Soft grass brushed against her bare feet. Fabrics of clothes gently danced on the chilled northern wind. Female figure stood on the cliff above the sea, her gaze averted to the setting suns. As a kid the look of Hiems light filled her heart with joy. Oh, to see the world light up the moment the last ray disappears at the horizon. The longest night of all. One filled with dances and music.

She took a deep breath and turned to the city. Last warm ray slipped down the buildings letting the night take over. And the very moment the entirety of roofs and streets light up in warm light of various tones. From bright oranges and reds to deep greens and purples. Like stained glass the city shone in its full beauty.

Bitter smile touched her lips. So many years of warmth and happiness. But now.. Now she felt.. nothing. No joy or excitement, only dread of time passing. Was that the world that changed or she? Maybe they both did.

And yet the flare of streets did not look that different from one she remembered while her own self hardly reminded of a young girl she once was. Her now short hair fell only a bit past shoulders. She had scars big and small, her tongue sharpened, mind quickened.

«I heard it's a bad omen to watch the Hiems alone» — the familiarity of the man’s voice made the corner of her lip twitch in a weak smile. Mīrus (as always with no concern for her personal space whatsoever) placed his arm on her shoulder. Be that any other person or other time she immediately shrugged, pushed him away. Not tonight though.

«I don’t think I am any more» — Illūnis said quietly, her hand reached for Mīrus. Those words..

Bright blaze of light illuminated the sky.

«Make a wish» — He whispered quietly.

[artillunis]

«Fire and Blood»

Alyssia Velaryon, remembered as Targaryen since the Dance, was rider of Ēbrion, the biggest dragon among the young ones. She was known for her brash and fierce character and intricate taste. Princess admired the fashion of Old Valyria and always stood out from the court. When not on dragon’s back, she enjoyed the company of people of art and culture.

Once the news of King Viserys’ death and betrayal reached the Dragonstone, Princess Alyssia was among the first to pledge her loyalty to now Queen Rhaenyra. Same day as Prince Daemon placed the crown on her mother’s head, she was named the Princess of Dragonstone and once the war began Alyssia stood tall by her Queen’s side as her heir.

Lucerys death left no doubt nor softness in her heart. When Lords on Black council spoke of Princess gentleness and suggested for her to be sent to safety, Alyssia declared:

«Rhaenys was a dragon rider, the same as her sister Visenya and as much a threat on Meraxes’ back. So I will not do less. I shall remind Storm’s End of what the Dragon’s wrath can do»

Dragon design by majestic @achriart ✨☺️Posting old sketches/works cause why not🙃

[artillunis]

«For those who find the comfort in dark embrace of the night»

Cress. That’s what they called her. Not the name she was given but the one she chose, or rather a nickname. After all, going around with a name most see as bad luck wasn’t the most discreet nor clever, but a silly nickname that children so often would give each other, on the contrary. It made her forgetful. But most importantly it put a wedge between herself and her past.

Illūnis. No, it was something else? It mattered not now as that forgotten thing was a name given to a child of the Nyx family, to their first born, to a girl with eyes of bluish silver. So many hopes, so many plans. It belonged to someone that she long left behind, buried deeply in the past, forsakened, forgotten. That’s how she’d like it to stay.

How naive and stupid, isn’t it? After all, even the simplest of names hold great power.

[artillunis]

Blue Hour

Coolness of the early morning laid upon the city. Late stars still shined bright enough for bare eyes to see. Only in far east redness of two Suns slowly crawled onto the sky, spilling warmth like paint. Reds spilled into yellow, yellows into blue. Light blues gradually replaced darker tones, signifying the end of Night’s rule.The world will soon see their first rays but only in several hours. Right now there is still time before two fire disks take over. A moment in between the change of powers.

Another wave crashed onto the shore, burying woman's toes in white-gold sand. Light breeze played with her long hair, some of her red-gold waves neatly tied in braids that formed a small bun at the back of her head. Tiny jewels and golden beads sparked in pale light. 

Eyes shut, she took a few steps forward, entering chill water. Monotonous movements of waves were so alluring, so welcoming. With no hesitation she went further and further until she found herself nearly waist deep in water. Blue fabric of her attire turned dark as water touched it.

Eos. She was named after a dawn, after the morning sea and its golden rays that danced on the surface of the water, after half asleep nature and still cold air.

