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[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The two huddled close in the cave, too close. Under her mask, Ling feels herself heat up. Helpful during the cold storm, but none of that was going through her mind right now.*\n\n*All she could think about was Machi right next to her. The okamimi wagging her tail, her ears twitching, Ling instinctively began to fluff both of them.*\n\n\"Huh? Oh, y-yeah, I'm good. We should huddle to stay warmer.\"\n\n*WHAT THE FUCK ARE YOU DOING???!!!*\n\n*The macen internally screams as she makes her move, moving closer to Machi, increasing the contact between the two. She was so warm, her fluffiness only amplifying it.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi began to let off yips and happy barks as her ears and tails were fluffed. She leaned into Ling's touch, and she relaxed more, as she felt happier with Ling fluffing.*\n\n\"Yeah. Huddle for warmth.\"\n\n*Machi said, bowing her head a little. She was glad she had her mask to hide her reddened face as it is, she's entirely embarrassed as it is.*\n\n\"A very good idea... And hopefully we'll be comfortable enough for the night.\"\n\n*She said, thinking over what she said, knowing that they likely would, and questioned why she had hoped for it.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*As the two shared their warmth, the constant patter of the rain eventually mellowed out into almost a soothing trance. Ling's eyes gradually closed, her hand behind Machi's head, formerly rubbing her ears.*\n\n```Morning```\n\n*As Ling awakened, her position wasn't exactly the most comfortable. Resting directly on the hard stone floor, and her arm was asleep, supporting Machi's head and neck with it. She didn't want to move it though; the sleeping Okamimi was adorable.*\n\n*\"Don't be a creep, Ling.\"*\n\n*But the Air Macen couldn't resist. Gently, she rubs Machi's ears, caressing the soft, silky fur.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*Machi relaxed, as Ling drifted to sleep, and soon the Okamimi would drift off to sleep. She would relax as sleep came to her, ultimately.*\n\n*When morning came, she stirred a little, as she felt her ears would be caressed. She slowly opened her eyes. She yipped happily, and let off a soft, tired bark as she was waking up.*\n\n\"Mm... H-huh?\"\n\n*She yawned, looking around, and smiled as she spotted Ling.*\n\n\"Good morning...\"\n\n*She yawned again, her tails wagging, as she leaned up to stretch herself awake.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The macen continued to stroke Machi's fur, almost like one would with a pet. As Machi yawned and stretched awake, Ling's hand travels down to Machi's stomach, slowly rubbing it.*\n\n\"Good morning. How are you feeling? Hungry?\"\n\n*Ling shakes her arm off to try to get it back awake, then rummages through her backpack to see what they have to eat.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi Warrior woman would shake her leg, as her belly began to be rubbed. She yipped happily, as her tails wagged happily. She slowly, sat up, stretching away the last vestiges of sleep.*\n\n\"Good morning, again. Uh, I could eat.\"\n\n*She said, and moved her hands to massage Ling's arm that was asleep given Machi had used it as a pillow during the night. She tilted her head, and after a moment decided to help the Macen look for food.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Ok, let me see what we have.\"\n\n*There wasn't much food left in the backpack. A small sack of rice, dried sausage, some more dried meat, a single egg, and some dried vegetables; consisting of bell peppers, onions, green onions, and chopped ginger. A little inspiration from the centaur she had met earlier, Circe.*\n\n\"We don't have much. I think we can make some rice, put the rest on that? We're running out of food though.\"\n\n*The woman inhales sharply as she feels the wolf massage her arm. Machi's hands... What? Why was she thinking about being touched by Machi? It wasn't that big of a deal.*\n\n\"I'll go get some water to cook the rice. Can you prepare a fire?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi nodded as she heard Ling speak, she took in a soft breath, as she was asked about preparing a fire.*\n\n\"A fire should be no real trouble for me to make.\"\n\n*She said, nodding. She took in a breath, and began looking for roots, or grasses she could use for kindling for a fire. She began gathering the items to set up the fire to begin cooking.*\n\n\"All in all that should be good, and hopefully there won't be too much travelling before we arrive in a town to resupply...\"\n\n*Machi sighed softly, and tilted her head. She would begin to work on lighting the fire as it is.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling gets up, grabbing a small, empty flask, heading out of the cave to begin the search from some water. A small puddle, preferably a clean one.*\n\n*After what seems like quite some time, Machi can hear fast footsteps heading her way. Her macen companion enters the cave, completely soaked, streaks of mud covering her hair and clothes.*\n\n\"I... Found some. Don't worry, I got it from a waterfall.\"\n\n*Ling grabs a pot, filling it with the crystal clear water, then putting the uncooked rice in.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She would watch Ling go, with a small nod. She tilted her head faintly, and just focused on getting the fire going, and resupplying it with the odd root or kindling she could gather.*\n\n*She would just await, keeping the fire alive, as she heard Ling return, and she looked over her, noticing her now soaked, and covered in mud.*\n\n\"You okay?\"\n\n*She asked, a little worried overall. She would tilt her head, as she got comfortable to help with the cooking by keeping the fire going, but not too hot to burn through the supply of kindling and rotos.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Wait-Machi, I didn't mean it that way-\"\n\n*The two simply paused, Machi holding out her flame, and Ling slowly getting colder despite the fire. The temperature was simply too cold; the cave didn't provide enough shelter to prevent hypothermia.*\n\n\"I-I'm sorry, I need to take it off, it's so cold... Is there a blanket?\"\n\n*Ling's hands travel towards her waist, though stop.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi listened to her speak, and she shook her head, coming out of her embarrassed, and stuttering state. She thought about the items in her pack, and fished around in it.*\n\n\"I think I have one in here, or two. One moment...\"\n\n*She continued to fish around in her pack with one hand, and tried to heat up the magical flame, carefully with her other hand. After a minute, the Okamimi pulls out a large blanket, that **Should** Be large enough to wrap oneself around for warmth.*\n\n\"Uh, here.\"\n\n*She said, handing over the blanket. It's made of wool.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Thank you... This is the second time you've saved me.\"\n\n*It was time to push her dignity and her pride to the side for the sake of her friend and her life. Machi had indeed saved her twice; both times due to her own carelessness.*\n\n*Ling wraps the blanket around herself, careful not to touch it with her wet clothing. Machi can hear the slopping sounds of wet silk hitting the floor, and can see red fly across the cave as Ling tosses them to dry. Ling herself is as red as her robes, now fully nude under the blanket.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi would look away as Ling wrapped up under the blanket, just in case. She hummed a soft tune, as her tails wagged a little, and her ears twitched away. She turned back towards Ling when she heard the wet slopping sounds.*\n\n\"N-no, problem...\"\n\n*She blinked, as she realized the fact her companion's dignity was only being spared, thanks to said blanket, and her cheeks were reddened greatly.*\n\n\"Just, uh... Stay warm.\"\n\n*She said, with a soft smile, trying to not think about the above mentioned fact of her companion.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"We're not lost Machi, we're just... Slightly off course. I think.\"\n\n*Contrary to what the Macen just said, the two were very, very lost. In her hands, Ling held a map of the current world, or as much as one at the time had. Only problem was that she was holding it upside down. Being illiterate, she didn't know what the weird black scribbles on the map meant, nor their proper orientation. Ling's eyebrows furrow as she tries her best to figure out where the pair are, but she has no clue besides the base of a mountain. And there were many, many mountains.*\n\n\".....Ok, we're lost. Any luck with it, Machi?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi nodded a little as she heard Ling, believing her when she assumed they were off course and she looked at the map, scratching her chin. She mentally curses herself for not learning to read or write as it was. She stared at the map, turning it upsidedown, (or in this case rightside up,) and sideways, scratching her head, as she furrowed her eyebrows, and growled softly.*\n\n\"Damnable piece of paper... I got nothing... Well, aside of the obvious that we're on a mountain but... There's *So* Many mountains...\"\n\n*She sighed, and sat down, to think, only growing a little more irritated over their poor luck and situation.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*As Machi sat down to think, Ling tried getting a better view, climbing up on a tall rock. There's not much around them besides stone, some lichen, and small shrubs. The mountain is barren, completely devoid of life.*\n\n\"Maybe if we head down the mountain, we can find something? Going up just makes it colder, and while I do need to train in the chilling winds, it's too dangerous to practice up there.\"\n\n*Ling eventually climbs back down the rock and walks back over to Machi, laying down on a smoother stone.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi would huff a little, as she held her chin, thinking of how to solve their problem, and she ran a hand through her hair, tapping her chin. She listened to Ling's idea, and she tilted her head to think it over. She nodded slowly, shifting a little.*\n\n\"Well... Maybe going back down isn't such a bad idea... Not like there's anything up here telling us where we are...\"\n\n*She sighed and kicked a pebble, watching it skip across the ground, before eventually stopping. She glanced towards Ling, thinking about their adventures thusfar, with a soft smile... Even if they were both horribly lost thanks to neither being able to read.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Yeah, we'll head down I guess. Maybe set up camp there?\"\n\n*As Machi turns to face Ling, the Macen is barely able to keep herself from gawking. The sunlight created a perfect angle to where Machi's figure was perfectly outlined by the golden rays, that smile... To her eyes, Machi was prettier than any painting could be.*\n\n*Feeling blood rush to her face, Ling stands up, looking for a path down the mountain. Carefully, she tests the stones with her foot, making sure none of them are loose.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi stretched a little, as she heard Ling's question, and she thought it over. She began to stand up, and tapped her chin nodding. Down seemed good, the more she thought it over in her mind.*\n\n\"Yeah, can't be much worse than camping up here... Are... You alright, Ling?\"\n\n*She said, noting her companion's blush, and she started to approach her, concernedly. She shifted a little, as she reached into her pack, blinking as she felt the familiar feel of her paintbrush, and she smiled a little at the thought of painting Ling's portrait at a later date.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling internally panics as Machi questions about her current state. 'Think of something, quick!'*\n\n\"It's, uh, just the sun. Its brighter up here in the mountains, and it was quite... Misty where I grew up.\"\n\n*Ling slowly begins descending the mountain, but then pauses and turns back to Machi, extending a hand to her. An incredibly bold move from her, considering she was trying to hide her feelings at the moment.*\n\n\"Want to link hands? It'll help us be more stable as we go down.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*Machi nodded a she heard Ling's answer about what was wrong, and she smiled softly. She nodded, as she believed her companion, and she tilted her head as her hand was offered.*\n\n\"Oh, well I guess that makes sense...\"\n\n*She thought over Ling's offer, it seemed sound to her, and she nodded a final time. She took her companion's hand in her own.*\n\n\"That's a good idea, actually.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"You had pork often? How wealthy was your family?\"\n\n*Ling sits up, bringing out metal bowls and chopsticks. Ceramic would be nice, but they would break too easily.*\n\n\"You know one thing I don't understand? Why some people cut up their food using a small trident and knife. It's incredibly barbaric.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She thought over the question, scratching her chin a little, as she got ready to pour their food into the bowls Ling had brought out.*\n\n\"Well... I don't know really, I know my father was working a lot as a mercenary for hire, and my mother... Well, she was something of a odd-job worker, doing whatever job was available.\"\n\n*She sighed softly, thinking of the home life she had so carelessly abandoned in her grief. She felt homesick, and her wolf ears drooped a little.*\n\n\"I think, they just made sure we had whatever we liked to eat maybe, cutting costs elsewhere. Money just... Never seemed much of an issue, but I never wanted much other than to learn Sword-craft. And it is a bit strange that some people do cut up their food, and eat it like that.\"\n\n*She agreed, with a nod.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Seeing Machi's ears drop, Ling instantly reached behind her companion's head, scratching the Okamimi's ears. She wondered what made her ears flatten like that; was it about her family? Best to change the topic then; Ling didn't want Machi to feel whatever she was feeling right now.*\n\n\"Swordcraft? As in being a swordsmith? I think you ended up being a cook; the food smells great!\"\n\n*Smiling, Ling holds out the two bowls, eager for the delicious noodle soup.*\n\n\"I guess you're a true artisan. Swordcraft, cooking, painting, and-wait, is swordcraft swordsmanship? Or the crafting of swords?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi yipped a little when her ears were scratched, and she closed her eyes. She smiled a little, as her thoughts returned from homesickness.*\n\n\"I don't think I have the patience for forging, though I could handle the heat of forges.\"\n\n*She nodded a little, with a small shrug, agreeing. She was an artisan in a way. And then Ling's questioning of what she meant about Swordcraft, and she laughed a little.*\n\n\"Well, I mean swordsmanship yeah. It just sounds funny to call it that, I guess. And yeah, I guess in a way, I am a true artisan, though I wish I had a few more good skills.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She nodded slowly. She gripped the blade with both hands, and she stood readying herself. She took in a deep breath, preparing herself, and she nodded a final time. She shifted a little, as she spoke to confirm the question of if she was ready.*\n\n\"Ready.\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling takes in a deep breath, then exhaling before raising both swords. Slowly, she advances forward, then lunges with a left to right diagonal with her left sword, keeping her right sword up for defense.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi would release her breath as she moved her blade to block the incoming attack. She held onto the blade tightly, as she thought of her direct disadvantage, in that she only had one weapon, and removed one hand from her blade, to let her fingernails grow to form a claw on her left-hand.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Claws? That was odd. Fighting against two swords, Ling thought Machi would want the strength behind a two handed weapon. Though, she was most likely strong enough to parry her attacks effectively. Instead, she had went for offensive claws, with almost no defensive capabilities. Short range as well.*\n\n*Ling raised her right blade in a diagonal right to left rising strike at Machi's sword arm, twisting her body so her left sword was now further back.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She tensed a little as she saw Ling swing towards her sword arm, and she instinctively raised her her clawed hand to meet it. She was confident in her natural claws to handle a wooden sword's strike coming towards her.*\n\n*She smirked a little, feeling her years of training with a sword coming back to her, as she moved to swing her sword in a diagonal slash towards Ling. It felt good to have a sparring partner... She just hope she didn't forget it was a spar, and accidentally hurt her companion.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Little defense was still defense as Machi blocks the sword blow using her claws. Interesting. Had she gone a little higher she might have accidentally hit her hand.*\n\n*Ling raises her left sword to let the blow slide off to the right using the strong of her blade, and thrusts her right sword at Machi after circling the tip away from the claws.*\n\n*The swordswoman smiles, feeling the thrill of fighting once more, even if it was only light sparring. With someone as skilled as Machi, it would be perfect to shake the rust off, especially with someone she loved.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi nodded faintly, and she shifted to move her sword-arm to meet the thrust. She let her claw hand return to her side, as she looked for an opening, her eyes narrowing as she stepped back, holding onto her blade tightly.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi nodded faintly. She tensed a little, as she stepped back. She moved to raise her claw hand and sword arm to block, wincing a little, as she felt the old, yet familiar sensation of being struck. She cursed a little.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Through the wood, Ling felt the practice swords strike twice; a cut to the shoulder and a stab in the ribs. A good strike, though...*\n\n\"Are you ok?\"\n\n*Ling then would toss one sword to the side, grabbing it with both hands. Dual wielding was an unfair advantage, especially with her experience.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi stood there for a moment, moments flashing before her eyes as she remembered the years of learning combat. She stiffened a little and shook her head as she reminded herself she was practicing, and the past should remain buried.*\n\n\"I... Yeah, just, wasn't expecting that.\"\n\n*She said, as she focused on letting her claws go back into her fingernails, and she gripped her blade with both hands once more.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Ok. You need to be a little more offensive. You threw one attack; I did maybe 5. But you did a good job blocking.\"\n\n*Ling raises her sword high, then performs a simple downward slash.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "\"Right. Right. I got it.\"\n\n*Machi said and nodding, and took in a deep breath as she heard Ling's advice, and shifted herself back into place. She held her blade tightly, and moved to block the slash, and then swing her blade in a horizontal slash.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling's blade moves quickly as she holds the blade vertically to block the slash, but not as one might normally do it. The handle is at the top, held by her right hand, and her left hand is supporting near the cutting portion of the blade, creating a frame to block Machi's attack. Ling then steps back, holding the sword in one hand above her head, with her other hand extended out.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She smiled a little, impressed with how Ling blocked, and she shifted a little in her footing. She then watched as Machi raised the blade above her head, and went for a diagonal cut upwards, thinking she had an opprotunity.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Quickly, Ling leans back as much as she can, moving into a low stance and bringing her sword back to try and avoid Machi's strike, springing back for a one handed thrust, making sure to turn her shoulder to get its full extension. Ling picks up her left leg while doing so to show off, then moves back once more.*" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Picks up right leg" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi would side-step out of the way of the thrust, and then charged going for a diagonal slash to Ling's shoulder, feeling confidence grow once again.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Stepping to the left, Ling performs a one handed hanging parry, letting Machi's blade slide off her own to the right, then turning it into a left to right diagonal cut.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*Machi's brow furrowed as Ling parried her slash, and she gripped her blade tightly, as she moved to slash horizontally at Ling's side. She decided to make a gambit in attacking, to see how her sparring partner would react, while in the midst of her own attack.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The slash stops mid-air, positioned right at the okamimi's neck, making sure not to hit. While Ling is vulnerable to Machi's horizontal slash, it seems that she's struck first, if only barely.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*Machi blinked, and stared at the training blade pointed at her neck, and stopped her swing, moments earlier than she would have. She nodded, and moved to retract the training blade, bringing it back to her side.*\n\n\"Well played. It seems you were faster than I was expecting.\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling retracts the blade, sliding it into a sash as if she were sheathing a sword, smiling towards her companion.*\n\n\"Had it not been for my speed, it would have been even. That cut would have been fatal.\"\n\n*The swordswoman walks up to her partner, giving her a kiss.*\n\n\"You did well. If it was anyone else, you would have beat them easily.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi noed, as she set her training blade to the side, and she shifted a little, as she smiled in return. She smirked a little, as a laugh escaped her.*\n\n\"Speed is certainly useful, but I wasn't fighting at my strongest. Sometimes... When I wield a weapon, I just... Feel like I can hit harder, its weird.\"\n\n*She said, thinking, and blushed a little as she was kissed.*\n\n\"I could've done better, though. I should always strive to improve after all.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "Also who's your char now?" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "*Concord hovered just above the ground, flying through the desert and kicking up sand in its wake. Thin, pitch black wings sprouted from its back, and yet did not seem to be flapping to keep it off the ground. Rather, it seemed as if it was just floating. Zareth do be like that sometimes.*" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "*The wind howls and whistles through your wings In the long rollings steppes of the hombaxian dessert as you brisk by dunes age platue passing wild life cactuses, dead bodies... Wait what*?" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "*Concord paused. It stretched out its hand, and after a moment a large, fairly long mace with a large, rounded head appeared in its right hand. It looked around warily.*" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "*The non quite corpse person on the ground let out a single cough before drooling out into the sand whispering somthing not quite discernable*" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "*Its eyes widen, and it drops to the ground. It props the body up while searching for some water in its pack.*\n\n\"Hello? Can you hear me?\"\n\n*Despite its panicked motions, its voice is flat and calm.*" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "*You're responded by a rough sneeze as the collapsed andi is too exhausted as of right now to respond, however his eyes dart off to a small stone tablet carved with somthing just a few inches from his hand*" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "*Concord attempts to give the man some water, splashing it on his lips.*\n\n\"What's this? Do you want the stone?\"" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "*He proceeds to lunge up at your water skin with surprising hidden strength practically sucking it down as he drinks before rolling onto his back and handing it over again empty and clearing his throat*\n\n\" T-thank you, and... Is this the part where you take my soul\"?" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "*It chuckles lightly.*\n\"I am no angel of death, friend. No more than any other. I am merely a humble traveler, and I happened to come across you. Now shush. Drink.\"" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "*Andi proceeds to laugh in turn finishing off the water skin and slowly sitting upward after a long while*\n\" Ok sooo I'm still alive... Ok noted ughh\"\n*His eyes go wide in shock before gritting his teeth*\n\" Did you see an eagle pass by mame\"?" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "\"I've seen no such thing for quite some time.\"" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "*A golden white light flares up between the gaps of his exposed gills as he work into a dry rage before stopping\"Disgusting bird stole my water and left me to die\"...\n\n\" Heh and now I think I may have endangered you as well sadly\"" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "\"We will be fine. We are not far off from civilization.\"" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "\" Yeah I am aware just not sure how much energy I have might just hinder you on the way. He stumbles to his unimprssive full height .\n\n\" But names first I guess I'm am Andikan\"" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "\"Hush now. Do not speak of such things. Regardless of your capabilities, I will not leave you. I am Concord.\"\n\n*It allows its summoned weapon to disappear.*\n\"We should depart soon.\"" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "\" He he thank the gods I was almost afraid you take my dramatic tone seriously\"\n*He proceeds to lean on you and huff*" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "*Concord supports his weight and begins to walk through the dunes.*\n\"Come on, now. We have a journey ahead of us.\"" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "*He follows layed upon you his legs nearly giving out a few times as you travel on through the desert expanse*\n\n\" All this to see my father's home land... Heh still quite beautiful I guess\"" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "\"Where might that be?\"" }, { "author": "tonyx3139", "message": "\" Just off the east coast of yiwa... So exactly the direction were heading in now\"\n*He face palms,\" I had to cross the desert, couldn't just swin the channel... Take the easy way around\"\n\n\" Pffft me and my ideas\"" }, { "author": "thehumbug", "message": "\"We all make mistakes, friend. Sometimes we make fatal ones.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The deserts of Dezabia. Hot, dry, sandy, and generally quite unpleasant. Quite vast as well, as one girl is soon to realize.*\n\n*Ling had been keen on wandering the world to learn the secrets of the wind. Dezabia's desert winds were hot and unrelenting, carrying a brutal heat behind them that would eventually wear down any opponent. Unfortunately, it was also wearing down her.*\n\n*Ling Kazami was dressed in her typical red armor, steel strips and scales bound tightly with leather. A fierce helm rested on her head, bearing golden crest resembling horns. Two sheathed swords were at her waist, their curvature facing downwards. Underneath was a red silk aketon. A lot easier to clean than white.*\n\n*Wearing that much soon proved to get the better of her though. In the distance, she could see the mountains, and the promise of a cool cave and possibly a pool of water. At this point, she needed it. Her energy was drained by the blazing sun, and she took off her helmet as she felt her throat become parched. Her steps became slower, as she finally reached a particularly rocky area, but her body gives out, and she collapses.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Wolf Okamimi would be wandering the deserts of Dezabia, having debated seeing her old homeland. However she ended up just... Wandering the desert. She had, after all, found herself missing it in her travels. Back, when she was a younger, and far less intelligent Oriate.*\n\n*She was more fortunate than the other traveler in the area, even in her heavy, and metallic armor. Her silks underneath also helped a little, but she still hoped to find some sort of shade soon.*\n\n*She paused as she noticed some footsteps ahead of her and she hesitated. She looked back at her own, to ensure she wasn't going in circles. Upon realizing they weren't her own footsteps, she quickened her pace.*\n\n*That was how she spotted the figure collapsed on the sand, and she hurriedly looked her pack, for anything to help the likely unconscious figure. She managed to find her water skin, and shook the unconscious similarly-armored figure.*\n\n\"Hey, you alright?\"\n\n*She asked, pressing the water skin against the person's lips. It wasn't full, but she hoped it'd be enough for the person to regain some of their energy of course.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Her eyes closed as she felt exhaustion kick in. Just a little break... Assuming she ever gets up.*\n\n*Soon though, she would hear a voice speaking to her, and her eyes would open slightly. Her voice would be hoarse and weak due to a lack of water.*\n\n\"Wha-what are you? This can't be happening... Unless you're a spirit? A demon? Maybe a god?\"\n\n*Signs of a struggle to get up is evident in her shaking arm, but ultimately is too dehydrated. Her eyes darting around, after seeing no one else around, she reluctantly accepts the sip of water.*\n\n*'I could have found water up there myself, or in the morning dew. Assuming there was even moisture...'*\n\n*As much as Ling hated to admit it, she's just been saved.*\n\n\"Thank you, I guess.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She laughed at the woman's questioning of what and who she was. She grinned, and shook her head. She'd kneel down, to try and help them up. She also made sure to grab the woman's helmet too, of course.*\n\n\"I am just a wandering Okamimi. No god, or demon, or even a spirit. And its no problem. I'm Machi, Machi Oyama Hayashi. What brings you out into this inhospitable place?\"\n\n*She asked, and shifted to stand, trying to pull Ling up to her feet. She wasn't sure if she could on her own, but she wanted to get moving with her, incase the weather start getting worse.*\n\n\"A bit lucky I was wandering out here, isn't it? I'm glad I could help, if nothing else.\"\n\n*She said, with a smile, and looked at Ling, to see how she'd react. Machi hoped the poor woman wasn't going to try and shrug off her help entirely.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"An Okamimi? Of a wolf type? Would have thought more jackals would have been here...\"\n\n*Ling would accept the help slightly, but obviously tried to get up most of the way on her own, only letting Machi pull her arm.*\n\n\"I'm Ling. Ling Kazami.\"\n\n*Her speech was fast and brisk, as if she wanted to get it over with. She smiles back, albeit a dry one.*\n\n\"I could have gotten up myself... Thanks though. I'm here to train in the art of the wind. And there's quite a bit of wind here.\"\n\n*The wind would blow in the background, hot, dry, and dusty. Ling takes her helmet back from Machi and places it back on her head, though doesn't put on the mask, then removes it.*\n\n\"Damn hot... Yeah, I guess.\"\n\n*At the mention of help, Ling turns away and turns red. She's obviously embarrassed about being helped, especially since it's such a major event.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Oriate woman shrugged at the jackal comment, and she started to walk towards the mount, holding onto Ling, just incase.*\n\n\"A pleasure, miss Kazami. And yeah, I suppose there is a lot of wind here. Hopefully your training goes well.\"\n\n*Machi would look over the sand dunes, keeping an eye out for any growing sandstorms, or other foul weather. She knew the dangers such weather brought, and knew someone fatigued like Ling was, very likely wouldn't do well.*\n\n\"First time in a desert, I'm guessing? First time's always the hardest.\"\n\n*She said. The Okamimi's armor certainly didn't reveal her race, nor did it really reveal she was a woman, it was her voice that gave her away, and well the fact she didn't have the mask of her helmet on too.*\n\n\"I'll get you as far as I can into shade, and then I can go looking for water, and food if you want. The heat doesn't really get to me, like it does others. Really is a blessing in a way, y'know?\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Machi would be able to hear the Macen mutter under her breath.*\n\n\"Least it's not some egotistical man.\"\n\n*Clearing her throat, she would talk normally again.*\n\n\"First time here. Never thought it would be like this. Completely forgot to get more water. I'm an idiot...\"\n\n*She couldn't exactly see what Machi looked like, truly. She could see some of her face, but the rest of her was hidden away in armor. Just like herself at times...*\n\n\"That would be nice. I'm not exactly... Familiar, with the area. What kind of blessing is that?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She listened to the Macen mutter under her breath, and frowned a little. But she didn't press the subject. She had her own history with men. She'd nod faintly, listening to her.*\n\n\"Its alright. Its hard to tell when you'll need enough water, even for a skilled desert wanderer at times. And fortunately for you, you weren't suffering for too long, I think.\"\n\n*She glanced at Macen, realizing she couldn't see much of her, and decided to ask about it, but first she had Ling's question to answer.*\n\n\"Well, my father taught me to fight in both cold and hot climates growing up. He used to tell me how it was important to adapt to both the heat and cold. So you could say the blessing of a father who traveled a lot himself.\"\n\n*She took in a breath, thinking how she wished to word her question.*\n\n\"I notice you... Have a similar taste in armor, like me... Is that because uh, y'know... We women are...\"\n\n*She cleared her throat, and tried to sound masculine, like those haughty males that picked on her growing up.*\n\n\"'Too delicate for battle, should only stay at home, tending to the family, and children?' Or... Am I way off course?\"\n\n*She didn't wish to offend Ling, of course. Just, curious really.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Hm. Makes sense.\"\n\n*Ling would attempt to loosen her armor straps slightly, to let loose some of the hot air, then pause mid way as she heard Machi speak.*\n\n*Did she find someone just like her?*\n\n*Machi was right. Both had the same kind of sword, though Ling had two, the same kind of armor, both female, and both had history with men.*\n\n*And she looks in awe as Machi pretty much perfectly describes her life.*\n\n\"That's... Pretty much it. That's my life right there.\"\n\n*She looked in awe for a minute, then wrapped a hand around her chin. Just how similar _were_ they?*\n\n\"You have uh, special powers too?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She nodded, smiling as she realized she had found someone rather similar to herself. She was honestly surprised, to hear the Macen mention how similar they were.*\n\n\"That's... Quite a surprise, and well...\"\n\n*She looked at the Macen, nodding a little. She took in a breath, and with her free-hand began to focus her mana. A flame flickering from her hand for a moment, before she cancelled it.*\n\n\"Yeah, I am naturally attuned to fire. You must be good with... Wind, I'm guessing?\"\n\n*She found that thought rather interesting the more she thought on it.*\n\n\"That's so... Amazing. It must be some form of destiny for us to meet.\"\n\n*Machi would stop moving for a moment, helping Ling loosen up her armor, a little. She took the time to loosen her own a little, for comfort's sake.*\n\n```Not even gunna list Mana cost on a spell just used for a split second outside of a combat event.```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling would bend down to pick up a small rock. A sheet of air would form on her hand, and she tossed the rock into the air and strike it with her palm, sending it flying.*\n\n\"On the dot.\"\n\n*After loosening her armor, Ling decided that the best thing to do would to take the insulating thing off. This was _too_ hot.*\n\n\"So uh, you have a camp somewhere?\"\n\n*She would bundle up her lamellar and take off her aketon, revealing a red and gold set of clothing.*\n\n\"Destiny... More or less, I guess.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi watched Ling's skill with great interest. She would stop moving, and set her down.*\n\n\"Well, I have a tent, we could use.\"\n\n*She said, and started to reach into her pack to get the tent out.*\n\n\"It isn't much, but it should help cool you down, at least.\"\n\n*She said, quickly beginning to set it up. The tent isn't very large, but it would least fit them both and their armor.*\n\n\"If you need anything, uh let me know, I might be able to find water or something to eat.\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Good. Have to get out of this sun...\"\n\n\"Is there any more water to drink? And uh, maybe some food?\"\n\n*The twin swords would be laid on the ground as Ling goes to help Machi set up the tent, though she doesn't have much clue how to set one up.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She nodded, and would offer her water skin. She smiled when Ling tried to help, and she checked her pack for anything to eat.*\n\n\"I have a bit of food. I might have to scavenge later, I'm pretty sure I saw a few cacti earlier. But here.\"\n\n*She said, and offered some salted meat she had wrapped up in her pack. Once the tent was fully standing, she went inside to start removing her armor to get more comfortable.*\n\n\"Maybe one of these days I'll try to learn one of those spells that summons people. Would really allow me to carry more.\"\n\n*She mused, thinking.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling would end up draining nearly half of the waterskin. It seems like she was far thirstier than she would have liked to admit.*\n\n\"I haven't tried cacti before...\"\n\n*She would take a piece of the salted meat, and a pleasantly surprised expression took over her face.*\n\n\"Maybe it would. I personally prefer carrying everything on my own.\"\n\n*She would crawl inside the tent, setting down her armor bundle and unclipping her two swords, setting them down neatly*\n\n\"So, Machi. What's your story?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She nodded, listening. She took a piece of the salted mat she offered, and ate it. She took a moment, before entering the tent, and remove her armor. Now free of their metallic prison her ears and twin-tails twitched to become comfortable again.* \n\n\"Well... I was born in Utopla, about... Uh...\"\n\n*She took a moment, to think. She was having memories, coming back from the past.*\n\n\"About a hundred and twenty years ago, to two loving and caring parents. My mother was a farmer, and my father was a mercenary. I wasn't too interested in farming, but my mother taught me anyways.\"\n\n*She smiled, for a moment.*\n\n\"But, obviously you can tell which parent I took after more. Whenever my father was lacking work, I begged him to teach me. For twenty years, I lived like that. Helping mother with the harvest, and my father taught me to fight...\"\n\n*She sighed, and looked at her blade. She unsheathed it, and guiltily, she looked at the blade that has long-since seen better days.*\n\n\"When I was eighteen my father was killed, on a job. And I... Well, I fled my home and grieving mother. I regret not telling her good-bye, for in my travels back home, I never did find her again... And he hadn't taught me how to properly take care of his blade.\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*As Machi took off her helmet, her ears would pop out, and like with a dog, Ling had a strange urge to stroke them. She wasn't sure exactly why though.*\n\n\"120??!! You're that old?\"\n\n*Ling remembered her own parents. Machi was lucky to have someone to support her. Her own parents had discouraged her from taking after any of the swordsmen.*\n\n\"Man's work only, as they say.\"\n\n*As Machi began to talk about her being separated from her family, her hand would reach out and try to stroke the girl's hair, as one would pet a dog or wolf to try and comfort her. Ling never felt the pain of losing a loved one. She didn't even feel connected to her parents.*\n\n\"I'm sorry for what happened.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi smiled, and let off a little laugh, when Ling commented on her age. She nodded faintly, at her next words.*\n\n\"Indeed, I'm a 120 years young. My mother always told me she would've rather I spent my life a farmer, and eventually raised my own pups but... While I *Like* To farm, I like adventuring. And thank you.\"\n\n*She let Ling pet her, moving into the Macen's touch, and closed her eyes. Her tails began to wag too.*\n\n\"What about you, what's your family story, Ling?\"\n\n*Machi asked, curiously.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Machi seemed to enjoy being stroked, so Ling would continue, particularly behind the ears.*\n\n\"Mine... Well, sort of similar. I'm Irunian. I was an only child, a daughter of peasants. They didn't want me to do any outside work. They wanted me to become a housemaid.\"\n\n\"As if that would ever happened. During my free time, I spied on the local swordsmen training. Eventually, the teacher, a good friend of my father's, found me out. Instead of reporting me to him though, he agreed to train me.\"\n\n\"As it turns out, I was meant for the blade. I got so good that eventually I was able to wield these.\"\n\n*She would show Machi the twin katanas, swords that were normally meant to be used with two hands.*\n\n\"But my parents still wanted me to serve. They brought me to a noble's house, saying that I would work there. I couldn't accept that. So I ran, along with this.\"\n\n*Ling would take out a scroll from her sleeve. It was ornate, and inside were writings and pictures of what appeared to be a mystical swordsmanship.*\n\n\"This is the Wind Blade style. It's what I seek to master.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Oriate's legs began to shake when Ling stroked behind her ears. Her tails began to wag a little faster.*\n\n\"Well... Perhaps they sought the safest career for you.\"\n\n*She listened to Ling's story, quite interested.*\n\n\"That is quite fascinating. A little more interesting than my own story, admittedly. And those are quite beautiful blades.\"\n\n*She looked at the scroll, quite curiously.*\n\n\"I wish you luck in mastering it. It seems quite complex, and if you need a sparring partner, I wouldn't mind helping you train. I could use the practice too.\"\n\n*She'd smile, relaxed.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Do all oriates like being stroked behind the ears?\"\n\n*Ling would set down the two swords. As beautiful as they were, they were swords. Only an extension of the body.*\n\n\"A sword is a sword. An extension of the body. What matters though, is not the sword, but the user. It's the same with the body. It doesn't matter if you have the strongest body in the world, if you don't know how to fight with it. Of course, a stronger weapon enhances it. But we should all strive to master our technique, not search for the best weapon. That comes after.\"\n\n\"Practice? I hope you can keep up.\"\n\n*Ling would flash back a confident smile as Machi seemed to enjoy being stroked.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*Machi blushed a little in embarrassment upon being asked if Oriates liked being stroked behind the ears.*\n\n\"W-well uh, I *Do* Like it. But uh... Aside from family, I didn't really know any Oriates well enough to ask about it..\"\n\n*She listened, and nodded. She agreed with Ling's belief, on weapons.*\n\n\"That's... A very good point, I didn't think of it like that, but that is very true. A weapon is an extension of the body. Did you learn that from your teacher, or?\"\n\n*She asked, quite interested in learning more.*\n\n\"I hope I can. I imagine you're rather quick with those blades of yours.\"\n\n*She said, with a small laugh, trying to pretend she hadn't blushed moments before.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"I did. Great guy. Not one of those old guys.\"\n\n*Seeing Machi's tail wag, she stopped stroking her ears and began to stroke the fluffy tail instead, making slow, flowing movements.*\n\n\"Faster than you've ever seen. If we spar, I'll only use one blade.\"\n\n*Ling would smile at Machi's blushing. Oriates were adorable.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "\"Ah, that's quite lucky, as I understand.\"\n\n*The Oriate smiled, and scooted a little closer, letting Ling stroke her fluffy tail. She was a bit envious of the Macen's training, admittedly. She found it all, really impressive and interesting too.*\n\n\"I think that'd be the most fair way we could spar, and maybe someday I'll be good enough to face both blades.\"\n\n*She said, and her smile grew as she noticed Ling's smile, oblivious that it was because of her blush.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Perhaps. Fire's ferocity can sometimes overcome Wind's swiftness.\"\n\n*Soon, Ling found a way to stroke Machi's ears and tail at the same time. It was so warm and soft...*\n\n\"Maybe, maybe. I would certainly enjoy seeing how fire magic pairs with swordsmanship.\"\n\n\"On another note. Earlier you looked at your blade almost with remorse. Does it have special meaning?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "\"We shall see who knows their blade better, when we spar for sure.\"\n\n*She leaned into Ling a little more at the strokes. She sighed softly and happily.*\n\n\"I find it pairs well, personally.\"\n\n\"Well... This blade is older than me. It's my father's. After he died, I... Kept it with me. And well... I'm not exactly skilled at keeping it in good condition, he never taught me sword care before he passed.\"\n\n*Speaking of her father, made the Oriate tense a little, though she shook it off, after a moment.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"I see. I'll teach you. Once we have enough materials, that is, how to clean and sharpen it. Dont want to use water in the middle of a desert.\"\n\n*Ling would look outside, and her tone would turn pouty.*\n\n\"Is it *Still* This hot?\"\n\n*She would come back inside, taking another drink of water.*\n\n\"We should only leave at night, when it's cool. I made that mistake.\"\n\n*Ling would take another look at Machi's blade, admiring it.*\n\n\"It's certainly beautiful.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She nodded, thinking.*\n\n\"Yeah, I doubt desert water would be good... Yeah, once its cool we can get back to travelling. Should be careful though of over-exherting ourselves, even at night.\"\n\n*She blushed a little, at the compliment to her blade, and looked at the sand.*\n\n\"W-well thank you, I try my best, to take care not to damage it anymore than I have to.\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling would give a nod.*\n\n\"All blades can be repaired, polished. It's really the quality of the blade that affects the performance. Of course, you still want a clean blade.\"\n\n*Ling would stop stroking Machi, laying down on the ground or cot if there was one.*\n\n\"Well, if we make a nightly journey, we should probably rest in the day, no?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*The Okamimi would nod, thinking.*\n\n\"Yeah, that's true.\"\n\n*She frowned a little with Ling stopped stroking her ears and tails. She shifted a little, nodding. She was glad she had a spare cot for Ling, and stretched a little.*\n\n\"Yeah, we probably should. Its going to be a bit odd, resting in the day though I think.\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling would let out a small yaw, using her silk aketon as a sort of pillow.*\n\n\"Yeah. It's going to be weird. Just think of it as a really long nap.\"\n\n*Ling would close her eyes, waiting for night to fall.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "*She nodded, and laid down, letting off a yawn of her own. She started up at the the tent's roof.*\n\n\"Yeah, rest well.\"\n\n*She said, thinkin for a moment before closing her eyes.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Brothua", "message": "And here, we recount the story of two adventurers in the desert of Dezabia. \n\nIt starts in a small, unnamed town around fifteen miles south of the city of Sudri. Where the two would be stopped at the local marketplace. A caravan has stopped by, and many travellers are trying to secure their own seat to follow along the way north. The harbor in the city is underdeveloped, and most people make the arduous journey north to the city of Sudri for trade. The route is generally known to be safe. \n\nStill, desert bandits and raiders occasionally come by. \n\nThe caravan master sat in front of a marketplace, twiddling his thumb. He is a dark-skinned Macen, around forty years old, with plenty of grey in his hair already." }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling hated the desert. It was hot, dry, and full of sand. It got in her clothes, her hair, the scabbards of her swords when not containing her weapons. Too hot to put on her armor, making her feel vulnerable. Going north would be the best option. Training in the Dezabian winds was _not_ for her.*\n\n*Normally, the macen would have been fully decked out in her armor, not only for protection, but to hide her face and body. Maybe she could hide her face, but it wouldn't amount to much. Plus, the wraps seemed really, really hot. At least she had Machi by her side. The kitsune saved her from dying from dehydration, and for that, she was forever grateful, no matter how embarrassed she was.*\n\n\"Hey. I heard that this caravan's going north. Mind if we take a ride?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi woman had grown to remember why she didn't remain in the deserts for long. Getting lost had been a big pain, aside from the friend she met. She was glad they had found a village at last.\n\nLike the Macen she traveled with, Machi was without her armor, but she kept her blade sheathed on her hip. She wished that her armor was lighter, and that the desert wasn't as hot as it was. She would certainly be wearing her armor if it was. But for now, its being stored for travel. And she followed Ling.\n\n\"I'm sure your caravan could use some sword arms.\" The Okamimi." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "And so, the two dehydrated and demoralized warriors asked the caravan master to tag along. \n\nThe caravan master turned toward the two, eyeing them up and down - not with lust, but to judge them as warrior - though the two were certainly beautiful. \n\n\"You two can tag along, this journey should only take us two days, maybe three. I'll need you two to pay six silver for the food and lodging. You two are well-armed, so I'll cut you two a discount on this and only charge that amount.\" *He quipped, the Okamimi convincing him they were good help rather than a burden.*" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Seems like a good deal. Total?\"\n\n*Ling fishes out 6 silver coins, handing them to the caravan leader and hopping onto one of the caravans. Shifting her twin swords to allow her to properly sit, she extends a hand to the Okamimi.*\n\n*The caravan master didn't seem to judge her based on beauty. He didn't quite have that look in his eye, and for his age, it would make sense for an experienced caravan master. Good. Hopefully none of the other riders were going to bother her.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "\"Seems like a good deal, yeah.\"\n\nMachi said, going to pay as well. If it was just total, she wouldn't bother, and took Ling's hand, as she climbed up. She looked about, as she relaxed a little.\n\nMachi noted the man's looking, and nodded. She understood checking if others were capable, for someone in his position. She looked to her companion with a small smile as it was.\n\n\"Well, now we won't be lost in the desert.\" She joked, with a faint smile." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The caravan master quickly stood up and halted Ling. \n\n\"Yes, total of six silver. And please, don't get on that camel - we'll be walking on foot alongside them - swapping between riding the camel and walking - we don't have as many free animals as we have people.\" \n\nThe caravan master reminded, and took the silver coins, putting it in a secure pouch on his body. Then the caravan set out toward the desert for adventure...\n\nThe caravan stopped near a small river, and made camp on a small, old, abandoned temple, the horses would be tied to the posts underneath, and the camel would rest below a ridge to the west. All is good so far, and the sun is starting to drop in the sky, signalling a change from the unbearable hot day to an unbearable cold night. With the river and vegetation around, however, the weather is just slightly more bearable. \n\nThe group set up camp. Nothing wrong so far..." }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Whoops, ok.\"\n\n*Shame they couldn't ride the camel. Maybe have Machi's arms wrapped around her... Wait, what?*\n\n*It was good to stop by a nearby source of water. Ling took a long drink from a waterskin, then offering it to the Okamimi.*\n\n\"If we are lost, it'll be together. Wow, it's getting chilly already. It's harsh, but it's amazing too. How far the desert stretches, just an endless ocean of sand, wind blowing up and down the dunes.\"\n\n*Her eyes scan the nearby area, for no reason other than looking.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "\"My apologies.\"\n\nMachi had been a bit excited to ride the camel, and been a bit disappointed when that wasn't an option. She stretched a little, as shr took the waterskin, and took a healthy drink with a soft sigh.\n\n\"That is true, we would be lost together.\" She greed. \"In a way, it is almost... Beautiful how the desert is harsh, and how it feels like it just keeps going.\"\n\nShe looked about the area, sitting down into the sands. She wanted to relax, but currently the Okamimi couldn't. They were guards on this job, and if she took anything seriously it was her career." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The caravan master idled in his tent, and nothing seems to be going on for now. \n\nTwo of the soldiers tagging along started a campfire - today's food was going to be a very simple affair - a mixture of naan, along with roasted meat over the fire. One of the soldier implored them to gather around the fire. Another gathered some blanket roll from the caravan, and set it out in a circle around the fire as seat." }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi would listen to the others of the camp.\n\nShe would look over the area, before she turned back towards the campsite. She smiled a little as she caught the scent of roasting meat. She could hear her stomach begin to growl.\n\nSo, the Okamimi got up slowly, and she joined the group by the fire." } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Oh, it's dinner.\"\n\n*Ling springs up at the smell of food, following Machi. Simple and delicious, just how she liked it. Though, she's not _too_ fond of bread. Rice was better. But food was food. She walks towards the campsite, her swords still by her side.*" }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "It is at this point, the sharpest eyed member of the party who happens to be looking southeast might notice something. \n\nA figure popped out over the top of the ridgeline to the southeast.\n\nIt had two horns - the silhouette clearly skylined. He seems to be dressed in lamellar armor, and held a long metal club in one hand, with a kite shield slung over his back. The figure stood around two point two meters tall. He rested his club against his leg, and then raised his hands to block out the sun, looking in the direction of the camp. \n\n```\nTurn 1\n```" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "After eating her part of the meal, Machi stretched a little lazily. She shook her head, taking a drink of her waterskin, waking herself up a bit more. Wandering the desert did sap one's energy.\n\nShe didn't realize however a figure was watching them. She took a moment to look over her katana, with a soft sigh. She sheathed the blade, patting it, and glanced about the area, thinking." }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The macen wouldn't engorge herself in food, despite being quite hungry. Not only was it uncouth, but she couldn't fight well if she had a full stomach, right?*\n\n*The sun was setting, and it cast beautiful pink and orange rays. Despite the desert, she was glad she could share it with a friend.*\n\n*She turns around to look at Machi, then the river, then the landscape. The colors just mixed so well together, the golden rays from the sun illuminating the shining sands.*\n\n*But there was something else in the distance. A figure, which looked like it had horns.*\n\n*Ling squints, trying to get a closer look.*\n\n\"Machi, you see that?\"" }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The figure stepped forward on the ridge, skylining his entire silhouette now. He pointed at the people a mere hundred meters away, and behind him, more shapes appeared. \n\nHe reached for something on his waist - his horn, if someone recognized, and then blew it. The sound of the war horn bellowed through the distance. \n\nThe caravan master panicked instantly,\"It's the local tribe! Damnit! I didn't expect this!\" He looked around at his goods, and his soldiers, while everyone removed themselves from the campfire, scrambling to take up their weapons and armor,\"We have to run for our l- Wait! No! Hey, can you two lady fight, can you two? Fight very well? Know magic!?\" \n\nThe master practically pleaded as the enemies gathered on the horizon. \n\n```\nThe group can see at least five figures to the ridge now. They all seems to be holding spear and shield.\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The macen just finishes a piece of the flatbread, still looking out towards the figure, when several more appeared. She didn't know exactly what they were, until she heard the horn blow and the caravan leader.*\n\n\"I can fight! Just let me get my armor...\"\n\n*Ling rushes to go grab her armor, now that it was cold out, Swiftly, she tries to throw on her lamellar cuirass, but there might not be enough time to get it all on.*\n\n\"Machi! Mind giving me a hand here?\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi glanced towards the noise of the horn blow, and her ears perked a little. She'd nod.\n\n\"Yeah. On my way.\"\n\nThe Wolf woman said, rushing over to help Ling into her armor. She glanced at her own, trying to think if she had enough time to slip on her own armor. She shook her head, focusing on helping Ling in the immediate moment. She glanced towards where the horn blow came from, concernedly." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "As the two got into the armor, more of these figures appeared. Following closely behind the four spearmen would be a group of large people - their races are unclear, because they are far away, and most of them wore helmets, though not any type of significant chest armor - mostly light gambeson. \n\nTwo archers appeared, holding longbow and arrow in their hand, with a spear on their back, then a group of other soldiers appeared, some of them holding spear and shield, other axes, and one of them a sword." }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Once Ling got her armor on, she was nearly unrecognizable, the only thing giving her away being her twin swords. The armor hid her body shape, the intimidating mask and helmet she wore hiding her face and hair, and she stood tall, well over most of the other caravaners. She draws both of her blades in a single swift motion, preparing herself for the encounter.*\n\n\"We'll be alright.\"\n\n*Shields. Ling hated shields. Fighting against them was annoying, as they covered so much. Fighting with them, while protective, was cumbersome and restricting. She preferred freedom of movement herself.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "Once the female Okamimi was geared up, she drew her katana. She looked at the blade that was older than her, with a sigh. It was still scratched up, and she worried about it being damaged. But she shook away her thoughts.\n\nLike the Macen she traveled with, her armor hid her body shape, her hair, and the fluffy tail and ears she had. While slightly uncomfortable like this, she didn't risk anything being chopped off.\n\nShe looked to Ling, with a nod. \"We can do this.\" She said, confidently, and slid on her armor's mask." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The group of shielded and armoured spearmen moved in a single, cohesive group to the north, while the rest started to form an impromptu battleline on the ridge. \n\nThe Oni in lamellar armour took the lift, and lowered a mask on his helmet - He seems like he would be impervious to most ranged attack, covered in a full suit of lamellar. \n\nThe armed merchants and mercenaries in the camp looks horribly disorganized - perhaps they'll listen to any order they receive. The caravan master is well armed himself, outfitted with a set of almain rivet armour. There were three archers among them, equipped with an open top helmet and light linen clothes. There were several armed merchants, mostly armed with just a sword and a shield. Plus. There was one mage among them - from what the two could recall, they know about healing magic and fire balls.\n\n\n```\nTurn 4\nThe camp is disorganized! Some of the defenders don't even have their armor on! \n\nThe baggage train are to the left, and valuables are inside the building. \n\nThe enemy gather in a battleline\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Get your armor on! We don't have time to loiter around!\"\n\n*The caravan seemed to consist of archers and swordsman. They had shields, maybe they could do something. There was also a mage, with healing and fireball magic.*\n\n\"Mage, do you have any other spells? Do we have any other equipment?\"\n\n*A shield wall would be possible, but Ling would far prefer spears instead. They would have to make do with what they had though.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi looked towards the approaching tribals. She shook her head a little, as she focused herself. She glanced about the camp, with a small sigh. She had had a feeling about how unprepared this group would be.\n\nShe looked over the field, more or less giving a quick look over, to gauge how many more tribals might be coming to fight. She didn't like the odds thusfar.\n\n\"Indeed! If there's fighting to be done, armor is a necessity.\"\n\nShe said, trying to think of possible actions to be taken. The Wolf woman never was really clever in the concepts of strategy. Action was more of her thing. But, she never really gave it a shot either." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "At Ling's command, the soldiers scrambled to grab their shields and armor - Now the odds was starting to look a bit even. The merchant scrambled to put on their imported almain rivet armor - which looked to be slightly lower quality models, imported from Salvainia. Typical sallet, chestplate and tassets, without any of the arms protection. There were some shields stored too, but it look like the merchant won't be ready yet. \n\nThe merchants gathered in front of the abandoned building, scrambling to put on their armor. The archer continued to stay on the ridge, readying to shoot. \n\nThe mage responded to Ling's question,\"Well! I know how to shoot out a spear and a dart." }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Alright. Good to know. Form a shield wall! Mage, I'm going to need you to keep firing along with the archers once in range. But if the bandits reach the shield wall, that's the target there.\"\n\n*Now the question was where Ling and Machi going to be. They could probably be in the frontlines before the shield wall, since neither possessed shields themselves and staying back... Wasn't exactly what they were hear for. Plus, Ling didn't like doing nothing. She hops down, putting herself in front or the organizing merchants.*\n\n\"By the way, that big guy there? He needs to be hit with a spear.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi would follow after Ling, with a faint nod. She trusted the Macen's plan so far. It was better than she could come up with at least.\n\nShe readied her katana once more, as she looked a the tribals. She thought of why the tribals might be attacking, but decided now wasn't *Exactly* A good time to ask either. They were looking mighty angry to her, but she hoped they might be dissuaded from combat.\n\n\"So... Uh, I'm guessing the plan is we attack them?\" The Okamimi asked, taking in a deep breath. She calmed herself, prepared for the coming battle." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The group of well armored and armed spearman broke off to the north. The battleline started to spread apart, with the spearman led by the armored oni in the middle, while two archers and axe-and-shieldman broke off to the left. However, they face a ridge that'll funnel them. \n\nThe archers on the ridge shot their arrows at the enemies, who were around **40 meters** Away. The mage shot a fireball at one of the spearman. All of the projectiles missed. \n\n```\nTurn 5\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Wait. The river. The bandits would take more time crossing that. Ling hops off the ridge and begins to run towards the ridge and river, near where the spearmen are, her swords pointed behind her.*\n\n\"Come on! Let's take the fight to them, before they can spread out through that ridge! Mage, when they reach that point, that will be a good place to fire.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi sighed a little, when all the shots missed. She noted the river, and nodded. She readied herself, and charged with Ling towards the ridge and river. Her blade ready to swing once she had the chance.\n\n\"Good idea! I like it.\"\n\nMachi called out, with a nod. She was honestly glad, the Macen was around, she doubted she would have figured out such a plan on her own as it was." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "And so, the two warriors jumped off the ledge - at the easternmost end where it was in fact safe to do so - The ridge being too tall otherwise to jump off. At its highest point, it seems to be somewhere between six to eight meters tall. \n\nThe spearman started to cross the river at its eastern end - It is a shallow creek, but the wet and muddy ground made it slow to cross, and only the first two had managed to start crossing at this point. \n\nThe left and middle wing of the enemies started to funnel into a single group - Although the passage was wide, it was not enough to accomodate their original formation. The archer and mage fired again, with the mage slinging a war dart, and archers shooting at the middle of their formation. \n\nOne arrow hit the lamellar Oni, to no effect, while another hit one of the archer in the arm, injuring him. The war dart disappeared mid air, as it was barely out of range. \n\n```\nTurn 7\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The macen continues to run, while observing the other ranged battle going on. It seems that an archer was hit in the arm. That would render his arm difficult to use, which was good.*\n\n*Other than that, she would continue to run towards the northern group.*\n\n\"YOU DON'T WANT TO FUCK WITH US!\"\n\n*Ling would attempt to intimidate them, yelling out in a far deeper voice than normal. Bandits wouldn't exactly be scared of a high pitched scream.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi followed after Ling with a nod. She noted the wounded archer, with a small smirk. Otherwise, she too kept running.\n\nWhen she heard Ling shout at them, she could feel an instinctive noise coming deep from her throat. It was something she never knew she ha it in her to do, and that was...\n\nThe Okamimi Samurai began to bark loudly, and warningly at the bandits. She even surprised herself, slowing for a second, before she began pushing herself once more." } ]

[ { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The northern group did not even flinch or react to the yell and bark, and instead continued crossing the river, doing it at a slow walking pace due to the muddy ground.\n\nThe two warriors pushed around a tree, with Machi slightly slowed due to the bark. A ridge lies ahead of them - one that would be unwise to jump over in front of enemies. \n\nMeanwhile, the other group of bandits broke up their formation, funneling between trees, rock and the ridge to cross the river. The injured oni continued on, while the archer let out another volley, aimed at the two archers and onis on the left flank. All of them miss. \n\nThe mage launch another war dart, but it bounces off the rock in front of the sword-equipped Oni. \n\n```\nTurn 8\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Seems like they aren't stopping. That meant that they had to fight. Actions spoke louder than words, after all.*\n\n*She moves east, trying to intercept the spearmen at the ridge.*\n\n\"I warned you!\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi was saddened that none of them wanted to break ranks. Though a part of her respected that. She looked over the splintering groups, and decided to heard to engage the eastern group with Ling. She figured if they mopped them up quickly enough they could then engage the Western group before they got too close.\n\n\"We gave them the chance.\"\n\nThe Okamimi said, shaking her head a little." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "As the two approached the group of spearman, they would notice all of thei face looked a bit expressionless. They started to form a rudimentary battleline in front of Ling and Machi, with the two spearman on the side slinging their shield behind their back, leaving two hands to use their spear. \n\nThe remaining bandits started to cross the river, and another ineffective volley fly at them.\n\n```\nTurn 9\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The warrior moves closer to the spearmen, but not enough to get into their reach. A spear could easily skewer her if she wasn't careful. Her left sword is extended outward in front of her, while her right sword is above her head. Perhaps aiming for the hands would be a good strategy.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi woman gripped her katana, taking in a deep breath. She followed Ling in getting closer. She readied her sword in a raised position, focusing on the fight ahead. She put all thoughts aside from battle to the side, for now. She looked over the spearmen, waiting for them to make a move, as a growl came up from her throat." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The two spearmen in the middle - with their shield still up, rotated to the upper left, facing the two while advancing very, very slowly. \n\nThe other two spearman - with two hands holding their spear, moved aside in an attempt to flank them if they charged. \n\nOn the other side, another of the Oni archer was shot in the torso, and received a mortal wound, with him retreating quickly across the river to the back line. The other archer also pulled back with him.\n\n```\nTurn 10\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Spears were called the king of weapons for a reason. They were easy to use, cheap to make, and ridiculously effective, and difficult to fight with a sword or shorter weapon.*\n\n*Ling gets closer and closer to the spearman, until she's almost in range where a thrust would be good. Her left sword raises up, into an almost horizontal blocking position, pushing the spear upward. Her right sword glows blue and white, swirling with wind. The blade is rapidly swung at nearly inhuman speeds, and the tip of the katana actually _extends_. The blow would be aimed towards the spear wielder's front hand, aiming to chop off his fingers or something similar. It would be too risky to go for a lethal cut, so disabling a hand would be best.*\n```Hurricane Blade cast, 5 mana spent, 2.5 regained, 67.5/70 mana remaining.```" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi woman would raise her off-hand, which began to glow bright red, she then fired a fireball at the left-middle spearman. She moved a little closer, incase they tried to surround Ling, readying her blade once more for the fight at hand.\n\n```Fireball Cast, 5 Mana spent, 3.5 regained, 128.5/130 Mana remaining.```" }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "Ling moved to the left of the spearman's formation. As Ling approached him, he made a defensive jab, only to be replied to with a parry. He did not see the next move - that of a horizontal air slash, which cut his forward hand clean off, making him let out a yelp of pain. \n\nHe dropped the spear and backed off, attempting to put his shield down. \n\nSeeing his comrade surrounded, the middle left spearman advanced toward Ling, making a one handed thrust with his spear to Ling's face, in an attempt to stop her from making a follow up on the leftmost spearman. Then, as he did that - he'd eat a fireball to his leg, setting his pants on fire and making him drop onto the ground. \n\n```\nOn the left side\n```\nThe other group of bandits turned their right toward the archer, and started sprinting and breaking formation, heading straight left. \n\n```\nTurn 11\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Just as expected. She almost couldn't feel the sharp blade slice the spearman's hand clean off, properly _disarming_ him.*\n\n*Soon, she saw the spear being thrusted at her face. Her left blade quickly moves to deflect the unstable strike, soon seeing that Machi's gotten it taken care of, his pants now on fire.*\n\n\"Pssh. Pathetic. Wielding the king of weapons, and you can't even give me a challenge.\"\n\n*She approaches the spearman who still has his shield up, going for the same stance as before, ready to deflect a thrust to the face.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi woman smirked a little, with a nod. She looked towards the right pair, getting herself prepared to fire another fireball. Seeing Ling go for the one with the shield raised, she aimed her fireball, and fired at the other one's face.\n\n\"Should've taken the chance to flee, when you could.\"\n\nShe said, getting a little confident, perhaps a little more than she should be in that moment.\n\n``` Fireball Cast, 5 Mana spent, 3.5 regained, 127/130 Mana remaining.```" }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "Ling managed to deflect the unstable strike easily, and then she approached the middle right spearman. The middle right spearman let out a shout, and then noticed Machi aiming at him. He raised his shield to block the fireball immediately. \n\nThe rightmost spearman, noticing Machi casting a spell, charged in immediately, thrusting the spear two handed into Machi's right leg, trying to cut or stab her. \n\nThe Onis continued running west. What are they doing? \n\n```\nTurn 12\n```" } ]

[ { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*There it was. Opportunity. As soon as the warrior raises his shield, Ling rushes in and slashed at his leg with her right sword, once again extending her reach as her blade glows blue. Her left sword would stay up to deflect any spear stabs.*\n\n*Then, she saw the other one attacking the Okamimi.*\n\n\"Machi!\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "Machi was unprepared to see the spearmen raise his shield to protect himself against the fireball. Her eyes widened when she saw the other charge in, and she moved her blade, and swung at the wood of the spear, hoping she'd cut deep enough to chop off the spear's tip." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The middle right spearman would take a slash to his leg, the unexpected range extension cleaving his lower leg in half. He dropped onto the ground haplessly. \n\nThe rightmost spearman's spear moved toward Machi, and the sword managed to deflect the spear slightly - making the spear's blade slashes Machi's leg with its sharpened edge, instead of stabbing it square-on. \n\nThe rightmost spearman back off and then turn around, trying to run and disengage to the south. \n\n```\nOn the other side\n```\nThe Oni archers are nowhere to be seen, while the remaining bandits disappear temporarily behind a ridge, outside of the archer and mage's sight\n```\nTurn 13\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Shit! Are you ok?\"\n\n*The macen ignores the running spearman, only paying attention to Machi. There's a cut on her leg, and it looks _bad_. She sheathes a single sword, preparing to catch Machi if she falls.*\n\n\"Come on, let's get to the mage. He has healing.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi whined in pain, as she got hit, and lost her balance. She moved her hands to her wound. She hissed in pain, trying to just stop the bleeding. The wound cut deep, as it is.\n\n\"Fuck!\" She'd wince. \"That hurts! Sounds... Like a good idea, Ling.\"\n\nShe agreed, with a nod." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The two moved toward the mage slowly. At this rate, maybe it would be better for them to call for the mage. \n\n\"Ah! It looks like you're injured!\" The mage said, before scrambling to run east, pass the group of merchants and archers. \n\nAt the same time, the caravan master yelled out. \n\n\"I think they're going for our camels!\" The master warned, and then gathered the armed merchant and archers to go west - down the hill so they can stop the bandits. \n\n```\nTurn 14\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Shit... Machi, can you handle yourself?\"\n\n*If she responded yes, Ling would nod, then turning to rush over to the west side as quickly as possible.*\n\n\"Stay safe!\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "\"I'll be fine, go!\"\n\nShe said, waving her hand, dismissively. She used her sword and its sheath to help her balance herself, as she stumbled towards the mage, cursing and whimpering softly from the injury.\n\nShe felt disappointed in herself, for getting wounded like she had. A part of her pride being humbled by being wounded, but she was i too much pain to really be reflecting on her mistakes." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The three wounded spearmen would disappear spontaneously, and the remaining one ran back west toward the rest of the group. \n\nLing would leave Machi behind, sprinting as quickly as possible west, covering almost ten meters in a single turn, since she is scrambling for it. \n\n```\nOn the other side\n```\nThe archers and armed merchants are still moving over to the side of the cliff. \n\nThe Lamellar Oni snapped his hand, and stopped in place, concentrating as a circle appear on the ground besides him. The remaining Onis rushed toward the camels and its goods. \n\n```\nTurn 15\n```\n\nThe mage continued scrambling toward Machi to heal her." }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Ling just, kept on running. Really not sure what else she can do.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "Machi of course just tried to make it to the mage. She winced with every stop, and eventually fell over. She just tried to crawl the rest of the way, doing her best to keep her wounded leg from the sands and any weight.\n\nBut, other than that, that's all she can do, really." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "```\nTwo turns later. \n```\nMachi arrived at the mage, with the mage panting as she casts **Touch of Restoration** On her, holding her by the nearest appendage - which happens to be her head. A green glow transfer from her hand to Machi's wounded feet. \n\nWith the other hand she grabbed Machi's shoulder, and cast the spell of **Numb** On her to numb her pain. \n\n```\nIn the West\n```\nLing arrived just in time to see a new scene - the merchants are heckling and panicking, shouting at the bandits but unwilling to engage at all. The archers were getting into position - until the Lamellar-equipped Oni let out a battle cry, leading the none-spearman to charge the group of merchants. \n\n\"Oh shit!\" **The Caravan Master** Shouted, before backing off with the archers and merchants in fear. \n\nThe other spearman are taking advantage of the distraction, heading toward the camels in an attempt to steal them with their goods. \n\n```\nTurn 17\n```" } ]

[ { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi watched what she could of the scene. She attempted to stand as the mage cast the spells to heal her injury, and numb the pain. She let the mage work, even though she wanted to rush out there, and fight with Ling, feeling rather guilty as it is." }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Come on, you have bows! Do something!\"\n\n*Ling continues to rush towards the area, yelling towards the Oni.*\n\n\"Hey!\"" }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The mage finished her healing, and then turned back,\"Right, you can handle yourself. I will go and fight now.\" She said, and then turned, running west in a hurry to join the fight. Machi's wounds would heal in the next turn. \n\n```\nWest\n```\nWith Ling rushing toward the Oni, the archers moved north and took up position on the ridge. They drew their bow and shot at the spearmen, forcing them to raise their spear instead of stealing the camels, stalling them. \n\nThe caravan master held his own halberd, pointing it forward defensively at the Oni as he moved in. \n\nThe lamellar Oni were followed by his warriors, who attempted to move south of the Oni to outflank Ling, but the ridge was way too narrow to let all of them pass. \n\n```\nTurn 18\nNot Shown: Lifeless spearman running west along the river\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The swordswoman rushes at the club wielding Oni, both her swords on the left side. She performs a diagonal cut with the right blade, but it's out of measure. However, she steps to the left, with her left blade glowing blue this time, aiming to cut off the Oni's fingers or hand.*\n```Hurricane Blade cast, 5 mana spent, 2.5 regained, 67.5/70 remaining.```" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi now that she was healing, and her injury went away, she moved towards the fighting. She rested a had on her katana. She didn't think she could reasonably hit any of the enemy with a fireball, and just moved in, as much as she could." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "The lamellar-equipped Oni moved in, preparing to hit Ling with his club by bringing it up to his shoulder, while the remaining bandits moved toward the caravan master, who held his billhook stoutly, trying to block them from reaching the archer. \n\nAs the Oni prepared to make a swing, he saw Ling's katana move toward him - out of measure, it was, so he simply moved back, and tried to avoid the hit. The left blade came quickly afterward, and he found himself unable to react in time to parry it. Instead, to protect his hand...\n\nHe simply released his finger, making the katana hit the club behind it with a loud, cringe-inducing clang, saving his hand but dropping the club. \n\nAs he backed off, he reached for a dagger in his hand, and another Oni took his place with axe and shield. The Oni were now funneled together, to the point they could accidentally hit eachother or even shove one of their own down the ridge by accident.\n\nThe other Onis are lightly equipped - with only a gambeson, axe and shield, but they do have a shield. \n\nIn the western end, with the spearmen pinned down by the archers, they held up their shield and started moving north, attempting to flank the merchants.\n\n```\nTurn 19\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*The Oni had dropped his weapon, and he now had a dagger. Good. Only problem was with the axe and shield wielders.*\n\n*Ling feints a cut with her left blade at the nearest axe Oni's head, but stops it before it actually hits. Instead, her right blade chops off the Oni's unprotected leg. Should the lamellar Oni attempt to rush her to get a hit in, she swings at his hand once again, forcing him to be careful, and back away.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "The Okamimi continued her wild dash towards the battlefield. She wasn't sure if she was close enough to accurately try to fling a fireball, yet but figured she must be getting close enough, though at this point." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "```\nCaravan Master\n```\nThe Caravan Master stayed at the side of the fight. As the Lamellar Oni backed off, he took advantage of the length of his weapon - and the fact the Oni cannot back off, to make a swing at his lower leg. The Lamellar-equipped Oni had no protection, and backed off, into his comrade.\n\nHe barely avoided the swing, at the cost of slamming into his teammate with his dummy heavy body, sending him tumbling down the ridge to the left as he mistepped. \n\n\"AAuugh...\" One could hear a moan from behind the ridge as the Oni fell. \n\n```\nLing\n```\nThe oni raised his shield to block the hit, only to realize it was a feint slightly late, as a blade quickly came below his shield, cutting off one of the tendon in his lower leg. He dropped down onto the ground with his weapon, screaming out in pain. \n\n\"AGH!\" \n\nThe sword Oni behind him would've rushed in to get Ling - but the ridgeline was in his way, forcing him to parkour up - in sight of an enemy. \n\n```\nThe retreat\n```\n\n\"*Run!*\" *The lamellar Oni ordered in Runran, - which may or may not be understood by some of the party members. The flankers to the north turned around - except for the lifeless spearman, who charged the archer with suicidical intention\n\nThe Oni Spearmen turned south, running there instead of west because of intervening ridgeline, and the limitation of **Map border**, a most deadly magic around this part. They started fleeing, turning their shield across their body to block any projectiles coming their way.\n\n```\nTurn 20\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Good. Back off!\"\n\n*Now they were backing off. The caravan was safe. Except for that one spearman. Did he have a death wish?*\n\n*Ling dashes towards him, using her left sword to push the spear upwards once again. Only this time, instead of going for the hand, she would rush in and plunge the blade into the spearman's heart.*\n\n\"You asked for it. I warned you.\"" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "She continued to approach, starting to slow down, as she readied her katana, just in case. She saw they were running, but wasn't sure if this was a feigned retreat or not.\n\n\"Damn it... I missed most of the fighting.\"\n\nThe Okamimi sighed, shaking her head, and her ears drooped a little inside her helmet, in response. She felt like she had let herself down, the merchants, and Ling to a degree. Getting wounded in the foot, and all." }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "Ling moved north between the group of armed merchant toward the spearman. The spearman threatened to charge the archer, stopping them from shooting at his fleeing comrade. \n\nThen, as Ling rushed north, and the bandits moved south, the spearman did the unexpected. \n\nHe turned around and randomly stabbed one of the horse in the face, killing it. Unfortunately, his spear is now stuck, leading one of the archer to draw his dagger and prepare to close in.\n\n\"OI! YOU FUCK!\" One of the merchant shouted out, it was *His* Horse, after all. \n\n\n```\nOthers\n```\nThe mage walked up on the ridge, and fired a fireball at one of the fleeing Oni's ass, setting his pants on fire. \n\nThe lifeless spearman fleeing from the fight in the east rushed toward Machi - holding his spear two handed again. It seems these two are determined to ensure the rest of the gang escape. \n\nThe Oni who was shoved down a ridge stood up, running alongside the rest of his comrades. \n\n```\nTurn 21\n```" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"Watch it, don't be brash! He has his weapon!\"\n\n*Ling runs to try and get in front of the merchant, stabbing the lifeless warrior if his spear was stuck in the horse's head, deflecting it instead if he was able to get it out and _then_ stabbing him. If she wasn't able to get in front of the merchant, well, there was nothing she could do.*" }, { "author": "Machi Oyama Hayashi", "message": "She took in a breath, readying her sword as she saw the spearman charging. Her off-hand began to glow red, and she launched a fireball at the spearman, grinning a little, as she began moving backwards towards the rest of the group, instead of meeting the spearman's charge, head on.\n\n`Fireball cast, 5 Mana spent, 3.5 regained, 128.5/130 Mana remaining.`" }, { "author": "Brothua", "message": "Ling rushed forward and thrusted her sword into the summon's head, piercing through his skull and killing the lifeless warrior instantly. Within a moment, the blood on her blade disappeared - alongside the summon. \n\nThe fireball flew straight toward the spearman's face, setting it on fire and deforming it, ending the charge shortly after as it dropped dead onto the ground, unable to even scream. \n\nWith the two summons disappearing and the imminent threat of attack gone, the remaining Onis fled, leaving one of them to throw up his hands in surrender, and the rest fleeing successfully. \n\nAll in all, a good day. \n\nThe caravan master started unloading the goods from the dead horse, distributing them between the remaining animals - bringing one of the spare up as a pack animal. And then enlisted Ling and Machi to help tie up the captive, who would be brought over to the next city to be sold into forced labor. Or slavery.\n\nUnfortunately for them, there were barely any rewards to be had from defending a caravan. But since Machi and Ling were the one who saved the caravan, the merchants decided to award them out of their own pocket, plus all of the proceeds from selling that one single captive. \n\nPlus, this was quite the learning experience. \n\n```\nTurn 22 - \n\nQuest Complete. \n\nLing learned quite a lot from those practical application of her dual sword style - 8 UP \nMachi learned by failure, these lessons would be very memorable. - 8 UP \n\nThe merchant awarded them 500 silver each, out of their own pocket - they weren't exactly the richest people in the world, but they do have money.\n\nAnd of course, the Oni were sold for a hefty sum of 40 Gold after being healed up. \n\nEquipment Fund Per Person: 1000 silver \nAsset Fund Per Person: 1500 silver\n\nFor future record: The caravan master introduced himself as Gregor, a foreigner in Dezabia with quite a lot of connection in the country. Perhaps he could be a lucrative source of future works.\n```\n\nAnd thus, I wrap up the story of these two warriors in the desert for now. And I shall head to eat lunch. \n\n*Slurp*\n\nWe'll talk about the next page in the Chronicle of Drase soon." } ]

[ { "author": "Machi Hayashi (Male)", "message": "*Back in the desert. Though in some ways, it felt like they never had even left to Machi... She was waking up just now, and... Huh...? She rubbed her eyes, realizing something was a little different. She started to realize it was, very different to a usual desert morning, and there it was. **He** Realized what it was, rather quickly now that he was waking up, and he blinked rapidly, looking around.*\n\n\"What... How...\"\n\n*Suffice to say, the Okamimi was rather confused, and speechless really by this strange morning. And, without thinking, he leaned over to shake Ling awake, so they could figure this out together. Perhaps, not the wisest choice in the moment. And, well, his voice being more masculine likely wasn't going to help any.*\n\n\"Hey uh... Ling... Something's different today...\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "*Deep in sleep, Ling found herself in a battlefield. Lying on the ground, covered in blood, with Machi lying over her, trying to shake her awake. It wasn't her blood that was on her; rather, it was pure fatigue that stopped her from getting up. Her eyes closed, deeper, deeper...*\n\n*And then she awoke, barely conscious, unable to hear the words being said to her. Rubbing her eyes, she turned to her side where she thought Machi was.*\n\n*And screamed a scream she had never screamed before. Like a young girl, it was so high pitched it could almost shatter glass.*\n\n\"WHO THE FUCK ARE YOU??!!\"\n\n*Quickly drawing her tanto from her sash, she attempted to kick to keep the creepy male away while brandishing her weapon.*" }, { "author": "Machi Hayashi (Male)", "message": "*He winced from her loud shriek, his ears drooping in the pain of the scream. Truth be told, he was confused by the fact of her screaming... Until, of course he realized the issue overall... Of course. The Okamim would tense, and raise his arms up in surrender. He took in a deep, albeit shaky breath, as he watched his girlfriend aim her blade at him, and winced as he was kicked.*\n\n\"Ling! I-it's me! Machi! I swear! I don't... Know how this happened, or anything but...\"\n\n*He said, biting his lip, as he resisted the urge to reach for Nozarashi, not that it was even in reach anymore. But, instinct was instinct after all and here he was. He gulped down a shaky breath, staring at her.*\n\n\"I-I can prove it too! My sword we call it Nozarashi! We... We met in a desert not too terribly different from this one!\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"SHUT UP! WHAT KIND OF CREEP DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO—\"\n\n*Ling blinked once, then twice once the man in front of her mentioned Nozarashi, as well as the desert they had met in. Nozarashi was possibly known elsewhere, but the two meeting in the desert? That was something private she had only told Ehakli.*\n\n\"But... How? Your voice is different, and your, uh, *Chest* Is just... Gone!\"\n\n*Breathing hard, Ling's shaky arm puts down the tanto.*\n\n\"And I can't imagine what's changed in your pants...\"" }, { "author": "Machi Hayashi (Male)", "message": "*He'd wince when she shouted at him, about being a creep. Though, he certainly understood it. This was... Such a unique situation for both of them and all. And, with it being unknown of to either least as of now...*\n\n\"I don't know... How it happened. Maybe its... Some sort of weird... Thing of my people? It's... Never happened to me before, but...\"\n\n*He was at a true loss over it, indeed. He hesitated, nodding when she mentioned what was missing, and he agreed with the other comment as it was. Slowly, he lowered his arms as well.*\n\n\"I'm still me, regardless of... This... I am still the Okamimi you met, and fell in love with. And I, still love you. I... Will have to look into this. Hopefully, we can find things out. I don't feel...*Quite* Right like this, I must admit.\"" }, { "author": "Ling Kazami", "message": "\"How does a people suddenly change gender overnight? Unless they're comfortable with that, then I can't imagine that lasting long.\"\n\n*Slowly moving closer, Ling sheathes the blade, then slowly caresses Machi's cheek. This was Machi. This __man__ with white, flowing hair... But they felt the same. The Macen ran her fingers through the okamimi's hair. Same result. Finally, the swordswoman moved in towards his neck, to smell him. The exact same as Machi's. There was no doubt about this. Somehow, this was Machi.*\n\n\"It's you. It's really you.\"\n\n*Then, realizing what she's done, Ling bows her head in shame.*\n\n\"I'm sorry. I overreacted...\"" }, { "author": "Machi Hayashi (Male)", "message": "\"I... Wish I knew how it happened. Maybe... I don't know. I thought I felt pings of magical energy not long ago, it wasn't all that long after... My father's sword. I don't know if its related, but... Its something least.\"\n\n*His twin-tails slowly wagged behind him, as he felt the familiar touch of his girlfriend, he closed his eyes, as he gently held her sides, leaning into her. It just felt... So soothing in the moment. He leaned in to take a whiff of her own scent, smiling. He was just glad he could calm it down. Before... It was too, too late overall. That was his only concern.*\n\n\"Yes. Its me... And I don't blame you. You did the natural reaction anyone would have, especially in the wilderness alone like we are.\"\n\n*He'd stroke her cheek. His ears drooped a little, and the wagging stopped as he gently lifted her chin up.*\n\n\"And even then, I still forgive you for it.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "knotknotty", "message": "The city of Sudri is located north along the Dezabian bay, a place of worship for those whom worshiped the sun for its' blessing of water and the crops which still could shove their heads through the craggily dirt. Following his light and whim for toward the locals of the dry lands this lord was one of perhaps many yet he stood above them as though a king amongst the rabble of other deity's, within this quaint village there was a portion of between all the looming temples dedicated toward aiding travelers upon their journey toward the bustling capital Rakmurse. A little bazaar teeming with merchants tents and a few exotic performers entertaining what patrons waded through the crowd, attempting to reach their store fronts or upon an journey seeking wealth or renown within this fantastical realm. Though it was a rather quaint flock compared toward Rakmurse far less condensed and filled with a few creatures which preferred to nestle within the arid sands' of Dezabia. \n\nA pair of brothers' pressed their sleek reptilians tail through the market square a snakes tail slightly an array of black patterns seeping against the sea of purplish blue scales, their upper torsos' were shared atop their snake like tail. One appeared to be riffling through a little velvet bag his short hair bolstered the same hue as their tail though it hid beneath a decorative drape of cloth bolstering the same crimson as his fishnet top, their skin a fiery shade of brown practically glistening with\n\nThe sunlight, a horn poked through each of their drapes which hung upon their respective heads though the other wore what was more of an open coat sporting the same golden patterns with a yellowish s shawl keeping the loose fabric upon his shoulders. He was upon their right whilst the other was on their left they were connected upon the hip stuck together for life, the right boy jammed his shoulder into the left hissing through his teeth. \"Y'dried up gultch how many times do I gotta say it before it sets in... Even if this is some holy place filled with a buncha' sun huggers. Doesn't mean we can just paw through that purse in fronta everyone!\" Shal spat into his sharp ears hung with jewelery, Thay the left boys shoulders jumped nearly losing the purse from his fingers hearing his brothers' venomous remark. \"Well gosh Shal, you really\n\nT-think so? Maybe we could talk about not surprising me like that? I almost dropped it all over the streets... Then what?\" Thay kept an even tone though it was a bit pitched with surprise, he seemed far less willing to outright insult his 'better half'. Shals' arms folded in turn his expression went sour their eyes were both a shade of blue he growled \"Then I rethink my entire lifes decisions up to this point, starting with why I thought you could handle the coin purse in the first place!\" A savage remark from the far more aragoant of the duo, though like any creature he had a heart beneath that harsh exterior. Beside their interesting condition these boys nearly looked like preformers from the excessive beads upon their belts to the light decorative tops which didn't quite cover their torsos' entirely one could nearly see something branded into the left twins back.\n\nThe twin torsoed snake was set aside near a mud bricked hovels' body gradually trailing toward the bazaar, their tail sailed out eight feet whilst their torso's stood 5' 6\" Tall. A satchel was tied upon their back carrying two exotic tulwars and a gilded scepter nested between them, ahead were plenty of colorful tarped stalls filled with people yammering and others simply awaiting to peedle their wares from trinkets to produce, one could likely find what they sought within the small marketplace, but it was a farcry from what the capital had to offer." }, { "author": "murio876", "message": "*Among the crowds within the bazaar, stood little Amsu trying his best to not get pulled by the waves of people that flooded throughout on their daily routines. He hadn't remembered the streets being these cluttered when he was a few years younger, so were one of the churches hosting a reception to their followers?\n\nDeciding to not let his stray from his original plan, Amsu continued forward in his efforts to search for one of his old sects from before he left Sudri. Ever since he left, he was planning on coming back to atone in some manner for his previous sin... So he had saved up some gold for the boat ride back to his birthplace. It wasn't to say however, that he was comfortable being back in his home. It would be quite obvious that he was uncomfortable with something, possibly the amount of people, or something else that had been chewing away at him ever since he set foot here.\n\nIt wasn't long until he was startled by some sudden shouting coming from a few feet away, his tails straightening out as he nearly jumped five feet into the air. Taking a glance over as he collected his nerves by allowing his paired tails entwine with each other and generally do their own thing, he watched what seemed to be two people stitched together have an argument... Something about sun huggers? Amsu remembered that the dominant religion in the area was dedicated to the Jackals and their sky god, but that was a bit rude to be saying that out in the open.\n\n... Soon all of Amsu's thinking bit him in the arse, however, because he know realized he was completely lost in the crowd of people. Well... Shit. He did not quite know what to do in this situation, so he did what he thought could have been the best move. Amsu, of course, began to try and ask random people about how to get to the nearest temple dedicated to the sun god Bast.*" }, { "author": "knotknotty", "message": "Bast in truth were the very same deity which the twins' worshipped, it was entirely out of turn that the right twin decided to mutter that insult into his brothers' ear a thing which even someone as foolish as he hadn't quite shouted... Though the same couldn't be said over the rest. An insult formed from feeling a smidge fed up with his brothers' behavior upon an average day they had accepted that together was the only way they were meant to be, if anyone said anything else these twins refuted to allow such labels which a person as themselves often had to deal with. Freak, abomination, passing fancy, beast or even monstrosity such labels were stapled toward the duo it was a portion of whom they were a thing of the past which they had come to simply deal with. Upon this day they were set out by their aunty to meet her at the temple with serviceable beverages for she was one of these 'sun huggers' if that towering behemoth of a woman were here she would surely slap him across the head for even speaking of Bast in such a manner.\n\nThays' hands lowered the purse glancing away from Shal tensing his shoulders. \"Well rethink what you said... Aunty would have gone berserk on us if she heard you speaking of Bast like that, without him w-we wouldn't even be blessed to always have someone there for us. Now would you calm down Shal before we draw out more gawkers?\" His pupils peeked up toward his brother purposefully gifting him a rather docile expression, oh Thay knew how to get under his brothers skin\n\nIt was rather easy considering they had an inseparable bond between one another. Shals' lip curled as he folded his arms wrapping his giners against his forearm a hefted breath broke through. \"Hell its hard to stay piping hot with you staring at me like that, well I ought to hope Bast isn't in the same simmering mood I'm in... He doesn't have to deal with you losing half our funds. Sayas' already going to have us by the tail for that, whats a few slips of the tongue at this point?\" \n\nVithay appeared genuinely worried about invoking their aunts ire, what Shal told him only worried the left twin he should have been more careful. Yet they still had enough to gather a\n\nDecent supply it wouldn't be entirely what they had bargained for however they could attempt to squirm past their aunts raidar in hopes that they wouldn't be roasted alive by her temper. One thing was certain however what Shal spoke didn't quite fall through he was aware that they came toward quaint settlements to attempt and shirk off any form of attention toward themselves, if this stranger Amsu truly lived within the desserts his whole life he may have seen a simillar duo of naggas though they were children performers within the streets of this land. A spectacle which a child may not soon forget witnessing, the twins however were the attraction and they had seen plenty of faces\n\nIt was difficult for them to remember every passing onlooker. As well something they would far rather not recount it was a sour memory one which Shal was certain Thay would cry over if he even mentioned it. Without much of another word Shal slipped out his tongue at his brother making a quick nod toward him \"It might be the suns rays pressing against my skull, but what the heck if it means so much to you hold onto it Thay... If y'drop em then I'll wrestle out any rat skittering around the streets, make em squelch for it.\" Vishal attempted to sound friendly toward his brother despite his mood, it seemed to be enough for the left brother to simply nod as he clung upon the purse fixing his posture so he could stand near his brother as they trailed forward the left twin couldn't help but catch a glimpse of someone whom appeared to be a fish lost in the sea of people. Now Thay believed within Basts teachings even if they did mock them in the past they were still living within this life together all created by the sun god, he would raise his free hand near his brother waving toward the stranger. \"E-excuse me! Lost fish floundering in the bay... May we grant you some footing? If you seek Basts light we slith-\" Unfortunatley the twin was halted by Shals' finger flicking against his nose, Thay would blink incredulously rather baffled by his brothers sudden antics Shal hissed. \"Now we're catching stray fish? Man of all the brothers I got the one that likes to lure potential creetins upon our shore... A tricksters delight. When we hook him we gut him, and lay him out to dry.\" Vishal sounded in earnest as though he was being playful with his other half slipping out his tongue playfully, Thay couldn't help but chuckle a little at his brothers clear intent to simply play along with what Thay first said." }, { "author": "murio876", "message": "*Amsu walked toward the pair that seemingly wanted to give him assistance... At least, he assumed they did. The one brother had gestured towards him and mentioned Bast, but the other brother seemingly didn't want to have any part of it? It was better to get ushered away than to just ignore them, he thought as he finished closing the distance between them.*\n\n\"Uhm, hello there. Forgive me for being rude but I thought I saw you gesturing over to me... If it would not trouble you, could give me advice on finding a temple dedicated to Bast? The crowded areas have been hard to navigate through... I feel as if I've strayed too far from where I was supposed to go.\"\n\n*Now that Amsu was standing in front of them, they could quite clearly make out his image. It was a rather short Neko Kemonomimi, standing at around five feet with black hair. The more notable parts of his features were his cases of heterochromia and bi-caudal. These could be seen through his eyes, being a dark blue eye paired with a light amber eye... Followed with his two tails, constantly entwining with each other and slowly waving about behind him. The rest of his garb consisted of basic straw or hemp cloth built to help beat the heat.*" }, { "author": "knotknotty", "message": "Despite being regaled behind his left half Shal carried a certain presence around him perhaps the manner in which he stared upon the stranger which presented himself before the twins. Once when they were ten years old they were threatened by everything which they saw before their four eyes' it was the reason which Vishal held a certain disdain for strangers especially natives of their own homeland, he preferred gifting others the cold shoulder rather than openly trust them and he held little shame in displaying it within his expression. What was once warm even a smidge playful melted away into a rigid look his eyelids squinting upon the strangers features practically bearing his eyes into the man a snake awaiting within the bushes behind his brothers' far more inviting expression Thay was still chuckling from his brothers little joke, a gentle smile brandished upon his lips. A contrast between them even if they lived through the same story together Vithay was yearning to gift others another chance hoping despite all else people could still be trusted, they had met a kind adventurer whom had taken them off of the streets what was the harm in trusting someone else?\n\nVithays' arms threw outward inviting the stranger near as his lungs filled with a certain delight, greeting the man in rags with kindness that their Aunty had bludgeoned into the twos' skulls one could say she still had alot of work left upon the other half. \"Basts blessings upon you this fine day, his light bolsters bright and the path tis set... Y-you see we travel in twine with you. Me and my brother Shal were just about to garner some spirits for worship you can trail with us till we reach the temple. I am Vithay and this one behind me is Vishal, what do peo-\" Amidst Vithays' generosity he forgot to ask his brother if he was okay with the idea of allowing some stranger to trail behind their feathered tail, the two smelt of smoke and spices as though they spent much of their lives near food.\n\nVishals' shoulders strung upward his teeth releasing a little spat \"Tch... And what the hell am I Thay, what happened to being graced to be stuck together huh? What if I don't want someone trailing behind uss did you already forget what I just said huh?\" He flicked the back of his brothers' head awaiting for thays answer Amsu would see something Shal wouldn't, the left twins eyes rolled within his skull releasing an exasperated breath. \"Don't mind the voice behind me, he's just been baking out here a little too long. B-but ofcourse brother I remember, he just yearns for direction its' as though gifting someone bread in light of Auntys ventures.\" Vithays' voice seemed to lower toward the end reluctant to quite show how he felt, what he said would be enough to disarm Shal he didn't want to be a tyrant toward his brother. So without another word Shal simply turned away from the stranger using his other hand to beckon him toward where they were trailing first they needed to collect the spirits then they would enter the temple their aunt was something of a legend an retired adventurer only some knew. Thay would be helplessly dragged along he emitted a small gasp as he was tugged along." }, { "author": "murio876", "message": "*Amsu followed along, not quite understanding the dynamic between the two brothers. It seemed like they bickered a lot, but that was possibly because of their own predicament... Amsu would dislike this kind of situation, in being stuck to another person and having to constantly agree or disagree on simple things like where to go or what to do.*\n\n\"Do you know how I could gain an audience with one of the members of the priesthood? I have been wanting information on a specific priesthood that lives just outside the city... As I hailed from a remote village around the outskirts of the Bagega. I'm unsure if their residency was moved, however, as I couldn't find their sect within the city center.\"\n\n*Little Amsu did his best to keep up with the naga brothers, walking along their side... Sides. It seemed to displeasure the other brother to be behind them, so it was a little of a attempt to try and please at least one of the pair. Other than that, Amsu's tails continued to wave gracefully on their own, seemingly having a mind of their own. He was somewhat at peace in this moment, but still his mind was alert. He didn't quite like having to be dragged around instead of just given directions, but since the one naga seemed to be having good intentions... It should not be a problem to go along and hopefully get what he needs.*" } ]

