Koreriverwood - Korellan The Centurion

Jason Momoa photographed by Elizabeth Weinberg for The New York Times, January 2017

Kore was surprised to say the least, not that Tier had stopped him on his way to work, he rather enjoyed their chat now, but by the basket thrust into his hands as the Rendorei nervously stuttered out his explaination.

The first item that reached his claws was the blanket, soft and plush, furlike silk that teased with the promise of warmth and comfort. An rare oddity for the hunter who was known for prickly spines and spikes.

Claws clicked against the bottle, which he was careful to inspect before popping the cork to sniff the fragrance. The aroma was savored, the combination of notes a fun riddle to try and puzzle out.

But it was the third surprise he found that made his face split into a grin. Uncovering the ceramic container, the immediate smell of spices, rich juices, and wafting steam could not be mistaken. The giant was an absolute fan of the prim man's cooking and couldn't resist snagging a few, or twenty, morsels to snack on. The delightful snap of grilled vegetables, the succulent meat rubbed in capsaicin, had Kore moaning.

It was so hard to stop, but not wanting to be rude he put the lid back on to be devoured in peace once he was out of sight.

The fourth though.... Threw him.

Each gift catering to a sense he still possessed, touch, scent, taste, and all could be shared. He TRY to share the snack. But the tiny bell?

"For Jari to wear?" His bat bound lover was a riot of chimes and tinkles even at his quietest moments, a living wind chime of music. Kore held up the bell and shook it, it's soft voice a pleasing song, ment to be enjoyed without being invasive and annoying by over use.

"I see... But..." He set the basket down before taking Tier's hand in his his claws.

"I have one lover who is known for his bells and baubles. No chance for him to sneak up on me. But perhaps this might be better suited for the other, considerably more quiet one?"

He took his time looping the bracelet around and tucking it carefully under stiff cuffs so not to get in his way.

"There. Now you have your own music I can associate with you." He smiled broadly, so proud of his idea before he pulled the smaller man i to a hug.

"Thank you Aurora. It means a lot to me for you to put so much thought into something for me. I'm truly touched."

For Korellan

After much thought, a fair bit of sweating over details, and heaps of uncertainty all the same, Tiernen had arrived at what he felt- hoped- would be an adequate gift. And while he’d nervously given the massive Illidari his gift in person, that did not stop him from ensuring it came with a hand-written card attached. It was only proper.

For Korellan, on your birthday.  I chose these things because I thought you might enjoy each of them in full, without the need for second guesses or imagining. While I’m constantly amazed at everything you and Jari are, and the things you can do, I know I take for granted the things I can do without a care. My hope is that you will enjoy your birthday, and these little items, just like that. You are, undeniably, whole just as you are.  (And if I do forget and take for granted even the tiniest smile I get for this, please forgive me.)

Warmly,

Tiernen

Included in the… well, what proved to be a small assortment of packages, were: one very soft, and very large blanket for Korellan to bask in its feel; a lovely vial of massage oil, bearing an enticing, masculine blend of vetiver and spruce, with notes of tangerine; one rather elaborate platter of juicy, grilled meats as well as veggies; and finally, one dainty, silver bracelet with a single, silver bell- for Jari to wear, and for Korellan to enjoy. 

Your Muse’s Backstory

1. Where were they born? What is the story behind their birth, if any?

2. Has their living situation changed from when they were born?

3. What occupations did their parents have when they were born? Did this job influence your muse in any form?

4. Did they have any childhood enemies? Any friends? Enemies that became friends?

5. What sort of religion was practiced in their home? Did religion play a role in their upbringing?

6. How many siblings did they have? What was their relationship like? Were they an only child who wished for siblings?

7. What is their fondest memory? Their worst?

8. If they could name the worst moment of their life, what would it be? Did this change them as a person or change how they perceived the world, themselves, and others?

9. If they were to make a timeline with their life events, which ones would they list? Which would they leave out? 10. What was the hardest lesson they had to learn as they got older?

11. What occupation did your character want to have growing up? Is this the same as what they wish to be, or are in, now?

12. Did they face any kind of bullying or abuse growing up?

13. Are there any moments of their past they keep secret?

14. Did they live near extended family in the past? How did this shape their environment? Are any of their relatives near their age? What are their feelings towards extended family in general?

15. Would they rather go back and relive their childhood? Why or why not?

Beautiful Illustrations By Tom Booth Telling The Story Of A Woodworker Grieving The Love Of His Life

Jason Mamoa

Dennis McNett carving up some new woodcarvings for an upcoming show January 9th at Artists Republic with Kati Williams