Minutes passed or maybe hours, she wasn't sure. After all, time did not matter. Not at dawn.These were moments for the soul to be free, unseen by greater powers. Woman sighed, she was not alone. A man's hand gently touched her shoulder.

— «I knew I’d find you here» — a familiar voice spoke from behind.

A smirk appeared on the woman's face.

— «Am I that predictable?» — her tone both playful and slightly offended.

— «Only for me»

— «Good» 

Woman opened her eyes and turned around facing the intruder. Eos knew too well the man in front of her. Erebus’ pearl-white curls were still a bit messy after night sleep but not less pretty. Eyes like the silver moon and soft smile she loved so much. 

— «What?» — woman giggled

— «Nothing, just admiring my wife»

— «Aren't you afraid?»

— «Of what exactly?» — man chuckled. 

— «Ohhhhh» — Eos played pure amazement — «Don't you know of dark..» — Desperately trying to hold a laugh to sound serious, she continued — «…And treacherous magic tricks possessed by witches of the Sea?» — A woman took several steps, running her hand over his shoulder  — «Aren’t you afraid of getting tricked?» — Step by step, slowly she circled around the man — «Or bewitched?» 

Eos waved her arm for dramatic effect. Erebus gently grabbed her waist.

— «I’ll take chances» — he whispered. 

— «I can steal your heart» — she giggled.

— «It's already your»

Eos giggled even harder.  

— «Hey» — man chuckled letting her free. — «Im try to be serio-»

Sudden splashes of water interrupted his speech. 

— «That’s childish yo-» — he couldn’t finish. Unexpected push completely imbalanced Erebus letting gravity do its work. Woman’s laugh rang in the air.

— «Okay then» — the man said, grabbing Eos’ hand. Quickly realizing what was about to happen, the woman protested.

— «Don't you dare-» 

But Ereb gently dragged her down to him. Now both completely soaked in water, young people laughed.

In a second everything was filled with warmth the moment golden rays appeared from the horizon. The change of rule was complete as Suns took their rightful place in the sky.

[artillunis]

Storm

Mighty roar shook dark skies overpowering the sound of heavy drops bouncing off the ledge. Leaden clouds hung over the entirety of the horizon, like black velvet. Somewhere there, hidden from mortal's eyes, second and third moons entered their zenith. 

Bright splash of light illuminated the small room. Dark grey bricks, that covered all walls, gave a sense of protection and calm. Its darkness brought out furniture of silver oak, making it sparkle a bit. 

Strong gust of wind yanked heavy curtains as if they were made of petals. Another rumble shook the air. 

In the midst of it all, a young girl sat beside the window. Long hair was messily falling down Cress’ shoulders, yet there were still several small braids holding. Her bluish eyes curiously studied the view below. For a while her gaze followed rushing clouds then slipped onto trees, watching as their trunks and branches bent in elaborate dance. A little further, behind trees, grand waves crashed against the shore. Eventually she locked her eyes on drops of rain. Girl slowly twisted a lock of her hair between fingers. 

She once overheard adults calling rain "The cries of Mother Nature". Weird isn’t it? Calling it tears as if rain was something bad or tragic. Don't they feel relief, especially after long months of heat? Others did not see farther than the ruination it sometimes caused. She didn’t know which thought she disliked more.

Girl sighted and closed her eyes, feeling drops of rain on her face. 

Storms brought her weird comfort, even in their might there was calmth. How come something so destructive in the eyes of others, be so beloved by her?

“You will be their storm one day” — a cold voice whispered at the back of her mind, sending shivers down her body.  

Sudden creak took the girl out of her thoughts. She shook her head and looked around. In the far corner a shadow moved. 

— “Who's there?”— she said quietly yet firmly.

Friendly "Meow" came from the same direction the first sound did. 

— “Skia!” — girl giggled.

With no reason to hide anymore, the "shadow" quickly hopped into the windowsill. Two paws gently tapped the girl's face and a tiny pink tongue licked her nose. Giggling once again, she stroked black silky fur. It seemed every time she found herself unable to sleep, one particularly persistent cat found their way to her. She never figured how: there was no way they climbed here and sneaking through any other entrances was impossible. Several encounters later, she gave the cat a name, calling them "Skia" as a shadow from where they had tendency to appear.

Cress grabbed a piece of dried meat she earlier "borrowed" from the kitchen for her friend. The cat "accepted the offering" and perched on her lap, purring in content as she scratched behind their ear. Once again lightning bathed everything in white light, followed by a song of thunder. 

“Soon Child”