[ { "author": "knotknotty", "message": "Vishal shepherded his brother forward intent upon reaching their destination sooner rather than latter, today was a particularly note worthy event at least within their cultural beliefs. A certain event which would be considered a form of celebration toward those whom lived within the heart of the scorching deserts' of Dezabia, one which both of the boys knew they were going to upset their aunts expectations of celebratory spirits she was a very particular woman with years of experience beneath her belt. It was her which had taught the pair that between one another they were all they had perhaps the only person they could truly trust was between each other, beneath all the bickering and little spats they had an unspoken bond. Neither of them could imagine life without the other to them this was the only life they knew just stuck together not a moment where they had to fear being alone... Only Vishal held that fear deep within his heart he wanted to carry on living with his brother in tow it was why he tried to ease off from starting a whole argument with the boy whom wore far more jewels upon his body.\n\nA display of Shals' distrust and perhaps care for his other half showed his free arm between their hips wrapped around his swords handle, he felt on edge with someone behind them believing the worst may befall the duo. No longer would he chew out his brother for his rather naïve nature still cradling their allowance within his palms idly playing with the string as they trailed forward, instead Vishal carefully nudged his brother, playfully pressing his own head against his brothers whispering into his sharp ear. \"Hay Thay do I look like some sort of task master? Tell me if this dried up gulch slurs\n\nOff some half witted answer, then where is that gonna get us huh? Make us look like fools and send this poor stray scampering. You were the one whose nose was constantly stuffed in those books, now c'mon pull on a show with some of that stuff up in there huh? Todays supposed to be special...\" Vishal wouldn't outright apologize for his less than pleasant greeting, he struggled with admitting his imperfections, yet he was more than willing to go easy on his brother and try to encourage his other half. It was nearly as though Vishal knew Thay was locking up he wouldn't speak unless if his brother told him to a common issue which required no introduction between them at least. \n\nThays' iris's darted to and froe a slight smile formed as he butted his head back against his brothers causing them to nearly topple, a smidge of horseplay these two enjoyed together Vishal would simply cackle at his brother loosening his grip upon his blade to playfully shove him back. Vithay cracked out \"Bout time we water down the venom, we should adore each fish I land even if it is a cretin you sour lemon.\" Vishals' lips curled a little creating a smile which instantly sent chills down Thays spine for he knew what such a look meant, he was helpless but to await what sort of embarrassing memory his brother may have in store or worse! Helless to watch as Vishal hissed out. \"I wouldn't have to be so damned sour if you weren't such a little dainty dessert flower, don't make me start talkin bout that one time you thought it was the brightest and only idea to peddle off our only water skin for some... O' what did that urchin call it... Miracle bread the wheat which wards famine or some garbage?\"\n\nThays' shoulders locked his cheeks flourished red recounting a mistake he had made during his earlier years, he had only done that since he felt that particular stranger was suffering he needed someone to help him. \"Su-sush up Shaal if you're so bright than why didn't you just... Say something not saying it was your fault it just really begs me to wonder a bit.\" Vishal in turn exaggerated his posture making himself bend forward panting he choked out. \"Too busy... Dying the thirst it claimed my mind, had to leave up to your frail heart.\"\n\nThay chuckled a little at his brothers' antics finding his reenactment of that day amusing, he didn't mind taking the fall for their shortcomings once more. Ceasing his moment with his brother to turn and look toward the stray cat which followed them forward. \"I hope he doesn't keel over here and now... But we have far more important things to answer right? I uh... You know you heard something important is going on in Sudri today, that means a speaker of Bast should be present. Though you really shouldn't just walk up to them during the rites of passage, seek an audience by asking a lower servant within the faith that should garner his attention.\" The left twin had grown sidetracked by his brother, but he was interested by what the man said he always had a flare for spirituality or the arcane his eyes' narrowed away from the stranger appearing a smidge shy as though he were reluctant to express his interest. \"A particular branch of Basts faith I know of a few Saya our aunty prefers sir Bakires' flock she says some of the others' are a little seedy... We have been stuck here most of our lives\n\nMaybe their name would ring some sort of bell? Would their practices differ... Perhaps even the slightest?\" Vishal purposefully begun to cough and act as though he were choking as they continued to slither forward he knew it would ease his brothers' mood bringing out a few amused giggles from the left boy as he heard him exaggerate their little gag, Thays' head would turn from their new companion glancing toward a particular stall the one which Shal had likely been heading toward they shared their lower body. One could simply will which direction they wished usually Vishal took the wheel Thay would simply guide them his attitude was a smidge more passive a little less aggressive than his brother. Why would he have to be if he had a brother which often took charge?" }, { "author": "murio876", "message": "\"Well... The sect I have been seeking for some time belongs under a faith that Bast guards the entrance to the world of the damned. Most worshipers agree that the god is a Felinid Kemonomimi that was born of the Jackal God Surya and Saint Catrin, that later ascended from death to become a god under Surya. I'm sure they still have a strong enough faith around the area, but I haven't quite caught wind of any ceremonies within the area.\"\n\n*Once Amsu heard about Vishal's inquiry he did his best to answer. It was hard to forget all the prayers and teachings he was subjected to under his time living within the temple school. Of course they hadn't garnered a lot of followers compared to the rest of the pantheon, due to the important of Bast being paramount over some of the other known Jackal Gods that were supposed to be above all... But he didn't think that would lead to them being completely separated from the bulk of the faith.*\n\n*In addition, Amsu would be shooting strange glances over to the twins after realizing that one of them was consistently watching him and defensive over his presence... Obviously keeping that one sword on hand. It wasn't like Amsu himself was defenseless, having a hooked sword and a semi-large cane hitched onto his back. He could defend himself if he had to, or even strike first if necessary. Amsu didn't want to do either, however, so he did his best to seem like he was not a threat... Rubbing his thumbs against the bottom of his shirt to help calm his nerves*" }, { "author": "knotknotty", "message": "Thay was the one which displayed intrigue and proposed the question he wished to pry upon these religious matters for they fascinated the gentler out of the duo. Compared to Shal he didn't quite display outright hostility, yet there was something else within his demeanor his janky giggles upon his brothers' antics the way he kept twiddling with the purses string. Between the twins there was some unspoken constant they seemede a bit strained to earnestly thrust their faith into a stranger despite their religious similarities both worshipers of the guardian Bast, a woman whom was known to serve Ra in certain aspects Vishals earlier comment upon sun huggers was practically an insult toward the feline guardians' master of a sort. Regardless Vithay was willing to bend over backward to appease his brother and simply let such matters go he had lost a portion of their allowance in the first place one could say he was to blame for his brothers rather sour mood which had begun to tapper off, throwing off his skeptical attitude to entertain his brother with some antics they often practiced during time spent only with one another. \n\nThe pair slowed trailing forward as Thay was gifted a bullet of information to chew over, he may very well be far more educated than his brother yet he still could be somewhat of an airhead. The left twin paused and ushered outward \"Aye that is true we are\n\nEntering a sanctuary devoted toward Bast and the passing, upon this day a soul is going to be judged upon their passing journey toward the afterlife his heart shall be weighed by the twilight Jackels piercing eyes Anubis. We hope Basts' true father Ra gifts the suns' blessings for a-a rather safe journey...\" Through those words alone he confirmed their sect didn't quite believe she was born of the god Surya and Catrin, their current sect was a smidge different from the one which he sought. Nor could Vithay quite discern if he knew of such a sect despite growing up within the region it may be attributed toward the twins rather young age surely their Aunt may know something far more than he glanced toward his brother for reasurance... Whom was still bent over continuing his gag for the left boy. Vishal croaked \"T-thay... It was nice knowing ya I think I think I will head upon my passage before you...\" \n\nThays' ears drooped throwing his nearest hand upon his other halfs back he would playfully shake him practically whining out. \"Shaaal cease mumifying yiou can do that on your own time we have company aand Aunties going to start foaming over if we delay any longer... A right of passage isn't a joke Shal c-come on.\" There were boundaries even Thay wouldn't roll over for he was devout within their religion perhaps far more than Vishal was, the right twin would throw himself upon Thays torso groaning \"Your no fun Thay what happened to celebrating huh?\n\nWhere'd my plush lovin brother go what did ya do to him?\" That was something which Thay wished his brother hadn't said aloud in front of a stranger his cheeks begun to blossom with a full shade of red shoving his brother off of him as he stammered \"Those a-are lies just streaming out of your lips brother n-n-not true, I do not carry him around still w-why couldn't your tongue just dry up already!\" Vishal had a devilish grin across his features amused by his brothers embarrassment, he knew whom was actually lying here and he was looking right at him as much as he despised his left halfs softer habits he often used it as leverage to hold him by the strings." }, { "author": "murio876", "message": "*Amsu stifled a laugh from watching the brothers mess with each other, but decided that it was best for them to part here. There were similar sects to his still around, so it was likely that even if it was dissolved he could atone for his mistakes by finding one with some members he recognized. He still wanted to find who he was specifically looking for, so it was best to get an idea on when the next ceremony was.*\n\n\"Forgive me for intruding, but could you inform me on when a recent ceremony will be held? I'd like to participate so I may speak to one of the priests themselves and hopefully get an answer. Preferably one that leads me to my sect's temple... But whatever the god of fortune intends upon me, I'll receive and make the best of.\"\n\n*Amsu's tails begun entwining with each other as he finished his little spiel, now standing at attention to whatever would come next from the two brothers. Hopefully they knew that much... And if not, he could always linger around the temple when it was seemingly filled with people.*" }, { "author": "knotknotty", "message": "Though one may attempt to burrow their amusement beneath the dirt, this Siamese pair carried the ears of an elven creature nearly as sensitive as the dry gultchs which were the duos' noses. Their pointed tips positioned each other in tandem opposites between two creatures which were mirrored images of each other, if it weren't for their clothing the manner in which they acted one would be hard pressed to have to learn which one resided on which side of their shared body, where Thays' ears drooped his whole body locking inward Shals' seemed to perk a little twitching with delight that he had embarrassed his left half. Beneath the sour exterior within this pairs hearts lay buried the passion they were once forced into that of an entertainer those whom lavished within others attention, something which Shal sorely pandered for purposefully pushing himself outward and wishing to be the dominant between the two. In a sense his efforts to embarrass his sensitive half would shut Thays yap for a while giving him ample time to revel within someone elses' attention, and he had begun to suspect that perchance this weary soul wasn't here to mess with his brother and to a lesser extent himself.\n\n\"For a boy that carries the ears of Bast I'd expect ya to have far better hearing than that, their about as sharp as your sense aren't they?\" Vishal hissed out toward the stranger, in his own sense of humor his antics with his brother had begun to loosen the knot. Except his loose arm along his left halfs back still hoovered over one of the curved blades it seemed so nonchalant\n\nHis posture was disarming, but a snake did not strike its' prey outright they often nested awaiting to strick from where they hid. This particular boy amongst the pair seemed a smidge aloof he doubted Amsu would understand what he meant so he took it upon himself to elaborate. \"If y'haven't forgotten when my blooming blabbering brother lured ya over here you already intruded, and I might point out we've been talking about a ceremony we're heading to if I really have to paint the picture that plain.\n\nLook... I know this is easy or whatever my brother says, but I'd rather not have you trailing us if you wish to attend its' one of the centermost pyramids the one stout just in the middle before the first greats'. If y'have trouble just look fore a tall lady lurking about with red hair would you mind telling her you stalled us?\" \n\nVithay attempted to blubber a few words whilst his right half spoke trying to extend a friendlier hand toward the stranger, than his brother yet he struggled to even scrape a word in edgewise wishing only to curl up into a damp corner where he wouldn't have to show his face toward someone that knew he still kept stuffed creatures in his possession. In earnest he knew entirely whom his brother described their amazon of an aunty she would likely be awaiting her children's arrival toward the mass being held today funerals within their culture were public events, those whom didn't know the person or let alone were related often frequented such rituals by how these two acted they didn't seem to quite know the person in question. Vishal would promptly turn himself away not bothering to wave the stranger goodbye he was eager to rid of someone he wasn't sure of preferring to keep his brother from harm, as well to hurry upon their errand one which they were sorely late and Saya was a woman of punctuality." } ]

[ { "author": "designatedferret1552", "message": "```3 Weeks Later. Frutuwame Highlands, 2 days South of Huxa```" }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "After over just 3 weeks of travel, they found themselves slightly off route from where they are supposed to be... 3 days to be exact! There were miles and miles of pretty sand dunes, which all seemed to be unique in their own way, in all directions, the only thing different being the massive river in front of them. There were animals near the river, going in for a sip of water before they went off and looked for food.  Elowen seemed to be having fun, rolling down the hills, not really being unhindered by the heat. It was probably around the range of 34-37°c, which would easily prevent most normal people from doing any extraneous activities, such as rolling down the hills and running around people. But she was breaking a sweat. It wasn't anywhere near hot for her, but with all her exercise which... Lasted what... Hours made her sweat just a bit. Just a bit though, not too much!\n\nShe bought some stuff from a bazaar they passed by a few days ago. Seems like she switched out her longsword... Didn't seem like it protected her that well from some animals a few days ago. Instead, she bought herself a helmet of some kind, a water sack, and... A halberd! It was almost a whole foot taller than her. What made her choose such a weapon? Was it her height that made her choose this or... The fact that she is compensating for something. We may never know. Her helmet seemed to be made of the pith of a tree, seeming very very hard and very good at keeping Elowen cool in the hot winds. \n\nOf course, after a week of travelling in the desert, she removed her tunic, placing it in her side bag, which hung off of her right side. It carried a lot of her stuff. It carried her tunic, a few nets, her bugle, her water sack, and of course, her hat hung off of the side. It was a multi-use bag!\n\nThat's why she carried it around. Leon most likely got good views of her curves sometimes in the travel when she decided to cool herself down with a splash of water, or just stretched. She usually never stretches in front of anyone, but she trusts that Mr Leon wont stab her. Why? Well, she felt that he was a loyal friend and... Didn't have a reason to harm her.\n\n\"Hey Leon, look there's a River. Want to restock our flasks there? I'm running a bit low on food... I'm pretty sure there should be a town up this river somewhere\"\n\nShe said, turning back to him, leaning forward. Gosh what's with this girl and being so energetic. She didn't look tired at all. She must be some sort of goddess when it came to sheer amounts of pure energy. Could be because of the mushroom crisps she brought with her to eat on the journey here." }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Before they get on their way, Leon goes to various banks to gather most of his currency. The transportation took some time but now they're there! In the scorching desert. Leon was well informed about how blazing the area is and he's even been in weather like this. But dry heat is a different topic. Something he hasn't experienced very much. This leads him to needing water about every hour or two. Gladly he trades with the caravan men that travel by every once in a while. To be fair, he is a water macen, unlike this energetic air macan girl that apparently loves the atmosphere. He watches her roll around and enjoy the sand, temperature, and dead air. Must be an attribute you attain from travelling so much. When they stop to stretch, he turns from her and removes his sweater. This was to respect her personal space. At this point, they most likely don't have to do that, but he does just to be safe. He splashes his skin with water as well, trying to use as little as possible to not drench his undergarment and waste it.\n\nShe mentions the river as he sips on the flask. He jumps onto the idea quickly! Of course he'd accept. \"Yes, absolutely! If someone owns the oasis, I believe they won't mind. Then we'll go buy some food.\" He states. As they approach the river, he... Takes off, dashing to it. He hops right in front of it and removes his undergarment, revealing his skin. His upper body has a muscular and athletic aesthetic to it. Leon splashes his face and chest with the water a few times then drinks directly from it. If he left Elowen behind, he turns to her and gestures for her to join him with the biggest smile. It's big because he got his water, but mostly because he knows he probably looks childish right now. So why not embrace it? \"Come Elowen, this is cold as hell!\" He states. He drinks until he's satisfied. Afterwards, he stands up and slides his undergarment back on. \"Sorry, got ahead of myself there.\" He finally fills his flask." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "Elowen on the other hand acts as if she was in any environment, only really drinking water every few hours. It's as if she has been fine tuned to not require water, or she just doesn't get affected by the heat. Either or. But of course, she loves cold too! She decides that maybe splashing in water was a fun idea too! \n\nShe stripped herself off of her kit, her layers and... Well, down to her Undergarments. She was wearing what seemed to be a bathing suit... At least to modern standards. It was nothing more than a bra and undies. It still covered what it needed to, but she just was showing a lot more skin\n\nDuring their travels, he should have seen her like this before right? She hates sleeping when she is hot... Which is why she sleeps in her undergarments. \n\nShe was quite pale, not really showing this much skin to the pounding sun much. She had little to no fat in her body, having that... Petite build if you could call it that. Her chest wasn't something impressive either. It was quite... Smaller than average. But... That's good. Less back pain for her. \n\nShe jumps into the river, filling up her water bag before chucking it back in with her kit. She smiled at him. Very fun. She decided that she wanted more fun at this point, splashing some water at Leon. It was a river. No one was a vampire. They can have fun if they want!" } ]

[ { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "He feels the splash and responds by diving into the river. It's about 3-4 feet deep, at least in the area they're in. He raises up in front of his redhead friend and splashes her back playfully. He seems to be enjoying himself very much, like a young boy's first time in a river with a friend. Most times he's been in water was for travelling and training, so not the most fun memories come from swimming. But she opened that door for him. He runs his hands through his hair, washing it. \"Who new splashing could be so fun?\" He asks in a sort of undertone. It speaks to his limited childhood when you stop and think about it." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "Not being the most... Let's say well trained in the arts of swimming, Elowen's abilities when it came to water was limited. She resorted to splashing around to keep herself afloat and move. Completely different from her Water Macen friend, who seemed to see this as their natural habitat. Couldn't be because of their name, being 'Water Macen.' He launched himself up, splashing water onto Elowen, practically soaking her up. Wait... How will they dry? They don't have some sort of drying magic, do they? Oh well, too late. She spun her hands in a way that it shot a spray of water at Leon as a sort of pay back. She seemed skilled at spraying water. Seems like she has done something like this. Could it be, she used water as a form of weapon? No, that was far from the truth. She just got bored of using ordinary watering tools to water the farm so she decided to just figure out something to make it more fun for her. Seemed like it applied here too! It was achieved with what seemed to be a very high speed flick of the wrist, Elowen being very good with moving and controlling her body. She indeed was an interesting specimen. \n\nMost of her life, she hasn't really had too much fun. Her family ostracized from the community for having a whole family lineage of dark arts users. Apparently, there have been family records about her mother's side of the family being a powerful line of witches. That was probably far from the truth as Elowen herself has no magical abilities. That's how genetics works right? Anyways, she was never allowed to play with the other children of the town. She even had a crush on a boy who lived a few meters down, but they were never allowed to see each other again. The boy of course left the town once he reached adulthood, Elowen finding him dead, his blood sucked out of him by the 4 unequivocal marks on his neck.\n\nA vampire. A few days later, she found the one who did it. Simply her brother, you see? Her brother was the one who fed on the one she could actually feel attraction to. It hurt her when she had to put him down, but it was for the greater good... Was it not?\n\n\"Yeah it's quite fun. But we shouldn't waste our energy any more than we already have. Plus, we need to dry ourselves off... It isn't in our best of interest to walk into a village in our undergarments\"\n\nShe said, backing off from Leon's playfulness. She was still good old Elowen. The same Elowen who was careful when it came to conservation of Energy. That was a lie. She was just really anxious about being attacked when they are still in their undies and wraps. She sat herself down on a dune, allowing herself to dry off for a while... They should just follow this river to a town eh?" }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Leon dives into the river a few more times and Elowen states that they should probably get going now. He nods, hops out, and twists his body to get the water off of him. He then rings out his pants and joins her on the dune. Back to the heat, the intense dry heat. At least he got his refreshment. \"Yeah, I agree. No one needs to see us in our undergarments. Especially you. If they do, they might try to take you away.\" He states with a chuckle. This is the first time Leon has directly seen more of her skin. Certainly, throughout their travels and long nights, she's undressed before. For instance, sleeping in more comfortable clothing or changing into clean garments. But not to this extent. The man doesn't pay much attention to her body though. Ever since they met, he's known that she has a fit and capable physique. She needs to be in shape, or else she couldn't manage those sword techniques that she taught him or even the quick movements that are specific to her style! Leon stands up after a moment of drying. He offers her his hand to help her stand up then grabs his garment and slides it on. He then picks up his sweater, flask and quiver. \"Let's get going.\" He starts following the river's path, walking on the left side of it. \n\nThe macen didn't think it could get any hotter. But the weather proves him incorrect. The sun starts to blaze on the two of them. He isn't sweating again yet, but he surely feels it. Fortunately for them, or him, a small village appears! It's in the distance and a few people are outside. He sighs happily, glad that they made they made the right choice. Like Elowen, he's becoming hungry again, so those trades will be necessary. \"There it is. I hope at least one of them can speak Sebduian or Mentian.\" He states." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "She watches him have his fun. Pity, she could stare at that body for a good while. But being as careful as she is with their belongings, she had to put an end to it. Maybe if they find a lake in some uncharted territory he could have some more fun, but it honestly wasn't the time or place. The highlands are known for their marauders, who seem to appear from the dunes themselves. Even the animals are hard wired to steal and kill. The desert was a kill or be killed environment where all the cards were in. If you were unfortunate enough to get struck down once, that would be the last time that ever happens to you. Don't get beaten in the desert. Nor do you want to get beaten in the interwebs. Get protected by our sponsor, Nord VP- No. No Sponsors. Thousands of years too early. Our sponsor was water and water was going to protect us!\n\nElowen today was wearing very little clothes. At least at this specific moment. She only really wore a wrapping around her chest, which did a good job at not coming off, and underwear. Simple as that. Everything else was visible. After she dried off completely, she rubbed off all of the sand, making sure she doesn allow any to stay in her clothes. Those are annoying to get out when cleaning clothes. She slipped on her shirt, which was still somewhat baggy on her. It really did a good job at hiding the fact that she had a less than average chest. Good on her for no back pains. After that was all buttoned up, she slipped on her trousers, tying up the breech straps, finally putting on her boot. Now she looked exactly like Elowen used to! Full body is covered, none of that suggestive clothing. On her helmet, sword belt, and bag goes.\n\n\"That's why I have my bodyguard here innit? So no one tries to take me away.\"\n\nShe said, jokingly, as she walked off, following the river upwards. Towns tend to proliferate near the ocean as there is more to get there than the bottom of the river. Don't get me wrong, the bottom of the river is also good, but one day, you'll be getting a bucket full of human excrement rather than plump and juicy fish. \n\nThe heat was absolutely horrid here. At least for her water macen friend. She was completely fine, being trained to tolerate higher and higher temperatures. She turned to Leon with her water flask. She didn't remember if he filled up his so it shouldn't be an issue if she lended hers to him. She didn't see an issue with it, why should he? \n\nBut of course, as they continued to walk on, a small temporary fishing settlement appeared over the horizon. Definitely not the main village, but it was most definitely a welcoming sight. It was a small village with everything you need for it to be a village, except for a large number of people. Sure, there were a lot of people outside, but you shouldn't be surprised if that was the bulk of them." } ]

[ { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Nord VPN would definitely be right about now. Instead of protecting their internet, it could protect their freaking lives! That's what Leon wants to do the most, protect himself and the air macen. He smiles softly at her statement about him being her bodyguard, nodding and responding \"That is true.\" He likes the idea of safeguarding his closet friend by himself. He also finds it funny since she's basically his trainer, which means that she'll probably be the one doing the protecting. He does intend on becoming better than her in swordsmanship though. Throughout the journey, he'd occasionally slide his sword out from his quiver, which had already ripped just a bit, and practice the moves she taught him. He really needs a belt for his weapon. Maybe the villagers will for some reason have that to trade as well. He'd sometimes pull his crossbow out as well, practicing his aim by mere observation. He couldn't shoot because there's nothing to aim at in this desert! Maybe a lucky rock or two, but that's it.\n\nThe poor dude goes back to sweating. He doesn't mention it though because he doesn't want her to worry. She probably notices it along with feeling the heat's intensity increasing, so she offers her flask. He looks at her and denies the refreshing water kindly. He actually did fill his up before they started to mess around, but Leon wouldn't take it from her regardless. \"No thanks, love. I'd die before you starve.\" He states. Special words, dear and genuine. There's a pride that comes with having friends to protect and he embraces that to the full. He's only really experienced it with his family, who were 91% of the time his guardians. His older brother, older sister and parents are skilled macens that have abilities and trades under their belt. His peers were distant and focused on their training, and he eventually followed that mentality. As he grew up, he loosened up a bit in his strictness and... Narcissism.\n\nThe two amigos arrive in the small village. The river's edge slightly leads into the main area of the village before fading out. A few men were fishing while the others were collecting and storing various foods. Some were building/renovating houses and small business establishments. They turn to the visitors and stare for a bit, which makes Leon uncomfortable. His arm wraps around the shoulder of his companion and he whispers \"I hope you don't mind.\" He's trying to find the leader, but he's most likely in the main village. So the next best thing would be someone in high authority or with a lot of knowledge. He walks up to a few people with Elowen, speaking Sebduian and Mentían. Unsuccessful. The villagers look at him confused. \nThey recognize the language but don't understand it. One man, however, starts speaking Silnarian. Leon sighs. Of course it's the language he isn't fluent in. He let's Elowen speak if she wants to." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "The squad arrived at the small startup village. Seemed like the main one didn't have enough space or enough resources to make more houses. They were situated on the inside of the East river, being down smack between the delta. Being in the location they are now, they are able to get resources from just about anywhere, of course, with a bit of walking. For such a new village, they were doing well. They have started up a farm, growing a lot of resources that would require good irrigation, which was good since it did match their location. Can't fish if all the fish have been caught downstream. Their houses were built from hard materials growing around them, such as clay, bricks, and even the occasional wood. Sometimes you might see small houses being built with structural supports made of hard reeds. Those were abundant in the region. As they continued to approach, they could start seeing village people appear, have it be for their daily routines, or they just simply saw the newcomers. There were old men, children, and even the occasional couple, who took it upon themselves to populate the village. Of course, being such a small village, they seemed worried about the two armed people approaching. A shorter one, carrying a sword and a halberd, and the taller one, who carried a nasty looking crossbow. \n\nElowen was most obviously nervous. He could tell with her obvious posture. People, he knew that she was terrified of meeting new people. She only felt at ease with Celaena and Leon because she was half drunk! She didn't have the best thoughts in her mind at that moment and she just decided to roll with it. Can't go wrong with friends. It was even more obvious when he put his arm around her shoulder, most likely pulling her in. Her body was tense and she even twitched when he did. She has hundreds of thoughts going in her mind. Few of them were about her, not being narcissistic, but rather if the villagers would be receptive of them.\n\nThe desert WAS a dangerous place after all. \n\nShe looked up to him with a weak grin, seeming all nervous and all. She honestly didn't feel comfortable with their stares. But the man continued walking towards them. She admired that honestly. If he was able to just walk towards the people who were probably about to kill them, she found that admirable. She opened her mouth, as if to say something, closing it and turning away at the last moment. She wanted to say something, but it wasn't the right time, nor was it the right place. He approached many of the village people, trying to speak in his languages, Mentían and Sebduian, but he had no luck. Who was this man? How was he able to talk to so many people without just breaking down. She literally had to get herself somewhat drunk if she wanted to talk to as many people as he did. After a while of talking, she heard a man approaching the group, speaking a language she was very VERY proficient in. Silnarian. She learned it while travelling across the mainland of the Silnarian Empire to get where she needed to. It was an interesting language honestly.\n\nThe two immediately got to conversing, Elowen seemingly more comfortable speaking a language that she knew. It gave her that feeling of homeliness and comfort. It was something she strived for. Y'know, a place she could call home. She never really had that kind of a privilege growing up. Of course, she had a home for 15 years, but that was a technicality. She very well knew that could be less than 15... More like 13 or so. She has never been at home for an extended period of time either. Poor girl. But of course, she got everything she needed from the man. Seemed like there were no open spots for them to live in. They needed to buy a tent or two, depending on how close they were. She herself still wanted a separate tent. It has only been 3 weeks, and she just wasn't comfortable with sleeping so close to her friend. \n\n\"So, we might be unable to get ourselves a spot in the inn as... There are no rooms available. We could get ourselves some tents for the night. Though, I'm probably going to get myself a tent so we don't end up sleeping in the same spot. Don't know what they have.\"" }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "The two converse and Leon tries his best to understand. 'Why didn't I just pay attention to my Silnarian lessons!' He says, kicking himself mentally. He stands there a bit awkwardly as his eyes search the village. There are businesses for weapons and various kinds of foods, mostly fish though. He gives closer attention to the shops with weapons in it though. Do they sell sword belts? The idea isn't far fetched anymore... \n\nLeon agrees. They need to keep on the watch. These people could easily kill them and take their items if they let their guard down for a moment during the night. You'd assume otherwise of a village, usually perceiving them as peaceful and welcoming people. But people without the latest weapons and nicest armor need to protect themselves one way or another. And besides that, he also doesn't feel too comfortable sleeping so close to her either. \n\nHe looks to the man that speaks Silnarian and says \"Thank you.\" With a kind bow and smile. He looks at Elowen and says \"I think we should start getting comfortable here. But not too comfortable.\" He steps over to the shop that he was watching a moment ago. He peeks inside, looking for the belt. The owner waves at him. It's less of a friendly gesture and more in an attempt to grab the man's attention. Leon says in Silnarian as best as he can: \"Do you sell sword belts?\" He of course messes up the grammar and says something different and weird. A few of the villagers that were walking around the shop laugh and giggle. If Elowen followed, she hears him embarrass himself loud and clear. Fortunately, after a long moment, the man understands what the poor macen was asking for. He shakes his head with a toothy smile. Leon nods and exits with a sigh. Dude made a fool of himself and didn't get what he wanted. Bummer." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "They could easily kill them. They weren't even human so the same race modifiers don't apply here either. Either they buy their tent, their supplies, and go off somewhere where they won't be found, or stay up the whole night to protect each other. Elowen would most definitely love the first option. She bowed to the person, turning towards Leon with a nod. Assuming that his arm was still around her shoulder, she was forced to keep close. Wasn't too bad. It helped protect them. A couple, who were both proficient in weaponry, would protect each other right? So attacking one could end up getting the other to absolutely wreck them. False images were the best. They didn't even need to be a couple to act like one. Just the simple arm around the shoulder. At least she thinks that's what he was doing... For all we know, he could just be doing this because he likes touching her. Now that, would be creepy\n\nElowen would say, Leon could actually benefit from another object. She watched Leon embarrass himself, giving him a pat on the back. An encouragement pat on the back. She'll teach him Silnarian when they are safe. Turning to the shopkeeper with a smile, she requested a few strips of leather, a needle, some leather cord, a buckle, and a small targe. You see, having a one handed sword with nothing to pair it with was not a good idea. Elowen knew this, even if she herself didn't have anything to pair her sword with. It didn't match her style. The shopkeeper nodded to her, getting the things she requested, handing it to her. She then handed him 50 silver as the payment, turning to Leon again. \n\n\"Y'know, you have a woman right next to you. Chances are, she knows how to sew. I'll make you the sword belt. You just had to ask. But, you'll need this. It'll match you.\"\n\nShe said, with a sly smile.\n\nNow their final order of business... A tent. But first, she handed him the targe. It was a small wooden shield, having a steel bowl like middle and a leather cover to protect the wood. It was small and light, being easy to move around. Now, she just shoved everything she bought into her bag, pulling Leon along... Gotta keep that act up. It will protect them!" }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "He looks down at his kind and supportive friend. She didn't laugh, which he actually appreciates. Instead, she walks over to the owner, talks business with the shopkeeper and asks for a few items. He scratches his head in slight embarrassment. He hates these moments, but he's also not afraid of failure. I mean, you need experience in order to be successful. Those are words he lives by, and it shows in his actions. Clearly. But besides experience, simple insight could suffice! As she explains that he could've just asked for her to sow him a belt, he raises his eyebrows, a bit surprised. He probably should've assumed she had that skill, but along with the abilities she has already, it seemed unlikely. \"Wow, Elowen. Honestly, what can't you do?\" He says with an embarrassed chuckle.\n\nLeon glances over the design of the targe as he's given it. What an interesting design. He wonders how durable it is. He wants to test it out, but that might damage it ironically. \"Thanks. I guess that's another part on your list of \"Lessons to teach Leon\".\" He states with a wild smile. He clearly appreciates everything she's done for him this far. He knows it's out of friendship and maybe even payback for him opening up his shop to her and Celaena, but it's obviously done because she cares for him. Once they exit, he keeps his arm on her shoulder. He's very careful to not touch her chest or arm, and tries to keep his hands away from her hair as much as possible. It's a protective measure, to show the villagers that she's with him and he's with her. He walks with the girl to the shops that sell the pieces for a rentable tent. Many different designs and shapes, prices and textures. He honestly doesn't know what to pick. He looks at the redhead. \"Any idea as to which ones are best?\"" }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "She was a very supportive person, being as nervous... And strange as she was. She didn't want to hurt her friend, but she was prepared to give them a mean slap if they did something really bad. She wouldn't outright turn on them, but she would make it known that she wasn't impressed with what they have dont. \n\nShe raised her eyebrow at Leon. A complement eh? She liked those. But she chuckled to herself, shaking her head. She still acted the part, not really sure if the villagers were lying about their inability to speak Sebduian, or they just really didn't know how. She wouldn't take any chances. She spoke in a somewhat attractive tone, making sure to hit all of those notes of close and personal when she spoke. It was as if she had been his girl for the last year. \n\n\"There are very few things I can do hun. I just learned this on the road~\"\n\nShe then nodded to Leon. Using a shield should be basic knowledge. Keep it in front of you at all times and don't have it flail around. She'll be sure to teach him this basic knowledge if he lacked it. It should come from common sense, but she can't be too careful. She gave him a glowing smile, following him off to another shop. As she went there, she literally made sure that he was right next to her, practically rubbing shoulders. She made sure he had full contact with her because... It would be strange for someone to be avoiding all the parts that they would naturally touch eh? She gently pulled him down, whispering in his ear. \n\n\"If you're going to do this, act the part man. You can touch me this time, I don't really care. You aren't trying to grope me right?\"\n\nShe asked, reaching the shop, returning back to her original smile. She looked at their wares and objects, choosing out the one that was the lightest in colour. It was a beige colour, which was good, assuming that it was going to be hot. Lighter colours keep you cool according to science. \n\n\"I like this one, don't you?\"" }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Ah crap. Now he really has to act the part. These people can't be this difficult to convince, right? He sighs and nods to her statement. Most dudes would enjoy this honestly. The free option to hold an attractive woman by their side. Leon didn't really see the need though. I mean, the fact that they entered the village together could be enough. His hand slides to her arm and his body language is more welcoming of contact between their bodies. It's a bit awkward, giving their actually status in friendship, but he slowly adapts to it. \n\n\"Yeah, it's nice. It has a good texture and color.\" He says. He knows she probably has another reason for choosing this specific tent. He takes out some silver from his pocket and offers to pay. \"May you ask him for the price? I'll pay for the tents. We should get to setting them up right away too.\" The sunlight has steadily left our two travelers. Some villagers have already stepped inside for the night, preparing for supper and sleep. \n\nOnce they're done with the tent pieces purchasing, he takes her to a spot that's far enough from the village for comfort, but not so far that they'll get lost once they awaken. The man doesn't plan on sleeping much so he decides he'll rest around the time she arises from sleep, assuming she wants to rest. He sets up his tent, pretty well for someone who isn't used to tents. He's seen his brother do it a few times before so he just copied what he remembered. \"Are you staying up with me? I want to continue practicing my swordsmanship tonight. I'll sleep in the morn.\" He states. \"Don't feel inclined, I want you to get your rest. If I encounter some dangerous villagers that try to attack us, I'll wake you quickly.\" He takes off his quiver and slides it under his tent. He takes the sword from it and observes it. Still clean, still sharp. He puts the torge under the tent along with whatever else he's carrying." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "It was good on her that he didn't enjoy this as much as other men would. She wasn't ready for something like that yet. Her body language was very practiced as if she has done this before. Of course she has. She is in the business of investigation. If she can't act well, she can't do her job properly. Though, she had to keep the image up. It was most definitely awkward honestly. She didn't know if he was about to break, or he wasn't. It was a mystery. What wasn't a mystery was the tent! She was slow to tell Leon, as if she was unsure if she wanted him to pay. She didn't want to force Mr Shopkeeper to spend any money on her. It wasn't something she enjoyed doing. She liked being independent with her objects. Though, she supposes that this would somewhat convince him that she was someone that was worth keeping with him. Plus, who wouldn't want to keep good old Elowen with them? She is skilled at some things that would help her survive in other nations... But... She wasn't that good at surviving in the wilderness. She will be relying on Leon for that. For her whole life, she was never really able to start a fire or set up a real shelter. She has been relying on Homestays and Tents for her whole life. Plus, she honestly didn't need a fire at all. She was already quite a warm person. \n\nNow this brought them to the next point. She was squishy, but not the squishy you'd expect from a chubby person. She in fact, was quite lean. He could feel this when he held her on the shoulder. She hasn't been eating too much as it would ruin her appearance. Again, she made her appearance really important. She was also really warm. She was only wearing her shirt, her tunic in her bag. He could almost probably feel the wrapping she puts on under her shirt. But nothing can beat that warmth and family feeling that she sort of emitted from her. She had that feel that made her feel like someone you knew for your whole life. A strange comfort.\n\nAs they left the town, the sun had started to set, the sky turning a strong red and a fiery orange. Beautiful sunset. She could go on and on about how much she loved seeing a sunset. She even suspected that she would end up marrying someone under a sunset on the highest peak she can find. She will make this happen if she even ends up finding a man. She doubts she will though. They all either get repelled by her or just.. Leave because they found someone just that more attractive. \n\n\"No no, I'll be up. I always find myself more tired if I sleep earlier. I'll sew up your sword belt and teach you how to use your shield.. But first,\" \n\nShe said, releasing herself from his grasp, dragging him up the tallest sand dune she could find, pointing at the sunset. They stood where the last of the sun's light just covered them in a beautiful orange hue. It was awe inspiring.\n\n\"The sunset is marvelous here is it not? I was thinking we could build our tent on top of this dune. It's quite a bit higher than the others so you could have a good vantage point over the village\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "\"Sounds great! I'll go get my tent quickly.\" He states. He noticed the beautiful sunset but he wants to enjoy it with her. So he sprints down the dune carefully and dissemble his tent as fast as possible. Once he's done, which only takes him a second, he runs back up the dune and reassembles the tent. Great! Now he can enjoy the sunset properly. He missed some of it but catches most of it, sitting down on the highest peak. Since she offered for him to join her, there's no doubt she's next to him, unless she goes to do something. If she isn't next to him, he gestures for her to join him. The brightness of the sky changes constantly as the clouds move in and out of the way of the sun. The plasma ball that sits in space moves slowly, darkening this side of the Earth. Red, orange, yellow, orange, purple, blue, dark blue. Leon has never taken notice of how special this moment actually is. He's seen it multiple times but sharing it with someone is amazing. \"What a world.\" Once its over, he looks at Elowen for a moment. The shining light that brightened up her pale skin has gone away, leaving the moon to do the work. He smiles softly and says \"I hope we get more moments like these. Moments that never get old.\" He stands up and stretches, feeling the rare breeze from the air. \"I hardly got to see and enjoy these sights at my shop. And before that, I used to watch the sunset with my siblings but... I couldn't do that anymore after a while.\" Clearly something he refuses to explain. \"But I'm glad it was with you.\" He pats her shoulder before going to his tent to grab his sword. He exits and starts practicing the moves again. He's improved, but he's still in need of guidance and direction. His moves could be quicker, faster and more defensive. He doesn't realize that fact though. Leon's just being his ignorant self." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "As he sprinted down the hill, she sat herself down on the dune, unbuttoning her shirt. Down a few buttons, but not too much to start revealing her. It wasn't the right time of course. Of course, being a big shirt, her collar bones were quite pronounced, but not too excessive. It surely gave her that fragile look. Little do a lot of people know, she wasn't fragile. She was quite a strong and hardy person, contrary to her race. It would be difficult to believe that someone like her, an Air Macen, could live so long lacking the strength to even carry a log. That may just be the reason why she relied on people to help her on her adventures. She couldn't bring herself to stop staring at the sun. Correction, she couldn't help herself to stop staring at the clouds! The clouds were the best part. Each one was different. They all had stories of their formation and then their eventual demise. It's like people to be honest. They rise and they fall. Sometimes, they lose something, but they most definitely will grow back to their former glory. \n\n\"Yeah me too. Staring at the sunset was something that I loved doing, even as a child. I was lonely as a child. I always used to think that there was a man out there. The man I would end up calling mine. Staring out at the same sun set as I was\"\n\nAs the sun went to sleep, she took out the leather straps, needle, and the cord, starting to make Leon's sword belt. As he looked at the sky, Elowen moved towards him, going in for what seemed and even looks like a hug... But in reality, she actually just was checking for the size. Once that was done, she just started to sew and sew... Straight through the sunset and into the night. She wasn't exactly able to see that well, but the moonlight did help.\n\nShe would sit there, sewing for a while, entranced in her project. What was she thinking about? It was probably really important assuming that she hasn't moved, nor has she looked around like she used to. Little does Leon known, Elowen was thinking about her future as an Investigator. This adventure, albeit being short, was very fun. Going to the desert... Exploring vast bazaars and equally as vast desert lands; full towns and fuller cities. It was something that made adventuring what it was. A getaway from life as it is. It's what made it special for her. Of course, she would shake herself out of her thoughts after a while, practically finishing the belt portion of the sword belt. The hook for the scabbard should be easy, assuming he has one of course. \n\nShe stood up, placing the projects into her bag, chucking that into the tent. It made a nice thud, Elowen pointing inside. She then proclaimed some rules for the two. She didn't want him to be awake for the whole night. It was something she didn't enjoy thinking about. \n\n\"You, Mr Bodyguard, are sleeping tonight. We are a good distance away from the village and nothing will come and get us. We can use each other for warmth, but no creepy things. Too early, nor is it appropriate for this weather. In the morning, I change first then you. Then we can decide where we're going next\"\n\nShe said, with a smile. She honestly didn't want to piss him off with her rules, but it was so she could protect herself. Men are scary after all. If Leon was able to see at night like he could at day, he could obviously see Elowen blushing at his naïve statement. What did he mean, I'm glad it was with you. She was obviously overthinking this. It was unlikely that he has gotten a liking to someone like her so quickly." }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "She tightens the leather around him to find the right proportions. She then goes to sowing. He simply watches as she does her work, following the string patterns and movements. Another skill, another power. Something else you could sell. Of course, someone like him would be thinking about selling at this point. He's a shopkeeper at heart. Once she finishes up, he nods at her saying \"Thanks.\" He can tell that she seems down about something. Maybe stress regarding food and protection? Or for what they'll do next? Maybe it's something more personal. He'll ask her about it if it persists. However, Elowen's next statements aren't the happiest.\n\nHe frowns a bit. It's like a mother telling her child to go to bed. He wanted to train. He wanted to improve. She makes a fair point though, even when not regarding her insecurities. He should probably get some rest even though he can go many nights without it. It'll probably be a long day tomorrow too. Leon waits a moment before answering. \"I'd rather you to be comfortable, Elowen. Sleeping together doesn't seem like the best idea for comfort.\" He sees the poor girl's blush quite well but doesn't know what it's for. Was it something he said? Does she look like this when she's tired? The redhead isn't aware that he's being more blunt than... Romantic. Doesn't make his statement meaningless, but it shows how much he values her. \"I could sleep outside. If it get's too cold then I'll come in. Deal?\" He says. Honestly, that's a lie. He'd stay outside in order to keep his word. Leon is just that type of person. He wishes he just purchased them separate tents. That would have made things a lot easier. He stands up, looking at his new belt as he waits for her answer." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "She thought to herself. The poor boy doesn't even know what he said. She'll have to do something about that then. She buttoned up her shirt again, taking off her sword belt, taking out her sword. Since he wanted to train, she could probably spare a few more hours to train him up. It shouldn't do too much to her right? It was only a light train. She thought to herself for a moment, looking at her halberd... Would it be time to train him with going against that or no... Not a good time. He still needs to learn how to shield first. She drew a line with her sword in the sand, as if she was trying to write her mind out. Of course, this wasn't really what was happening, rather, she was just bored and tired for the most part. \n\n\"Well, since you want to train so much, I suppose I can do a few more hours. There is no point of you sleeping outside of a tent if you have one. If it makes you feel as uncomfortable as it makes me to sleep right next to each other, we can split the tent in two and sleep on two different sides. \n\nShe looked back at him with a smile again. Of course, she honestly didn't care about her own health, rather, she just tried to make sure he didn't get too tired and die when he was with her. It would ruin her since she knew she was the one who was unable to keep him in tip top condition. She herself wishes she had something like a horse and cart. That would make their experience that much more easier, being able to move around in a quicker amount of time... But alas, mistakes happen and they will bite you in the back. Now, she raised her sword to Leon, moving to an open field of desert. A duel! Of course... I don't know if it is in our best interests to battle this out IRP or just time skip it as it would be smart to get another GM to ref this, but I would go for a time skip. \n\n\"We can decide what we do for sleeping after you train. Honestly, training will get me warm and ready for bed so that would be a good idea.\n\nRight? Plus, again, you need this right? It'd prepare you for the future\"" }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Leon smiles back at the girl. But under the smile is a bit of regret. He didn't want the girl to go out her way to do something that he'd rather do. He thought she'd let him sleep outside or come up with some plan to sleep in the tent at the same time, exactly like she just did. Even though the water macen didn't request it himself, she definitely knew from past experience. She's aware of how much he wants to train. Might as well not waste her time. He grabs his sword from the tent and stands up, watching Elowen. \"Sleeping on different sides sounds like a plan.\" He states. They go to the open field to have their sparing and training match.\n\nLeon undoubtedly loses. We all saw that coming, especially he did. But it was a good experience for tactic training and posture importance. They go back to their tents and he find his flask. He sips it as sits down quietly, trying to recall all that she showed him. He then prepares his side for rest. Whenever she enters, he says \"You're too kind to me.\" With a chuckle. \"I really appreciate that though. It's nice to have a friend that'll stay up to around midnight with me just to teach me skills that I could learn another time.\" Leon takes his sweater and uses it as a blanket. He lays down on his side with a soft sigh and yawn. He's finally going down. Eventually, he falls asleep, quiet as a puppy." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "They dueled and dueled until they could no more. Elowen emerged as the victor in this round. It was a long fight. Have it be at both of them not really taking an offensive, or Elowen wasn't trying to beat him. She honestly wasn't. She was trying to give him the best chance he had, allowing him to strike at her. It honestly... Didn't work. Seems like he needed more aggressive instruction. The shield did help him though. He seemed to be using it correctly, though, he might need to use it more creatively. She sighed to herself. This night was fun. Wonder where they will go the next day? She sat outside for a bit, playing in the sand, pondering the words 'I'm glad it was with you.' What did he even mean with that? It's only been 3 weeks and they've been getting so close so quickly. But she still didn't know what he meant by that. Was he glad that it was with her because they were friends or was it because he had some hidden feelings for her. She searched inside of her for something... But the only thing she could feel was guilt. The guilt of knowing that she will lead his feelings on for too long until she gains them herself. She didn't want this to hinder their friendship. Things will happen when they happen. This just happened to happen right now. But, restless Elowen wouldn't sleep for a while... She was just confused. She tried to distract herself... She discreetly went inside of the tent... Grabbing her bag. He said his lines... She nodded to him silently, giving him a smile and thumbs up to send him to bed. She also grabbed his sword belt, quiver, and sword. She needed something to distract herself. She decided that she wanted to work on these for a bit longer. She dropped the items on the ground, sliding down the hill to find a rock... Anything. Of course, after a bit of searching, she would find a rock that was quite flat... Thank the lords. Of course, this was simply because they were near a river. She dragged herself up the dune again, starting on the sheath\n\nIt was a project for her to make perfect. \n\nWith the dyed leather cording, she started to go over all of her original stitching, going much more fine to allow it to last longer. The stitching that is. She would spend a while sewing up those seams to be as perfect as possible... She then moved on to embellishing it. She remembered the intertwined patterns she saw on the Eísauen clothes... Which she has always wanted to buy, but it was simply too expensive for her. Thinking one up, she would just... Sew those in. It was quite a simple design, but it just added that bit of finesse and strength to the two materials. She made sure to add a reinforcement to the spots that she would assume that he'd put his things. Of course, she would allow these to be moved, but they were just an added bonus. It made it more comfortable to wear. She eventually put that down, grabbing his sword, unsheathing it. It has seen a lot of things. Mostly her sword clashing onto it. Her sword may not be sharp, but it was hard and even harder hitting. She got her flask, sprinkling some water on top of the rock to make a wet grinding surface, starting on the sword. It may not be surgically sharp, but by the end, it will be at the very least, shaving sharp. She didn't have anything to shave it on... At least anything she was willing to use it on. Sooo... She just made sure it was extra sharp by... Testing it on some cloth scraps. If it didn't pass her test, she would do it again until it was sharp enough to cut through the cloth by just simply passing on top. It was adequate. She finishes it off with a part of the rock that felt smoother, giving it a nice finish. The finish was something that was important to her. She then moved onto his quiver, fixing the worn out parts with the remaining leather and cordage she had. But alas, this would do very little to bring her out of that mental spiral that was misleading words.\n\nBut it's more fun when a character is misled in comparison to having a character that understands everything right? I think so myself. Her plan was to get herself out of this spiral, and she knew exactly how! \n\nShe grabbed her halberd, which was still laying on the ground, swinging it around, getting herself tuned in with the weapon. She has never really used a weapon like this before, but she suspects she can figure it out if she was left to her own devices. It had four potentially usable spots. The spike on top, the spike on the bottom, the hook, and the concave axe head. She swung it around a few times, getting a feel of how she feels she would use it. She suspects that she can use the hook to pull or even rip parts out of someone if a situation arises. It was a good shape for that, so she assumed that was its purpose. She then just assumed that the spike would be good for using as a spear point, which it probably was. The axe would probably be her least used part... The shaft, even if it was a healthy brown and hard, wouldn't probably be able to last with constant use of the axe part. She would still suspect that it was going to be useful for cutting and cleaving people... Maybe even horse legs! Hmm yes, that was good against cavalry. But if she still had the chance, she would rather use the pointy part of her weapon. She should have honestly just gotten a bill hook or something similar. She would spend a long time outside, swinging, pulling, and poking with the weapon, perfecting her technique on an imaginary target. She would love to have someone to fight right now... As a practice. She obviously needed something to compensate for her lack of height. But that's what guys found nice right? A shorter, younger girl who was easier to handle when they do things. Those things may include practice!\n\nOf course, after a few hours, it was already almost two or even three in the morning, Elowen finally going inside. She took off her outer layers, falling into the same clothes she went into the river with. They should really get a horse and cart... That would be an amazing idea! She laid down on her side, looking at her friend, looking away a moment after. It was creepy to watch someone sleep... Time for her to doze off. \n\nIn the morning, he would find himself being the first up, Elowen sleeping in her undergarments, covered by practically nothing. She didn't like sleeping with clothes or even sleeping while warm. She loves sleeping in the cold. He would also find his sword, quiver, and sword belt right next to him. Any broken or worn out parts were repaired or even just replaced. She was a really nice person. She even sharpened his sword for him! She was really a nice girl, even naive sometimes. But, she only really does this because she didn't want to lose her only real friend. She was quite pretty asleep. He could see all her features properly while she was sleeping. They were very nice and proportional. He could see how lean she was, which wasn't really given any attention to by what she wore. She seemed to wear really baggy clothing assuming how small she was underneath. She was also miraculously clean and lacking the dirt that she would most likely have from her adventures. Her skin was smooth and free from any markings, being completely pale and luscious. Her hair was long, reaching almost to her waist. She has done an impressive job at keeping it in the bun she always does. When she had her hair down, it always seemed to flow behind her, somewhat like a waterfall in the wind. It was like silk in his hands, assuming he touched it. It had this rich scarlet colour to it, something similar to the red you'd find on a noble's fancy gown. It was well taken cared of, being silky smooth and straight.\n\nIt didn't have any curls or anything. Just pristine, beautiful, scarlet hair. Her clothes honestly didn't do her any justice. She shouldn't be worried about something like adventuring and keeping the peace when she could be out there, being an ordinary girl with an ordinary man. But, she didn't choose this life, rather, she was destined for it. Simple as that." }, { "author": "designatedferret1552", "message": "```The Next Morning```" }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Leon rises from slumber.\n\nHis eyes take a moment to adjust to the tent that surrounds him. That's the longest rest he's gotten in quite a while! Around 7 hours or less. He usually sleeps for 5 hours because it's simply more comfortable that way. Less likely to be attacked by a random stranger be it in his house or in these wild deserts. He's also used to waking up a few times during the night time. It's a mental clock that's set to alert him: \"It's time to check on your friend and possessions.\" Leon rubs his eyes with a soft yawn. His hand slides to his hair as he looks around. He sees his redhead friend asleep peacefully and half naked. Pretty girl. He takes notice of her curvy body and long hair. But only for a moment. As said, it's creepy to watch someone sleep. As he continues to look around the room, his eyes fall upon his repaired items. He's somewhat perplexed as he sees no damaged parts on his quiver and his updated sword belt. He hasn't even gotten a chance to wear it! And his sword is sharpened, which is weird since the only fight he's been is was with her the night before. Surely the sword would be okay. He looks at her then back to the items. Strange...\n\nHe exits the beige tent, experiencing the rare morning breeze. It was probably one of the last breezes of the morning until night time falls again. He stands up tall and stretches his 7 hour-rested body. The village in the distance seem to be arising from slumber as well. The two should probably go over there today and buy some food before taking off again. After the man is done stretching, he sits down and ponders over some things privately. One thing is that he should probably visit his family. When he left them, he had around 1000 silver, promising to bring back riches and maybe even fame. He sighs and puts his hands to his face, knowing that they'd make many assumptions once they see Elowen with him. They're a loving family that truly cares for him, but the thing is, they have no limits when it comes to what questions they asks. No limits.\nThis makes him chuckle a little. The amount of embarrassment he'd face, even after hypothetically telling them from the very start that 'We're just friends', would be incredible. He thinks on how he should approach them. Maybe he'll wait another year to sell enchanted items and earn some serious cash. Then he could visit them quickly and privately... 'No, no. That'd be selfish.' He says to himself. Elowen has done too much for him for him to leave her for a mere moment. Even if she hasn't done what she did, he'd rather stay with her for as long as he could. She's the closest friend he's ever had. That's probably why he can make statements like \"I'm glad it was with you.\" So easily and without reconsideration of his words. It's because he's truthful and naive. I mean, in all honesty, he'd rather spend that moment with her than his siblings or acquaintances.\n\nBut hold up. *Elowen has done too much for him for him to leave her for a mere moment.* That's true, isn't it? The redhead has gotten him figuratively locked in this box of compensation. At this point, is this really because of their friendship or because he let her into his home so easily? He turns around and looks back at the tent. To his polished items. Why would she take the time to repair something that honestly didn't need repairing. I mean, now that he knows that she can sow, he'd ask her to fix his quiver if he wanted to. But along with that, his sword has been sharpened, a skill that he actually has and could've utilized. Then his belt was resigned slightly. At this point, it's odd. It isn't friendship now but more so \"Serving\". He doesn't like that idea. The thought of her serving him every few moments. So he decides to confront her about it.\n\nWhenever the girl arises from her slumber, he allows her to get dressed first as she stated the previous night. If she says something like \"Good morning.\" His response isn't the most enthusiastic. He does however, dignify her with a simple \"Morning, love.\" Once she's done, he walks in and waits for her to exit to get dressed. He changes his clothing and exits the tent after a little while. \"Elowen.\" He calls for her. His voice isn't the optimistic, fun and calming voice he usually has. It's a lot more... Serious and dark. He steps in front of the girl and softy puts his hands on her shoulders \"These past 3... We'll now 4 weeks have been awesome. I met a great person that became my best friend.\" He states with a light smile. \"But lately, I feel like your actions towards me have been a bit... Extreme for lack of a better word. Now don't get me wrong. I truly appreciate everything you've done. Really, I do. But you know... Repairing my items... Buying me things all the time... Even sparring with me for hours last night. I didn't realize I was taking advantage of you. I shouldn't be selfish like that, I know. I won't be in the future. But...\" He pauses for a moment. \"Tell me why you're being so generous, so altruistic.\" He wanted to say 'If you want money or something, just ask.' But that'd sound like he's assuming. Which he is." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "Elowen would take a while to awaken from her slumber. She practically slept like a child, straight through sunrise and almost to noon. This was probably one of the better and more pure rests she has experienced, having been awake for a while. She even had a dream. I know, that was something that we take for granted today as modern humans, but they lacked the time or even safety to sleep even for the hour and thirty to get yourself into REM sleep. Lucky Elowen, getting that kind of sleep with the ease she did. Her dream was a simple, yet difficult to reach concept. I won't spoil her dream, but it was massive. Like honestly massive. She might tell him, we don't know. But he was left to his devices for a while, Elowen just sleeping like a child as he sat in the wind, pondering his thoughts. She herself might even be thinking to herself, 'are we really friends?' All she has done to him was work in servitude... But isn't that how friends work? They work for each other sometimes? She doesn't even know how friends work, not having any in her life. Like I said before, she has been rather lonely as a child, ostracized in her community for being in a family with an ancestry of dark magics and dealings with the devil. She herself knew that there was no devil. She didn't believe in these Devils or God. They were just a cowardly creation of man to explain things that happen. But back to the topic, she felt that she hasn't been doing enough for her friend to work in comfort. It has only really been 3 weeks, but she felt that she herself was still not exactly worth it to keep around. She tried to make that something untrue by practically working for Leon, but she saw that as necessary when it came to keeping the friendship. She'd really need to be taught how to be a friend, not a servant. But, it stemmed from her insecurities as a person. She wasn't like a generic insecure person, dragging another person down to her level, or copying them.\n\nShe simply just didn't see herself as a worthy person for just about anything. \n\nShe awoke from her slumber, sitting down on the floor, rubbing her temples. Her awakening was sudden and rather aggressive. It was as if she had just died in her dream as abruptly as she had woken up. She looked around, searching her friend, just seeing his shadow outside. She rubbed her face, specifically her forehead, which seemed to be the place she always rubs when she wakes up. Strange, but okay. She stood up, dressing herself up. This time, she didn't even try to put on her ascot, she just simply put on her baggy shirt and wool breeches. Of course, her boots come on last. Putting on breeches after you put your boots on is quite a difficult thing. Kinda like putting on jeans after you put your runners on. Something you tend to not do. She took the time to actually make sure all of her clothes were on properly. If he was actually interested in her, like she suspected in her sleep, he would really enjoy her wearing her clothes properly. She pulled her trousers up so it reaches her waist, comfortably sitting there, her shirt being tucked in and well... Let to hang as it was designed to. Her breeches were tied so they had that characteristic look. She looks a bit different with what she decided to do with her clothing, but she did look just that bit more formal, which honestly didn't matter. To her, it did matter. Practically everything about her person mattered to her. How she spoke, how she looked, how she even treated others. If she couldn't get others to accept her, how would she even get to accept herself. Ahh, the minds of the insecure are truly a strange thing. As she got herself into her clothes, which wouldn't take too long as she only had a few layers to put on, she thought in her head. Have I been a good enough friend? It's a thought that would stay with her for a bit as she did what she did every morning.\n\nIt would practically resonate in her head as she answered with almost a No every time. She didn't see herself as good enough yet. \n\nShe didn't tie her hair today since she always ties her hair, leaving the tent with a wave and... Her generic morning greeting she always does. Always as cheerful as she always has been, which according to this text has always been a sort of mask to cover how gloomy her life has really been. She seemed decent at hiding that since Leon hasn't been poking and prodding at her strange actions until now. His greeting in the morning honestly scared her. His dark, cold reply stabbed her like a knife. What happened? Did he not like her work? Did she break something? Hundreds of thoughts would run through her mind, Leon approaching like that inexorable storm of truth. Her mind would go back to those 7 words. 'Have I been a good enough friend?' She would answer with no again. Her face was printed with confusion, Elowen pondering to herself about what she was thinking to herself about. Leon planted his hands on her shoulders, Elowen being abruptly pulled back into reality as she looked back up at him like the meek girl she truly was. He started to talk about... The things she was truly scared of. Their Friendship. He felt as if she had just been serving him because she had something she owed him or... Wanted. This was massively far from the truth. She never wanted anything and she didn't think she had anything she owed to Leon. She felt as if she had been pushing this 'be a good friend' too much and became someone that was more like a servant who had to serve rather than a friend who didn't even need to stay with the person. When he asked her why she acted like she did, she almost broke inside.\n\nHer voice wasn't the clear, calm voice it used to be when she started, rather, it was weak, full of uncertainty, and of course.. That random hick that came up sometimes. \n\n\"I'm sorry Leon. I-I just... I didn't know how to be a good enough friend. I never had friends\"\n\nShe said, almost collapsing in tears. It would take a bit to calm her down innit? Her voice didn't make the situation better. He should be sure that she wasn't the strong person he probably thought she was, rather, she was someone who needed support mentally, but wasn't able to ask because of her inherent shyness from the topic." }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Leon looks into the girl's pretty purple eyes with pity. At least it isn't as bad as he though. She simply wants to be a good friend to him. Is she as inexperienced in friendship as he is? That's pretty funny when you think about it. Fortunately, he can tell when someone is being extra kind and when they're not. The man has siblings that'd do that all the time when he was growing up at home. When they wanted something from him or when they were in a really good mood, they would do a random gratuitous act of kindness. Finishing his chores, helping him prepare supper for whenever it was his night to do so, assisting him with his various different lessons, etc. As Leon and Elowen's relationship grew this past month, he started to notice the small things she'd do for him grow into bigger things.\n\nThe young macen sees that she's emotional at this moment. Probably not the best morning for her. It seems that she's about to cry or she's ashamed. Either way, he quickly pulls her in for a hug. He pats her back and says \"I understand. The only \"Friends\" I've had were my brother and sister.\" He embraces her, holding her tightly but not too tight. \"You don't have to fix my things or even agree with everything I want just to be my friend. Just being yourself is perfect.\" He states. After an appropriate amount of time, he somewhat releases her and holds her by her arms, looking down at the girl. \"Let's go get something to eat.\" He smiles and lets go of the girl and grabs his items from the tent. He takes the tent down whenever she grabs her things and wraps it up so he can hold it in one arm. His things go into his quiver and pockets and he starts walking to the village again. \"I was thinking we could travel to Rakmurse then Okiangupi. Does that sound like something you'd like to do?\"" }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "She placed her head on his chest when he came in for the hug. She nodded to him when he said what he said. She'll try to do what she can to do what he asked. Though, she wasn't sure if she was able to do so. It was almost a heart warming sight. Leon was hugging Elowen, who had her face planted on his chest, the wind picking up and her silky smooth scarlet hair waved in the wind like the banner of an empire who won a war. A good sign. Elowen was growing as a better person with the help of Leon. He has really done a lot for her hasn't he? Helped her live, be comfortable... He even seemed to enjoy her company. It made her feel this wave of happiness and relief when he gave her the pat. It's like his hand just injected relief into her. Strange choice for words, but that's honestly how she felt. She could get used to this honestly, and it wouldn't even be that bad to get used to something like this. It was comfortable yes, but being friends, they are supposed to be able to comfort each other.. Right? \n\nShe smiled at him, wiping her tears away. He held her hands/arms, Elowen helping him pull down the tent. Instead of just... Taking it from him. Don't get me wrong, she hesitated before she tried to help him. She wanted to do it herself. Pamper her friend if that's something you'd like to call it. She offered to carry the tent, but of course, he might have just rejected that offer. She checked her bag, making sure everything was in there. She decided that she might as well kit up for her travel. She put her tunic on, tightening the belt up to an appropriate amount to fit her sides, but still give her that comfort. She wasn't that big so it was quite easy to do so. She tucked up the belt underneath itself, sheathing her sword, grabbing her Halberd. Her smile seemed to glow much more radiant after the situation. Is it because she looked so sad before or was it because she changed? We can't know for certain.\n\n\"I'd love to do that. You know me. I'm an adventurer at heart\" \n\n\n```4 Weeks Later. 700 Miles Travelled to Rakmurse```\n\nIt was almost noon, the two having travelled so far in so little time. The \"Great City\" As the     Dezebis call it. A great city built with thousands of years of hardship, the great walls stretching as far as the eyes can see. The city was sprawling with people, thousands even. She found herself entranced by the smells and the sights of the city. It was truly marvelous, of course, matching its name. There were stalls out, people selling their wares and merchandise. Even the occasional fire macen would find themselves here. Hundreds of people would find themselves on the streets, searching for the item they wanted for their collection, probably finding it in the lines of stores and stalls. You would barely believe it wasn't even a festival! Just a normal day in what most would call the most Lively City of them all. Elowen relied solely on pointing and hand gestures to communicate with people, not being as proficient as she wanted to talk to people. 4 weeks wasn't enough to have a full grasp on the language, but everyone was able to speak the universal language of pointing. \n\n\"Ahhh the Great City. I've read so much about it\"\n\nShe said, practically hopping around, turning to Leon again. She was much more lively and free than a few weeks ago, but it was obvious that she was still trying to change herself. She hasn't been serving him as much, but she still has done some things that she didn't need to. She sometimes sharpens his sword when she was unable to sleep, but that wasn't too bad. Now, she laughs with him like a friend instead of a servant. She has grown a lot. Now has Leon? During those 4 weeks, he should have grown just a bit? How would he have grown?" } ]

[ { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu stood at the edge of of a cliff overlooking a valley. His eyes scanning the horizon. He pulled a notebook from his pocket and began to write. He took notes on the way the land changed, the colors it showed in the evening light. He also sketched out the curves of the land, trying to capture only a fraction of the lands beauty.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "It's better, but just try to be a little more literate, k?" }, { "author": "Isabella", "message": "*The harpy circled the forest, taking in the beautiful colours of the trees, the long stretches of plains containing the occasional grazing animal. She glided over streams and meadows. The land was beautiful, Isabella loved it. She stopped as she reached a cliff, settling down on the edge and looking out over the land. She sat down, wings folded in close to her waist, and took a deep breath of the cool air. She let of a deep sigh, and sat like that, silently appreciating the highland stretched out before her. She heard something in the background, a small scratching noise. If it was a rodent, or other small creature, she would have a nice snack when she got back to her den. She searched the jagged edge of the cliff, and saw something in the distance, sitting on the edge also. She spread her wings and flew low to the ground, to see who, or what the mystery creature was. It seemed to be a man of some sort. So no to the snack, Isabella thought with some disappointment. She skidded to a halt right before the man.* \"Sorry to interrupt... But who are you? I haven't seen you before.\" *Isabella folded her wings at her waist once again. She wondered if the man had food. She was hungry.*" }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu jumped at the sound of her voice. He didn't hear her approach and had thought he was alone up here in the hills. He turned to the small figure that was the harpy and smiled.* \"Hello, my name is Enu Mattithiah. What is yours?\" *He held is notebook in his hand, already making a detailed sketch of here. He had never met a harpy before. A he knew were legends and tales of them. The winds blew against his face as he knelt down to talk to her. His eyes were wide with curiosity and wonder, he saw this as another chance to learn and wasn't going to pass it up.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi had returned to Irunia to settle something with her old dad. As much as she could. It gnawed at her insides, the fact that it had been years and she never gave her father the respect that he deserved upon his death. So that's what she did. Hitoshi had thanked her lucky stars that they believed \"The Salamander\" Long dead, or gone. Which in a way, he is. Both physically and mentally.\n\nAs Hitoshi kneeled beside her old father's grave, swallowed up by her own guilt, her immense, overpowering guilt, the voices that always haunted the back of Hitoshi's mind came back. They told her things. Things she didn't like.*\n\n*\"Why didn't you save Arthur from this? You are disgusting. This predicament you found yourself in is pitiful compared to what you deserve. You evil, evil bastard.\"*\n\n*She heard it in her father's voice. It's what he would've said. Hitoshi wouldn't even be able to pretend it's not. Even as she paid respects to her mother, that voice wouldn't shut up. It followed her.\n\nMerciless. Judging. Unforgiving. Just as she deserved.\n\n*Hitoshi is now sitting at a spot next to the fountain, a haunted look in her eyes. Her mind is in a horrible spot. Zed was right. She's evil. She can't pretend otherwise. She didn't even bother trying to stop him. She (he?) just sat next to a tree. Hearing that wretched screaming, the crying, the burning smell...*\n\n*Hitoshi had tried forgiving herself before. But she can't. No amount of repentance will ever pay back what she's done.*\n\n**She shakes her head. \"Come on, snap out of it, people are staring. You're hungry, right? No? Get something anyway, you haven't eaten anything in a while. Something cheap. You had to flaunt your membership to actually get on that boat.\"*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "**Cough** \"Ah, fuck...\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi instinctively talks Silnari Standard these days. The Irunian accent is still there, but it's losing its strength. She pronounces most words right these days, and can string together longer sentences. She has that much to be proud of.*" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "*Ralki walks down the market, wondering how she got here. Was this for selling pottery? Perhaps it was but despite that there was a familiar scent in the air... Is that Hitoshi? Ralki has participated in a quest with him once and never met him again, maybe it's time to see him again! She follows the scent of Hitoshi until she finds... Her? Bah whatever, I know I don't have the greatest memory. Ralki walks up to the girl and waves and then greets herself* \"Hello there Hitoshi! I haven't seen you since that quest we've been on together!\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "**Ow-** Hi, uhh... I want to say \"Riley\"?\n\n\"No, that sounds wrong...\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Ah, God, her legs. Cramp. Been sitting for longer than she thought.*" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras stood and walked towards the cart, his head turning to observe what seemed to be a reunion between old friends, wondering how wholesome and happy they must of been, a smile appearing on his unseen face, putting about 5 gold onto the window of the cart.* \n\n\"**I would like a beer good ma'am, and i want the rest of the money to pay for every other person who wants to buy a drink, I'm in a generous mood.**\" \n\n*Zeras would take his cup and sit back down, a strange cloaked figure hunched over a nursing a beer, looking very suspicious as a blue hand with black nails held the bottom of his cup.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "**HOLY SHIT, 5 GOLD!?**\n\n*Hitoshi voices that opinion very quickly, with her now much more feminine, \"Cutesy\" Voice. Goddamn, it sounds horrible.*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Whoa, 5 gold for some beer!? Holy shit!\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"She's also paying for whoever wants it, which is quite nice... Though the beer certainly leaves much to be desired... As I can smell from here.\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"**FIVE. GOLD.** That's enough money to pay rent for years!\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*The cloaked figure removes his hood, a young looking male dark elf under the hood revealed, a soft smile on his face, his ash grey hair tied back into a very messy ponytail.* \n\n\"**The Market is busy, and I have seen much of the evil of this world on the way here, I felt inclined to give back for once, lest I feel like the world fall apart.**\" \n\n*The Mans voice didn't match his young face, it was deep, warm, and hearty, as if it was a old kind grandpa, he spoke slowly and deliberately.*" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"I mean some people like to splurge, I wouldn't do it but some people who don't care about money would\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "\"**Hopefully, It does pay that ones rent for years.**\"\n\n*With that the elf gave a hearty laugh, taking a large gulp of bear.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi takes about 10 solid seconds to even comprehend the thought of randomly giving that much money away to... Charity? Kinda?\n\nAs someone who could charitably be called a bit frugal in regards to daily life (ignoring her high quality gear), she would never dream of paying someone that much! Ever! Even Mevis or Arthur would be expected to pay it back! Maybe without interest. Maybe.\n\nHitoshi shrugs. May as well get the best out of it. She buys a beer and some udon noodles for herself. Just because it's free. Free is good. Even if it tastes bad. It's free. Free food and drink.*\n\n*The beer is predictably bad. And the noodles are bland. But good old Shetoshi doesn't really mind. The noodles were tolerable enough. And it's nice to eat something she remembers from her childhood. Salvanian cuisine is nice but it doesn't compare to Irunia's food.*" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "*Ralki already has her meal gotten, she starts to eat and drink. She comments* \"The beer is disgusting but the noodles are pretty nice, not many would taste its hidden flavours though...\" *She keeps eating irregardless as she's quite hungry.*" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*The elf, obviously a lightweight is already slightly tipsy, laughing at the smaller macens statement* \n\n\"**To drink alcohol for flavor, truly these foreign lands hold culture eluding my sensibilities.**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Oh yeah, Salvanians just want to get drunk...\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Yeah! I can barely get drunk anyways!\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi is a bit of lightweight, especially since she had **The incident,** But one watered down beer wouldn't affect her to badly. Just a tad tipsy.*" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Once again, the talking from the two of them drew some hearty laughter straight from the dark elf's belly, they were almost dying from laughter over seemingly nothing*\n\n\"**I am no Salvanian, I ought to be offended at such a heinous accusation, if it were only the strangest thing I had heard all week.**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"No? Where you from, then?\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "\"**From the only other place where people have blue skin, Lymia.**\" \n\n*All of the dark elf's speech was accompanied by a giggle, his head was practically a bobble head.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi rolls her eyes.\n\n\"...Yeah, duh, why did that never come to mind?\"\n\nHitoshi almost instinctively assumes everyone is from there now. It's not really intentional, she just does it. Maybe she's acclimating more than she thinks.\n\nHitoshi's tail begins to slowly wag, bobbing back and forth rhythmically. It's nice to meet new people. Sometimes.*\n\n*Her ears constantly tilted to and fro, a little erratically for a Kitsune, as Hitoshi inadvertently listens to everything around her. All of the commotion, Hitoshi would often accidentally find herself eavesdropping in. Assuming no loud noises gave her a massive headache.*\n\n*Oh no. She looks toward a tavern, hearing something... Not very child friendly to say the least. She quickly allows her ears to block it out.*" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Yawn, so how have y'all been? I haven't met you, silnari. What's your name?\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras despite his slight tipsiness picks up on the strange behaviour of Hitoshi, a frown appearing on his face* \n\n\"**Are you well friend? Does something trouble you?**\"\n\n*Zeras halfway through his questioning turns to the macen a smile appearing on his face again.*\n\n\"**My name Is Zeras Tassadar, and these days, we often go by Lymians, times are changing it seems, what are your names?**\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"The names Ralki Golden, aspiring adventurer and master artisan. This is Hitoshi, he's... I mean she's a ninja if I recall correctly... Then again I remembered her being a guy...\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras scratches his face at the closing words of the sentence, a confused look on his face as he turns to Hitoshi.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi's eyes widen when Ralki says that and her complexion turns beet red.*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"What!? No! I, uhh... Umm...\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Normally Hitoshi is a decent liar. But that... That caught her off guard.*" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras finishes off his beer, standing up to go and get more, but not before whispering under his breathe, having already assumed there was some strange truth to what Ralki was saying from Hitoshi's reaction.* \n\n\"**The world is truly more strange and expansive then I could of imagined.**\"" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "*Ralki just smiles with confusion emanating from her eyes... Soooo, Ralki's memory wasn't wrong and now she has no idea what's going on...*" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Uhhh, this confuses me... When I smelt you it was undeniably you, which it is... But now you're a girl... But I remember you being a guy...\"\n\n\"I kind of just assumed my memory was wrong...\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Well there isn't much weaselling out of it, is there? I mean... Hitoshi is a **Male name.***" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "*Ralki wouldn't know that*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Yeah but arguing about that would still make Hitoshi look like an idiot to nearby natives and she can't be bothered with that kind of attention*" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras would arrive back, sitting once again at the edge of the fountain as he watched the two of them caught in the awkward yet humorous situation, sipping a new tankard of beer.*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"I think... Look, it's not important. Not important.\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Goddamn it, Hatsy Patsy, can't even think up a proper lie now.*" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Wait a minute, genderswap potions exist right, so you've been saving up money for something like that. I hadn't known you've wanted to become a girl!\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras while finding the situation amusing, considered the anxiety caused by being caught in a corner, and whether or not he would want to be in that situation, not wanting to make it any more awkward for Hitoshi, he interrupted and changed the topic.*\n\n\"**Uhh, do either of you come from these lands? Truly I have yet to meet a native, this market is full of, tourists, dignitaries and merchants from affar.**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"**That's not what happ-** Yeah, I'm native. Why?\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "\"**Few nations I have seen hold more foreigners than natives, but that is just because I have not reached the city. The Oni elite have made it, rather difficult to gain entry into the capital, I'm not sure if it is elitism or fear, though it surely is a new experience for me.**\"\n\n*Zeras swirls his beer around before taking a gulp.*\n\n\"**Either way, I have seen few Natives, you are the first young Hitoshi.**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Yeah, the Blue Oni country has no Blue Oni in it. They're all the higher ups. I couldn't tell you why they don't let foreign people in.\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Hmm, I think I'm losing my taste... I can't taste this horrible beer anymore... Higher ups Blue Oni?\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "\"**The Blue Oni run this country, yet they are not its foremost ethnic group, they seem to hold power that lies not within numbers or masses, but something else, and they leverage it to some extent, entrance to the capital is... Limited.**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Yeah, that. Same goes for us Kitsune. Come to think of it, what places do we have... Besides Keguntan, but that doesn't... Feel like home to me. Feel like an outsider there.\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "\"**I have heard that the itchsunian beastkin have built a land for all of your ilk, and although it is not for the kitsune, it is welcoming, I have also heard it wars with the tribes regularly, and those lands are full of blood shed and violence, truth be told, I know not the truth, I have not been there**.\"\n\n\"**Where do you hail from, young Ralki?**\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "~~magic8ball must sl33p now, 'tis way too fuckin late, just assume Hitoshi is doing the listen~~" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Pachiuasa, specifically uptopla! I lived in this village that's so small that I don't think many people know about it.\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "\"**Heh, truly a quaint and humble beginning, and now you are a great adventurer! And master artisan at that, who says all talent lies in big cities, bless your skills Ralki, may you live long and well.**\"\n\n*Zeras raises his cup in the air, a toast.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Why of course I am that great, I'd be surprised for no one to recognize it!\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi gives a half-hearted toast with her mostly-drank beer mug, just to be polite. She puts her cup and her bowl back on the stall, and... Just kinda exists for a bit, watching the people go by, but more importantly, listening into the various sounds one could hear in this bustling city when your hearing is as refined as hers. ~~900% hearing increase is gr8~~\n\nShe can hear Zeras' and Ralki's heartbeat... Especially now that Ralki's ego is being raised even higher that it already is, which caused it to speed up a little. She can hear the soft clinking of someone ruffling through pockets for money. Whether it's a pickpocket or just someone buying produce from a store, Hitoshi can't quite tell, although judging by the lack of supporting speech she assumes the former. The brutal training she had instilled on herself has definitely paid off.*\n\n*Back to the current situation. Hitoshi chuckles a little at the display between Zeras and Ralki, and adjusts her ponytail a little more. Hitoshi would've never worn a ponytail, or even had long hair back before **I t** Happened, but considering it actually looks quite nice on her... May as well try to look at least somewhat presentable, right?\n\nYeah, Ralki... What's she been doing since that... Thing?*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"So, uhh... What have you been up to, Ralki?\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Hmm... I don't think I've been adventuring much since, sadly. But I have learnt some new spells! And can cast 2 at a time, *That was so difficult*\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Wow... Nice job! Still can't do that myself...\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras gleams at Ralki's announcement, he himself enjoying the study of the arcane all of a sudden sitting very straight and looking attentive*\n\n\"**Ralki that seems like quite the achievement, how does one learn to cast two spells at once? It could be a great skill to learn, in my travels.**\"\n\n*Zeras would then turn to Hitoshi, cup outwards a warm smile on his face* \n\n\"**Young Hitoshi, how have you met such an esteemed and talented individual such as Ralki? Despite my relative older age, they seem to have mastered their craft in a quarter of the time I have walked the soil, truly they are a beacon of worldly talent.**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"We killed some golems once. Haven't seen her since...\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Mhmm, that was it. We don't really know each other that much, I just smelled her and I decided to greet her again... She is definitely a great ninja, super sneaky but I bet I could detect her still!\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Well, I still have a while to go.\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "\"**Why must one be killing golems? Strange occurrence to find each other in if all is considered, and you are a... Ninja?**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"They were harassing some... Workers somewhere. I can't remember. And... Uhh, yeah?\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Yeah she's a ninja... If I remember correctly you had a katana, right? Where is that thing anyways? The golems were really annoying with those shields...\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"It was a piece of shit. Worthless.\"\n\n\"Yeah, shields are annoying.\"\n\n*Hitoshi smirks.*\n\n\"Unless you don't fight them head on.\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"It's hard to do that when your burrowing makes that loud ringing noise, y'know! There was no way I was going to sneak up on them either!\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Then stop doing that.\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi smirks again, obviously joking with her statement.*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"And start hiring people like me. Everyone underestimates the likes of me until they're already dead.\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"But... They wouldn't notice you until they're dead...\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras's face becomes neutral once the mention of killing is made, clicking his tongue between his teeth* \n\n\"**Violence is often a solution best saved till last in my experience, can't prove that you were underestimated to the corpse.**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"True. I say that because that's my specialty, but if I can avoid it, that's better. And as for not noticing me... Well, I've done my job right then, haven't I?\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras rubs his fingers together in some kind of nervous tick* \n\n\"**A profession that involves killing and sneaking, you must be quite skilled Hitoshi, and quite dangerous.**\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Yeah... I've been trying to branch out. I... I don't want to live that life. It's something I'm good at, but...\"\n\n*She pauses, scratching the back of her wrapped hands.*\n\n\"I don't want to work a job like that forever.\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"I see I see... It's kind of like me and ceramics... I don't like doing it very much so now I'm working towards being an adventurer at new sunlight.\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras gives a small smile, before reaching out and putting a gentle hand on each of the two peoples shoulders, their varying heights making Zeras have to lean and hunch over at an incredibley awkward angle* \n\n\"**Whatever it is you do, as long as your heart is at peace with it, the only person who can judge you is yourself, the world needs those who wield a blade just as much as it needs those who wield... Ceramics, we all have a our place, and if you are happy with that place, only you can deem your own worth.**\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi looks to the side. Then she looks at Zeras again. Although she thinks it's a little naive of Zeras to say that, in spite of his advanced years, it's nice to hear all the same. She has the tiniest little smile for a small amount of time. She lets out a sigh. She couldn't agree with Zeras less. While you can certainly judge yourself, you can also be judged very well by the people around you, Hitoshi thinks. And sometimes, those people are right. Sometimes, you have to listen to those voices. They have a point every now and then.*\n\n*Yeah, branch out... Cooking's nice. Maybe she could take up cooking as a job. Or painting. It wouldn't pay much, of course. But it's something she enjoys, and it's something she's good at. She never showed Mevis that one picture she made by her lonesome, did she? When she looked at it, it still... Did something to her. Gave her some hope. It was of her father. And it was just a drawing of Senichi duelling some strange black figure. But since the drawing was of Senichi wearing his armour, his face was obscured. It was just a Kitsune fighting some evil beast, but... It gave her hope, hope that there was good in this world, that she can pay back for her mistakes somehow. That she could be that warrior. But that's ridiculous. Like Zed said, she can't outrun her inner evil forever.*\n\n*Hitoshi sighs. She'll need to get back to Salvania soon. Probably early tomorrow... She has work to do back at home.\n\nHeh. \"Home\".*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Ugh. What time is it?\"" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Aboot midday ain't it? Why do you ask all of the sudden?\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Just need to know. Wondering when to leave again. Came back to do what I needed to do...\"\n\n\"And now I'm done. So I don't have anything else to do.\"\n\n*Sigh.* \"Sorry. Oh Gods, I've been so rude, haven't I...\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi isn't in the best state of mind. She hates being in Irunia, she hated having to meet Zed, she hated the... **Other** Events.. Hitoshi really isn't in a good mood, and Mevis probably isn't particularly happy with her either. So yeah. Bad mood.*" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "*Ralki would notice this but would know that she wasn't involved in anyway whatsoever... So what could she do to cheer her up. The best she could do is be her regular self, she guesses. Is there another way? Maybe but Ralki isn't the one to think or dwell on things for too long.*" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Don't worry don't worry! Hey, I heard there was a good shaved ice store here from a customer when selling my pottery! We should check it out!\"" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Uhh... Yeah, sure..\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Shaved ice is nice. May as well enjoy what little positives Irunia has to offer.*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Hey, Zeras. You coming?\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras stands a little wobbly from the drink, he puts his thumbs up still the same*\n\n\"**That sounds good to me, it would be a good opportunity to see more of the city.**\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"Let's go! I heard they have good flavoring magic!\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "\"**Truly, flavour magic is the ultimate end goal of all arcane studies.**\" \n*Zeras gives another load and hearty laugh, trailing behind the two of them, slow and dazed, the alcohol making his walk shaky and unstable.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi winces as she notices (and hears) the man stumbling like an idiot, and promptly walks towards him, attempting to prop him up on her shoulders.*" }, { "author": "Hitoshi Hisikawa, the Salamander", "message": "\"Okay, let's not... Get hurt too badly today, heh?\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras simply laughs off the concern of Hitoshi, accepting the friendly shoulder and using her to stand straight, before walking onwards* \n\n\"**Don't worry friend! I have mastered the art of walking in zigzags, I'm an expert, heh.**\" \n\n*With that, Zeras trips, almost pulling Hitoshi down with him before using her to catch himself, stopping for a second before continuing on as if nothing happened*" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "*They have arrived at the stall, Ralki purchased one for a couple silver. The person creates shaved ice and then their hand glows blue, turning the shaved ice blue... It tastes like raspberry.*" }, { "author": "Ralki", "message": "\"It's really good!\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*May as well try some too, eh?\n\nHitoshi gets some shaved ice for herself and tries a small bite. It's... Really nice. A bit sickly sweet, but otherwise nice enough.\n\nHitoshi takes a good while actually eating it, as she just idly glances and listens to everything going by. Bearing in mind to keep an eye on the lightweight, too. Even Hitoshi, who is a lightweight herself, finds his utter incapacity to imbibe any degree of alcohol a little amusing. Unlike Ralki, with her extroversion, Hitoshi just silently enjoys hers, never really having been the sort to audibly enjoy food. Nah, Hitoshi keeps it to herself. There's still things bouncing about in Hitoshi's head, mostly regarding getting back to Salvania in decent time, but she could finally relax knowing that her suspicions regarding being caught are really minor. After all, not only was the Salamander **Male,** He's... Well, it's been 6, 7 months since he did anything.\n\nWhich brings Hitoshi to wanting to talk about someone else.*\n\n\"Hey, Ralki. Can I count on you to help me and Mevis take down Arthur Dax?\"\n\n\"You remember him, right? The black haired Kitsune... I, he's gone too far, you know?\"" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "Ralki-\"Yeah I've seen him before, he talked to me about counterfeiting money. I've only met Mevis once, seemed a little unsure about himself... I'll do it.\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi may be getting **Better** At Silnari Standard but she's still at a literacy level somewhat lower than a native..*\n\n\"That's the thing where you... You fake money... Right? Why would he do that? Besides... Wanting money.\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras looks between the two of them with genuine curiosity, an eyebrow raised as his head swings back and forth* \n\n\"**This Arthur sounds like a real character, I cannot believe my luck to travel a quarter way across the world to only hear of such, unsavoury fellows, instead of meeting any.**\" \n\n*Zeras drops a silver for one shaved ice, biting into it as if it was nothing, taking a moment to pause and taste the flavour* \n\n\"**Not bad.**\"" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "*Ralki just shrugs, she doesn't know Arthur too well as he was trying his best to conceal himself while she was talking to him. She has met both Hitoshi and Mevis, they were dependable comrades so she should help them as much as possible.* \"Sometimes the mind is as alien as it is logical.\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "\"Mm. Thanks, Ralki.\"\n\n*Hitoshi looks up at Ralki, eyes filled with ~~un~~spoken gratitude.\n\nThe warning bells were ringing from the start, weren't they? Hitoshi opted to ignore Arthur's comment about \"The job\" That day. What a mistake. Now, he's... Well, Arthur Dax. Everyone knows his name for all the worst reasons. Hitoshi could've went down that path herself. She nearly did. But then that eventful night happened, and... She didn't.\n\nAnd then Hitoshi realises: she's still a piece of shit, but she can't blame herself over Arthur's decision. If she could at least try to become someone better, so can he. He could've avoided that path. It wouldn't have been that hard. But no...*\n\n*Hitoshi idly fiddles with the empty bowl that once held her shaved ice, contemplating to herself. What to do now?*\n\n\"Hey, I know you don't have to worry about this too bad, but... Watch your back anyway, okay? Both Mevis and I got some stuff regarding, uhh... Assassins. Just keep a... A nose out.\"\n\n*Massive influx of assassinations for some reason, back in Salvania. Wonder why..*" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras watches Hitoshi ponder and talk with measure, their odd behaviour worries Zeras, he knows he shouldn't be one to look out for strangers, but his heart is as weak as it is big.* \n\n\"**Young Hitoshi, you seem to be full of doubt my friend, does the mention of this Arthur character put you at unease?**\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "\"Yes. He... He used to be a friend of mine. And then he went down a dark path. We... We stopped being friends after that.\"\n\n*No point in lying, right?*" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras's face after the mention is solemn, he rubs his fingers together, fidgeting but not awkward, he looks up from his shaven ice and looks Hitoshi in the eye* \n\n\"**Sometimes the path we walk is simply a reflection of the world we live in, it takes true strength of the mind and the soul to stray from all we have known, I am sorry for your grievance, pray you find resolution sooner, rather than later.**\" \n\n*Zeras takes a singular copper from his pockets, flipping it into the air at Hitoshi.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Hitoshi just fiddles with the copper coin idly, just... Thinking to herself about shit.*" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras giggles as he watched Hitoshi, leaning back against the shaved ice cart.* \n\n\"**For your troubles more than your pockets, it is no 5 gold mind you.**\"\n\n*Zeras flips another coin, this time to Ralki,this time high arcing all the way into the air, the coin floating before slowly falling down* \n\n\"**I'm one for equality it seems, heh.**\"" }, { "author": "pineywoods7124", "message": "*The coin hit Ralki in the face and then she tried to catch it, failing and the coin falls onto the ground.* \"Thanks.\"" }, { "author": "timeforthepercolator", "message": "*Zeras gives another loud and thundering laugh* \n\n\"**It seems for all your talents catching is one you have yet to master.**\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Now what? Hitoshi had her fun, she visited the burial site...\n\n..And now she has nothing to do. Not enough money to buy much of anything notable either. Great. She'll need to just go home ASAP then. Using her membership with the NS. Under a different name besides Hitoshi Hisikawa, of course. They didn't quite catch onto the lies, thank fuck. Hikari Hiramatsu was apparently a decent enough moniker to convince them.*" } ]

[ { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*What a good day to stay inside. While it wasn't raining for once, the greyish sky surely wasn't something to be praised. That depressing weather led many villagers to the inn today, where a warmer ambiance fueled the building with life.*\n*The owner, a proud blue Oni, and his barmaids and waitresses were busy serving the masses here, as the noon service was in full swing. Most of the tables were occupied already, and the room offered plenty of tasty scents to smell as many typical dishes from the region came from the kitchen. The atmosphere was very noisy, but it was a good, welcoming noise.*\n*Ouf four protagonists would've somewhat all arrived in that inn today, for whatever reason they had. Had it been for work, for food or for ale, they would've all been served, as the board displayed several more or less interesting quests and the bartender was welcoming customers with a big, frank grin.*\n`\"Oi! Welcome to the Blue Devil, lads!\"` *He would've sometimes greeted between one or two orders.*\n\nTurn Order: Hildar Nesy Chair Plague" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "Gabon would grab a copy of the ogre quest marvelling at the bounty. Ordering a beer he would sit down at a 4 chaired table and sip on his beer while reviewing the quest. He would begin scanning the room, looking for any others holding a similar copy while enjoying the beer with a small smile." }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would enter the Tavern or whatever this place was.* \"Hi buddy!\" His heterochromic eyes scanning the room around him. He had his rivet armor set as well with a helmet to protect his head. Well, it was a really good piece of armor he had gottem himself. Nesy, would then walk towards the quest-place and would seemingly look at the whole board.* \"Look at this, certainly awesome stuff but woah...\" *He chuckled to the sight of all of these quests. He was excited!*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would enter this inn and quickly find a table whit someone he had alwredy seen somewhere, he was of course in his armor whit his sword and his shield,he had seen a lot of reports comming of a certain swamp ogre that has been causing issue in this local marshland, making it dangerous and even potentialy deadly to travel trought. So tavish made it it's duty to fight and kill it,Tavish had alwredy seen a swamp ogre, big one eye'd beast similar to a cyclop,but way more... Slimy than a cyclop.*\n*He of course had a bottle of beer to drink whille whaiting for everything to be \"Set-up\" Before going fight that big beast, he was of course quite... Anoyed that the owner was an oni but this was no time to start a fight in a in.*" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*A large 3 meter tall titan with six arms entered the inn having to bend his head alittle as he walked inside. He was tall, muscular and filled to the brim with battle scars. He even partially wore armor (It didn't really cover his torso at all) on his body that signified he was a warrior or adventurer of some sort. While entering he happily waved his hand at the blue oni that greeted him* \"Hiya Sir!\" *He would tell him cheerfully while walking up towards the quest board coincidentally taking an interest with the swamp ogre like the other adventurers within the building. He held it up towards him as he thought about taking a less killing cultist/people quest and just going back to killing monsters. This was gonna be alot of fun, he thought to himself as a big grin began forming on his face*" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would notice the giant, a behemoth of a man. Gabon briefly ponders how much alchoal a titan like that would need to get drunk. Past his pondering Gabon stands up as he sees the giant picking up the quest notice. He approaches the giant perhaps an ally if he was lucky.* \"Hello there giant, I see you're looking at that quest. Good quest and good reward perhaps we can work together mr...\"" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy unfortunently didn't notice the giant because he was playing around in his own world basically. Well, in his own mind where he grows to be an awesome adventurer and becomes a freaking legend. But he snapped out of it and continued to oddly staring at the quest board. Well, he was surely ready to kick some ogre ass, but he... Needed allies obviously.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish wouldn't really notice the titan entering the inn since it wasn't extremely uncomon to see titans, but he still was able to notice his particular interest into the quest about killing that ogre, he would wave in the titan to tell him \"Get over here\", if he comes he would say to him*\n``heya, i see ye eyeing that quest about that swamp ogres, wanna join me in the hunt? Trust me, even whit all those graber you have, fighting it alone would basicly be a suicide mission.``" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*He'd first look at the person who approached him giving a smile and a wave* \"Hello macen I am looking at this quest! I think it'll be a fun thing to do while waiting for some more serious quests. I'm okay with working together and its Ardon!\" *He'd say to the man before curiously looking over to the man who was waving for him. One of his eyebrows would raise before he slowly hauled his large body over towards this other man.* \"Hi there sir! Hmm I dunno from what little I heard they're not really all that big maybe as tall as me and very slow. But if you want to you can join me and this other person who wanted to team up!\" *He'd just say with a big old smile on his face while his bottom two arms were crossed. Even though he was looking down at most of the people he talked to he didn't seem that way when he actually spoke*" } ]

[ { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "Gabon would watch as Ardon the giant crossed the room and cheerfully engaged another fellow, strange looking and seeming to blend into the table and chairs his brows would furrow to take in the newcomer. Ignoring the strangeness he would walk over and greet him along with the giant and introduce himself. Making sure to refill his beer and slide the barkeep a healthy tip." }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would snap out of his senses as the large man, Ardon Surfist greeted Nesy as well. He turned, his eyes would then adjust to what the hell he was seeing. The figure was somewhat majestic and his eyes widened with surprise.* \"AI-\" *He was trying to speak but he was absolutely dumbfound surprised that his expression was like this\" (O-O) yes his eyes were widened of course.* \"Hey there... Buddy, of course I want to team up.\" *He picked the pace back again.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish after he had found what he think was a \"Good enought hunt party\" Would then say seemingly saying some basic information about the swamp ogres*\n``\"Alwrighty then,me names tavish, you just have to know something, they aren't slow, more like of an average speed, and since they are slimy it would be hard to grap him,it's biggest weaknes might be his only giantic eye, buuut be carefull of it not just eating your arm whit his big maw if you get near the eye.``" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "\"How do you know that?\" *Ardon would say with an eyebrow raised. Before looking over to this other person that he wasn't even talking to still with an eyebrow raised* \"Oh uhh you wanna join the team too? Umm that's okay then I guess\" *It was so weird he didn't even say anything to this other guy but it was like he assumed he was talking to him. Atleast he has a proper group to fight this thing now! Hopefully they can pull their weight though, he thought to himself as he looked at the three of them trying to see if they were skilled people who knew how to fight properly*" } ]

[ { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would check the quest notice cross referencing the 3 in front of him and how much the reward would have to be split. He would then walk over to the quest board and casting a eye to make sure no one is watching he tears off the swamp ogre quest notice and returns to the group. With a smile he would call them over to sit down while clearing a table saying,* \"Friends! I see we are united in our hunt of this ogre. Come, sit and we can discuss more.\"" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*He decided to run over and jump on the chair and sat down.* \"Honestly, if I thought about this more, you guys I would definently go for the head.\" *He looked at Ardon.* \"Hey, you are big! You could literally brawl-battle with this thing.\" *He started to laugh a little.* \"No offense, but if we go for the head and maybe the chest there's a chance for incapacitation on it. We could literally: K.O it.\" *He thought this idea would be good because of the sher size of the other guy. Then going for the head is likely proven to be effective.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would then answer to the titan whit* ``they teach that stuff in school if i remember right,and ye know, being soldier you have to know what could attack.``\n*He would then of course repond to nesy's \"\"Strategy\"\" Whit*\n``...That's what i just said whit less word... And going to try and fight a slimy ogre head-on like the both of you only have fist is probably the worst posible idea ever, since whe don't know the strenght of ardon or the strenght of the ogre,he could also have armor, so the best bet is to keep it at minimum ranged for the start of the fight, or since ogre's aren't that smart whe could make a trap, lead him to it, making fall into for exemple spikes, and if he doesn't die whe would have the adventage of not being stuck in a holle.``" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "\"Hmm school? Uhh what's that? I've never been to school?\" *Ardon would as alittle confused as to what the man was talking about having never had any formal education before aside from what his father taught him. He began to scratch his head about upon hearing all these words... Advantage? Minimum ranged? It would be clear on his face that he didn't understand half of what Tavis said there* \"Umm if the ogre isn't very smart why would it wear ant armor or something? Now wearing armor sounds like a very dummie move.\" *Ardon thought to himself \"Yes! Amazing now they won't know that I'm not actually smart! I wear armor so I'm smart!\" The titan would continue on trying to understand what the man had said slowly repeating it inside his head over and over. Looking at his face it would be very obvious to see that he wasn't exactly the best strategist in the world*" } ]

[ { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would pause for a second eyeing the giant with the gears slowly grinding. Pulling out a leather hide and some charcoal he would draw onto a page to show two stick man that (probably) look like Ardon and the swamp ogre.* \"Okay big laddie so you know the ogre?\" *He taps at the terrible drawing of the swamp ogre (essentially a circle with a smaller circle as an eye)* .* \"How about you give it a big old hug to crush it while we stab it? After that you get money yes?\" \n\n*Gabon would try and explain through this drawing to Ardon. Thinking to himself that this may be an unusual bounty hunt compared to the others he's been on. Quietly reminding himself to bring lots of booze and some hope.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "\"Oh yeah defiantly. While he is busy with the ogre you can give it a huge push which we can go behind it and slam it from behind and make it trip. Thus, I believe...\" *He pointed around a little to show what he meant.* \"To put traps we need to somehow, well distract it over but I am sure we are able to do something that'll really mess it up.\" *He explained the plan of what they will have to do. Obviously, he seemed rather into it himself.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would loudely sigh and face palm, seing that the only one that semingly heard the \"Stay at minimum ranged\" Was the titan who had no form of higher education or skill to understand of basic strategies, and the other didn't had any understanding of a ogre's capabilities, he would then slowly explain so everyone could understand clearely*\n``let me explain to you what are whe going up agaisn't,swamp ogres are extremely terictorial, wich mean that they will attack and chase anyone near their home,they are also very strong,the average swamp ogre can carry around 350 kg, and this is no average swamp ogre,do you all understall how going mano to mano agaisn't to that beast is a bloody suicide mission?! And by minimum range that means keep at least a bit of distance between you and the ogre so he can't directly hit you.``\n*After that he would think \"Some time i wonder if anyone as read a single bloody book or got any education.\"*" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon had this blank expression on his face as he stared at Tavish, Nesy and Gabon looking and each of them back and forth. His mind was so confused with this complicated and contradicting information that they were telling him. Once more he scratched his head trying to wrap around what they said to him* \"Uhhhhh... Ummmmmm so I'm not gonna like I'm kinda confused about what you guys are telling me do I gotta get near it and punch it and stuff or do I gotta get away from it cause you guys are telling me both.\" *He would say while looking down on them. Two of his hands were twiddling each other's fingers while another set were playing rock paper scissors as he stood there*" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would clean off the leather hide and nod to Tavish* \"Eh laddie if you've fought them before I'll let ye decide the game plan. Just make sure it don't involve me getting anywhere near the big beastie heh!\" *Sliding the leather hide back into his back Gabon would maintain his peace and continue drinking.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "\"Of course you should have a minimum range. I'm not saying you shouldn't of course. Now, uh whoever you are uh. Yeah, you should try to keep your distance and attack when the thing's distracted mate. It's like hit and run basically, if you can't do that then you can stay back for a little and try again. I mean, Tavish and I have the same opinion but they're just worded differently. Nevertheless, I haven't fought an ogre before but... I cannot do with those daggers.\" *He pulled out two daggers to show the group.* \"Hah, Uh... Well, you yelled at me a while ago to bring a backup weapon earlier but.. I don't believe this is going to cut it at all. We need blunt force but also sharpness because it's seemingly vanurable towards sharp things am I right? Blunt force does internal bleading.\"" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would listen, see that nesy had gotten a back-up weapon wich is extremely good even tough it won't really be usefull agaisn't the ogre*\n``that's good that you got a backup weapon, even tough it won't really be usefull agains't this beast, wich gives us another reason to make a trap, or atleast a big holle,since it will take a lot of time to dig, build the spike and cover the holle, whe'd need to do it before whe start the fight, anyone got any tool or spell other than our hands to dig that holle faster and easier.``" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "\"Oh! Blunt force? Uhh I got blunt force!\" *Ardon would shout out as he pulled six brass knuckles every two of which were different kind all with different decorations or engravings made with it. Two had large blades made into the front part where all the strikes would meet, they also had carvings of soft swirling waves. Another two had spiked protrusions out from the front part of it and if one were to look closely it had flecks of glass within it, these ones had no carvings but seemed to look slightly grainy in texture similar to that of sand. The last two pairs looked to be regular knuckle dusters but they also had beautiful carvings that of the sea and the life within it!* \"They help me punch stuff! Anyway I don't really have anything to help us dig up a hole but I do got six hands!\" *He'd say with a big smile while thinking about this giant* \"Hmmm... Guys don't you think we could just talk to it? And maybe befriend it? I'm pretty good at making friends!\"" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would nearly be decapitated by the giants sudden flurry of blades but with no small amount of luck and ducking he manages to survive. Casting an eye toward his tankard now half way cross the room Gabon would remark.* \"Quite sharp aren't they, don't know if we can talk to him though.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would would rub his chin and try and calculate the costs of digging a hole large enough for a ogre. Upon figuring out how much it would cost he would slide his purse under his mail hiding it.* \"Ehhhh to dig a big enough hole would cost much, too much I would say. Shovels to dig, buckets to move dirt and picks if there is stone underneath! A pretty penny for a hole the beast is likely to notice. Perhaps we shall set up traps yes? Simple ankle snappers or knives attached to logs. Certainly put less of a dent in the drinking fund.\" *Gabon would remark this, hoping to turn the man's opinion. A strange quest he contemplated but he hoped it would be good for a bar story.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would nod towards him and he would continue to listen through the conversation.* \"Well, I need to do something about those backup weapons of mine. I can't make a single scratch and I'd likely waste my mana more then I use my sword. Yikes.\" *He shivered to the thought of that, jesus christ.*\n\n\"Well, to be honest I'm not good with making traps , will leave the discussion to you.\"" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish seing that obviously they had barely anything to make this trap work would say*\n``welp, look like the holle whit spike won't work because whe don't have the tools necesary to do it,gotta think of another trap,a ankle snapper wouldn't really be usefull since you can't really hurt their ability to move, but the log might be a good idea just if it is able to make them fall,let me explain a bit more, other than their only eye swamp ogres doesn't have any organ, but they have two cores, one where would be the brain, and the other where would be the heart,destroying a core is the only way to be able to totaly kill them because of their regenerative ability, so since i supose most of us doesn't have any range weapon, it would be the best if whe can make them fall and keep them down untill whe strike one of the core down,only problem is that the tree's in the swamp aren't what i'd call heavy or sturdy, so whe'd have to get a log from the way to the swamp,i supose ardon would have the least problem carying that log. By the way, whe will need some people to keep an eye out,so the ogre won't ambush us when whe set up the trap.``" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon was kind of getting tired with this whole strategy thing, they've been talking for ages and they still haven't made any decisions on what they're actually gonna do. Ardon gave an exhausted sigh while looking towards them* \"Uhh you know guys we've been talking about this for so long now already and we still haven't gotten anywhere. I don't really get much of what you guys are talking about but can we get a move on and actually travel there to the swamp? We're just wasting time when you guys could be strategyectizing... Ing while travelling.\" *He'd say simply and straight forwardly before looking back towards his brass knuckles. Hmm maybe he should get them polished?* \"Anyway if you guys really wanna dig holes we can just buy some shovels but to be honest I don't really find it the best thing to do cause we're not even sure that this ogre is gonna fall for any of the traps\"" } ]

[ { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "\"Yeah we can leave 7 am tomorrow. That seems cool I suppose. Well, to be honest I'm just going to sit down and chill.\" *Nesy would exclaim as he scratched the back of his head and he would be thinking for a moment.* \"Oh yeah, we can use the log as a weapon. However, if the thing has a weapon we can as well disarm it as well. If it does have a weapon though. Nevertheless, my daggers wont cut it! I probably need to borrow someone elses weapons or just, yeah. Do something productive I suppose.\" *Nesy exclaimed as he looked down at the table with a big sigh that escaped out of his throat.*\n\n*Thoughts ran through Nesy like wildfire and he gave out a small little sigh.* \"Okay well, to be honest I think we can go this afternoon maybe? To be honest it wont be a long walk am I right? I mean, not like I have a problem with short or medium walks yes? Anyway, stratigizing is what we usually do. Because without a strategy we don't have a way to defeat it. Even if we did, it would be more orginised if we did have a strategy.\"" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "``I know ye might get anoyed ardon since you can't really understand, but the reason whe strategise is because if whe don't, whe have high chance to die, and the way to the only takes like, a few minutes, so whe wouldn't have the time, point is,whe are gonna go in a moment,but if whe don't do this, one ogre could easely squish us all,worsse thing is that sometimes, ogres \"Team up\" To be safer... Wich i find weird since they can't speak or comunicate but whatever i'm not a biologist,so i supose you are all ok whit just the big ol' swiging log,thinking about it, what the fuck are whe gonna do if there is more than one ogre, because yea the log will be good agaisn't one of the ogres, but the other won't be havin' that if it hapens,and even whit your 6 arm you would have a lot of problem gettin' double teamed by them ardon... But i know you are probably too anoyed to care so if y'all want whe can go, now,whitout forgetting to take a log in the way there.``\n*Would say tavish, who had not much more to add to everyone, but for nesy,he would still say to him.*\n``oh and when ye run out of mana,come near me,i'll try to see if i could make somethin' apear so you can still do something whille you regenerate it.``" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "\"Hey look Tavish I know how to read (amazingly) and the quest sheet never said anything about there being more than one ogre! And I'm absolutely sure that a big hulking ogre would be easily seen by people and that if there were two they'd put that in the letter so that we know what we're dealing with. I'm honestly not worried because I'm probably as tall as this guy, I'm definitely heavier have never met anyone else heavier than me and I got you guys. And one ogre could totally not squish me I'm putting up a fight against it before it kills us so I don't know.\" *Ardon would cross his arms in a huff before turning his back on them* \"I just feel like this whole conversation we had was an entire waste and that we barely got any ideas from it and I barely understood anything\" *Ardon would say before walking out of the building. It wasn't exactly a very spacious are for a 3 meter tall titan inside the building and he was also alittle bit salty about the whole thing*" } ]

[ { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would notice the giant leaving through the door and stop his bargaining with the blue oni, citing the keeper's lack of common sense and thrice too high prices.* \"Good innkeeper your prices are robbery! I think I shall keep to honest bread and honest water.\" *Contemplating whether he may find dog piss in his beer next time he visited. On his way out he would slide out a warhammer and throw it to Nesy* \"Here laddie something a bit more solid then them daggers, take care of it!\" *Gabon then left by the (slightly) ajar door with a sigh following the giant out shrugging on his bag.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would be very confused as fuck to what was going on but before he reacted he was given something epic.* \"Woah yeah!\" *He would hold the warhammer in his hands and he would then be walking outside the Inn as well. He would follow the giant as well to where they were goinng as well.* \"Anyway, let's just go and screw up some giants Tavish. I got a warhammer! A WARHAMMER! WWWOAAAAHOO!\" *He would then say as he went outside like a \"Bullet\" And not literally (Figure of speech) out of the building.* \"Well, it's time to smash an ogre in the face! Weeeeeeeeee...\"" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would shrug off the saltiness of ardon as exactly that, wich would be normal to be a bit salty when you spend a long time whit stranger not understanding anything,he would then see gabon screaming at the poor innkeeper,he may be a blue oni but he could still understand that people whit attitudes like that are one of the most anoying thing in their industry, tavish would then take back his shield and sword then leave the building following the others, hoping that gabon had paid for whatever he took, he would also remind the other that got seemingly either confused or a bit angry*\n``let's not forget about the log,even tough it might seem like it for you, whe actualy have somewhat of a plan compared to most other who doesn't even try to think of something to help them during the fight before it hapens.``" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "\"What? What log? What plan?!? Last thing I remember that's most similar to a plan is where we dig a big hole then we put spikes on it! Then you guys said that no spikes cause we can't do it or something and now we have a log?!? What even for? I'm still just as confused as when we started\" *Ardon would say to Tavish resisting the urge to shout. He didn't mean to be so salty or even have an irritated tone but recently he's just been feeling alot of negative emotions... Must be the cultist blood and the spirits of the damned he killed. He crossed all his arms he was annoyed not at them but at himself for not being able to understand things properly* \"Ugh my am I such a dummie...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Whenever the hunters would've decided on the departure's conditions and schedule, they would've travelled to the area where the Ogre had been spotted.*\n*While their boots would've been all muddy because of the damp ground they were standing in now, they would've discovered a muddy pond near the road they were following. It would've been hard to tell how deep the water was from their point of view, however the group would've been able to notice three islets, with one being noticeably smaller than the other two.*\n*While no particular noise would've been heard by them besides various bugs and rare birds, they would've seen signs of combat across the path, as if something would've smashed the ground, attempting to flatten its opponents. Probably marks of the ogre. It would've probably been somewhere in the area.*\n*They needed to be careful from now on and explore the area.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would be walking behind Tavish and Ardon as they travered through the dark and gloomy swamp. It seemed as if there were large marks on the ground.* \"Hey Tavish, it seems as if something was here.\" *He attempted to see what was beyond the footstep and about 4 meters ahead of him there was this other mark.* \"It looks like it has gone straight forward.\" *Nesy said to Tavish as he carried his awesome battle hammer. Nesy would be seeing the lake as well and he felt like it was deep in colour but with a few small little... Well, what seemed to be a mini-islands. Not a lake, maybe a pond though.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish having arrived whit the log that they normally should have brought from the way to here and his allies he would quietly say after having quickly examined the area (by that i don't mean he walked around just that he looked and well examined from where he was)*\n``gabon and nesy, you'll stand guard while me and ardon set up the trap, if you are asking yourself \"Why me and not him\" Gabon and nesy can be sneakier than ardon,ardon's sheer size will help me set up the trap since i know how to do it, and don't wory about having to understand anything ardon, just lift me up and do as i say and there shouldn't be any problems,for the positioning, nesy you go behind the first tree near the water, you gabon go behind the tree on my left.. Also before i forget i will take some of your rope gabon to make the trap``\n*He would take the rope*\n``everyone in their position``\n*After saying that he would then rush under the tree where he would wait for ardon so he can lift him up to then set the trap*" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "\"Okay then!\" *Ardon would quickly walk up towards the tree that Tavish was before taking the man and easily just lifting him up with four of his hands so that he can do whatever trap he wanted to on the thing. He was still curious as to what they were actually gonna do with the log and rope though, what kinf of trap could this be?* \"Hmm hey Tavish? What are we gonna do once the ogre is here already? Also what's this trap gonna do?\" *He asked while holding him up tightly*" } ]

[ { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would watch with slight interest as Ardon and Tavish attempted their trap. After watching he would pull out his pollaxe and get comfortable behind a clump of bushes casting his eyes out towards the swamp and waiting for any signs of movement. Untying a oddly heavy flask he would dip his rondel dagger into it stirring and drawing a thick oil onto the blade. While he was doing this Gabon would then suggest to Ardon and Tavish,* \"The trap is well and good friends but what bait shall you use? Perhaps bread or shall we hunt a deer and draw it in that way?\"" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*As the party started to put their little schemes in place and began getting into position... Nothing would've happen for now. The swamp was as calm as ever, with only the frogs and diverse bugs filling the atmosphere with their singing.*\n*However as Gabon would've hidden in the bushes, he would've been able to notice another sign of the ogre. Big bark shards. That meant the creature was definitely in this area and moreover, had crafted wooden gears. Given that those loved to take a nap beneath the mud, the group had to stay really alert from now on. Maybe the territorial creature was already stalking them from its muddy hidding place?*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would then nods towards Tavish and headed towards the tree. Climbing up with relative ease and he decided to scout out in order to alert for any ogres. Not the Ogres only but other dangers lurking in the woods. He would scratch the back of his head. He decided to make sure that it was safe.* \"So far it's clear.\" *Nesy scouted the other regions by looking around (while on the tree) and he hoped to notice anything particular while he sets up the traps.* \"Anyway, I'll be on the lookout.\"" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would wrap the rope around the log multiple time to then attach it to a sturdy branch 4 meters of the ground,letting 2,5 meters of rope so it could reach far but still hit the ogre and perhaps even the eye of the swamp ogre,he would then cut the branch that would be on the way of the log,then go to another sturdy branch 2 metters away from the original sturdy branch that is somewhat at the same height and attach it there,he would then after sit on this big branch, since tavish even whit his full equipment weight around 128 kg and that after a lot of math in general whe have found that a 25 cm diameter branch could hold at most 400 kg it is safe to assume that the branch won't break under the weight, he would then quietly say to ardon*\n``you can drop me on that branch bud it's safe enough for me to sit there whitout falling to my doom,when the ogre will be there i will cut the rope attached to the branch i'm on wich will free the log, making it swing at full speed at the ogre either on his eye or near it will either hurt him a lot and make him fall or push him back, by the way i would be carefull about going near the watter, they maybe are hiding there, anyway, i'm ready.``" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon would simply put the man on the tree branch before being curious as to why he was being quiet.* \"Why are you speaking quietly? Are we supposed to be sneaky cause you guys didn't tell me that, also if you just wanted to push him back I could probably just summon a big wave to do that ya know.\" *He'd day while scratching his head. As the large titan talked he was just staring intently towards the swamp before remembering to quickly put on his six brass knuckles. He was still very skeptical about the whole trap but he wasn't gonna say that, there was no certainty that the swamp ogre was going to be at the right position to have the log swing at them but he didn't wanna say that out loud* \"Well I hope this trap of yours works.\"" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would poke out the bushes waving one of the bark shards bringing attention to its odd and man made cuts* \"It seems this ogre has weapons and a shield! Best be careful laddies, if anyone here has any foul fire magicks I'd suggest getting them ready.\" *Once he notified the party he would begin building a small fire making a hidden flame in the ground ready for him to light anything he would need.*" } ]

[ { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*For now... Nothing would've changed. The swamp remained completely still.*\n*If the Ogre was indeed in the area - and all the hints pointed toward that idea - the party should've questioned their methods. If the creature would've already spotted them, did they really expect it to rush into the trap? Or, what would've happened if the creature was sleeping in the pond? Would have them waited for hours for it to finish its nap, risking to be attacked by other swamp creatures before the Ogre would've actually woken up?*\n*Even worse, what if the Ogre would've discreetly left the area while they'd have waited besides the trap?*\n*In any case, while their plan seemed to be prepared well and their roles were assigned, the party should've probably opted for a B plan right now. A keen eye would've been able to notice that the small, middle islet drifted a bit away in the muddy water...*" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon would very simply look towards the swamp and just stare at it while readying his 6 arms to attack. He was quite curious about where the actual swamp man was but if he went in the swamp since its terrisomething something smart words wouldn't it go after him? He was very tempted to just rush in the body of water but he felt like it was also a dumb idea so for now he just readied himself, his weapons and his mind while staring at the pond very sure that something was gonna come out of there and try to attack them*" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would stand up from his bush slightly sore from the hours of sitting and pick up a stone throwing it into the lake watching the middle island for any movement. He would then tear a small bolt of cloth and rummage around on his backpack looking for his flask of oil. After inserting the cloth into the speak to Ardon in a conspiratorial whisper.* \"Hey Ardon, you think you could try throwing this flask at the big old middle island? I've not the arm strength for it and I trust ye more then myself.\" *If Ardon accepted, Gabon would smile wickedly and light the cloth on fire using his small fire and pass it to Ardon to throw.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would then see that there was this \"Island\" In the middle of the entire thing. What was so important about it? Nesy would be icreadibly confused to what was going on. He decided to scout the lake but there was seemingly nothing there! A sense of some strange feelings began to enter his own conciousness.* \"I don't feel this is the right place to be guys. We need to somehow advance. Maybe we could try get to the islands.\" *He pointed towards the strange things poping ut of there.* \"....But, where is it?\"" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "``...Oh i see what has happened,i don't think putting fire to it would really be usefull since it would regenerate the burns faster than you can make them,but i got an idea wich could work better for a first attack, take this ardon,go near the shore and throw it at that small island, don't go in the watter trying to punch it, let it come here and try to force it to get close enought so whe can hit it whit the trap, still try not to get any wound at the start of the fight``\n*Tavish would quickly swap his sword to his other hand to make a spearshot appear, he would then shoot it at the ground next to ardon's left then put back his sword into his free hand,now the only thing ardon had to do and throw it at the \"Little island\" To get it's attention*\n```tavish used spearshot!\nTavish's mana: 85/100```" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*It seemed like Tavish knew what was going on. This was emphasized even further as the islet seemed to have drifted even further away than before. Was that islet really an environmental hazard? It was hard to tell, but it surely had an unnatural move to it.*\n*There was no current inside the pond, so how would've a whole islet moved on its own?*" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon would do as he was told and quickly pick up the spear and take a few steps back before getting a few more quick steps forward throwing the spear directly towards the small middle island in the pond. He tried to take advantage and put some uhh momentum? Veloptuocity? Power yeah power into his throw with the steps, he wasn't exactly the master of spears but he has used a number of them in his life. He really just wanted to follow his instincts and run into the water and start wailing on the islands but he didn't want to make his team mates angry and disappointed at him*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "\"I suspect this is the ogre boss. It's probably hiding underneath the DAMN lake! Wow that thing is pretty smart or able to breath. I suspect this thing is intelligent somewhat.\" *Nesy pondered over this strange lake, his eyes would be focused towards the moving thing and he'd notice it was either the ogre or something else. His mind was shifting between two options at the same time and he just couldn't decide. He decided to not fire but he kept his guard.* \"And just make sure you tell me when to charge in.\"" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would watch the three posturing and sigh, stamping out the lit cloth he would move back to his small fire and start toasting some bread. Pulling out a block of butter he would sit down resting his pollaxe against a tree though he would keep his dagger on him.* \"Call me when that middle island there starts charging us for now, anyone want a slice of toast?\" *Smelling the bread he would reflect that he should learn how to make his own sometime.*" } ]

[ { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish saw ardon shooting the spear and using the momentum to his advantage, that was very good since tavish now know he can use spear at least a bit effectively, he also saw that he resisted his urge for the better of us all, because even if there wasn't the trap, everyone except ardon and the orge would be at disadvantage because of our heavy armor, ~~also because gabon hates being in water as i saw from his character sheet but that tavish doesn't know~~*" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*The spear pierced through the air, ending its course stabbing the intended target. The islet stopped drifting away and, suddenly, a huge shadow emerged from under the mud in an intimidating and loud groan. That... That was it all the way! The Ogre was in fact the islet! Indeed, those creatures were known to cover themselve with a rudimentary camouflage of mud and plants to act as inert islets before ambushing their preys, although it seemed like only Tavish knew about this though.*\n*The humanoid monster was seemingly hit in the back, bleeding a impure green blood. However, the wound regenerated in a few seconds before the Ogre turned to face the intruders. Oh boy, while it used to try to stealthily go away, now it seemed angry, knocking the water surface with its weapon.*\n*It was hard to tell how big the monster was since a big part of its body was submerged in the mud, but it seemed to be the same size as Ardon judging by what was visible. He was holding an imposing wooden mace as well as a big, round wooden shield.*\n*That is where the hostilities were about to begin. The Ogre regurgitated a green, disgusting liquid on the southern islet, which slowly took the shape of two organic piles of slime, with a similar big eye on their top and a similar big maw. Those summoned minions would've been able to act the next turn.*\n*Since the Ogre had likely seen the group setting up their trap, the team had to find another way to fight the beast now.*\n```A Swamp Ogre appears!\nSwamp Ogre receives 1 Minor injury to its back!\nSwamp Ogre casts Green Corpuscle! 60/60 Mana (-20 Mana & Mana Cap), 0/2 Cooldown\nBrainless Slime A is being created! 1/1\nBrainless Slime B is being created! 1/1\nAll of Swamp Ogre's wounds are healed thanks to Harsh Livers!```" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon's eyes would widen in awe as the small islet turned into a ogre the same size as him! He's only seen a number of things as large and larger than him and it seems this was another one! He looked over towards Tavish his eyes with a glint of determination saying everything he wanted to say without words and as Tavish gave him the signal to kill a big wide grin formed on his face as he began rushing into the water and towards the ogre. Once he touched the water his whole body began to glow and become covered in silvery fish scales that protected him. He was ready and it was time throw hands*\n\n```\n Scaled Skin Cast -20 Mana\n\n50/70 Mana Pool\n```" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would then see the ogre. But the smell of bread was awsome so he decided to give a nod.* \"Sure! Give me a slice of bread while I watch this happening. Just bait this ogre into a trap and then just finish them off! I mean, it's like cool and such but I need to make sure that I'll attack the ogre at the right time, right spot. As I feel hungry for a toast.\" *Yep! It was indeed delicous tasty stuff that he loved. But maybe he was just too far away.* \n\n\"Hold on.\" *Nesy decided to go closer to the slimes and he would seemingly think.* \"Can I hit those slimes somehow? I have no idea. Well! It's time to spice up some electricity.\" *He decided to let the ogre come closer to his position and to fire the electric bolt too.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish after of course having made he signal to go fight him decided that he wasn't gonna waste this perfectly build trap, he stoped a moment to think\n \"The ogre won't come close, and those vomit monster are definetively gonna be a problem, going there would take to much time since i'm in armor and i would be in water,what could i do... AH AH! Time to go high up in the sky like a wood pecker!\"\nAfter thinking that, first of all tavish would go on the log which is barely the same size of tavish, grab the first rope then cut the rope of the branch that he was standing on a few second before climbing on the log.\nThen after a few second when there is the perfect angle to get on the island whit the small slime or at least close enough that he would be to go there whitout staying in the water for too long to then he'd cut the rope that's making the log swing in the first place, quickly grabing the rope that's surround the log.\nWhich would be making him and the log go \"Flying\" Toward the island because of the angle and the momentum that the log got from the swigging.\nAfter a moment, he would either land on the water near the island or on the island.\nIf he was on the water,he would summon a spearshot and go on the island even if he has to swim, where he would throw the spear to attack the slime that would be close to him\nIf he would land on the island he would use his greatsword to slash the slime near him, if they have cores like the ogre he would aim for that.*" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would munch on his toast while watching Tavish sail past, contemplating what kind of strange quest he had gotten himself onto. Then shaking out of his reverie he would carefully put down his toast (leaving it over a stand on the fire to keep warm) and grab his shield and sword.*\n\n*Going close to the waters edge he would shy away from entering the foul and horrifying depths. He would instead run around the Isle (to his right on the map) attempting to get closer to the slimes to help Tavish.* \n\n\\\\ also no toast for nesy that is expensive bread!\n\\\\" } ]

[ { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*The battle was starting. While Ardon began his way to the Ogre, he would've been impeded in his rush once he'd have arrived in the pond. The muddy water seemed to be like 1m deep at this part of the pond, and each step of the giant would've been quite hard to make. Carrying 550kg in 1m of water and mud required some efforts.*\n*During this time, Tavish decided to be reckless, trying a daredevil move... Which only rewarded the unfortunate warrior a heavy fall on the path one meter away from the tree, with the log landing near him. Poor Tavish. He crashed on the ground right on his buttocks, but fortunately for him, the momentum wasn't enough for his coccyx to crack. Few!*\n*While the two macens would've gotten in position, their passivity was a mistake that the two Brainless Slimes took advantage of. The two creatures disappeared in the pond's depths, as they were seemingly closing the gap with the intruders. They should've shoot them before losing track of their position. The hunters would've had to stay vigilant now as the minions -although very slow- could've stealthily approached them from the muddy depths.*\n*Meanwhile, the Ogre noticed the equally big humanoid coming closer to it - who couldn't have noticed someone as imposing as Ardon anyway? The territorial creature put its wooden mace on the pond's bed and reached its back, pulling out the spearshot that used to be stuck in hits regenerating flesh. It would've then briefly taken aim before he would've shot the spearshot back to the red-haired colossus.*\n*The party would've had to figure out a plan to make the Ogre come closer, because fighting in its pond - which seemed 150cm deep at the deepest area - would've been really hard, even for someone as big as Ardon.*\n```Swamp Ogre throws a Spearshot to Ardon's belly!\nSwamp Ogre's Green Corpuscle Cooldown 1/2\nTavish receives 1 Minor injury on his buttocks!```" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon would quickly rise one of his many left arms and try to block the incoming spearshot he threw. How... Goldronic that the spear he threw at the ogre would once again come back towards him and hit him in exchange. He was lucky that his body was made to endure challenges and rough terrain like this one or else he would probably sink down immediately into the bottom of the pond, he didn't like it but this was the only way that he'd manage to persue the ogre while having the least amount of dangerous damage. So he'd continue to rush towards the ogre while sacrificing one of his arms to take the spear hit while his arms were out and ready to punch the living fuck out of the guy's eye. It was on now*\n\n\n```\n2.5 Mana regenerated\n\n52.5/70 Mana Pool\n```" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish had a moment of realization as he realized he fucked up landing on his ass, saying a simple but quick \"Fuck\" When he landed, thankfully it was just a minor injury so it wouldn't be bad or have a lot of chance of getting infected even in a swamp, so he would quickly get back up and start running, when he was near ardon who was still on the blue water area, he would use his spell Herculean Strength, wich would mean that next turn when he gets to punch the ogre in the face, it will be whit 2.5 more strength if he of course accept the buff but i already suspect he will because of the spear he got in his arm, he would then continue running going to the tree's on the upper part of the map*\n```Tavish used Herculean strength on ardon,15 mana\nTavish recovered 7.5 mana since the spearshot\nTavish's mana: 77.5/100```" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon observing the water would quickly step to his left as he watched the slime slink into the water while pulling out and throwing a pilum at the ogre hoping to district the beastie. After nearly falling in from his throw, Gabon would rebalance and quickly prepare \"Zealous strike\" For if/when the slime popped up. Preparing his pole arm for a stabbing strike.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would back away fruther as the slimes slinked into the water and decided to go closer towards the group just a tiny bit and then he would charge up his electric bolt.* \"Go to hell and take your friends with you!\" *He would send an electrical bolt that was aimed towards the Ogres head. This was in order to attempt to fry it's brain if it was enough to do so.* \"Die die die!\" *The spell stopped and Nesy would seemingly hide behind a bush, waiting for the slimes to arrive.*\n\n```\n\n\n\nThe user's hand crackles with yellow energy, then shoots a 5cm-wide, 75-cm long arrow-shaped electric bolt at 30m/s up to 40m away.\n\nOn impact, the spell courses through conductive objects to the nearest target up to 0.2m away. It can conduct through textiles and leather, and passes through water like air, causing 1 turn of paralysis and minor burns in the nearest limb.\n\n105 / 120 MANA\n```" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Despite the blocking arm being impaled by the spearshot -which would've magically disappeared a few seconds later- Ardon continued running as well as he could have done so in the water, who became deeper. Half of his body would've been submerged at this point, drastically lowering his speed.*\n*The Ogre would've inhaled deeply, announcing an acid spit, however something stang its left biceps, inflicting pitiful damage to its thick skin. Losing its focus briefly, the creature wasn't even able to try another cast because another projectile was flying at it, and right for its eye! It seemed like the hunters didn't want to get that extra money... Fortunately (?), the Ogre would've parried easily with its wooden shield. But the dampness of its shield guided the electricity toward the creature's fist, which would've dropped the shield in the swampy water.*\n*That was some good news. At least Ardon would've been able to punch the Ogre without the shield blocking him for now. Being harassed, the Ogre would've only been able to pick up its mace for this turn and prepared itself to face the other giant.*\n*The Brainless Slimes were still hidden somewhere in the darkened water for now.*\n```Swamp Ogre receives 1 Minor injury to its left arm!\nArdon receives 1 Moderate Injury to one of his arms!\nAll of Swamp Ogre's wounds are healed thanks to Harsh Livers!\nSwamp Ogre's left hand is paralyzed! 0/1\nSwamp Ogre's Green Corpuscle Cooldown 2/2```" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would grin as his pilum hit and seeing no movement in the water from the slimes would quickly dart to his right getting on the otherside of the lake and pelt the ogre in the arm using **Leadshot** Attempting to either disarm or distract the ogre.*" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon would continue on rushing directly towards the ogre not even worried that his companions are in danger because he trusts that they're capable and big brain enough not to die to the things. As he felt the pain of the spear hit his arms he just shrugged it off due to his body's sense of pain being alot less sensitive therefor letting him just rush through without being impeded by the wound. Once he was close enough with his three right arms he would pull them back before taking a powerful strike aiming for the eyes*\n```\n\n2.5 Mana Regenerated\n55/70 Mana Pool \n```" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would then run so that he was in the right-section of the ogre where he could fire at it's right arm. He was actually running around the pond and then to the right so he was aligned with the ogres side. Making sure it didn't hit Ardon.* \"Come over here you nasty fuck! I AM NOT DONE HARASSING YOU!\" *Nesy would be diagonaly aligned with the monster and he would wait for the ogre to open it's moulth so that Nesy could attack it. Well, he would be having his battleaxe on his arms and he was ready to fire at the ogre's right shoulder.* \"Actually! DIE DIE DIE!\" *He would move around a little bit and fired at the ogre's right shoulder and to make sure nobody was in the way.* \"Incoming!\"\n\n```\n\n\nThe user's hand crackles with yellow energy, then shoots a 5cm-wide, 75-cm long arrow-shaped electric bolt at 30m/s up to 40m away.\n\nOn impact, the spell courses through conductive objects to the nearest target up to 0.2m away. It can conduct through textiles and leather, and passes through water like air, causing 1 turn of paralysis and minor burns in the nearest limb.\n\n90 / 120 MANA \n\n+ 2.5 MANA = 92.5 MANA\n```" } ]

[ { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*As everyone started moving to encircle the swampy monster, Ardon went for a... No, for a triple, powerful right punch. Ouch! That was gonna hurt! Unfortunately while he was getting the momentum for his attack, something in the water seemingly bit his right leg and started pulling it, thus destabilizing the giant and stopping his punch. While the bite did pitiful damage thanks to Ardon's Scaled Skin, the 80cm big maw that was pulling his leg away had enough force to be a rightful annoyance.*\n*This failed attack allowed the Ogre to slightly move backward, successfully avoiding Nesy's Electric Bolt which came from afar. However, it didn't prevent the creature from dodging the leadshot. But... While it successfully hit its paralyzed left arm, making a 2cm wide and not much deep hole in its flesh, that was quite a futile move since it didn't target the weak spots. It wasn't even sure if the Ogre felt that pebble...*\n*The Ogre once again spit out its green, slimey matter just in front of it in the deep water. That meant soon, this disgusting liquid would shape into two more Brainless Slimes...*\n*Fighting the Ogre in its terrain wasn't very fruitful and Ardon would've started to be in trouble if the party allowed him to be swarmed. They absolutely had to attract the Ogre out of the deep mud!*\n*For a reminder, the big monster still had its wooden mace in its right hand and was still focused on Ardon and, to a lesser extend Nesy, who already had thrown two projectiles at it. But at least, the creature didn't pick up its shield, that was a good thing.*\n```Swamp Ogre receives 1 Minor injury to its left arm, whose paralysis ended! 1/1\nBrainless Slime A tries to pull Ardon's leg!\nSwamp Ogre casts Green Corpuscle! 40/40 Mana (-20 Mana & Mana Cap), 0/2 Cooldown\nBrainless Slime C is being created! 1/1\nBrainless Slime D is being created! 1/1\nAll of Swamp Ogre's wounds are healed thanks to Harsh Livers!```" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "Gabon would watch with apprehension as Ardon's situation got much worse, looking at the horrifying depths near the island. He grimly stripped off his backpack and threw his polearm to the island. A breathe and a prayer later Gabon jumped from the nearest possible point just catching at the island and scrabbling onto it. Dashing he would grab another pilum and doing a running throw activating **Zealous strike** As he threw at the slime in between Ardon and the ogre." }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "\"How can I reach thing from over there?\" *Nesy would exclaim, seeing that there was a problem as these slimes were probabaly not weak against electricity. He was basically useless in this fight unless he somehow got in there..* \"Well, I guess I'll be running for a little bit.\" *He decided to run forwards along the shore and wanted to be aligned with the Ogre so he could fire it at it's eyes. Well, it was preferably in the head but he decided while running, to charge his mana up.*\n\n92.5 + 2.5 MANA = 95 MANA" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon would do his best to struggle past the slimes around him hoping that his comrades would take care of the little ~~shits~~ things as he used his five undamaged arms to begin shoving the ogre forwards to the trees. His eyes were burning with rage and anger as the little shits were preventing him from cracking the thing's dumb huge eye* \"ARGHHHH JUST DIE ALREADY YOU ANNOYING OGRE!\" *Ardon wasn't a very angry person in social situations but when in fights some thing? Just takes over him, a lust for blood that clouds his judgement and makes him more savage*\n\n```\n2.5 Mana Regenerated\n57.5/70 Mana Pool\n```" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Gabon would successfully jump on the islet, where he had a clear close-range shot to the little slime. As the electricity spread in the minion's body, it would've destroyed the nervous core that animated the slimey corpse, cleanly killing it.*\n*Meanwhile, Tavish had a 2m jump to make, which was quite difficult to do with his armors on. He would've been able to climb on it nevertheless thanks to his preventive sword move which stabbed the mud, however that action cost quite some efforts and time and thus, Tavish wouldn't have been able to casts his spearshot for this turn.*\n*Meanwhile, Ardon kept going. His immense strength allowed him to reach the Ogre's eye, the latter who instinctively covered its big eye with its left hand before the titanic fists struck. While the power of the impact had failed to touch the eye, it nearly made the heavy monster fall backward as it momentarily lost balance.*\n*However, now a second slime was attacking his other feet! Ardon would have had trouble advancing further due to his two feet being bitten by the brainless minions. The first bite started to get painful as well, with the gastric juice slowly attacking Ardon's skin.*\n*The Swamp Ogre would've then taken advantage of the red-haired giant's immobilization to aim for a powerful strike with its wooden mace. Using both its hands, the move was directly aimed at his head.*\n*During this time, the last slime which was hidden in the mud finally showed up on the same islet Gabon was standing on. It would've been ready to attack next turn.*\n```Swamp Ogre receives 1 Severe injury to its left arm!\nArdon receives 1 Minor injury to his right leg!\nBrainless Slime D is instantly destroyed by Zaelot's Strike!\nBrainless Slime A continues to bite and pull Ardon's right leg!\nBrainless Slime C tries to pull Ardon's left leg!\nSwamp Ogre attacks Ardon, aiming its mace with both hands at his head!\nAll of Swamp Ogre's wounds are healed thanks to Harsh Livers!```" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would them aim for the slime that was behind Gabon.* \"Better watch your backs!\" *He fired the electric bolt that would travel from his hand and would directly hit the slime that was on the island about 4-5 meters infront of him. To give Gabon some time to fire his projectiles because every second of this was valuable since this thing regenerates all the time. He thought, this regeneration was quite good but why? He didn't know but he would watch Ardon pull up the fight as well.* \"Now, what I can do is enjoy this a bit.\"\n\n```\n\n\nThe user's hand crackles with yellow energy, then shoots a 5cm-wide, 75-cm long arrow-shaped electric bolt at 30m/s up to 40m away.\n\nOn impact, the spell courses through conductive objects to the nearest target up to 0.2m away. It can conduct through textiles and leather, and passes through water like air, causing 1 turn of paralysis and minor burns in the nearest limb.\n\n95 / 120 MANA \n\n+ 2.5 MANA = 97.5 MANA - 15 MANA = 82.5 mana left.\n```" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish after having successfully climbed on top ofthe island would make a spearshot appear to then throw it at the slime that was above (map wise) ardon, targeting it's nervous core,he would then say*\n``GRAB HIS ARMS THEN PUNCH IT WHIT ALL STRENGHT YOU HAVE ARDON,NOWS OUR CHANCE TO MAKE HIM BLIND FOR A WHILLE``\n*After saying that he would go to the right of the island, grab himself onto the border of it then \"Propel\" Himself to get a better start to swim to the next shore whit the tree's.\nHe might weight a lot whit his armor but he knows from previous experience how to swim whit his armor for distances of at maximum 3-4 meters and had enough strength to do it.\nAfter he arrives at the shallow depth he would just start to walk again then take a small break to breathe on the shore, swimming whit armors can and will take a lot of energy, but he would after a few seconds get back up*" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "Gabon nodded to nesy and turned equipping another pila and using **Zealous strike** He would throw at the slime closest to him. \"Fire and brimstone, I'll never drink again if we survive this!\" He grunted as the force of the throw nearly toppled him into the lake. Gabon would then shout to Ardon \"Pull the big bastard over here if you can! I might be able to kill him!\"\n/ -1 pilum down to 7 \n/ -20 mana +2.5 mana down to 22.5 mana" }, { "author": "plague0886", "message": "*Hearing Tavish's words was sort of redundant to him as that was already what he was going to do in the first place. With two of his own large hands would reach and grab the hands holding the mace while his other arms all four of them would continue to punch towards the eye! He let out a frustrated growl as all the fucking slimes were just pulling on him and preventing him from attacking while all the wounds that his other comrades are doing is just fucking ineffective* \"YOU LITTLE SHITS GET THE FUCK OFF OF ME SO I CAN KILL THIS UGLY FUCKING OGRE!!!\" *His voice was deep, guttural and monstrous as he shouted these words out to everything around him. He was not in the mood for this anymore and while he can continue shunting out the pain for abit longer they needed to just kill this fucking pain in the arse already*\n\n```\n 2.5 Mana Regenerated\n\n60/70 Mana Pool\n```" }, { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Hearing Tavish's words was sort of redundant to him as that was already what he was going to do in the first place. With two of his own large hands would reach and grab the hands holding the mace while his other arms all four of them would continue to punch towards the eye! He let out a frustrated growl as all the fucking slimes were just pulling on him and preventing him from attacking while all the wounds that his other comrades are doing is just fucking ineffective* \"YOU LITTLE SHITS GET THE FUCK OFF OF ME SO I CAN KILL THIS UGLY FUCKING OGRE!!!\" *His voice was deep, guttural and monstrous as he shouted these words out to everything around him. He was not in the mood for this anymore and while he can continue shunting out the pain for abit longer they needed to just kill this fucking pain in the arse already*\n```\n2.5 Mana Regenerated\n\n60/70 Mana Pool\n```" } ]

[ { "author": "Ardon Surfist", "message": "*Ardon extended out one of his palms as he saw the corrosive spit begin to shoot at him. Suddenly water began forming around his hand but unlike the murky swamp water this water seemed different, clear and salty? He chose to directly shoot it infront of him aswell and with release the small orb of water he gathered turned into a large wave 3 meters tall, 3 meters wide wave that would hopefully block the corrosive spit as he would once more continue his advance towards the ogre determined to not let him start summoning slimes again*\n```\nCrushing Wave Cast -25 Mana\nScaled Skin Buff Fades\n2.5 Mana Regenerated\nScaled Skin Cast Again -20\n17.5/70 Mana Pool\n```" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would have throwed another spearshot at the ogre head, since he was on the side of the ogre it would have been the perfect shot to still somewhat hit his eye whiteout having to go trough the arm,since it would have had to go trough some flesh, it would be for the ogre at best annoying and at worst extremely painfull.*\n*After that he would get back on land and continue to run toward where the ogre will be when he gets to shore, because there will be a lot of chance he'll try to escape, since he can \"See\" That right now whe are starting to get the advantage*\n```tavish threw spearshot again..\nTavish regened 2.5 mana\nTavish's mana: /100```" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would then be walking to where Tavish was originally and would aim at the creature.* \"Go to hell and take your friends with you! For the 90th time DIE!\" *He would fire his electric bolt at the creatures head in order to cause any more damage to it. He would be scratching the back of his head in confusion afterwards as he saw the bolt zip towards it.* \"Heh, serves that mothercucker in the ass well!\" \n\n```\n\n\n82.5 mana + 2.5 = 85 - 15 = 70 MANA left. \n```" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would watch the two firing and pull out yet another pilum* \"Cheerio then laddies let's kill him\" *Using **Zealous strike** Gabon would send another pilum flying towards the ogres head.*" } ]

[ { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*That was a hell of an onslaught that was unleashed at the Ogre right now. Tavish's spearshot struck the back of the Ogre's head, however, it didn't harm its nervous core because of the thickness of its skin. Still, it would've been able to deal a nasty bleeding.*\n*While Ardon casted his big wave attack which dissolved the corrosive liquid thrown at him, Gabon was standing close enough to launch his electrified pilum before the big wave would've crashed into the Ogre, and it would've successfully impaled the newly formed eye, spreading the electricity in the Ogre's head.*\n*And if this wasn't enough, another eletrocuted bolt impaled the Ogre's face as well.*\n*That electric overload not only paralyzed its head, preventing it from spitting its corrosive liquid or new slimes as well as even doing any groan of pain, but it also overloaded its cell in electricity, some of which would be destroyed. Its whole head was burnt to a third degree.*\n*While a regular creature would've been certainly dead from such an assault, the Ogre's tenacious regeneration and skin thickness prevented it from dying right away. It would've used both arms to throw a huge amount of mud in the direction of the electric spears thrown at him, aiming to the closest target it could've seen before being blinded again: Gabon. Ardon's crashing wave would've then made the Ogre fall backward due to its exhaustion and pain, allowing the spear stuck behind its head to sink deeper through its skull, reaching the brain core.*\n*This fatal assault would've been able to defeat the creature at last.*\n```Swamp Ogre recovers the sight!\nSwamp Ogre receives 1 Severe injury to its eye! It becomes blind!\nSwamp Ogre receives 1 Severe burn to its head!\nSwamp Ogre throws a huge load of mud at Gabon!\nSwamp Ogre receives 1 Lethal injury to its nervous core!```" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would begin to cheer as the ogre fell until he saw the rising wall of mud coming towards him. Swearing by the gods he would attempt to quickly roll off the island hiding under the edge of the swampy isle to avoid the wave.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would just run to the side and was running towards the road basically.* \"Well, that's done.\" *He was just wandering towards the creature before he backed away from it. He decided to just walk towards the coastal area where he would wait for his comerades. Of course, probabaly doing something stupid so he decided to take the fucking punch anyway. Incase Tavish was about to yell at him, since the toast-one and abandoning his allies he could assume it was an other yelling.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would have continue walking in the waters to get on some more solid ground where he could have sprinted toward the ogre, he would have made sure that it was dead by removing the core out of his head, making sure it was dead and taking it as proof they had killed the ogre ,he would then say to the other pointing to the shore they started*\n``since it's dead now, you three, let's meet up at the shore over there,i got some matter to discuss``\n*He would then of course continue to walk around the lake, to get of course to the shore where they started*" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Gabon's move allowed him to avoid a final muddy shower. The battle was finally over as Tavish removed the slimey core from the Ogre's exposed head. That way, the creature was one hundred percent dead, plus the group had an evidence from the quest's success.*\n*Now all that remained was to bring back the nervous core to the tavern. Ardon would heal his injuries thanks to Healing Touch during the trip to not allow any wound to get infected.*\n*But before the group would've backed to the inn, it seemed like Tavish had to speak with his teammates... Did he have another plan or whatever in mind?*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*He would be slapped in the cheek to which he would raise an eyebrow towards that. \n\"Ooe..\" *It wasn't that painful! Not bad, but not that painful! Nesy would then rub his cheek and shrugged.* \"Well it's not the first time I ever got slapped Tavish, I actually almost got beaten up to death at once occasion in my life.\" *He spoke and looked at Gabon with a chuckle.* \"At least we didn't get fucking stabbed to death that's for sure. Would've been worse if I got pumbled\" *He scratched his head and would continue on with his day anyway as they would approach the Tavern..*" }, { "author": "hildar_brundei", "message": "*Gabon would watch Tavish slap him, with his hand striking the steel helm he barely felt the strike. Though his bloodlust was up at the insulting blow, he instead slowly walked over to his laid out gear and rolled it all up into his backpack. Once he was satisfied he picked up his toast and pulled off his helmet to continue eating it while walking towards the tavern.*\n\n/ +2.5 mana to 7.5 mana\n/" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*As the party fought it out, they would've made it up back to the tavern at last, where a good reward awaited them there.*\n*While going back in the inn, the hunters would've been able to notice a group of merchants sharing a few beers, talking aloud.*\n`\"Do you think anyone will repel the monster?\"` *A voice timidly asked.*\n`\"I've rarely seen anyone fool enough to hunt those things here in Irunia. Most of people here are just stupid mages who serve no purpose...\"` *Another groaned.*\n`\"Actually... I think I saw a group picking up the quest from the board. Maybe with a bit of luck...\"` *A third optimistic voice raised.*" }, { "author": "nesymerp1", "message": "*Nesy would enter the Tavern. Feeling a bit of pride and a bit of disappointment The battle hammer on his back shined a little.* \"...Lesson number one Tavish, we never bring food to our boss fights or any of our quests. Unless if it's a break or whatever.\" *He chuckled a bit jokingly as he scratched the back of his head.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Tavish would have walked toward the merchant and ask them a simple question in a calm tone*\n``sorry to interrupt you but, where ye the one that posted the quest about that swamp ogre that set up in nearby marshlands? Because i might have a good news for you.``\n*You could obviously see the nervous core of the ogre in his hand, which was the proof that whe killed it!*" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*The merchants at first would've turned to the new faces entering the inn, raising a curious brow before the grumpy one would've answered Tavish's question.*\n`\"Yeah. That creature is preventing us from doing any kind of business with -... W-What?! I-Impossible!\"` *He interupted in shock as he noticed the nervous core.*\n`\"D-Did you really slay that creature for us?!\"` *The timid one added.*\n`\"This is... A Swamp Ogre's core! Indeed! And it seems to be freshly dead!\"` *The grumpy one concluded after putting a finger on the dead organ.*\n*The group of merchants couldn't believe their eyes. Their gaze lost between themselves and Tavish and his teammates. The arrogant businessman chuckled a moment later.*\n`\"Uh, I guess that giant did all the work, right?\"` *He pointed out at Ardon, who just entered the inn after bending himself.*\n`\"It doesn't matter anyway. Thank you so much for clearing that pain in the neck! We'll finally be able to cross the marshlands again! As promised, we will reward you for that right away.\"` *The friendlier one said.*\n`\"D-Did you carve the eye?! Nobles often pay several golds for this, and it sells well! Did you carve it?\"` *The timid one curiously asked.*\n*The merchants would then lay several gold coins on the table as the quest mentioned.*\n\n```Quest Rewards: 5 Gold per person, UPs (depending on your actions and writing quality)```\n\n\n\n\n\nI took 4 parameters in account for the rewards: quest's success, writing quality, diligence and thinking. Max was +4 UP\nI gave you all a little bonus for the intro RP before the quest truly started on top of your scores.\nNesy also got less UP because of his disrespectful OOC attitude.\n\nDon't forget to update your wallet! Thanks for playing.\n```Quest End```" } ]

[ { "author": "Ruairidh Ealenor", "message": "**__Ruairidh's Diary: Day 89, page 31; Irunia - \"Cesin's Chuckle\" Tavern__**\n𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐚 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞. 𝐒𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭... 𝐈 𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟? 𝐆𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐛𝐢𝐭 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞 '𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐲' 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠. \n𝐀𝐧𝐲𝐰𝐚𝐲, 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐞𝐬:\n\n𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥,\n𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐧𝐢 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥. 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐧𝐨𝐰, 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐈'𝐦 𝐭𝐫𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧'𝐭 𝐢𝐫𝐤 𝐦𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐚... 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐈 𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐚 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. \n\n𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐲 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐲 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲, 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐫. 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟: 𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐞.\n\n𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, 𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫, 𝐚𝐬 𝐈 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐦𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐥𝐟-𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭... 𝐎𝐫 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥, 𝐦𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐚 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐩 𝐤𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐞-𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐦𝐞. 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐫, 𝐬𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 𝐈 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐚 𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐚 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. \n𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞'𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦, 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐈'𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚... '𝐠𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭' 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐧𝐨𝐰.\n\n𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐮𝐩; 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩'𝐬 𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐬, 𝐈 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐚𝐲. 𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐲𝐜𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐝. 𝐈 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫. \n\n𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡, 𝐈'𝐦 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐚. 𝐈 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐧𝐨𝐭-𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐬, 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐫'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨𝐨 𝐨𝐛𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬... 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐞'𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝, 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭? 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈'𝐦 𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝-𝐝𝐮𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. \n𝐈 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐰." }, { "author": "Chronicler", "message": "*Ruaridh, The Lost\nRauridh, The Vagrant\nRauridh, The Turnover \n\nThe Elf-child of poor circumstance had managed to lie in his very own diary, running away from reality as much as his past life. His talk had changed, his stance, his valor. He'd grown, but also grown disfigured - not by form, \"Elves of his standard manage to swoon in the landscape\", after all. \nNo, it had been like the slow trudge of a valiant army through the soil of his heart. Though one might wish that a rotten household could never be called home, this one had hardly readied himself for such drastic escape. And worse-so, such indignant loss of all that the bastard child could call pure, like his mother.\n\nFor 16 days, he's worked the tavern, and 16 rests had proven too short. He was on edge, though felt it not, he was ungrounded, a sense of spiritual tiredness making one feel like a shiver, from the heart, and where the breath is clear like mountains, when it should be damp and thick like the smoke of pipeweed. \n\nThe boy had cleansed the cups and worked a sweat for days, learnt to take little worry, though the drats and scallywags called his contemporaries amongst this establishment had proven... Daft. Slow... The poor child with a noble's sensitivities stood out and burnt a slow harass upon his fellowship. \nIt was this... Clarity of mind, that had brought his last job to grinding halt; A violent and rascal Dwarf had grown curious to test the man, and a false accusation later, saw swords drawn and an elf on the run. \nJust another month in Drase for this one.*" }, { "author": "lilextra0455", "message": "Ru:\n*The young man groaned, as he pushed himself from the bar after another shift had come to end. He'd been looking forward to his next 7 or-so hours of freedom, which he had assured himself were meant for sleep and little else. He'd slept little these past few days. He wondered if it was worry or simply excitement.*" }, { "author": "Ruairidh Ealenor", "message": "*As he trot from the establishment to the back-alley where the 'crew' as the bartender liked to dub his underpaid workforce had their horses and troughs, he rubbed the sweat from his brow, with the cloth of his dirty apron. He was wearing a barboy's attire. White linen shirt turned a hint of yellow from pipe-smoke and sweat over the years, baggy pants and traveler's boots, all revealed as he freed himself from the apron and tossed it in the trough to clean, as he doused his face and neck with the water with his hands. \n\nHis horse, Aki, peered at him with a curious glance. She was patient as always, though was not yet used to the fact he had begun keeping his weaponry stowed on her even during rest-days; she'd not noticed the last thievery on the road, though he surely hadn't. His face was drenched in water as he ruffled his hair.*" }, { "author": "garrusvakarian0467", "message": "*From the cold night's breeze chills go down anyone's spine in that dark alley being alone behind a small tavern under the moonlight alone that's shinning dim in place of horses only a few things could be seen and the tiredness of the elfmakes it worse*\n\n*A sound could be heard coming from the end of the alley a shadow can barely be seen and it's so big it consumes the little moonlight that there is the the sound gets closer and it's clearly the sound of a blade being dragged on the ground and leaving a trail with sounds of armor and clothes moving making noises*\n\n*The back end of the tavern soon gets covered with the shadow of whatever huge being that comes in soon revealing a 3 meter long titan with lots of weapons and armor slowly coming inside the alley dragging his long sword along the ground and a huge shield in his other hand with a longbow on his back*\n\n*Colored in black and under the moonlight one can barely distinguish the parts from each other he raises his sword aiming at the elf with his eyes gazing down on him he says*\n\"To death my enemy\"" }, { "author": "unwrd.", "message": "*(just a quick tip, you miiiiight wanna start using punctuation more)*" }, { "author": "Chronicler", "message": "*Long ears perked. Instant worry. An elf caught unawares and unguarded from the emergence of shade incarnate behind him. It seems in Irunia, the darkness holds much worse than mere trickery and boogiemen.. A figure mammoth had somehow caught him unawares, and as his eyes managed to adjust to the dark, the glint of the blade in the moonlight had already shone a grim destiny.*" }, { "author": "Ruairidh Ealenor", "message": "*It'd never been the first time for most of the worst, for this one. It wasn't the first nor the last time a figure larger, and more worrisome stood to undermine him. Surely. \nHopefully. \nHe'd learnt that danger comes in many facets, but universal was their greatest enemy: Calm and center. One hand on the rim of the trough for balance, one foot gently placed for lunge, though a figure still kept clearly down and unarmed, his voice a deeper, surer though clearly unnerved, as he spoke:* \n\n\"Now, now mister, I'm sure there's been a misunderstanding!\"\n\n*His body keen on a dodge when, or if, the sword turned swing abode for his form. He knew he was quick, and knew he was strong. Perhaps there was a chance to weave free, came push to shove?*" }, { "author": "garrusvakarian0467", "message": "*The titan didn't seem to care about what he said or what he did it was like the usual for him, he was used to the enemies trying to flee or when they start begging is when it hurted him the most, but to no end as his job was to get his hands dirty at least he did it for a good cause at least he only killed the bad people of this world*\n\n*He slowly got closer and closer as he started to prepare his huge sword and get into stance for cutting this elf in half and finishing his job quickly and quietly, an unarmed enemy but doesn't matter the job comes first anything else can be ignored*\n\n*He gets close enough so that the elf is in his long swords range he raises the long sword and in a fast slash he brings it down onto the elf*" }, { "author": "Chronicler", "message": "*Cruel machinations of a man o' murder sprung to life. A mechanism of violence and singular purpose seemed befit to perform cruel judgement unto the young elf. Ruairidh's body tense and ready for the strike, his mind addled by concern for the why and when. A blade in the dark, a shade of disdain and moral disparity, to hunt the heart as well as body of man.*" }, { "author": "Ruairidh Ealenor", "message": "Flight! Mortality clarified and now all there must be is reflex and strained muscle. With all his might inside him, he flung himself from the trough and away from the arc of the blade, putting fair worth of a 2 meter's distance between he and his assailant. Mortality kept in check for now, his hands up in a warding pose, as he uttered, wasting precious breath.* \n\"Whoah! Listen, we can talk about this! Seriously, you got the wrong man!\"" }, { "author": "garrusvakarian0467", "message": "*The titan seemed more or less like a mindless husk, not caring much for what the elf babbled he moved again to get closer and in range for another attack while doing that he said*\n\"That's what they all say, but you are my enemy, you are the one who killed those men\"\n\n*All of a sudden in the middle of talking he charged at the elf with his huge shield trying to bash him with it and through him on the ground to open him for an attack with the long sword*\n\"To death!\" *He cried*" }, { "author": "Ruairidh Ealenor", "message": "\"Killed which men?!\" The elf snarked back, as he did his best to back-step from the shield, knowing the blade had little room to arc horizontally in that case. What he hadn't realized was that his back was now against a wooden fence. A mustering of all his haste and strength, and - one sprained ankle later, seeing him limp oddly, had seen him roll to the assailant's side. Mayhaps his blade would get stuck in the wooden planking? Mayhaps not.\n\n\"Be specific, gods-damnit man!\" He barked in a more-than miffed tonality, somehow his upbringing saw him sound more ardently-well worded, the higher the stress." } ]

[ { "author": "georgethekingofmars", "message": "The fresh winds that blew in from the Bagega Desert into the Dezabian city warmed the hearts of some, burnt the skins of others. The market of the town was rather full this time of day, as it was just before the sun reached its peak, when noon struck few wanted to be outdoors without some sort of cover unless they had to, as the sun beat down harshly on those that did stay out. Even now, to protect herself, a young kitsune woman kept herself covered with a light cloth cowl and cloak. This young woman was Zara, a regular around this part of town this time of day. It was warm with the sun rising, but the light breeze kept it bearable for the young woman to be out in. Even now, years after living here, the intense heat still bothered her greatly to no end, it made her almost miss the freezing winters back north. But this was where she was now, and she had adapted to survive it, and although it was from perfect, she was content with her way of living. \n\nAlong with her light grey cowl and cloak, Zara had on nice white modified silk robes that covered everywhere with a nice design, leaving only her thighs revealed because of her linen shorts underneath and her knee high socks. Along with those she had on a matching pair of leather boots, and looking at her underneath the cloak and cowl, it was hard to tell where her skin began and clothes began to some degree as she was nearly as white as her own attire. She had developed her mother's skin, being whiter than the snow on the ground in winter, she also did not tan too well, so staying out bare in the sun was never an option for her, leading her to stick out like a sore thumb when her cloak was off compared to many of the others in the area, at least she was a Kitsune though, which were common in the theocratic country. The last thing of note was her tail and ears, which for convenience's sake were both hidden away with magic, leaving her to look almost identical to any other human. Although most figured because of the mass amount of Oriates, those that looked like humans were likely some oriate in disguise. \n\nAs Zara walked through the busy shopping street she eventually came out to a wide public square with a fountain in the center and a few benches scattered about. Although Dezabia was positioned near 2 deserts, it also had a large river running through the center of the country, along with a large agricultural presence, making the nation rather wealthy for its geography. As Zara finished admiring the scenery she went to have a seat on one of the benches that was under a tree, giving some shade. She chose to sit on the right side of the bench, mainly so that she had room for her rapier that she had strapped to her waist. Along with her magic, that rapier was her main way of deterring would-be attackers. Finally resting for a moment she took off her cowl, folding it down and revealing her full head." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Through the scorching desert sands, a man roamed with his trusting steed sauntering just behind him attached to a lead to keep them connected. With the country opening up just in front of them to bring relief to the uneven surface, the two would make their way to the entrance. Unlike most in this land, the man wasn't that of an oriate or anything of the sort really. From the pointed ears alone, one could guess he was a sort of Elf, but which kind would be a harder feat.\n\nHe traveled in much warmer clothing as the heat itself didn't affect him as much as others. A red cloak extended back from the long sleeved shirt he wore, ending just above where his pants met his boots while strapped to his side was a sheathe that seemed to be made to hold a short sword, just opposite of that being where he kept his crossbow. Upon his hands were leather gloves, made specifically for horse riding. It was an odd fashion choice for some moving through the desert which was made obvious at the humidity-generated sweat producing from him. However, he didn't seem to pay no mind to it. At the very least one could assume he was an outsider, but if not for his clothing to make it clear enough, one could assume from the mask he wore across his face.*\n\n*Upon it sat what looked to be the head of a pig. The lack of tusks on it was a slight detail to help differentiate it from that of a boar. Where the short pink furs stuck to it seemed to sprout up from the mask, it made it difficult to tell where the mask ended and his hair began. That is, if not for the transition of short furs to long hair. Fortunately enough as the mask came to an end atop his head, it would be met with long flowing locks of pink hair, a unique color that only certain Elves were known to have naturally. The Mask covered most of his face, except for the area around his mouth where he usually carried a neutral if not smug look and from the eye sockets where one could assume he saw through was nothing but a blank white coloring of where the pig's eyes should have been.\n\nAround the man's neck rested a Furrow which to some could have been seen as an odd companion choice as Furrow's were known to be nothing but pests, vermin even to the more farm-like countryside. But sure enough, the animal sat there rather lax as the man made his way towards the center of the town where a fountain sat beautifully against the more deserted lands. It was an impressive sight to see after his long travel from the North.*" }, { "author": "georgethekingofmars", "message": "Zara continued resting at the bench for a little bit when something, or more exactly someone of interest caught the young woman's business eye. Someone dressed in quite the peculiar outfit, especially for the hot region of Dezabia where most would be melting in such attire. While most would see this stranger as an oddity and perhaps gossip about them, she saw this as a business opportunity. This was someone who needed a change of clothes and a rest to get their own head on straight, their own head was probably so backwards now that they were hiding it with a pig's one to look somewhat normal. Zara smiled and stood up, putting her cowl back over head and to the point where it would help block out the sun from getting her eyes and causing a headache. Something she had done 1 or 2 too many times to say the least. \n\n\"You'll burn up wearing that thing on your head, even if you are used to the heat.\" Zara started with as she got in earshot of the pig headed elf. Her accent is still Slavic different from the natives on the land, but not as strong as it used to be. Getting a better look at him, and in all honesty the pig head somewhat weirded her out, but this was a chance to do business, so she would take this unsettledness and hide it away as she did many other things when around others.\n\nLooking back at the \"Human\" Girl if the elf noticed her words he would see that her face was rather obscured by her cowl. Although one of her grey eyes was visible along with her pale white skin. \"You are new around here, aren't you?\" She asked as well to see if he was really paying attention to her if he did turn around." } ]

[ { "author": "Almann", "message": "_There was a certain freshness to Dezabia that always cheered up Almann. A new sense of adventure at every corner and interesting places to stumble upon. The reality is that he's not here for a joy trip, but business. There's always business to be done, things to exchange, and money to make. New faces will open up new opportunities for Almann to spread his name in far off places. Whether these new faces are of the more honourable sort or not makes no difference to him. His years of being a hired blade has tempered his sense of morality a bit._\n\n_He sincerely believed that even the most sorry lot and sketchy of individuals had their usefulness and place in society. He had heard of some petty thugs and thieves crawling around the city, and was warned by the locals not to poke at them. Almann couldn't help it. He likes sticking his nose in places where it doesn't belong, and poking his head around in the more denizen-ridden parts of Dezabia. Who knows? Maybe they have a contract for him._\n\n_That being said, he didn't have enough information to start doing haphazardly barging into every smugglers den and thief's hollow. He'd have to ask some of the locals first. Desperation for information can be easily solved by merely sticking your head through the door of someone's business and asking about the area._\n\n_This is what occupied the mind of Almann as he walked off the cobbles of the common street and walked in the doorway of what seemed like a sweets shoppe._ \n\n_He begins looking around the store for wares to buy._" }, { "author": "Don Sutekina", "message": "*The delightful ring by the door would attract the eyes of Sutekina and her members. The front most members would greet the newcomer with a cheerful*\n\n\"Welcome to Yukinoshita's Candy Store! Enjoy sweets to your hearts content!\"\n\n*Sutekina was expecting children or robust woman, so she would be a bit surprised to see a grizzled macen. He clearly seemed like someone you would seen in a shady isle way, not a sweets shop. To say the least, she was on guard. She would quickly and stealthily slide a note to one of her members under the table, indicating for them to check outside and see if there were any other suspicious member standing by.*\n\n*Her other members who were carrying out their transactions to the side would halt play off as normal customers or employee. Until the scout came back, she would have to entertain this new 'guest'. With her luck, maybe he was just a customer, but she doubted that. She at least hoped there wasn't going to be any other suspicious individuals showing up*" }, { "author": "Izanami Clan (Casual)", "message": "*The course and gritty yet golden sands of Dezabia had been the destination of another pale skinned macen. Unbeknownst to her, she had no connections to the man ahead of her but judging by how the woman was macen just like him. One could possibly assume they were together. . . The woman seemed somewhat winded after being outside in the blaring sun. She'd seek refugee, within the establishment.\n\nSadly, sticking out like an undercooked dumpling. The foreigner would follow close behind the man, she'd be wearing a black and white Kamishimo, oddly enough the appearance was a more on the traditional side. Yet spoke that of a revolutionary as it was meant for the broader shoulders of a man. The woman's dark ebony hair was neatly pinned up into a bun not a single strain of hair was loose up top, she walked with a dark wooden stick along with a \"Necklace\" Made of chains that loosely hung and jingled around her neck. The woman would looked around with pupils gleaming in astonishment of the collection of sweets and treats, had she entered a realm of divinity? One could've have mistake her for a young girl, by a mere glance of her excitement. The woman would remain behind the man, for the time being she scanned her surroundings. Taking note of the customers and potential workers, of which she found hardest to differentiate in this land. . .\n\nTyshima—or rather Ms. Izanami, would eventually make eye contact with Sutekina. She'd give a gentle wave and a delicate smile with her lips and eyes, before disappearing behind the man ahead of her. She'd lean on her cane as she awaited the man a head to start to talking to the Woman in front of them. . . She was listening in and counting the amount head that sat and stood within the lobby.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Almann", "message": "_Almann nods and turns towards the board. The selection did look enticing. A 'jawbreaker' sounds quite fun. What type of candy could break your jaw? He'd never heard of such a thing. It must be more popular here in Dezabia than the other places he'd been. The others sound interesting too, a cane made of candy? Powdered sugar? They almost sound like alchemy ingredients._\n\n\"I think I'll try out the Jawbreakers. Don't need a free sample, I'll just let myself be surprised on the road. Speaking of, you wouldn't happen to know what places to avoid around here do you? I'm a wandering trader, don't want to get caught up in any unnecessary delays while making a delivery. I've been pretty lucky, but luck only gets you so far you know?\"\n\n_He then raises an eyebrow. Almann is certain some of the other customers are watching him, some of them sneaking quick glances at him. It could just be that he's an outsider around here, although his looks don't seem to be the most foreign. Perhaps it was his way of speaking?_" }, { "author": "Izanami Clan (Casual)", "message": "*Without delay Tyshima would have stepped around and stood directly beside the taller macen man. She gave him a minor glance, and a smile. As if to apologize for her suddenness. The smaller woman moved in such haste being around the sweets. It was only just beginning of her sweet tooth shenanigans. As the woman behind the counter asked her for aid she didn't hesitate to seeking it. Her shy yet reserved facade was utterly exhausted— It proved too hard to stay behind in the presence of this much sugar. . . It could be heard in her voice filled with nervous glee slipping from her mouth. As she spoke her hands would mimic and draw what she was jabbering about. She would slip her cane in her Obi on her waist, making the mistake of possibly revealing the cane was actually a weapon.*\n\n\"Excuse me—pardon? Do you have chocolate of any sorts— or perhaps citrus?—Yes! This is my first time here and I am quite... Joyful of your choices ma'am. I have never seen anything like it where I come from—.\"\n\n*The woman's chains would clink and jiggle at every slight movement she made. . . Her face would be tinged with pink as she believe she was overexcited, she took a moment and breathed to calm down. Her voice returning to some sort of normalcy. She gave a slight bow.*\n\n\"My sincerest apologizes ma'am, sir—, I am overwhelmed by this establishment. Please, —excuse my manners. What may you have else to offer?\"\n\n*The woman would place her hands in front of her, folding them as she awaited their response. As her eyes wondering the selection of candies.*" }, { "author": "Don Sutekina", "message": "\"An excellent choice good sir\" *Sutekina would say with her ever present smile as she reached into a drawer filled with the large colorful sugary spheres and scooped them into a small cloth pouch. She would slide it across the counter to the man as she pondered on how to answer his next question. She would tilt her head and try to feign ignorance*\n\n\"Places to avoid? We're a candy store sir, most our customers are children and women. I can't really tell you about any places to avoid besides location children are scared of such as shadowy alleyways and rundown buildings.\"\n\n*As she was explaining this to the man, her scout would return and pass her a note.*\n\n\"Ah, looks like Ms Leche wants another delivery of jellied apricots. Always a reliable customer\"\n\n*In reality, the note reported that there were no other suspicious individuals nearby and that the two that came in did not appear to be connected. That certainly relieved some pressure off her chest and she would let out a breath of relief. While she wouldn't completely let down her guard, she wouldn't need to be as cautious about her gang being exposed. She would turn her attention to the female and smile, happy to see yet another customer who appreciated her wide selection of sweets.*\n\n\"Thank you for your flattery, we work very hard to provide a variety of options as well as the highest quality of goods to our table. One of the attendants shall assist you\"\n\n*Sutekina would make a swift motion with her fingers and a female kitsune in a maid outfit would approach Tyshima and casually greet her with a smile*\n\n\"Hello. Do you have any particular tastes? That can help narrow down our options for-\" *The kitsune would ask before noticing the cane on Tyshima's waist. The kitsune would make some movements with her tail and many members within the store would all turn their attention to the female. While there was a slight pause, the kitsune would continue her sentence* \"-you. Also if you have a price limit that may help as well\"\n\n*Sutekina would also be weary of the female now as well, but seeing how the situation seemed to be under control, she would return her attention back to the male*\n\n\"Esteemed customer, you said you were a wandering trader? This might be a bit sudden, but do you accept contracts? I've been wanting to spread my sweets across the region as well as acquire more exotic fruit to test making sweets with. Would you be interested in helping me with that?\"" }, { "author": "Izanami Clan (Casual)", "message": "*Tyshima would've turned her body to face the Kitsune that approached her. Eyes still wondering towards the rest of the room, and hand folded in front of her. She'd return her view to the Kitsune after the brief pause in within her speech. Tyshima felt a shift in atmosphere, and would blink idly feigning her ignorance. . .*\n\n**\"Mhm...?—\"**\n\n*She didn't quite catch on in the exact moment, but she knew she given the wrong gesture in some sort of way. The woman would be sure to suppress her hyper-activeness and slow it down raising her hand gradually to her chin in thought. Her voice spoke in now a more softer more considerate tone. The cane remained on her waist, she did not notice that she had holstered it yet.*\n\n\"Hm—? Do you have something that uhm... Imitates the oranges fruity taste? I desire sweet that are either tangy or rather sour. But if not, do you have something that is purely sugar?— If it looks as good as it tastes, am willing to spend a plentifully amount of silver. . .\"\n\n*Tyshima would keep her ears relatively focus on the man's conversation with Sutekina behind the counter. Still paying the maid Kitsune some mind, but was utterly more intrigued in Sutekina's offer to the man. However, she would have to wait to hear the details of it before she'd butt into the conversation. . . Last thing she needed was to further incriminate herself.*" }, { "author": "Almann", "message": "_Almann would look around the shop and shrug. Certainly there were women around, he did seem quite out of the ordinary in the shop. What was curious though, was that the majority of these customers and staff were kitsune. Not exactly common around Dezabia to his knowledge._\n\n\"On top of women and children, it also seems like most of your customers are kitsune as well.\" _He grins._\n\n\"I might be interested in selling your products, but like I said, I don't know which roads and neighbourhoods to avoid around here. Perhaps one of the suppliers for the ingredients to make these candies might know. Or perhaps the person who does your deliveries to clients?\" _He passes a glance to the individual who entered the shop just a moment ago._\n\n_The other woman Almann could see out of the corner of his eye. She seemed mostly harmless, and a bit too excited about candies, and mentioning that she has a good amount of silver on her as well._" }, { "author": "Don Sutekina", "message": "*Many members of her gang would have bit of an irked expression upon being categorized as kitsune by the macen, but as they were trained to handle less than pleasant customers they would hide it as quickly as it appeared. Sutekina being even more experienced with this sort of thing would not change her smiling expression at all. Instead she would gently tap a jar with the label 'tips' listed on it*\n\n\"If you take a contract with us, I'm sure our suppliers and delivery services would be willing to share that information. But as a trader, I'm sure you know information is often more valuable than goods itself. Sometimes to the point of being invaluable.\"\n\n*Sutekina would pull a lollipop from her pocket and plop it in her mouth, almost as if smoking a cigar*\n\n\"If you want information, we need assurance that you won't sell us out. Does that reasonable?\"\n\n\n*As for the kitsune handling Tyshima, she would smile and nod at Tyshima's requirements* \n\n\"Of course, we have plenty of orange flavored sweets. Our jellied oranges are especially popular with the more mature women. We also take pride in our assortment of sugar treats, ranging from simple colorful sphere to detailed sculptures. The sculptures are bit on the higher end though given the amount of detail and effort to make , but I assure you price matches the quality\" \n\n*Two of the nearby oriates would still be carefully watching Tyshima's cane and if her or the macen were especially keen, they might notice that they appear to have 'something' hiding underneath the clothed table pointing at the female*" } ]

[ { "author": "Izanami Clan (Casual)", "message": "*Tyshima in her sugary cravings would nod in glee, the woman would reach into her robe and would reveal a leather pouch with some motion it jiggled with silver coins. The woman's haste would cause it to fumble in her hands. It was then in this motion her cane sword would slip from her Obi waist band. As it wasn't properly secured to her waist and with a loud and fast rattle, the wooden cane that indeed wasn't hollow cane fell to the floor.*\n\n**\"Ah?— Clumsy me.\"**\n\n*Tyshima took a brief pause before squatting to retrieve it, it was then she peeped the item under the table. . . Unable to decipher what it exactly was, She'd slowly upright herself putting the pouch down to her side.*\n\n\"I do not desire sculptures, only sugar ma'am. . . Citrusy or Pure sugar would be ideal. . . Please\"\n\n*Tyshima would turn head to Sutekina, as if she had something that peaked her intrigue. . . With raised eyes brows see continued to glance towards her. . . As if she desired to say something.*" }, { "author": "Don Sutekina", "message": "\"I appreciate a man who can act without hesitation\" *She would say as she slid over a piece of parchment with her ever present smile*\n\n\"A simple down-payment along with a signed contract is all I would need for now. In return we would provide you some of our simple routes. Prove yourself capable of it and we will refund the down-payment and pay you appropriately. Sound simple enough?\"\n\n*As for the situation surrounding Tyshima, the air would become real tense as she dropped her cane. The kitsune would be holding her breath, as if preparing for the worst. Upon Tyshima getting back up though she would let out a sigh of relief and give her best impression of a smiling face*\n\n\"I-I-I see. Then the citrus flavored sugar cubes might suit you well. Here, let me lead you to them\" *The kitsune when then motion over to the cabinet next to Sutekina and inside it would be filled with colorful cubes of what could assume to be sugar.*\n\n*Sutekina would also notice Tyshima's glances toward her, and would turn to face her with a grin* \"Anything I can assist you with ma'am? You seem to keep looking this way\"" }, { "author": "Almann", "message": "_Almann raises an eyebrow and reads over the document, looking for any hidden catches, clauses, and deceptive wording in it. He doesn't like contracts to be frank, especially not ones to oriates in a far off land, with no assurance in business dealings, and no connections to help him burn the contract should the agreement go south. Even if it involves a small vendor of a small volume product, he doesn't like the prospect of potentially losing silver for no reason. The idea of a contract for something this minor also caught his attention. The nature of his work the past few years granted him the gift of being a natural cynic of all but the gods, and needless to say, he was cynical of this woman._\n\n_Once Almann is finished reading he slides it back and shrugs._\n\n\"Whats the penalty if I break the contract, and what assurance do I have that you will hold up your end of the bargain if I sign?\"\n\n_He taps the side of his thumb against his sword, with one of his rings letting off a small metal rasp every time it hits the pommel._\n\n\"Paper alone isn't often strong enough to keep mutual trust, especially for low worth information as the simple routes you're offering. I'm sure the competition, which you seem to be quite cautious of, would be willing to reward such information if it means undermining you...\"\n\n_Almann grins again._\n\n\"...And I am also quite sure, that getting an easy pouch of silver and a now easily forgeable signature is well worth scamming some absent-minded foreigner you might not see again. What really puzzles me though, are _these_...\"\n\n_He points to the pouch of orange candy and continues to tap the pommel of his sword with his thumb._\n\n\"...Were the routes and roads to transport _these_ really worth feigning ignorance to me about?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Izanami Clan (Casual)", "message": "*Tyshima would have felt the tension in the room, finally realizing that she was the center of attention. . . Wether it was her nature or her on her person, she entire wasn't sure. But she believed they had caught onto her true form. . . *\n\n\". . .\"\n\n*The macen would look to the Kitsune with a tilted head and look of concern as she began to stutter, the woman's ecstasy faded in that very moment. . .As her ears were elsewhere, Tyshima would follow the Kitsunes arm and hand, before turning to Don fully. She would excuse herself from the Kitsune, before gradually stepping besides Almann once again. The innocent woman act seemed to wane as the she spoke. . . Tyshima began to remove the pin from her hair, seemingly struggling for a moment. . . Still not accustomed to the feminine act which she genuinely despised. Her voice now feigning a slightly more feral accent, carrying a most powerful sense of monotony*\n\n**\"Well— there is one thing. . . The treats. . . I __want__ that sugar cube beside you. \"**" }, { "author": "Tsyhima Izanami (Casual)", "message": "*The macen that was there prior, had devolved into a horned Oni. Her size remained the same, only real difference had been her horns peering under her straight bangs. Causing discordance with the front of her hair, the woman uninvitedly would lean on Almann, her weight similar to his even with him having almost good few inches on her. She would look to Sutekina with the same grin, trying to match the Nekomimis attitude. Even more so.*\n\n\"But— I must apologize for my keen ears, I've been listening ever since this man offered his assistance. From how you portray it. . . You seek those who are devoted to your establishment, in exchange to prove themselves they do some labor for you at their expense and your produce. . .\"\n\n*Tyshima nods her head seriously. . . After simply reiterating the situation in the most rudimentary way. The oni clearly was not the smartest in the room, that or she had a knack for being obvious or just hard at hearing. She tapped her cane against her shin, placing her cane on the counter.*\n\n\"I may be a no good demon. . . But I'll let you know I am one. On the other hand I have known some rather shifty felines. Not to say you fit that category miss, you seem genuine. . . But, security for both the work and to worker is needed.\"\n\n*The pale oni placed her pouch on the counter, no longer interested in the mere bits of candy. But the ambitions being near it. Tyshima now pointing to the paper Almann had on him.*\n\n\"I'll cut a deal with you both; I'll pay for his down payment with mine. So he needs not worry of the expense or if cannot handle the task. I will takeover and finish and in exchange I will ensure there will be no foul play and security for the product and his payment. I merely want the sugar cube.\"\n*The oni pokes Almann's arm and twists it in a circular motion.*\n\n\"Unless you wish to double down with two down payments. . . Having larger payout for your commitment.\"" }, { "author": "Don Sutekina", "message": "*Sutekina would simply maintain her smiling expression at Almann's questions, following her father's teachings. Regardless of how the various men he brought provoked her, physically or mentally, she should always maintain a smiling face. If she didn't it would mean they won, and she didn't intend to let anyone win over her that easily*\n\n\"You sound overly cynical of me esteemed customer, but I can understand your concerns, and you seem to understand some of mine. The only penalty the contract can serve is barring you from trading within the region as your reputation would be found unreliable. But as a wandering trader, that isn't too much of an issue as you can always move and earn coin elsewhere.\"\n\n*Sutekina would then motion to her shop as a whole* \"As for my end, if you screw me over, I can't easily move out, now can I? Unlike you, I have many other individuals depending on me.\"\n\n*She would then glance to the candy Almann was pointing at* \"These sweets earn our bread and butter. I'm sure even a farmer would be hesitant about sharing how he grows crops to outsiders. So I hope you can understand why I would be hesitant about revealing any sort of information to a foreigner that could potentially ruin not only my livelihood, but the livelihood of those I care about as we-\"\n\n*Before she could finish sentence she would suddenly notice the cute female macen transform into an oni. The kitsune next to Tsyhima would let out a gasp of shock and the two other oriates nearby would stand up quickly, taking on an offensive stance. Before they could draw their weapons though Sutekina would quickly hold her hand out, motioning for them to halt*\n\n\n*She did not expect an oni transformation, and her smiling face almost broke, but she was able to maintain it for the time being. But her voice would be unable to hide her surprise*\n\n\"W-Why, that would be correct esteemed customer. W-We are trying to conduct a trade.\"\n\n*Upon realizing her voice was shaking she would cover her mouth in embarrassment. The owner should never show fear toward a customer... She would take a deep breath and calm herself down, before reverting her attention back toward Tyshima*\n\n\"I apologize for that unsoundly voice. It appears I still need to grow as a store owner.\"\n\n*She would then look over Tyshima's build and nod in approval.* \"You certainly look capable enough to serve as security. Might be nice to have a 3rd party involved as well to keep each of us in check. As for the down payment, unless you wish to partake in the trade as well, I will only need it from...\" *She would pause and blush slightly out of embarrassment. She really had been screwing things up today.*\n\n\"...I apologize once more. I am clearly more inexperienced than I thought I was. To think I was trying to conduct a trade without properly introducing myself.\"\n\n*She would clear her throat and display a genuine smile for once* \"I'm Sutekina Yukinoshita. And you two are?\"" }, { "author": "Almann", "message": "_Almann tilts his head to the left, to get a good look at what the shopkeep seemed startled by._\n\n_What a surprise! Almann had never seen a pale oni before. He had heard they were the crafty type, but he had never seen one in their true form before. The truth was that Almann himself was involved in a little bit of the slave trade. Many of the beastskins he caught for the Silnarians were sold to Irunia, the same country which, he hears, runs off of the enslavement of the pale oni._\n\n_Not only was her appearance a surprise, but her demeanour. She was starkly confident, and leaning up against him, someone who clearly didn't belong in this area, intrigued him. Almann liked this woman's attitude, how it put the others on edge. It reminded him of a woman he knew years ago. Because of that, he didn't want to be outdone by her._\n\n_Almann clears his throat and tosses a small bag of silver, similar in size to the Oni's._\n\n\"Here's my downpayment. I'm Almann.\"\n\n_Was it just his mind playing tricks on him, or was this oni more... Dense than she looked?_" }, { "author": "Tsyhima Izanami (Casual)", "message": "*The Oni in reaction to the Oriates seeing her true form would reach for the chains that laid on her neck. . . She wasn't completely defenseless, Her heart dropped, then pounded ferociously against her chest. Not now—she thought, It was always Oriates—Always Oriates and their skittishness. Her vision that was once clear; lost clarity. . .Hearing a primordial voice of the old man, who she lost not to long ago.*\n\n**Be in control of your emotions; Have patience, ignorance give room to learn.**\n*Whatever that meant old man. . .*\n\n*If Sutekina was watching the Oni closely she'd noticed her pupils shrinking at the suddenness of her crew. However, immediately they returned to normalcy when she saw that Sutekina signaled them to stop. . . Her adrenaline subsided, she exhaled slowly releasing her stress. So one would not hear her heart. Tyshima retorted calmly, giving her an honest opinion. However, it seemed Almann had suspicions she was winging it. But what she said sounded confident as one could hear.*\n\n\"—Well first off you, you need proper privacy. Even in a place that is ran by glee and sweets needs a place for serious people. Have someplace dedicated for that. . .Quit your doubts; You're a inspiring leader. I can see that now, in how your fellow members were quick to attempt seize me. Honest to the Hachiman, had to catch myself for a moment. . .\"\n\n*Tsyhima would turn back and wink at the crowd of felines before returning to Sutekina. . . Her once suddenness had subsided, she spoke idealistically, her goal was redemption and took this opportunity to aid others. Regardless of her violent stigma.*\n\n\"An old hermit once told me silver can only buy so much—\"\n\n*The oni would pause, unable to hide her emotions she wished to say more. But kept it brief.*\n\n\"I will take up your offer, I see potential in your establishment and people. But first we must get to business.\"\n\n*The pale oni would bow, once more. This time not hiding behind the face of pretty macen— but an enigmatic oni.*\n\n\"Sutekina Yukinoshita. . . Tyshima Izanami. . . Almann, pleasure to meet you. What have Is the task?\"\n\n*The Oni would leave Almann arm, and lean on the counter. Her cane still placed there.*\n\n**\"Before we start. . . One more thing? May I try the Citrus sugar cube?\"**\n\n*She blinks, tapping the counter lightly.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"You should be alright now Sir, You should find something cold to place over your eye though. It might feel a little tender, some minor bruising as well.\"\n\n*Manon said as she rushed to aid a male who just took a punch to his face. The healer witnessed what had happened as she excited the local clinic here in the desert. The west had cooler climates so ocassionally she brought medical plants that only grew in the wetlands to this scorching city. She witnessed this gentlemen bump into a girl with fiery hair. Manon didn't know much about combat but the punch was enough to knock the man down. By the time the healer had arrived, the man was waking up once more. After a quick inspection it seemed as if he wouldn't have a concussion and the eye seemed functional. Between the option of staying to heal or to confront the young lady, she had picked the latter.* \n\n*She began searching for the female through the crowds of Rakmurse in search of the assailant. It wasn't long before she spotted the red-orange hair in the distance. Using whatever energy she had remaining she began jogging to the woman, sweat covering her face as she was not accustomed to the hot weather, let alone all the sunlight. Upon reaching the woman Manon extended her hand forward and grabbed onto the female's wrist. Manon planned to confront her in the open. Now she was keeling over, almost dragging them both down in the process.* \n\n\"Ma'am.. You can't hit people like that.\" *Gasping for air while she spoke, She needed to find an alleyway or some place darker or else fatigue would find her in the open.*" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*As Scarlett walked her normal walk she didn't have very much on her mind, just like always she was walking to some undescript location although she seemed to have lost the time as she was already in the big city she was waking to for quite some while... But now that she was here she didn't know exactly what to do... She came to look for outcasts who may want to join her group... Yeah that's what she was there fo-\" \n\n*Her thinking would be interrupted by a rude man shoving past her almost knocking her over as she looked at him and quickly decked him in the face before giving him a earful and continuing on walking like nothing happened as she went back into deep thought before oh so rudely being interrupted again as she felt something clench her wrist as she slowly turned around to look at what grabbed her and began to listen... If Mannon payed close attention she could see the fire macen practically puffing smoke out her nostrils*\n\n*She'd simply raise her other fist looking down at her* \"Says who?! That man clearly ran into me! All I'm trying to do is walk and people keep bumping me! Now I got people trying to drag me?\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I'm sure it was a misunderstanding. You shouldn't be so quick to hurt another person.\" \n\n*Manon had heard rumors of people getting attacked by an unarmed individual, maybe this person was responsible for all the reported injuries so far. As much as the healer would've loved to release the Macen, she was entirely relying on the Macen for support. She knew that each Vampire had their own weakness when it came to sunlight. Some people grew hungry quicker, others were more agitated and prone to attack. For Manon she had three drawbacks. The first one, direct or reflected sunlight blinded her for much longer. The second, her skin was very photosensitive, even now the back of her neck was a deep shade of pink. Thankfully being a healer helped with this weakness, even the worst of burns cleared up in a day or two. The final weakness, and the reason why Manon stayed clear of the sun entirely. Fatigue, Prolonged exposure drained the physical energy from her body. Her muscles screamed, as she spent nearly two hours in the sun already.* \n\n*Her hand reached up and grabbed the Macen by the shoulder as she forced herself to stand once more.*\n\n\"I apologize, I've been out in the sun for so long. I'm not built for this weather. If you hurt others than others might hurt you.\" \n\n*Maybe if she wasn't so exhausted she could've worded her concern better, but it probably came off as a threat.*" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She blinked a few times... Did she really have to do this right here and now...* \"Well if you give somebody a inch most likely they'll take a mile... So if someone bumps into me and I apologize... They walk away scratch free and you don't know what they'll do next, he deserved it!\" *She'd cock her Head* \"Oi oi oi lady, are you alright? I haven't even hit you yet and you look like a melting thing of ice...\"\n\n*As the lady grabbed her shoulder to fully stand up her eyebrow raised* \"Then why the hell are you living in the desert?\" *Her eye twitched* \"Really now? Like I said... Give somebody a inch by trying to listen to them... They take a mile and then threaten me... I Won't let ya!\" *She said angrily as she went to push her off*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I'm.. Fine.\" *Manon lied, The longest she ever lasted in the sun was roughly 5 hours. Here in the desert it was a different story, she was only approaching three hours and it was taking its toll on her body.* \n\n\"I'm sure it was an accident, Ma'am. I saw the whole thing. He wasn't even looking forward, something caught his eye. Before he could apologize you hit him really hard. He'll be fine I inspec-\" \n\n*She was cut off from the females sudden outburst, Manon had no idea what she did that might've upset the Macen. Before she could clear up and confusions or even voice an apology she was falling. A quick and sudden push on top of the fatigue she felt was enough to send her to the ground. She didn't even have time to land on her bottom as she laid on her back under the scorching sun. Manon was panting for so much air that fangs could be seen on the top row of her teeth. If the Macen didn't know she was a vampire, she probably would know by now.* \n\n*She waited a few seconds before slowly rolling onto her stomach. From there she made it onto hall fours and then back onto her feet.* \n\n\"I must have tripped. I don't live here, I just came to drop off plants that aren't found in the desert climate. Medical plants.\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She lunged towards the woman on the floor fist closed ready to make the doctor her own patient before seeing the distinct sharp teeth of a vampire as she moved her hand and slammed her fist right into the sand next to the doctors face as she stood back up looking at her* \"That makes much more sense... You are a vampire, that's why you look like a soggy noodle that got hit with a fire infused warhammer\" *She'd grab the vampire by the collar and dragged her to a shady Area away from the beating sun* \n\n\"Ah you don't live here? That makes a bit more sense\" *She'd sigh before stretching and letting out a yawn her teeth being able to be seen as well* \"Well, take a second to compose yourself so I can beat you with a clean conscious... And hey maybe if you aren't blacked out I could give you the honnor of my vampire friend!\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*She could say being dragged across the hot sand was not pleasurable at all. If she had to assume what being pulled across embers felt like, it would probably feel exactly like this. At least she was in the shade now, though now the extent of the sun's damage would easier to see for the Macen. Not only did the back of her neck have sun burning, her arms and ankles did too. In fact the face was the only part of her that didn't burn from the sun's glare. It took Manon a lot of effort just get into a sitting position as she up at the Macen.*\n\n\"I see, you're one of the blessed ones. At least you can be out in the sun it seems. I didn't come looking to fight you ma'am. It just hurts to see people get hurt is all.\" \n\n*She always wondered if she would be accepted by another vampire. She always wondered if her compassion would isolate her even further. The non-vampire folk were afraid of what she could do, so what did the vampires of the world think of her?*" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She'd frill around her bright red curly hair* \"I never really was into trying to figure it out, I just equate it to me being born of fire my body is more resistant to the sun, although I do still get quite hungry as I walk and walk... And walk, so I go on massive feeding sprees every so often... But that's besides the point!\" *She'd point at her with a laugh* \"Correct! You didn't come to fight me, I came to fight you! Wait... That doesn't make sense... Regardless now you will!\" *She'd think for a second* \" Be hurt being hurt watching people be hurt! Perfectly done me! Thank you me!\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*There was a long period of silence from the healer. During that time she just looked up at the other vampire with a blank stare. Then a smile formed across her lips and soon she began laughing. This person was goofy and interesting at the same time, she was glad that her first vampire encounter was with someone so funny as this one.* \n\n\"Is there any way I can help you learn how to hunt? I don't think you should feast off people, it makes life harder for other vampires.\" \n\n*This was something she knew from experience, before being turned, Manon wanted to be a doctor. Nobody would ever accept a doctor who craved blood so she had been alone ever since, well mostly. She had met two men who took her along, the first time she had a companion in over 6 years. It was fun, and sad at the same time.* \n\n\"You don't seem the type to beat up defenseless people, and I won't put up much resistance. Let's forget about the fighting. My name is Manon.\" *She extended her left hand towards the vampire while she wiped her face down with her dirty right sleeve.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*Scarlett blinked once again very confused at what she was laughing at looking around as she looked back at her smoke practically coming out once again* \"What do you mean? That's the only way to feed is off of humans!...Thats what these teeth are for!\" *She smiled widely but shook her head frowning a bit* \n\n\"Eh? But... Your a vampire your not defenseless?, you should want to fight back... Hey woah woah woah!\" *She'd slam her fist into the wall right next to her interrupting her name* \"I won't have your name until your half out or when I wake up from being fully out!...Do you need blood? Is that what's holding you back or are you just not motivated? Hm because i can motivate you!? I want to be your friend but nothing can ever be this easy! Plus you gotta prove you can be friends with the great Scarlett way of the Punch!\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Scarlett, That's a beautiful name.\" \n\n*The sudden act of aggression didn't seem to bother Manon too much. If this Macen wanted to fight, she wouldn't spend this much time talking. Unfortunately she reminded her of the Oni from the forest. Another person who is out to prove they're strong, at the cost of other people it seems. Manon raised her hand and grabbed onto Scarlett's wrists, using the female once more to rise to her feet.* \n\n\"I could use some, I haven't been able to catch a rat though. Turns out the dessert doesn't have anything I can use my nature magic on. Sand is more rock than plant.\" \n\n\"I can't say I want to fight back. In fact, I would rather heal. It's what I dreamed of doing, becoming a healer. Did you always dream of being a fighter?\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She was absolutely baffled as she stumble back a bit completely speechless* \"Well... Ahem nobody has ever said that about my name, but... HOW DARE YOU IGNORE MY THREATS, are you trying to fool me with kindness? Oooh I knew you were a good warrior... Deceit over strength a interesting approach...\"\n\n*Feeling her wrist being grabbed she'd smile* \"That's the spirit! Wait your a doctor... Why don't you just claim you need blood transfusion or whatever the fancy people say... Get blood if your \"So opposed to hurting people\" Well I don't care you don't want to fight back! I want to be your fri-\" *She stopped for a minute* \"Well, no I didn't always dream of being a fighter but that's the hand I was dealt! So if you gotta bad hand you gotta go all in! And right now your hand is beat me or I beat you!\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Eh, being a vampire was my bad hand and I'm coping to say the least.\" \n\n*The healer was becoming used to the fighter's bravado. Seems like she was quickly riled and quick to talk big as well. The latter was fine, she supposed. As long as the Macen stopped fighting strangers everything would be okay, somewhat. There was always the chance that she'd upset the wrong group of people and get ambushed by multiple people.* \n\n\"I would like to be your friend as well, Miss Scarlett. But I don't think I can befriend someone who attacks strangers for accidental mistakes such as bumping into someone. Also, I can't just demand blood because I 'want to be' a doctor. I'm not allowed to be one, because of the blood curse. People think I'll just drain my patient the moment I see blood. Maybe if other vampires didn't go on these 'sprees' I would have a chance.\" \n\n*She wasn't planning on reprimanding the other vampire but it seemed like the conversation took that turn in the end.*" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "\"Oh? You didn't willingly become a vampire? Actually that makes more sense knowing your play on life...\" *Hearing her say shed like to be her freind she now actively listened, but as she stared scolding she gritted her teeth and clenched her fists, her eyes ablaze intently listening getting closer and closer as she continued to talk looming across from her* \"Like I said they deserved it, and if you don't want to be friends with the mighty Scarlett that is fine! Although I think it's rude to say that about vampires, we all have to survive with the hands we are dealt and a better then thou attitude is not the way to treat your race, like them of not!\" *She'd huff as she leaned back againt the wall across steam blowing off her basically* \"Awh screw it I dont even wanna fight anymore, I blew it all on yelling... Theres ways to hide your vampirism though so i dont see the issue with pretending to be normal and using whatever blood is left behind when they leave...\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*This was new, she never once heard of ways to hide her vampirism. Other than her eyes occasionally turning red when the moonlight reflected off them and her fangs, she was stuck as she was.* \n\n\"What do you mean ways to hide it? The moment I open my mouth everyone knows what I am. Also, I'm not sure if I am one of you. I don't feel like I share anything other than the need to feed. Even then I pick animals over people.\" \n\n*Manon did not feel the need to draw attention that she possesses magic that vampires hate. Both Flame and Faith magic coursed through her veins.* \n\n\"I suppose it's good that you don't want to fight anymore, I was getting worried you might punch me for real. How do you hide your traits, if I may ask? I've been.. Living in the woods for nearly 7 years now, alone.\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She began to laugh, quietly at first then into full on laughter as she slapped the wall taking a breath recomposing herself as she looked back at her as she spoke to her in a odd way... In a way where it showed as little of her teeth as possible... She was a little hard to understand but with her red hair matching her red eyes, there'd be no way to tell she was a vampire* \"Just like this... Speak without showing teeth, and maybe try wearing more protective clothing so Sunlight doesn't affect you as much and keeps you on the down low so people don't recognize your face and you still help people... And yes whether you like it or not we are sisters of the night and I think accepting that is a good place to start, because animals are not good for you, you need human blood, belive me I've walked for a long time... And animals don't cut it\"\n\n*She chuckled some more* \"How do I do it? Well I don't think you can do it my way... Because most of the time people are more interested in my fist connecting with there face to even notice I'm a vampire before I'm gone, plus I don't even really ever hide it and ive been wandering for probably over lets say...80 years? I think!\" *Her eyes would grow bright red for a second snapping back to face her* \"**But don't press your luck, I'm sure I could find enough burning Rage for one punch if your going to mock my kindness**\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*It took a few moments for Manon's hopeful face to turn into a disappointed one. There was no trick to hide her features. No magic spell, special trick. It was literally just wear clothes and don't open your mouth too far, Both of which she already knew. It wasn't like she was going to walk into the desert wearing a rain coat or earmuffs.* \n\n\"I've survived this far off animals, Only bit two people so far in the years of traveling. I've buried a lot of animals because of this curse. I spend the majority of my time healing animals and people. So I spend my time doing what I can to help. Assuming Miss Scarlett doesn't get upset and start punching.\" \n\n*She could see how Scarlett's attitude would just land her in future trouble. Little did the fighter know she was speaking to someone who possessed enough faith magic to smite her from this scorching heat. A secret Manon wasn't planning on acting on if she could help herself.* \n\n\"Thank you for the kindness you've shown me so far, Ma'am.\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She saw her expression change as she slightly twiddled her thumbs before coughing out a quick \"Sorry\"* \"Ahem... Uh... Yeah sorry I'm not much more of a help, but I have heard of a spell... That can uhm change your face I think... I don't know it's Name or much about it... If that helps...\" *She'd look away patting her hands againt her legs obviously trying to avoid something* \"Well... Some of those people did actually deserve a punch... But I understand, I think you'd be good off trying to find a ethical way of getting human blood... If you are my uh... Friend I think it's unhealthy for you to only have animal blood, I can even maybe bring some of my stock over...\" *She almost seemed completely different as she fiddled with her fingers*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I've heard of artificial blood, I haven't found anyone who sells any. I wouldn't mind trying some if that's what you have. Do you live here in the desert? I don't know how anyone can stand this heat.\" \n\n*Thankfully the healer regained some energy, she really needed a nap but just catching a break from the sunlight was enough for now. Leaning forward as she inspected Scarlett's face, something was different from the moment before. There was a surprisingly lack of aggression emanating from the Macen.* \n\n\"Are you feeling alright ma'am? You're acting different. It's probably the sunlight isn't it, we should find a place safer that we can rest and recover. That is if you agree to maybe calm down with the fighting. At the very least, while I'm around.\" \n\n*Manon looked left and then right and realized she had no idea where she was going to sleep. Maybe the Innkeeper would let her rebuy the room she had been staying. It was as good of a place as any.* \n\n\"Maybe my room is still reserved at the inn just up the road.\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She'd shake her head* \"No, artificial blood makes me sick... I have the body's of a couple bandits I'm using for elongated use... It's helpful to have a... Stockpile when this starts to happen to me... And yes I do, I've been living here for over a little over 80 years... And yeah it's a hard life, but as long as people keep being idi-\" *Ahem* \"Mean to me... I keep living... Although it does get very lonley constantly walking, a doctor one equated my long walks to a soft of hibernation due to my prolonged activity in the sun my mind Basically turns off until something happens to me and I inevitably eat and return to my... Glorious self...\" *She'd babble on for a couple more minute before raising her head looking at her face to face, the red intensity in her eyes gone now a much darker red, almost brown, along with no steam coming off of her* \"Yes I'm alright... As much as I'd like to pretend I'm the great almighty Scarlett... I do still have a sun weaknesses, although other vampires I've meet found it peculiar, I loose my... Flare the longer I stay in the sun without feeding, and I didn't feed on that guy that I knocked out... So I haven't ate in a while\"\n\n\"But I agree, I figured this alleyway would prevent it... But it's a dangerous game if I enter my passive state... I've been known to refuse food... But I'll atleast not fight unless something makes me mad enough to break out of passive... But... Thatd be nice\" *She'd slay leaning against the wall completely relaxed*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon couldn't hide the subtle traces of disgust that lined her facial features upon learning Scarlett had dead bodies stored somewhere. She could only imagine the smells they would produce in just a few days time. She even wondered if the Vampire could still feed off of those bodies. She remembered the one time she fed off a dead deer once. Something else had killed it and flies were buzzing over the body. She leaned very quickly that the blood needed to fresh as she emptied her stomach contents onto the forest floor that day.* \n\n\"I'll have to pass on your offer for food. I'd like to not get into the habit of feeding from people.\" \n\n*She fed off a human once and she knew just how wonderful it was. She had felt fully refreshed after sedating her need entirely. It was almost enough to throw her morals out the window. She had lost control that day, she still couldn't remember what had happened during her frenzy.* \n\n\"So you become docile when you're in the sun? Are you going to start blushing soon?\" \n\n*It was a joke at first but Manon found herself looking at Scarlett's cheeks as if expecting redness to show up any minute now.*" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She looked away a bit ashamed as she showed disgust on her face* \"I feel inclined to say that they are not dead... Just tied up and partially drained means you are a doctor...\" *She tapped her fingers* \"Just thought you'd like to know... But i see, my offer still stands if you want to change your mind... But yes, its a weird dna trait i belive that makes it opposite... Normally vampires get more aggressive when they get hungry and in prolonged daylight... Its flipped for me\" *She'd turn away turning a bit red* \"NOT TRUE!\" *She'd cough a but seemly tapping into her last bit of rage*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I think you should let these people go, Scarlett. You can't just keep people tied and bound like that. What if the same thing happened to you?\" \n\n*It seemed like she would have to scold this reckless vampire even more than she thought. Were all vampires like this? Did they all keep captives so they didn't go hungry? No wonder why her life was so difficult despite not feeding off people.*\n\n\"Let's go back together and help these people. I wasn't planning on staying here in the desert for very long so you could come back with me to the forest. That is if you're able to control yourself and not fight everything that looks at you wrong. I've already been chased cities before, I'd like to not get chased again.\" \n\n*It was true that she became rather attached the to expansive and ever changing forests of Ombu located far to the west. It was easy to get lost in those woods but thankfully she had nature magic to guide her way.*" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "\"Yeah... I should... WAIT NO I SHOULDNT! Wait... Maybe I should... But food! But I'm really not that hungry... But it could change! Hmmm... Fine I'll let them go... But if I was in that situation I'd simply just... Excape? Oh right I removed there arms... Thats smart me... No that's evil... Hey they didn't excape!...Yeah but they have no arms now... Hmm fine I'll set them free, but i recommend you don't show your face until they are free and a couple of days later unless you want two armless men saying your accompanying the Red Death they tried to assault... Oh and i should be fine for some time... Im not very hungry anyways...\" *She'd get up from leaning again the wall and slumped slightly as oppsed to the plank back stance she had when she fist met, as her fiery red hair changed to a darker red like her eyes* \"Shall we get going? There in a underground cave not far from here where the rest of my stuff is...\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"You removed their arms, Ma'am?\" \n\n*Manon couldn't help but be on edge now. That was a little extreme even for her standards. The furthest she could imagine was a non-vampire and a vampire falling in love. A couple that allowed mutual feeding, where the non-vampire trusts their partner.* \n\n\"Have you tried falling in love with another? Maybe someone who would want you to be healthy and full? I still wouldn't recommend feeding off people but if someone allows you to, that would be wonderful.\" \n\n*She pushed off the wall, ready to follow this woman to whatever cave she spoke about before. She imagined both arms being broken or dislocated but if the fighter had severed them completely.. She didn't know what she would do.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "\"Of course... How else was I suppose to prevent them from escaping... In retrospect tieing there arms may have also worked...\"\n\n*Her face flustered as she looked away* \"Y-you have no right to ask that question! That's a very serious subject! B-but no... Closest thing I had to even a healthy relationship was the pit master... But that does seem like a good idea... But look at me, even in this state I don't think anyone could love me... Even in this state much less my nornal self...\"\n\n*She'd begin walking to the save making sure to stay in the shadows as much as possible as they left the city walking out into the desert a abnormal bump in the earth just a little bit up ahead*\n\n\"It's very cool inside... It goes quite deep into the earth a much better place then the sun... It's where I call home\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I'm sure you attacking everyone has nothing to do with your lack of love life, Miss Scarlett.\" \n\n*The moment she stepped back into the sunlight she could just feel the energy leaving her body. Chances were that she would need to sleep in this cave, the other alternative was unthinkable. The first time she ever stood out in the sun too long was the last time as well. She thought she could've just powered through until she made it back into the comfort of the forest. The sunlight stole every bit of energy she had left that day. It was middle of the afternoon when she collapse onto the ground outside the city walls. She didn't wake up until it was night. She thought she would never heal from those burns. The important thing she leaned that day was, if she fatigued in sunlight, she would not wake up until nightfall. If there was ever a place that had sunlight 24 hours around, she would never go there in fear of being lost to time.* \n\n\"I think if you made some attempt you could find yourself a nice mate. I can't promise that they'd be willing to let you feed off them. What is a pit master by the way?\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "\"That has everything to do with it... Most guys who hit on me... Well get hit and most girls just don't like me\"\n\n*She lifted the flap as she entered into the cave taking a deep breath as she entered into her small living quarters, a small rug for a bed, a burnt-out campfire, and most importantly two tied up men in the corner with... You guessed it no arms*\n\n\"I wish... I just don't think my personality is appealing until I'm practically starving myself... But I wouldn't expect them to, it's a weird thing... Oh back when I was a kid and pitt fighting, he was the man that set me up for fights!\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon pushed past Scarlett when she saw the two bound armless men. This seemed like a fate worse than death. Even their eyes lost their flame of passion as they waited for death to come. She dropped onto her knees in front of one, her hands reaching forward to cup his cheek.*\n\n\"I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry.\" \n\n*She began chanting, crying as she sent a purple light into the amputated arm. Maybe she could bring it back, she knew it was possible but she had no clue on how to do it. Tears began rolling down her cheeks as sent forth all her magic into this man with no signs of progress. Eventually the light died out as she burnt through her entire magic reserve trying to regrow a limb. She felt as hollow as he looked.* \n\n\"How could you do this?!\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She walked over to one of the mean and grabbed there hair pulling it up* \"Your really going to cry for a man who assaulted me with a deadly weapon? I could have just killed him and been done with it like most of the people in these parts, but no I just taught him a lesson but kept him alive, I fed him and planned to return him when he was low on blood, amputees are all throughout our world, and do you cry for every single one? No you cry for the man that truly deserved it!\" *Her eyes and hair would begin to brighten up* \"So tell me? Would you rather have this man walk, and have me dead so he could use those arms to **Kill** More citizens of the world when all I do is bruise and drain to half? And don't even get me started on that man who's slumped over... Sexual assaulter, I don't even want to imagine what he's done with his now crispy arms, what I'm trying to say is despite my brash attitude, I'm meticulous in my search of blood bags, hence the reason I do my hibernation walk! To attract the worst of worse people who prey on a innocent girl just so I can take them... Now I can't say I was always like this, but I've convinced myself to mostly stay away from innocents, now I suppose I'll give you options means there most likely unless to me now. You can let them run free, turn them into the guards for some money, or try your magic some more on useless insects, or hey maybe you can become there friend and I'll go back to wandering... Choice is yours\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon watched as Scarlett picked a man up by his hair. Before she even realized it she was standing once more. Her hands were already pushed against Scarlets chest as she pushed her back with unnatural force. Instantly she turned around and tendes to the injured bandit. It was difficult to untie the rope with her blurry vision. This was a total disregard for a life, probably worse than death itself.*\n\n\"Come on, let's go.\"\n\n*She said softly as she helped both men to their feet. She raised her hand towards Scarlet as she charged a ball of fire within her palm. The healer had both faith and fire magic, a natural enemy to herself and other vampires.*\n\n\"If you try and stop them, I'll bring you down. Please don't make me.\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*As she hit the wall of the cave she gritted her teeth angered looking at Manon she took out a small vial of blood and crushed it in her hands drinking it as her eyes and hair returned back to there firey red color* \n\n\"Are you stupid? God there not going to thank you! They literally saw you conspiring with a vampire! There not going to regard you as a hero! Nor are there arms going to grow back! What do you think a bandits going to do! Get on there knees and say \"Oh thank you Miss vampire, I'm going to tell the elder of this village that your such a benevolent nice figure? NO! There going to frame you and say that you worked with me in a conspiracy to make vampires look better and then there going to pin you for my crimes and get money for it!\"\n\n*She saw the fire gathering in her hand as she gritted her teeth loud enough to make a audible noise as she started chuckleling* \"Oi Oi Oi Oi, I knew I should have knocked you out when I first met you, but no I thought means you were a vampire you'd atleast somewhat respect your kin... But it appears I was wrong... You don't even have common sense! Are you willing to harm your already weak body with a Area Attack when I get inevitably get close to you? I can close the gap between us easily dispose those two pieces of trash then you before you can get far away enough to hit my safety with that Attack, IM A FIRE MACEN YOU IDIOT, I WAS BORN OF FIRE AND YOUR MAGIC HAS NO AFFECT ON ME! Now please use reason! Those are two crim-i-nals! There obviously going to pull a fast one on you! I'd stil like to be your friend but you leave this cave with them ill finish them off right now so you have to leave without them... We're in close quarters your at a disadvantage... I dont want to break your jaw... Seriously\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon stood at the cave entrance with the ball of fired still gathering within her hand. To be fair, she didn't know about her fire magic until recently. She was making things up as she went on. Her gaze fixed on Scarlett's face. The dancing embers swirling around her hand reflected a redish glare in her eyes. This was common when moonlight rained upon a vampire's face. It was a common trick to use when dealing with a vampire, bring them outside and see if their eyes were red. Seems fire did the same thing.*\n\n\"You haven't been listening to me at all.\"\n\n*She watched as the two men escaped and ran far from the cave. Soon after they escaped, Manon lowered her hand. It was all a bluff to begin with. If the hot-headed Macen paid attention at all. She would know that she cared for all life.*\n\n\"I care for everyone.\"\n\n*The ball of fired extinquished itself. She walked over to Scarlett's clothing and began folding them into neat piles.*\n\n\"We don't have much time, grab what you can.\"" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*Observing the ball now formed Scarlett saw no other way then to just take it and try to knock her out before the men got away and ruined both of there life's*\n\n*She got ready to charge, her fists ready but would stop for a minute tilting her head* \"No, no I'm pretty sure I'm listening! It goes something something im ruining my entire life I've built up and I'm going to take all of my punishment for two guys i just met, then something something now I'm going to kill my own night sister who's just trying to help means there's no way to fix the past only improve the future something something, no I'm pretty sure I'm listening well!\"\n\n*She gritted her teeth as she looked over her shoulder seeinh the men run away* \"Your seriously making a mistake... I get you like humans but to choose bandits over m-\" *Seeing her hand lower she was certainly confused* \"What?\" *She'd been tricked... Once again by Mannon she looked down at her hands then back at Mannon as she punched the cave wall in frustration* \"You make no sense! You care for everyone but yourself it seems! Those two men are going to destroy your life... But instead of silencing them... You spare a deadly vampire who threatened to kill you? I seriously don't understand you... And hey what are you doing!\" \n\n*She saw her begin to pack up Scarlett clothing... Granted there wasn't very much but it was confusing regardless* \"What are you talking about? What do you Mean we? I doubt those guys will make it back to town today... They'll most likely pass out wake up then get to town, but I still don't get what you mean by we?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She still looked a little confused although she started to understand as her emergency blood vial started to wear off as she nodded* \"I see... I think I understand although I feel like there could have been better ways to resolve this i certainly didn't help with that...\"\n\n*With all her stuff packed up she'd sling it over her back looking at mannon* \"I don't have any blood left, that vile was emergency storage for fights or starvation... I'll only get more passive from here on out, although if we do get robbed or attacked I won't hesitate to feed... Maybe refrain from the arms thing mean I'm not settling down for a while probably...\"\n\n\"Also no that's about it, although you do still realize they'll want your head as well... And in my case mine was in the name of justice and self preservation... Your making yourself a criminal because your soft, sorry...\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*She raised an eyebrow at Scarlett's words. This girl swapped from hot and cold rather frequently. Her head turned to the empty and smashed vial on the ground and then up to Scarlett. Seemed like they both were going to need to feed soon.*\n\n*She wondered if Vampires frenzied on one another or did they know which blood was toxic to them or not. One time she tasted her own blood and tasted as awful as decaying deer. It wasn't until years later she read that vampire blood was toxic to other vampires.*\n\n\"I know, I can live with being labeled a criminal. I can't live with myself if I allowed you to keep them like that. Unlike you, I respect all life. Which makes being a vampire hard on my soul. I wouldn't mistaken kindness for soft, it's not easy forgiving people who have wronged you. It's not easy healing someone who has harmed you.\"\n\n*She took a seat against a wall, needing a few minutes in the shade before going back into the sunlight.*" }, { "author": "Scarlett of The Punch", "message": "*She gritted her teeth as she admitted she'd rather be a criminal as opposed to eat clearly evil people, but she sighed... She had to come to terms with the fact that they were different and they are both self destructive in nature*\n\n\"Tch... That's that better then tho attitude again... Well fine let us get going whenever your ready, because I sure am ready to leave this damm desert..\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*The sun would cast its gentle rays down atop the travel heavy duo, now a bit of added relief after having to surpass both the mountain sides and desert lands to get here from Pinnacelia. The Elf would sit up more on his horse, coming to notice them approaching the city with a noticeable accumulation of Oriates walking in and out of view. Dezabia. It seems they were nearing their destination, soon to be rewarded with a moment of rest to explore the new country.*\"Shouldn't be far now.\"*He would point out to Ikehara, turning to face her with a more quirky grin.*\"What say we enjoy some time checking out the city?\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*For a few moments, Ikehara gave no response, her attention fixed on her crossbow. Laboured breaths left her heat-marked lips as she adjusted the new limb of her weapon, the string drawn taught against the trigger spring. Her steed's uneven footing would cause him to start forwards, the Okamimi quickly grabbing at the rim of her sun hat, pulling some locks of hair behind the chinstrap as they shook loose. Turning her eyes to her companion, she flashed a similar grin; amused by how animated he'd grown to be.*\n\"Good idea. Didn't travel all this way for nothing, after all. Any plans?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'll probably stop by the marketplace later whenever setting off again to restock, but until then...\"*He'd say, inclining his head towards the city gates.*\"How about we go see if there's a nice place to get something to eat around here. Got a while until nightfall to see what this place has to offer. Maybe we can even find a map of this place to make navigating easier.\"*He'd tug on the reigns lightly, bringing his horse into a much slower trot upon making their way into the city. A simple day to look around may not be such a bad idea with traveling being the other option.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Hm, yes... Food would be good...\"\n*She sighed, nodding at his proposal and reigning in her own horse's speed. The journey had been long, but not joyless - Terrel had a certain charm about him, despite his curtness. Her eyes would be drawn to the looming sea, a guilty sense of relief washing over her as the azure tide drew close to the sands.*\n\"It doesn't matter how far I go, hm...?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Good, let's go see if we can drop our horses off at a stall somewhere. I think some walking will be more enjoyable after that trip.\"*He'd say, soon dismounting once they were well in the city walls. The Elf would grab at his horse's lead, soon turning towards Ikehara at her sudden question. He'd follow her gaze out towards the distant ocean.*\"The sea?\"*He'd ask, digging through his horse's saddlebags to a make sure he had taken out everything he needed.*\"We're still close to the coastlands. Head far west enough and they'll be completely gone from view.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Maybe by then I'd have gotten over this.\"\n*Her reply was simple, wanting not to dwell on her odd complex around the sea too long - finding it childish to be afflicted with it at all. Her horse bowed its head low as she dismounted, tired out from the unfamiliar heat. She stroked its snout, cooing assuredly as her ears flicked from a similar drain.*\n\"We'll find a trough for the pair of you soon, don't worry~\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He'd give a light tilt of his head, never really understanding the affinity towards the sea personally. With her dismounting, the Elf would incline his head in the direction of one of the paths that seemed to fork off the main road.*\"We can try looking this way.\"*He'd say before turning around and heading off, his horse being tugged along in the process.*\"Reckon they get many horses around here with all this desert?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*Following behind at a slowed pace, her gaze would wander to those that walked beside and away. Dezabians, dressed in loose and flowing cloth to capture every gust of wind in the arid noon sun. The Keguntan summers had been hot, but nothing compared to this. She had half a mind to remove her armour entirely, but the soldier in her forbade it.*\n\"War camels... I can't imagine one of those things charging a line of pikes...\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"They probably can't.\"*He'd say, gradually slowing to a stop in them nearing the stables.*\"But it would be hilarious to watch them try.\"*He'd say, looking at Ikehara with a face full of amusement or at the very least what could be shown as amusement from what was visible of his face. Gesturing to the stable, he'd say:*\"Let's get the two situated before the traveling gets the better of us.\"*With that said, he would lead Carl towards the stables, soon heading inside and talking with the person that worked there before finding a nice place to leave his horse for a while.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*The okamimi hummed in agreement, she lowered herself from the saddle and wheeled her steed around towards the stable, waiting for Terrel to finish up their horses' occupation for today.*\n\"Don't overheat here, alright? If they give you water, just drink it...\"\n*She admonished her horse quietly, recalling the few times she had found the beast refusing to eat or drink in certain regions. If she'd ever suspected he had a higher mind, it was those displays of aloofness that convinced her further.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would give his horse a light stroke along his snout.*\"Will be back to check on you tomorrow bud.\"*He'd say. Walking away from the horse, he'd glance over to Ikehara.*\"Shall we find a place to escape the heat, madam~?\"*The Elf would say the last word as more of a joke, holding out a hand to her in reference to them pretending to have roles of some kind of royal.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*While unable to mask her smirk, she played along readily, returning a curtsy and taking his hand*\n\"You honour me, good sir. Lead the way~\"\n*The airs she put on were only partially fictional - most Keguntan citizens considered themselves more noble than the peasants of other nations, at the very least, and their manner of speech reflected this well. Those in the Condottieri simply dropped it during their excursions: flowery speech was wasteful on the battlefield.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would lead her away from the stables, being met by warm sunlight once more in heading back along the main roads that crossed every which way. While Ikehara only putting on a partial facade, Terrel didn't share the mannerisms of those in Keguntan. Growing up in the steppes, he did find himself learning some lessons about chivalry at the very least, though none that would come close to making him act any higher up than what he was. A Fricharii. Most lessons seemed to fade in time, the Elf acting however he preferred in the moment, but he didn't see Ikehara as the kind of company to mind the small joke that passed between them. After some time of navigating, he'd eventually catch sight of a tavern off in the distance. It wasn't some grand restaurant, but the Elf would prefer anything that kept them out of the heat.*\"This'll do.\"*He'd say aloud, giving assurance to them finally getting some rest from having to walk about so much.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"That it will. You've been in Dezabia before?\"\n*Her mask would drop as they walked through the old doorway, the sandstone's weight having warped the dark wood over the years. The interior was far less warm, the air shallower as candles dried the air. The heat had drained most peoples' energy, so few rowdy drunks could be noticed as they winded past, Ikehara examining the odd patron.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would let out a tired sigh, finally out of the beaming heat in them entering the tavern. He'd briefly scan the building for a bit, listening to her as she'd ask him if he's been here.*\"Only once before.\"*He'd say to her.*\"It was much easier to travel through here than the mountains to get to Irunia after all.\"*The Elf would gently pull her along to one of the seats that remained open still for them to sit at before eventually letting go of her hand.*\"You can imagine that I don't come around too often with this heat though.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"I can imagine not, no... We'd had to take a lot of detours during campaigns, though, so mountain paths aren't new to me - better than getting ambushed along the main roads.\"\n*She cooed, darting her head about to try and get the attention of one of the wait staff. Dezabian was far removed from any dialect she'd learnt, and relying on translators and those that spoke more widespread languages was an unfortunate necessity.*\n\"Wonder what they serve...\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I know they typically sell rice and bread around here for the times I've went to a tavern. They should have some meat options though.\"*He'd say, taking a seat at the table.*\"Might give cheese a try here. It's supposed to be a common dish.\"*The Elf would glance over as Ikehara would attempt to get one of the staff's attention, deciding to take the time in between to think about what it was he wanted.*\"I'm sure they have a variety of dishes here. What do you have a taste for?\"*He'd ask with a light grin. Though the desert was beyond what Terrel would have considered a proper place to grow and sell food, Dezabia seemed to surprise him with all their options. Even the more vegetarian ones, considering most the Kemonomimi's he's met and their preferences.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Fish, and herbal spices mainly. We have a fair selection back home, but you don't get to eat too well when away...\"\n*She sighed, steepling her fingers and resting her chin on them as she mused. While Ikehara wasn't much of a culinary connoisseur, the range and breadth of her homeland's cuisine was enough to make her curious of other places' food.*\n\"Cheese? As a main dish? I'd feel sick if I ate enough cheese to constitute a meal...\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'm sure you can just get it as a side dish.\"*He'd say, looking at the sand-like interior.*\"Something tells me they may not get a lot of fish here either, but here's to hoping.\"*The Elf would wait for the waiter to come by, deciding to make his order of rice, bread, and cheese with some water for some relief of the hot day. While he waited for Ikehara to order, he'd shift his focus to the others inhabiting the tavern.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*She would order something similar, opting for the dark meat instead of cheese.*\n\"No meat in a meal makes me sick to think about, I'll be honest...\"\n*Ikehara confessed with a sigh, rubbing her temples as the heat waxed and waned.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Can't say it's the first I've heard something like that.\"*He'd say more casually, relaxing back in his seat.*\"But you can probably guess I've met a lot of meat eaters during travels.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"You don't eat meat? Kemonomimis can't live without it, simply due to their biology. One of the old scholars explained it in detail to me once, but I'd fallen asleep halfway through it...\"\n*She chuckled, scratching her cheek with a sharp finger - accidentally drawing a dew of blood.*\n**\"By the Gods alive,** Ow...\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"It's not a favorite of mines.\"*He'd say in response.*\"Most find it hard to believe, but it's all just a preference anyways. I'm sure you weren't missing much in lessons. I paid attention all through magic school and hadn't learned a thing.\"*He'd let out a half-hearted laugh, his gaze soon shifting over to her as she'd accidentally claw herself.*\"Cut yourself?\"*He'd ask more casually.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Yeah... Never got used to these, especially after learning this thing.\"\n*She replied with a mild exasperation, gesturing to her wolven fingernails - their sheen like ivory in the low light - then patting her crossbow.*\n\"I remember you mentioning magic school. You were an apprentice, then?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He'd tilt his head a bit in curiosity.*\"Can you sheathe them?\"*He'd ask, figuring there were at least some out there with the ability to. The Silnari of course wasn't sure if that applied to ever person with animal ears, but it was worth asking anyways. Terrel would take a moment to think over her question, soon saying:*\"Yeah for a while, but swordsmanship happened to come much easier to me.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Sure! I'd offer you some of this fillet, but you're not a fan, eh?\"\n*She chuckled soflty, picking up a clean fork and cutting off a small corner of the cheese. Her cheeks flushed as she ate it, letting out a quiet whine as the taste overwhelmed her slightly.*\n\"Ok, yeah... Not normal cheese...\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I think I'll pass.\"*He'd say with a chuckle. The Elf would silently watch her eat a piece of the cheese while he'd finish up his plate of rice.*\"Don't like it?\"*Terrel would ask her after seeing her initial reaction to it.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"This isn't a matter of liking it or not, I'm afraid... The taste is too different to say...\"\n*She'd growl quietly, swallowing quickly as a shiver ran through her bones. Unless the cheese most commonly available across the continent was exceedingly mild, this Dezabian flavour was too rich for her pallete.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He decided to take it as a no with the way she reacted to it. Now with his rice finished, he'd cut a piece of the cheese to take a bite himself. Terrel didn't seem to react as much considering it not being his first time here.*\"Not too bad.\"*He'd say, continuing to eat away at it.*\"I guess you can get used to it given enough time.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Maybe so...\"\n*She mumbled back, returning to her own meal as she finished it off, setting down her cutlery and staring off into the distance. Thoughts of her meals with her old mentors, flashes of a final meal with her parents... Her expression darkened as these forlorn thoughts resurfaced.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would allow the silence to ensue between them while he'd finishing his cheese and bread, the water being long history. Watching her, the Elf could tell there was something making her noticeably upset, though he doubted it was just the cheese getting to her. He'd put some money down on the table, soon standing up and placing a hand on her shoulder to get her attention.*\"We should go. I'm sure there are some places we can still visit while the day's still young.\"*He'd say.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Yeah... If you're done.\"\n*She hummed back, returning to her senses slowly and flashing a small, wry smile. The okamimi rose from her seat, setting down her own pay and thanking a passing waiter.*\n\"What'd you have in mind? Nowhere too far, in this heat, I hope?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"We can probably stop by the riverside instead since the day is getting pretty hot.\"*He'd suggest, heading over towards the door.*\"At least as a place to cool off since this city managed to find some water in the entirety of this desert.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Aqueducts, I assume, from an oasis or reservoir... Water is gold in these sorts of regions, even more so than on the coast.\"\n*She agreed readily, feeling a little dehydrated from the salt in the fish. Following behind, Ikehara gave a double-check of her crossbow before heading back outside again - bracing for the wall of heat.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He'd open the door up, waiting for her to head out first.*\"I can imagine why.\"*He'd say with a chuckle as he would get a face full of heat. Somehow, the time in the tavern just didn't feel long enough for the heat they'd have to endure walking outside again.*\"Might be able to find it somewhere near the outskirts of the city.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"So many Oriates... I thought I'd feel more out of place here, but no...\"\n*She cooed, glancing at passers-by curiously. As far as she had known so far, there were few developed Kemonomimi settlements outside of Keguntan, yet here was an entire nation...*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Surprised you haven't come here before. I didn't know there were any other places to find this many Oriates.\"*He'd say, following one of the paths that headed to the northern part of the city. From there, the large bay could be seen just beyond where the land could reach.*\"Could probably rest here for a while.\"*He'd say, tilting his head towards the few benches sitting along the path.*\"Until it cools down for a bit.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Good idea... Best not to wander too far in this heat.\"\n*Ikehara agreed, her ears flicking lazily as she staved off the overbearing warmth. Leaning into the surprisingly cool wood and metal, she sighed gently; closing an eye at Terrel as she gestured to the space beside her. Her hands settled in her lap, eyes wandering across the cityscape in mild wonder.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would take a seat next to her, leaning back against the bench while absorbing the warmth that filtered through the heavy armor he wore. He'd close his eyes for the time being while moving his arm to rest atop the head of the bench.*\"Next time I decide to travel all the way out here, I'm going to wait until Winter hits...\"*He'd say, letting out a light chuckle in feeling too hot to commit to anything more than that.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Apparently it rains a lot round these parts in winter. I remember catching the aft end of the season someplace else.\"\n*She recalled, her voice a soft hum as she glanced over to the elf, half-wishing she'd learnt some basic water magic before the trip. Her mind began to wander, a few thoughts stirring despite the heat slowing them to a crawl.*\n\"...Hey, Terrel? What'd you wanna do with yourself? I've heard what you've done, but not your ambitions. You seem to have *Something* In mind...\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'd say it's definitely worth it then.\"*He'd say, opening his eyes to gaze over towards her. The Elf would ponder over her question for a bit, eventually turning away to look back out towards the bay.*\"Y'know, originally I started traveling to become the best swordsman I could be.\"*He'd say. Thinking back to it, the original goal seemed ridiculous, though not the most far-fetched in seeing where he was now.*\"Nothing better than going against the typical stereotype of Silnaris for the sake of not having to depend on magic.\"*The Elf would fall silent for a bit, soaking in the sun's rays before he'd soon continue.*\"But as far as I what I want to with myself now. I want to make a name for myself and see how far I've come whether it ends up for better or for worst.\"*A grin would appear on his face.*\"Never know what'll happen out here, but there's still plenty of time to leave my mark. Whatever that may be. What about you?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*It took Terrel a short moment to process what she meant by that, soon breaking out in his own chuckle. She got him there at least. No quip, no side comment, simply genuine laughter from him. He'd smile more warmly at her, the look only temporary as he'd turn away to face the bay again.*\"Know where you plan to travel to next from here?\"*The Silnari would ask her after the initial humor had faded. Perhaps it would have been better off to not have asked. Wherever she planned on heading off next, the Silnari doubted he'd see her again after. Warfare and ploys ravaged half the countryside nowadays and by his own luck, that would be just enough for him to lose another ally. Surely it wasn't all bad though, he doubted she'd care much for the kind of shady work he's done that often resulted in the falling apart of companions. Perhaps it was bound to end the same either way.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Hm... Not sure, maybe somewhere a little cooler. You haven't finished your errands, have you?\"\n*She asked, tilting her head and flopping her ears to one side. So far, they've had something to eat and relaxed under shade; there was much more to do before departing.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would ponder over it for a bit. He didn't plan on leaving Dezabia for quite some time with how long it took to get here to begin with. Perhaps he'd find an inn to rest at while checking out the rest of the city with all the traveling and heat having done a number on him.*\"I'll probably spend some time here while getting my Mercenary work done.\"*He'd say.*\"Came too far to set out again so soon, y'know?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Makes sense. Mind if I join you? Sounds more fun than lazing about here for no good reason.\"\n*Ikehara asked tentatively, unsure of whether she'd be pushing her luck. Of course, they'd enjoyed their time together, but Terrel didn't necessarily want her along for his work as well...*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*There would be a moment's pause in his answer, the Silnari lost in thought for a while from being asked the question. It wasn't so much that he didn't want her tagging along than the thought of the complications that typically came in bringing others to his jobs. Some falling apart from morals, others making the task harder. He never really knew if it were the jobs itself that caused it or deeper feelings of those around him being deterred by it, though there was some part of him that would find it disappointing if the same happened to her. Terrel supposed that was the norm though whether they joined him or not. All companions eventually split up eventually, this was hardly different. He'd allow a light smirk to appear on his face, making himself more teasing.*\"Sure, if you think you're up for it. They're not always an easy task after all.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Mercenary jobs never are. But I was in a mercenary army - I've had my fair share of tough jobs.\"\n*Her expression turned stony for a moment, the light behind her eyes dimming as memories flashed past them - unpleasant ones, to say the least. It soon subsided however, Ikehara grinning at him and nodding.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would tilt his head to the side a bit, silently observing her change in expression. Something seemed to be on her mind, though the look passed just as easily, replaced with something slightly more enthusiastic.*\"Consider it a deal then.\"*He'd say, holding out a gloved hand to her.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*She'd take it firmly, winking at him as she responded with confidence.*\n\"A deal indeed!~\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would shake her hand, eventually moving his own away to rest it back on his lap.*\"Don't get a view like this just anywhere.\"*He'd say, mainly addressing the sea out in front of them. The sun, though still beaming from above, now just barely sat out of reach of the horizon.*\"I guess that's what makes traveling all the more worthwhile.\"*That and a few other things of course, but he'd only decide to mention the scenery. He'd glance over to her, asking:*\"Ready to go find an inn to rest at?\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"The sight of the sea from Keguntan is nice, but this has its own charm...\"\n*Ikehara took a small breath in, the air like soup as she relaxed once more. Rising to her feet with a lilt in her heels, offering a hand to Terrel.*\n\"If you've found one of sufficient calibre, good sir~\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He'd look up at her for a while, a hidden expression behind the blank stare of the pig mask with only a smile to give it away. Terrel would grab her hand and rise up to his feet, taking opportunity to allow their arms to interlock as he found place at her side once more. A funny ruse, now seeming to become habit between them, though this was one of the few times he didn't mind it.*\"Only the best for us, madam~.\"*He'd say in return, escorting her onwards along the roadways.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel squinted his eyes against the bright rays of sunlight that streamed through the windows of an already hot tavern. He would have thought he'd be used to the warmth of the area by now, but between the armor and extra clothing, he couldn't wait to be in much cooler weather. The light was partially blinding, though he tried to pay no mind to it while he attempted to read the map set before him. It had been a bit of time since he had first arrived to the city with his new travel companion, though after the days passed, he had been starting to search for a route to the next country over. Salvania seemed like a nice place to head towards nowadays with only Hombaxia and Kadho being between them. Maybe they could follow the coastline with it being a much faster route. He figured Ikehara would prefer to stay near the sea anyways. These thoughts swirled through his mind for the time being, allowing himself to be distracted by the light tavern activity going on around him. It felt better to keep busy at any rate, even if it was simply planning for departure.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*The young okamimi sat opposite Terrel, close to him as she had the past few days - her sharp eyes watching the sight of the sea through the window. Having shed some layers at this point, now more lightly armoured as they milled about between quests, she'd been acclimating to the heat very slowly. At some point she had decided to leave most of the planning to Terrel, partly due to her unfamiliarity with the region and partly due to his difficult disposition. They were definitely friendly, at this point, but breaking any further past his enigmatic exterior had been folly.*\n\"We're heading out and away soon, hm?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel lifted his gaze away from the map at her question, his shoulders growing more lax.*\"Yeah, might set out towards Salvania soon. Kadho may be an issue to go through if we head too close to its border, though we could possibly follow the coastline to pass through it.\"*He said, voicing his thoughts aloud. Typically he wouldn't mind going along its border, though with an extra companion traveling with him, he found himself having to plan more thoroughly for his trips. Fortunately Salvania was further North while still being well away from any conflict.*\"Do you prefer to stay near the sea? Should be able to see it all the way to Salvainia if we take that route.\"*He asked, deciding to let her choose herself.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"...Yeah. More so than I deserve to be.\"\n*Another few moments of silence, her irritation melting into fatigue once more. Her head perked up as she clipped the crossbow to her hip, flashing a half-hearted smile at Terrel.*\n\"I guess I miss the crew. You've got people waiting for you out there, right?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*There was a pause as Terrel thought about it for a moment. He met plenty of people out there, though very few he'd say were waiting for him besides a friend or two. Maybe that was enough assurance for her, though he wasn't sure how big of a crew she was expecting.*\"Yeah a few.\"*He said in response.*\"If you want to meet them... We can probably catch some on the way to Salvainia.\"*He wasn't completely sure if that would be true, but he had a general idea of where some typically hung out.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Maybe so... I meant in terms of family, if there's any.\"\n*Her voice lowered, recalling the scant information on Terrel's background she'd been privy to. While he hadn't exactly been exiled, leaving home in the way he did would leave some bitterness. She was lucky enough - in some ways - to have no-one to answer to, besides some grumbling scholars.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He scratched at the back of his head at her words, imagining going back to his family now of all times.*\"Family... Right...\"*Terrel said to her, not meeting her gaze for a moment. He wasn't sure how likely some would want to see him again, though it wasn't like he had a terrible bond with them prior. He still cared for them despite the way he left, though returning would lead to a long list of awaited questions.*\"Well anyways, ready to set off?\"*He asked her, evading the earlier statement completely.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*She nodded to him as they made for the exit, relenting to him pushing past and leaving into the blistering heat. Whilst the temperature had dropped slightly as noon passed, they were no less overwhelmed. Combing her hand through her hair and shaking her ears from discomfort, she stood outside the building and waited, keeping under the outcropped roof for the small amount of shade.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Being welcomed to the heat of the outside never failed to take him by surprise, the temperature hitting like a wave to the Silnari as he let out a tired sigh.*\"At least it shouldn't be so bad up North.\"*He said aloud as he rejoined Ikehara to begin heading down the road towards the stables.*\"I'll be glad for when winter comes.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"All of it's new to me, the heat and the cold. Keguntan's temperate, so the extremes are... Different.\"\n*She mused, tapping her cheek in cursory thought. Her ears continued to flick left to right, an attempt to cool herself down somewhat, eyes glancing between passers-by.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Trust me, the winter will be much better. Well... So long as you dress for it, so I guess it really is no different to this weather.\"*He said, continuing along the road.*\"Probably a lot easier to keep warm than cool though.\"*Part of Terrel wondered if Ikehara had any idea of how extreme the weather could get. Has she ever even seen snow before? Winter would be right around the corner soon enough. By then, they'd be able to find decent towns to visit in between travels.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Aye, I can attest to that. I'm made for the cold, anyway.\"\n*Shaking her hair free, she closed an eye at him, smirking slightly at the curious expression Terrel often wore. They'd soon reach the stable, searching and finding their steeds after a few moments, leading them out of their pens.*\n\"Rested up, fellow? We've got a long road ahead...\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He raised a curious eyebrow towards her expression, somewhat perplexed by the occasional emotion she gave away that her ears didn't already betray.*\"Guess we'll see how we fare once the cold temperatures reaches us or I suppose when we reach them.\"*He said as they made their way to the stable. The Silnari walked up to his steed, giving him a light pat.*\"Back on the road again now bud.\"*He said to the horse.*\"Don't worry, it won't be long until we leave this place.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Aye, all the arbalesters did. If an army only fought, we'd starve halfway through a campaign.\"\n*She hummed back, understanding that Terrel probably had little experience as a regular under a banner. Her ears perked up as he lead on, taking a moment to listen to their surroundings, her crossbow resting upon her thigh with her reigns draped over top.*\n\"Sounds fine. The ocean will make the nights and days more bearable.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He let out a huff of air at her response, partially amused. The Silnari would be fortunate enough to catch any wild animal out here without the assistance of his wolves. He led the way along the main roadways, making sure the bay remained in view of them with it being a reference point.*\"I wouldn't mind learning how to.\"*He said after a long moment of silence.*\"Would save out on having to ration the food supply so much.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*She grinned, baring her fangs as she nodded.*\n\"I can do that, yes. We always had copperbolts needing training, and I was on call for that most days. Next time we're in a forest, we can go looking.\"\n*Her confidence swelled parallel with her stature, almost puffing out her chest as she sat up fully. Her steed followed behind, slowly feeling the heat dissipate from the cool ocean winds.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel watched her idly, finding it funny how much her confidence seemed to flourish at the simple idea of going out hunting. It was probably the first time he's really seen her this way since they've started traveling. He eventually shifted his gaze away, focusing on the road ahead as the buildings began to melt away to desert sands in them leaving the town.*\"We'll see what Hombaxia has to offer.\"*He said, relaxing his hold on the reigns while he let Carl take over in simply heading straight for the time being.*\"For now, guess it's time to get used to seeing nothing but sand again.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"We won't be seeing it again soon, I imagine. Enjoy it while it lasts.\"\n*Her jest was more of a hopeful suggestion than an earnest joke, having grown more than tired of the desert oases - both mentally and physically. The road slowly disappeared underhoof, the only sign of their path being the well-tread sand that snaked through the dunes.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He let out an amused exhale of air, doubting he'd have anything to miss about this place. Nevertheless, he continued onwards, hope for much greener lands on the horizon. \n\nTime had come and gone since they first started setting off from Dezabia, by now, the Silnari losing track of how often the sun rose and fell across the endless sands. There were times when he found himself having to stop to reassess his map in trying to guess how much further they had to go, though despite passing through each city, the way along the bay felt even longer than normal travel despite it being much shorter.\n\nTerrel let out a tired yawn as it looked like the sun was bound to begin setting again before they reached Hombaxia, only for the smallest bit of greenery caught his eye in the sand melting away to much softer ground.*\"Good news.\"*He said to his companion, a bit more optimism in his exhausted tone.*\"Looks like we've finally left the desert.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"The air is crisper. Grass is still starved, but at least there's something solid underhoof.\"\n*The okamimi commented in confirmation, a similar amount of fatigue in her voice. Between the two animals, Ikehara's was faring a touch better than Terrel's, but Carl wasn't a warhorse.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Maybe we can find somewhere to settle near the bay.\"*He suggested, partially glad that at the very least they had kept the water source in view just in case of emergencies.*\"I think Carl has done his workload for the day. Probably best to get them something to drink out here.\"*It didn't seem like there were any towns nearby, but at least the terrain was starting to look better. Maybe it won't be such a bad spot to camp out at though hunting anything that was worth eating didn't seem to be the best of chances currently.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"We could all use one... These flasks are too warm to enjoy, something cold would be nice.\"\n*She confessed, huffing quietly as she sipped from the slightly-too-warm water. Her mind cast back to a couple days back, and she urged her horse a few feet ahead of Terrel, eyes cast all around for woodlands and the like.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Things should cool down during nightfall.\"*He said, figuring the weather will drop to the point of wishing warm water was still an option. Giving a light tap with his foot, he urged his horse to move more towards the shoreline, though at this point, Carl was probably doing it on his own accords. There were few trees dotting along the area, more so tropical-like in appearance rather than the significant look of woodland trees. As Carl eventually neared the water's edge to begin drinking from it, Terrel soon dismounted and offered him a light pat.*\"Of course, we could always wait until it starts snowing then we can have all the cold water we want.\"*He joked, mainly to pass the time to allow his horse some rest. Terrel gazed out into the bay for a while, letting out a quiet exhale of air while Ikehara was searching around.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*Once the sand had fully given way to solid ground, Ikehara had dismounted and was leading her horse by the reins. Her energy seemed to renew as she switched her mode of movement, letting the reins go and patting her steed's snout, who ambled over to Carl and followed in his example. She approached Terrel after a few minutes of scouting, something akin to excitement on her visage.*\n\"About two Silnari miles from here, there's a large enough glade. We can find what we need there, I think.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel glanced over at her approach, picking up on her possibly having some good news with the change in mood. As she notified him of the chance of finding what they need a couple miles down, he gave a tired smile. Seemed like they still had more traveling ahead, though at least Ikehara seemed happy about it.*\"Once these two are done here, go ahead and lead the way.\"*He said, deciding to let the horses drink for a little while longer before he eventually grabbed Carl's lead and turned to face Ikehara in silent expectation. Seems like she was going to be the guide for now.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Ures, *Wro, wro!\"\nShe barked to her steed after a few moments longer, the horse apparently named Ures lazily swinging his head towards her. She growled in a way only a half-beastkin could, quickening the horse's approach. She gave the reins a harsher flick against his back, urging him ahead of Terrel and Carl.*\n\"Take your time, Terrel. I'll move a few dozen yards ahead to get a better look.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He gave a quiet snort at her frustration towards her steed as she tugged him along only to tell the Silnari to take his time. He waited for her to head off for some distance before sharing a glance with his horse. Those two seemed to understand one another at any rate, the Silnari only pushing Carl as far as the horse would go anyways. Carl continued drinking at the water, hardly any haste in his actions to which Terrel also shared as he idly leaned against his horse for a while. Only when Carl had lifted his head once again, did he finally tug him along to follow in the direction Ikehara had gone off to, hoping she hadn't moved too far on ahead.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*She hadn't rushed too far ahead, once she'd noticed the pace that Terrel had opted for - not that she blamed him, they'd ridden for hours through the blistering heat. If it wasn't for her soldiering, she'd expect to have collapsed by now. As the grasses began to take root along the path, the air seemed to cool, the presence of trees inviting birdsong.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel eventually caught up to her, his shoulders growing lax from the cooler air to welcome them across the border. He wished he could enjoy it more, though the heat had drained most of the energy out of him. Terrel didn't pay to much attention to the potential of other woodland animals being about, though after a while, he eventually looked over to her, asking:*\"Seem like a good a place to hunt?\"*The Silnari hardly knew which animal to find where, nor did he care too much of whatever was caught in him not eating meat anyways, but he still seemed curious one way or another.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Hunting comes after camp. I'd rather spend a day setting up than rushing to make a firepit before the game spoils.\"\n*She returned simply, almost barking as she pointed to one of the clearings, visible through the sparser sections of tree.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel glanced up towards the sky for a short moment, unconsciously trying to figure out which direction they were going in so as not to stray too far from the route they were already taking. She seemed to have her own plans for the day, which Terrel figured he could just take as opportunity to relax in that case. The camp was bound to only last them a night anyways, though if they took their time traveling through Hombaxia, he supposed they'd be here for a while. His attention was caught once more as she pointed out the clearing she mentioned earlier.*\"Not a bad place to make camp.\"*He commented, knowing full well that with the desert as a comparison, any other place seemed good.*\"Looks like we beat sundown this time.\"*He gave Carl a light pat, moving on ahead to make his way over towards the clearing while his horse attempted to curiously sniff at the grass growing in the area.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Aye, the shade will do us good. Might be out of the desert, but the heat is still too much to lounge about in. At least the air is clear... The *Uha* Favour our journey, I would say.\"\n*She mused aloud, noting Terrel's relaxed pace and slowing down in kind. The prospect of hunting was an energising one, but not enough to combat the slow sapping of strength the trek through the desert had given them. Her ears perked as the trees grew more plentiful, twitching and swivelling subtly at each familiar sound.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Uha?\"*He questioned her, leading his horse to a nice place for him to graze. Terrel took off his cloak from around him, throwing the red fabric over his horse while the animal grazed. He probably would have been better off not wearing armor this whole way here, though the Silnari knew better than to trust that there wasn't at least one person out in the middle of nowhere looking for an easy target. At least things here seemed more peaceful though, besides they were still far enough from the warzone anyways.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"The Silnari have their gods and spirits, we have ours. The *Uha* Are the most powerful of the spirits of the world. They are in the sky, the sun and the trees - anything in nature, there are *Uha* Who preside of it.\"\n*Ikehara explained, her tone growing ponderous as the glimmer of faith shone through her usual cynicism. She mirrored Terrel's actions, unbuckling the saddlebags and feeding Ures a morsel for his good work.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Hm.\"*He said idly, glancing upwards for a brief moment before looking back at her. Terrel never really believed in the gods, not even the Silnari ones. Though he suppose luck is also a thing here.*\"Should probably start setting up camp. If you want to refill the flasks for the time being, can do that while I start getting things set up here.\"*He suggested.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Psh... Aye, hand yours over. Should be a river clear enough for filtering nearby.\"\n*The small noise she made seemed to be disappointment, the elf barely reacting to the talk of gods. She supposed there were always unbelievers, even atheists despite all the signs. Looping all their flasks onto a length of tied rope, she made to journey into the foliage, following the sounds of running water.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel handed her the flask, watching as she headed off before letting out a light sigh. The hardest part of the trip was over, at least they still had more travels on ahead. He turned away, taking off his armor piece for the time being to finally get a breath of air with how hot it had been. The breeze felt a lot cooler now, most likely from the help of all the sweat collecting from the day. Terrel sat his armor and weaponry down near his horse, eventually reaching into Carl's saddlebags for the supplies he'd need to get camp set up while Ikehara was gone.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*Ikehara returned after an hour or so, a few extra scuffs across her face and exposed skin from fighting back the forest. Slung across her back were the flasks, now full with clean (enough) water, along with a trio of hares; bound by a length of rope and hanging off the hook on her crossbow.*\n\n\"Something to eat for now. We'll hunt something decent tomorrow, when the light is better.\"\n*She concluded with another huff, this one from exhaustion as she expended the last of her useful energy for the day. Settling beside whatever Terrel had set up while she was gone, drawing her dagger and getting to work skinning her game.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel had been sitting near a makeshift fire while he waited for her to return. So much time had passed, that part of him had begun suspecting she either completely wandered off or had something happened to her. With the sound of her making her way back into camp, Terrel's head whirled around.*\"Where did you g-.\"*He cut himself off, the question soon being answered in seeing the game she had brought back during the time she was gone.*\"Here I am thinking you fell into the bay.\"*He commented as she came over to begin working on skinning the animals.*\"Nice catch.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"It'd have taken this long to find the stream, anyway. You think it's close, considering we're near the desert?\"\n*She raised an eyebrow to his mild incredulity, but brushed it off once she heard a compliment. The okamimi smiled wryly, finishing off one of the skinnings and handing him the meat to season or cook bare.*\n\"It's a good glade. Lots of fauna.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'd think it's close enough considering we'd been following the bay this whole time.\"*He commented in return. Terrel tilted his head back a bit as she went to hand him the meat, lightly holding up his hand in turn.*\"Enjoy your catch.\"*He said to her.*\"I, uh still don't eat meat.\"*At the last part he let out a bit of an awkward chuckle, though at the very least she could enjoy the fruit of her own labor. Terrel looked away from her to focus on the fire.*\"Good to hear there are other animals out here. Now we actually know there's a chance of survival.\"*That bit was of course a joke considering how long they traveled the desert without much signs of life, though he found it amusing either way.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Hn, sorry... Got a little too into it.\"\n*She sighed, a touch bashful from her mistake. For Ikehara, the concept of cutting out meat from her diet was unthinkable, though she attributed that to her ethnic quirks. Her ears flattened as she thought on this, figuring that a hunt would prove meaningless if Terrel wouldn't be interested in venison...*\n\"Where are we headed tomorrow, then? Or a few more days here?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"There's no rush if you want to hunt to your heart's content out here.\"*He said with a light grin.*\"I'm sure Tzu would like it very much.\"*The Silnari reached for his hair, taking out a small bird-like Rodent from it and holding it out to her.*\"No fun in letting the catch go to waste, right?\"*He asked her, noticing how deflated she seemed. Terrel supposed he could see why, the catches being meant to share, but even if he did not care much for eating it, he could find other ways to put it to use.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "*Her ears perked up at the little creature, twitching gently at the sounds it made.*\n\"I forgot you had a furrow. Where'd you get him, anyway?\"\n*She cooed, feeding the little one scraps of cooked rabbit as she ate from it as well.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*The furrow took pieces of the rabbit, nibbling away at it as it sat down in his palm.*\"I was paid to go exterminate a group of them that was becoming a nuisance at this farm, but I decided to keep this guy at the very least.\"*He answered, briefing around the details of events that went on that day.*\"He was a trooper. Tried to put up a fight till the very end.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"What, did you take it instead of payment?\"\n*She smirked at the creature, nodding appreciatively at his origin. Unless it was a useful thing, Ikehara couldn't imagine taking in a wild animal - far too liable to act out, especially during a hunt or a march. She fished out one of her broken crossbow shafts, spearing one of the rabbits and holding it over the flame.*\n\"Is that sort of stuff solo work?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Typically, though I usually find myself having to work with others whether it's for better or for worst.\"*He said, noting all the jobs he had done. Some people were easier to work with than others, though as long as the job got done, he didn't care so much.*\"The Centaur I worked with then was fine though. Helped out a lot to make the job go by quicker, especially with the furrows that tried to run off.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"Centaur, eh? Don't see those outside their tribes that often, these days.\"\n*Again she cooed, this time from a mild interest in such an abnormal acquaintance. Even for her, some of the other demi-humans were a rare sight; Ikehara having grown tired of the reams of elves and macen running about.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Can't say I've met many on my travels either.\"*He said.*\"I never thought too much of it though, but I occasionally see him every now and then at least. Who knows, I'm sure we're bound to find some out here while we're traveling about.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"One of the comrades you mentioned?\"\n*Finishing up the two hares, she began cracking open the bones and sucking out the marrow idly, eyeing Terrel as she threw the hollow ones onto the fire.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"You can say that.\"*He answered.*\"Pretty nice guy, haven't seen him from some time now, but I'm sure he's getting along just fine wherever he is. You tend to meet a lot of people who come and go while traveling, so never know when you may meet them again.\"" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"We'll see how I do, then. You're the only one I've seen for more than a day.\"\n*She sighed, growling quietly as she threw the last of the bones atop the blaze, taking a broken bolt and cleaning the gaps in her teeth.*\n\"You seem more travelled than you let on, when I get you talking. I'm sure you've heard *That* Before.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel smirked out her, giving a light shrug to her comment.*\"You'd be surprised.\"*He said.*\"I've yet to see much reason to talk about my travels.\"*Perhaps it was from the lack of have many to talk to between a lot of his trips or how little he said in most spaces that kept him quiet in a lot of circumstances. He wasn't sure himself though she wasn't wrong about it.*" }, { "author": "Ikehara Nhealif", "message": "\"...Suppose it depends if you have somewhere to go back to, people to tell your stories to.\"\n*Her voice lowered as she began to staunch the fire, bringing up a tender subject for the both of them. While she had chosen to leave, there was little waiting back on that archipelago. But at least she had people who would welcome her home...*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel drew silent for a moment, the hint of smugness fading in turn. Despite the way he had left, he wouldn't doubt that there was at least someone back at home willing to hear stories. He liked to think so anyways, but as far as life back at home went, he always seemed to evade most questioning towards it.*\"You're probably right.\"*He said in a matter of fact tone, thinking just for a moment of what he would do if he returned home. This whole journey would have felt like a dream in finally getting to go out and see the world as much as he had been insisting to go, but to return back? Terrel wasn't too sure if he was ready to face what was waiting for him there.*\"I think I'd like to continue traveling just a little longer though.\"*He said thoughtfully.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "The young water macen has been paying attention to the trouble the bag gives to Elowen. The energetic girl refuses to take a needed rest or to ask her friend to carry the bag for her. Leon knows that they both have things to work on for a better relationship. So he takes one step to improve it, exactly like she has done. \"Here, let me carry your bag for you. Your shoulders must be in lots of pain after your constant need for a massage.\" He takes the strap of her bag and pulls slightly to see if she'll accept his offer. If she denies, he's persistent and tries once more. If another denial is followed, he leaves it alone. If she allows him to take it, he slides the strap onto his shoulder. He pats her back lightly as they continue on. She asks her question and he answers quickly. \"An inn. We'll get settled and then we can go and buy some clothing. I was thinking something heavier than this garment for myself. As we continue to travel, especially if we visit mountains, I'll personally need something to fight off the cold.\" He states. What he hasn't told her is that he plans to buy her some clothing secretly. They find an inn that isn't crowded. Looks like some rooms could still be open. \"You should get yourself a heavy garment as well. I don't know how fast you get cold, but I do think it's necessary.\" He walks up to the owner who doesn't understand their languages. Well... Other than a little Mentian. Leon happily negotiates an inn room with the man in his mother tongue. If Elowen listens, she'd notice that he sounds like a native Mentian and how easily he can pick up on/understand the mistakes made by the man. He pays the man the money for a few nights and is given a key. He gestures for Elowen to follow him. \"He said it's upstairs down the hallway.\" He goes upstairs and enters the room to put his items down along with her bag if he has it. He stretches a bit and smiles at the girl. \"Nice room, isn't it?\"" }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "Leons taking steps to improve their relationship was a welcomed change at the very least. She indeed was someone extremely energetic, being able to nyoom places with little hindrance of course. Though, unlike Leon, she severely malfunctioned without sleep. She gets extremely moody and emotional when she lacks the sleep she loves so much. She looked at him with a confused face. She nodded to him with a soft sigh, handing the bag to him. She hopes that this didn't hinder him too much. The bag itself was a few pounds! Like 5 pounds. That's not a good weight to have on one side for too long. Seemed like her tunic weighed a lot. He pat her in the back, Elowen reacting with a shoulder pat. It was natural to her at this point. \n\n\"Yeah, we can get a room at the inn. You should get some heavier clothing. Tends to be helpful in heat and the cold!\"\n\nShe answers, not exactly knowing if he was going to buy her something. She didn't care in the end. She doesn't know if they were close enough to even start gifting things to each other. Or something else. When she thought of this 'thing,' she twitched in her spot, turning a bright scarlet. It was short lived though. She calmed down after a moment. She was actually... Planning to give something to herself and Leon. She saw this small animal in the wild during her travels. She suspects there will be someone selling them somewhere in this city. They step themselves into a less populated inn. Seemed like Leon was able to detect her weaknesses better than she was able to detect his.\n\nPoor her. \n\nAs he conversed with the shop owner, Elowen was left to her own devices. She seemed rather flustered in the back. He cares about her. She had a memory pop up in her head. A memory from a month ago. That night that he said 'I'm glad it was with you,' or something like that. He really enjoys her company... Or something else? If it was something else, what was it? It honestly made her feel nervous about the future of their friendship. What if he liked her so much that she wouldn't know what to do. Let's hope that doesn't happen eh? She herself didn't listen to his communications. There probably were a lot of ambient noises from inside and outside. \n\nShe promptly snapped out of her trance... Or thoughts when Leon motioned her to join him. She had no reason to reject, so she just approached him and followed him up the stairs. To the room they go. What can go wrong? She entered the room the moment Leon opened the door, taking in the sight of the room. I'm going to make an assumption that there was a single bed in the room. Medieval inns tend to cheap out on living standards. It was a plain wooden bed inside of a wooden room, having a table for whatever they might need, an indoor wash basin, and that was practically it.\n\n\"Yeah, it's a nice room. Since we have our room, what are going ta do now~?\"" }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Leon sits on the bed, feeling it out. It's not bad at all. Of course, they need to be careful with how much weight they put on it. The wood frame could possibly snap if the both of them sleep on it. He also doesn't think that the redhead would feel so comfortable sleeping so close to him. \"I'll sleep against the bed. Or I won't sleep at all, it doesn't matter much to me.\" He says. He pulls his garment off and folds it up. He puts it next to her bag. He's still wearing the shirt that was under it. The room is pretty warm, likely due to the sunlight hitting the wood all day along with no ventilation other than the small window. He looks up at the girl as she asks her question. \"We can go purchase those clothes now. I'm guessing you'll pick something else that matches perfectly.\"\n\nLeon doesn't think of his words or actions as flirtatious. He actually thinks of them as careful and reasonable. He doesn't want her to get the wrong idea. Or maybe he doesn't want her to get any ideas about him just yet. He doesn't know. It's weird not having experiences with past allies. The man knows a bunch of people, which makes sense because of his occupation. But no one has built a relationship like theirs with him, for as long as they have. It'll only grow to be bigger and more unbreakable. Wherever it leads, as long as it isn't to disaster or pain, is perfectly fine with him. He stretches his arms and says \"Let's get going.\" Whenever she's ready. Once they exit the room, he locks the door and walks down the stairs of the inn with her. They exit and make their way to a clothes shop. As they walk around, Leon thinks about his plan to gift her a piece of clothing. Since they're starting with their own experience in friendship, he doesn't have a strict ideology as to how it should work. Like statements such as 'No gifts until you're friends for a year and a half' or 'No hugs unless you're crying.' The only rule he really follows is no marital actions such as kissing and intercourse unless you're dating or married. That's what he was taught when he was growing up regarding friends. \"What's your favorite color, Elowen?\" He asks, almost randomly. He hopes that'll help him in his decision making. If she answers, he responds with a simple \"Hm..\".\n\nThey find a rather huge shop, filled with various different types of clothing for different people. Textures, styles, colors, sizes, fits. They're all right there, spread out across the walls and tables in the business. Whoever's running this knows what they're doing. This is the type of shop you'd expect to see in Salvainia or Kadho. Maybe the owner understa- \"Welcome travelers!\" Well, speak of the devil. A man stands at one of the tables across the room. He speaks Salvainian. Leon waves and smiles \"Hello sir. Where are your heavy garments located please?\" The man directs him to the wall on the left. Leon looks through the designs and prices to see what he'd like." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "The frame was plenty strong enough to support the two if they both decided to get on at the same time. It was also plenty big enough to fit at least three of her on. Though, there was a creak, but it was simply the floor. Elowen seems to have found a creaky spot on the floor and has decided that she wants to play with it for a bit. She snapped out of it when he said something about sleeping. She shook her head. They had plenty of things to make a wall so they don't intrude on each other's space.\n\n\"No no. You're sleeping on the bed. It's plenty large enough to fit us both. Just gotta make a wall with our belongings to prevent us from intruding on each other's space.\"\n\nShe said, touching her index finger onto her head like that man in the meme. She thinks she is somewhat smart with that. But it there generally was enough room to keep them both on the bed, even with some separation. Why would you try to avoid the bed? It's not like it was going to do anything bad to them or anything. It was pretty friendly! Though... It wasn't very comfortable. It seemed to be a wooden mattress with some feathers or cotton shoved into it. She took off her hat, dropping it on the side opposite of the man. She was now simply wearing her woolen trousers, a long sleeve white shirt, which still remained white, and her boots. Those durable leather boots.\n\nShe seemed to be set for a while when it came to clothing. \n\n\"We can do that. I wouldn't mind. I have some things I plan to pick up as well\"\n\nShe said, taking her bag, emptying it out onto the bed so... She didn't have any extra weight when she picked up the clothing. She didn't think that was exactly flirtatious either. She thought it was him being kinda cute. Matching clothing? That's cool. Adds some more cohesion between the two! She stretched her back, pushing her chest out onto the front of her shirt. Yikes. He could hear some creaking as she planted more of her weight on the floor. As he stepped out the door, she followed after. \n\nOutside, it was a busy place, the city being packed right now with more people going about and working. Some people were selling many wares and items. Some people were selling meat... Writing supplies, charting supplies, and of course... Animals. A dog approached Elowen, who promptly moved away from it, squeezing into her friend. She was mighty terrified of dogs. The origin is not for sure, but he might know from some more prying. She seemed slightly more awkward around him these few days. Probably that time of the month for her.\n\nShe seperated herself from him, still remaining close, rubbing her shoulder. \n\n\"I like khakis and any brown~\"\n\nShe answered as cheerfully as she always does. She found it strange how he asked her such a trivial question when they were getting clothes for him. Hmmm, strange. They arrived at the shop, Leon seeming preoccupied with his items, Elowen slipping in to see something that she'd enjoy wearing. She honestly wasn't really phased by the cold of the Eísauen mountains, even in the winter. She didn't think she'd be affected honestly." }, { "author": "Leon. L", "message": "Due to the conversations that they've had throughout their travels, he recognized that she probably dislikes dogs. So when they see one in the street, he isn't shocked by her sudden grasp. He's also not too shocked by her slightly heightened emotional state because of what's she's going through right now. It had to happen at some point and will continue to. \n\nBrown. Yeah, it makes sense. Brown won't be too difficult to find. He's glad she didn't say something like pink or green, which would be harder to find. Also, those colors, if not placed correctly, can be really loud and irritating. \n\nHe tries on a few coats and heavy garments, testing the feel and warmth. They're all incredible pieces of clothing. Things he hasn't experienced beforehand. He's had garments that were for the winter when he was back home, but not of this quality. They were excellent at trading but not at being rich, which is ironic when you think about it. \"This one's very nice.\" He says, looking similar to a dark and heavy gambeson. It reminds him of his brother's who probably bought it from a place similar to this, but it's thicker and looks more durable. \"How much for this one?\" He asks the owner. \"105 silver.\" The man responds. Leon pulls out some silver from his pocket and pays the man. \"Do you sell scarves?\" He asks discreetly. He knows that she probably doesn't mind the cold, but it'd definitely go well with her outfit. The man shows him where they are and Leon looks through them quickly. He purchases a beautiful dark brown scarf with pretty designs on it. He hides it under the gambeson and walks to the girl to see what she's wearing." }, { "author": "Elowen Faulkner", "message": "Colours being loud is a description I haven't heard in absolute months. She didn't just dislike dogs mind you. She was absolutely terrified of them. Like crying incoherently scared of them. Seemed like he understood Elowen more than she really understood herself. She doesn't know why she feels so moody all the time... Or why she feels a bit irritable, but she suspects it's because she has been in the desert for too long. Her natural habitat was the cold of course. She practically thrived in the cold. Though, of course, she wasn't sure if Leon would be able to enjoy it as much as her. There was no water to splash in when it was all frozen, unless he likes to take a swim under the ice of the lakes. Elowen sure loved doing that. It was her favourite thing to do! Though, she has an annoying time trying to keep her hair from freezing. But, to have fun, you must make some sacrifices. \n\nBrown indeed wasn't something hard to find. In fact, you could easily get it by just jumping into the mud! Plus, she wasn't exactly too needy. In fact, she can get her own stuff herself! Like we will see later on. She found herself attracted to the... Hats they sold. She shook her head. She can't wear all her hats if she buys too many. She'll probably only buy more hats if she has a place to live. At the current moment, that was not going to happen until the far far future for she doesn't intend on settling down for a while. Though, she would like the have a small hut in the mountains that she can come back to if she needed a place to relax. \n\nShe herself wasn't wearing anything new. Just her puff Jacobean, Woolen khaki trousers, and of course, her leather boots. Seems like she hasn't brought her weapon with her.\n\nIn fact, it seems that she has, as of recently, started to rely more on Leon to protect her. Could be because she was either extremely tired —which was extremely unlikely— or she just started to trust him more with her life. The second one might be more true as she was still hopping around the city, avoiding dogs, and other stuff. \n\nShe looks back at him, giving him a wave. She gave his choice a thumbs up. A gambeson was always a good idea. If he looked at what she packaged into her kit, he could find a gambeson also covered by her woolen tunic. She too had a gambeson! She was prepared if she had to fight things. But, he knew she also liked girly things. She has been randomly playing with the butterflies and small wildlife that approaches her. Sometimes, they'd travel a few miles off course when Elowen decided to run off with some desert fox. Or even a desert Furrow" } ]

[ { "author": "flehn", "message": "*Who leaves from an empty and miserable cave? Perhaps it was a nomad, who needed to spend the night somewhere. And unfortunately, the night cannot give him mercy, overall when the hostals are already full with the amount of tourists and other citizens. He was walking on the outside parts of the city, but it could be seen that he was walking with an intention. An whichever that intention could have been before, now the hunger was taking place on his mind. He really needed to eat something, two days were endurable, but more days would be his end. How he was going to solve the trouble was yet to be seen, but he knew, with all determination, that today he was going to eat, whether it be on a place for it, or even from the grass itself if it is needed*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would be making his way along the main road, having recently taken a short sea trip to get here. It wasn't often he got to explore the region of Hombaxia, but seeing as he had more free time, he figured he'd take to a new location left unexplored by him. Seeing the town, the Elf would make his way towards it, his red cloak sweeping behind him as he entered behind a group of tourists. While he appeared as normal as any Elven tourist would go, sitting atop his face would be the mask with resemblance to a pig. It was rather an odd sight if any, but the Elf didn't seem to mind whatever looks it got in making his way through the outskirts of the town to head towards the main part of the city.*" }, { "author": "flehn", "message": "*Ah, how much time without getting anything else to eat? Days and hours? That is for sure. His stomach growled fiercely. Our nomad was starting to feel a bit weaker. Ah, if food could only be free for everyone, but alas it is not. He knew he had to come back to the town, to try the incredible to obtain some food to finally eat.*\n\n*But as soon as he made up his mind to try to do what could be described a silly and non-reasonable act, the macen saw a peculiar person with a... Pig mask? Now that is to have some taste. Does he believe on that user suddenly? Absolutely not, but he has not talked with him yet, and the people on Ie has shown not to be the kindest to the ones with little to no resources. He knew he should not do this, or at least try not to get used to it... But if now he doesn't try his luck with that, it would definitely be his loss.*\n\n*He gulped a little, nervous of his interaction, now scared that he could be a bandit. But he had to try, just this once. Perhaps a little bit of faith doesn't have to be too bad.*\n\n*He approached the man, keeping his serene reaction, but it was clear with his hand on his stomach that he may be hungry now. Despite the embarassment he was having due to the careless choices that ended up on this, ready to flee if it was necessary, he finally asked:*\n\n\"Ah- Excuse me. Do not you have anything to eat? The last quests hasn't given me enough money to be able to buy something, and I am afraid that no party wants to lend me a hand for this trouble.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*The Elf would come to an eventual stop, turning his head as he'd look over at whoever had presumably been speaking to him. Without as many people walking around, it wasn't hard to pinpoint who and soon enough, his gaze would drop down upon the Macen approaching him.\n\nBy his approach alone, the Elf could have already assumed what he wanted had he not already stated the question. Personally Terrel didn't have any real food on him, considering he had left his horse back at the main land and instead traveled more lightly. The only thing he really had was a pouch full of jerky and another full of berries. It was hardly much food if the man was hoping for a meal, but Terrel seemed rather casual about it.*\n\n\"Can't say I have much on me besides the treats I carry for my pets.\"*He'd say in reference to the jerky being for his wolves and the berries for his bird. He did have quite a few animal companions, most of which not traveling with him now in having to cross the sea. All he really had was his bird on him, but even he remained tucked away out of sight of the man.*\n\n\"If you're hoping for something more than that, you might just have to find something in the city.\"*Even with not enough money, the Elf would have to assume he had something to afford a snack's worth of food. In fact, Terrel wouldn't mind going to get something to eat himself, but he didn't like to do favors without equal pay in the long run.*\"Was planning on getting something to eat myself actually.\"*He'd add, clearly carrying more wealth in the amount of missions he does. It showed more in the clothing than anything between the plated armor and cloak, but he didn't seem to be offering anything just yet.*" }, { "author": "flehn", "message": "*Was he being fooled? Where are the pets that he was talking about? He saw no pet carrying at that moment, only a little bird, but it was impossible to feed a bird that much, right? Ah, maybe... Maybe this man doesn't actually want to pay this sudden hobo that appeared on the middle of his way. And he had to admit, he did not give the best impressions to this man. But somehow, even against his way to treat people, he had to show him that he could be not a trouble for him.*\n\n*He probably came here for a quest, right? Now what could he do to pay him back somehow? It was clear that he is not going to help another user with solidarity.* \"Look, I am doing quests, and I am searching a proper party, or someone, to do the quests. Even if I can do them alone, the prices of the places have increased a little. So, if you pay me this next food, how about I help you with the next quest? Now it doesn't look like it, but I am but an expert with the terrain, and I can go a few steps ahead of the enemies!\"\n\n*Yes, he had to sell like this to another person now, but it was also true that he was on the need to join a party: the last quests are way too much of a pain for someone who rathers to go through the path of silence and attempt to get their reward without anyone to notice. So it was possible that with this person, if now he could make one space for another user, he would be able to fulfill more quests, and hence to repay him the food debt, if he finally agrees to pay him.*\n\n\"I will pay you. I hate letting someone without paying. So help me this once, and if you need someone for the next quest, I will be there. Do we have a deal?\" *He would ask, finally offering him the hand to shake it, hoping that it was enough for him to give in and help someone in the need for it.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would raise an eyebrow at the man, debating between whether or not he should just turn the other way with all these requests he was making. First he was hoping the Elf would offer him food and now to go on a quest with him.\n\nTerrel didn't always have the best experiences with going on quests with some people, even those who proved themselves capable on their own. Working together, however, was another story. Terrel worked to get the job done, others work for their sheer will or to maintain morals during it and sometimes that simply got in the way.\n\nAt the very least he offered to pay, but he doubted he could take this person on the quests he typically went on. Most of them typically warranted danger and he wasn't quite sure if this person was capable. Maybe he was better off in trekking mountain sides with his ability to navigate terrain.*\n\n\"Listen.\"*He'd say.*\"I don't think I'm the kind of person you're looking for to do a 'quest' with or vice versa for that matter.\"*Terrel would shift his gaze out towards the main part town. There probably could be place to sit down and eat at around here at least.*\"But if you're willing to go in debt for it, you can come with me to get something to eat.\"*The Elf would say before looking back down at him.*\"Just know, I like my debt repaid. One way or another.\"*Was that a threat perhaps? Who knows, but the Elf wouldn't give him much time to think before heading off along the main road in expectation of him following.*" } ]

[ { "author": "flehn", "message": "*Ah, this way to command him to make a choice... He did not like it. Not at all, to be clear. It almost made him want to leave him alone and to wait until the next newcomer could come, and Terrel, whose name was still unknown to the nomad, have probably seen that this was everything except pleasant for him. But the nomad knew that the other ones would probably not even gaze at the hungry man.*\n\n\"Tsk.\" *He dropped. Now Terrel knew it: he made the nomad a bit upset, but now he had no choice. If he had to pay his debt though, so shall be it.* \"Fine. I will pay your debt. And I only wanted to eat, you guys really can be racan, right?\" *He said, now feeling a bit more happier after dropping these words. And now that he could not do anything else nor just betray him with no reason, he followed him. The pig-masked elf could see that his behavior changed a little. Hilmar was still serious towards him, but now knowing that he was going to get what he wanted, it made him look a bit more... Eager to do whatever it had to be done.*\n\n\"Right. Now that we are going to eat together, we should present ourselves.\" *He gazed at the elf, really hoping that at least he had the behaviour to answer back and to be polite.* \"I am Hilmar. Rogue. May I ask who are you?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Consider me a man who doesn't like giving too many favors to someone I've just met.\"*The Elf would say more casually as they began walking towards the town, whatever dreary mood he once gave off now completely faded away.*\"Especially when the first thing they come up and ask me is if I can give them food. Not a hello or how are you, just 'do you have any food'. I have my own life like any other and I'm not trying to spend my money on other people just because they asked.\"\n\n*Friendly or not, the Elf had things to pay for himself. There were hundreds of beggars in this world and frankly he didn't care enough to provide any more assistance than what would start to inconvenience him. Maybe the Macen didn't see it, but most typically don't when they're the ones asking he supposed.\n\nBeing asked to present himself, the Elf would say:*\"I'm Terrel. Traveling Mercenary.\"*Though he kept the introduction short, he didn't have any malice in his words. It was almost as if it were just a normal question between friends if not for what he had said earlier.*" }, { "author": "flehn", "message": "\"...\" *He sighed, in relief. He was right. Even despite his initial rudeness, the nomad was not the kindest by himself. He even had it clear before: he was not going to give a good impression at first. And yet still, since some of the citizens that live here actually almost spitted on him, he did not have the biggest of hopes at that moment. But now, that he was going to get the food, that the situation can go on his favor, now he should change that hostile chip.*\n\n\"I know. I really tried being nice in here, and I do not lie when I said that some quests have not paid me properly before, but it is to say...\" *He stopped for a moment, nomming his index finger for a moment, admitting his illogical behaviour.* \"I just went too straight forward. So I cannot say I was the nicest.\" *He admitted, hoping to learn from the next time.*^\n\n\"Ah, and Terrel... It is a pleasure.\" *He said, dropping a good smile towards the elf.* \"Well, I do not talk with mercenaries recently, and less when they wear masks like yours.\" *He continued, not mocking his sense of fashion, just noting the clear thing that it was his mask.* \n\n*Finally, as the restaurant seemed to be on sight of our travellers, he had to make him the obvious, yet curious question.* \"Hmm, may I ask why are you here? Perhaps only quests? Or are you finding, perhaps, something greater?\" *He asked seriously, still now trying to give a more friendly look, hoping to see if he could make peaces with the one who would save him from this temporary famine.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Well if you've seen several mercenaries wearing masks like me, then I guess that's a plus in my book. I suppose I'm not the crazy one in that case.\"*He'd say with a light chuckle. Terrel's gaze would focus on the restaurant up ahead, not looking directly at Hilmar while he spoke. Not that it was ever easy to tell in the first place, with the mask covering more than half his face.*\n\n\"Mainly just visiting countries I haven't been to yet. If I'm fortunate then I'll find a high paying job around here, but so far nothing has really beaten Salvania or Silnaria. Makes sense I suppose, they're much larger Capitols.\"*He'd explain to him.*\n\n\"If my main reason for going anywhere was for quests, I probably wouldn't stray this far out, but you never know what you'll find on your travels. Well, I can probably make a good prediction, but maybe this place will show me something worth revisiting for. Don't get a lot of reason for that after all.\"*He'd finish. As he walked, he would bring his arms into his red cloak, causing the crimson piece of clothing to cover his torso and most of his legs. He liked walking this way at times. It helped conceal some of his weaponry while making his appear more passive. The mask could always be questionable, but few understood it's purpose anyways.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Rixet", "message": "In the middle of this flourishing city, walked an old man with a cane. He looked exhausted as a traveller might, with his various packs and belts, travelling with a sort of weary determination. He was headed towards the markets of the city, where his end goal lied. \n\nRixet was here on business. He had been working his way through the world hunting former smugglers, but had hit a bit of a roadblock. The issue was, smugglers usually don't want to be found. The old ones get sloppy, so they went down first, but by now, these many years later, the others had heard of what had happened to the others and wisened up. His only hope was intercepting anyone involved currently in the smuggling business, and shaking them down for details. What better place to go for such things than here, a bustling city of a trade? Often smugglers would oversee trade in this area, dodging taxes on large quantities of minerals and making a handy sum of money. It wasn't as lucrative as some of the more dangerous types, but it was safe and reliable. \n\nSoon, Rixet had arrived by the markets. They had guards travelling all about, keeping watch for anyone up to no good. Unfortunately that wouldn't do well for Rixet. The folks he was after wouldn't be out on the streets. No, they would be handling the commerce itself at the gates. In order to find them though, he needed to find a merchant willing to lead him to smugglers. For now, that meant he would need to go about browsing wares and making allies of those in the area. When he did eventually strike out, he would want help of local guard, and likely a bounty posting to cash in on. It would be days before he made a move. \n\nRixet approached a stall selling general knickknacks at an exorbitant price and began to make friendly conversation with the keeper of the stall, though with empty intentions of actually buying something." }, { "author": "Haashim Azizi.", "message": "Haashim, as per usual, had been on his patrol throughout the bustling city where the sun blared down fiercely upon, the air was blistering, one would not be fooled, but residents like himself had long grown to such conditions. Despite such heat, Jellandi was a popular hotspot for merchants of all types, and with them inevitably comes criminals hoping to strike it rich.\n\nThe hooves of his horse stomped down boldly on the near-parched earth, heading straight down to the market, where all types of people milled around. Haashim was pretty familiar with the place, having visited here countless of times either on a patrol, or spending his money on god-knows-what. A few recognized him as he went by on the back of his saddle, and several stallholders even cracked a few niche jokes to him, to which he reacted with corny jokes typical of his humor. All in all, the market was its customary self.\n\nThe market had its sunny and brilliant side, but it also had its faults, to which all types of outlaws gripped onto, selling prohibited goods that others would turn a blind eye to, in fear of their retaliation. Even a few guards felt that it was not worth getting involved with such activities, and unless explicitly pointed out by someone, wouldn't do a damned thing about it. He was different from others, and they knew it. It was not a rare sight to witness Haashim chasing down a few crooks along the street which would conclude either with them being sent to the slammers, or getting thrashed by him until he felt that everyone understood his message and sent them to jail. A few had sought to retaliate against him by gathering their numbers, only to progressively fail.\n** **\n\nAs he was travelling throughout the market, his eyes specifically focused down on a stall that offered products at a very hefty price, to which he knew the owner of. His right leg lightly kicked the rear of his horse, resulting in its stoppage. Haashim, at the time, had his shield linked to his back, his sanguine scarf wrapping around his head, consequently only displaying his eyes. \"I see you're out here selling items again at an unreasonable price, eh? \" He couldn't help but let out a tiny joke at the owner, before fixating his gaze to the other individual, assessing their figure. \"And seems like you've got yourself a victim here, a fairly tall one at that.\" He was, of course, speaking in Hombaxian, the primary language of Ie. \"What brings you around here? \" He spoke in Silnarian this time, accompanied with a strong Hombaxian intonation. Haashim assumed they were a foreigner, as he hadn't seen them any moment in the past." }, { "author": "Rixet", "message": "The old man looked up at Haashim, gesturing with his cane in a dismissive motion. \n\n\"Business. Making myself familiar with the local merchants, they'll be of use later.\"\n\nRixet didn't seem to have much of any accent, despite his old age and clearly foreign choice of clothes. His entire demeanour was slightly off putting, like he didn't belong here among the stalls of the market. It was more similar to that of the guards themselves, commanding a level of respectful distance from those around him. Rixet nods at Haashim in a polite manner. \n\n\"I'll need to be in contact with you guards at some point anyway, so I suppose now is as good a time as any. Would you happen to have any tips on where I could find some less reputable vendors? My business dictates I go snooping about there, dangerous as it may be.\"\n\nAs much as the old man's demeanor was clearly that of someone who commands a level of respect, it would still seem like a poor decision for him to make his way there. He was an old man after all, and his only weapons were a cutlass at his hip and a rather basic knife that you would find on just about any passing traveler. When combined with his relatively simple prosthetic leg and lack of left arm, it made for a very harmless looking fellow." } ]

[ { "author": "Krissax Xesstics", "message": "*Krissax found herself bored ong her throne room. Which was a vast cavern underneath earth. The throne was created with amber fluids dried to look like god and then sculpted to design. Everything was circular from the arm rests to the throne to the wide arch above. The doors the obviously imprints in the walls. It was a golden throneroom that could blind anybody.\n\nBehind the wasp queen was a very big chamber with colorful see through amber glass windows piled on top of one amother. This was the birthing chamber where countless eggs had been born to the swarm here.\n\nKrissax stood and stared at the chamber. It was empty lest for the various blanlets and pillows that were use to warm the eggs while the nurses waited on hatchings. Larvae would then be moved to another chamber for feeding and health checks and sorting. It was there where her wretched life began.*\n\n\"You know it's almost nostaligc seeing such a place time and time again.\" Krissax hel a smoking pipe in her fingers and brought it to her mandibles and inhaled. Soon stream of smoke flew through that same opening filling up the air in wisps of smoke that then vanish.\n\nAround the throne there were creatures. Not as beautiful of vibrant as Krissax but rotting molting old looking bugs that shuddered and trembled as if they would fall apart any second. The workers were wingless with greyed eyes looking like a shambling shedding of chitin.\n\n The guards, ie drones, were large beetles who spprted a large horn on their heads. The bulking monstrocities didn't ahudder like the rest. Their limbs were convered in throny like spikes.\n\nEach creature watched their self proclaimed queen with mindless abandon. Krissax looked upon her subjects and sighed.* \"I could have you fight for me again in the colsieum, but such repetitive drivel bores me even more.\" *She held a hand to her head and gave a dramtic flare. Another puff and another stream of smoke.\n\nThis is, was, the Xesstics Swarm." }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "There wern't many worse places one could find themselves obliviously fossicking about in looking for a bunch of crap hoping to find the rare diamond in the rough to trade to some enchanter or merchant in the towns and cities beyond. Trizzit had made sure to be careful, he was always, always careful. Mark your tracks, keep your pheremones intact and make each entry and exit well. Guard yourself for predators and beasts that lurk below. He'd been digging, fossicking and scraping about through dirt, rock and ore for so many years that he'd become confident. Perhaps too confident.\n\nBut the small Qua's carelessness also came about from the fact that he'd overheard lora talking about a great find somewhere here. Rich treasure & jewles, a trove of great gems and ingots one could sell for even prettier shinies. Trizzit hated money and coins, hated having to use them. Barter economics was more his style, but it was a necessary evil in the world of buying and selling. He never always took a Lora's tale at face value, more for a grain of dirt, because they carreid the gift of exaggeration. But even if there was some metallic pretty or gem shiny of some sort he could smooth down and kee for his own, the better.\n\nDig deep and strong, yes, that was the way. Strong limbs propelled himself deeper and deeper, carving rock and dirt aside in great strides. His thorax twiched and heaved with every crumbling shovel of dirt, his layers of chitin scales thrumming with anticipation abon the long abdomen. His antennae twitched for a moment, and he froze.\n\n*What was that?*\n\nHis limbs protruded forward, antennae sweeipnig the air for scents and pheremones, feeling the tremors and vibrations of possible movement.\n\n*Voices. Did he hear... A voice?*\n\nThere was a chittering of movement from the small mandibles that protruded in the gap betwixt his great mandibles and he froze stiff in motion, a statued carcituature as he sensed the air. Nothing. There was nothing.\n\n\"Hearing things. Trizzit hears nothing. Going silly, all this digging. Dig, dig, find nothing. Nothing there, psh. Scared, scared! Scared of what? Rocks.\"\n\nHe burrowed onward, digging through a mound of rock, finding something... Loose. The earth was looser here, and moist. This didn't seem right. Water! If it'd found deep water, or a fissure...\n\n\"No, no, no. Shinies! Must be here. Dig.\"\n\nHe trilled a triping with a great *Thrumm* Of his rear limbs, like a night insect might call out to a prosp\n\nCallout to a prospective mate, only there was none here but hiself. Unpertubed, onwards he dug." }, { "author": "xenics333", "message": "If Trizzit carried on he'd find that he would fall through the roof of the undergroud caverns. It was an endless maze of tunnels. Each one spanning kilometers apart in varying sizes and angles. The dead insects roamed about mindless doing the task that were so routine to them in their life before.\n\nWorkers filled up buckets of water and dragged them to anothe pool for drinking. Mot that the people here meeded to drink as they were completely devoid of the need for sustenance.\n\nLarge dead wasps hovered above the roofs. They were the heavy lifters passive beasts that the Xesstics here used to haul food and cargo. But now they aimlessly wandered looking for a purpose. Even the people down below could not fathom what to do with the large bumbling behemoths." }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "There were always gaps in the elegant construction of vast catacombs and tunnels. Gaps that got filled over the ages from time, erosion and lack of care. Who know how Trizzit had gone from a cave entrance a few days before before burrowing himself into the last place in the entire realm he'd ever wish to find himself, but one often does not get what one wants.\n\nTrizzit only had a few rules. If can't fight, run, and if you can't run, hide, and if you can't hide, then fight until you could run again. Crude, but it kept him alive. Always know the terrain before you dig. That was his first mistake. Risk often came with reward, but this risk was something Trizzit would have avoided at all costs had he been given hinds sight. His biggest rule of al was to never, ever, EVER dig into a wasp's nest. He could put up with ants more than wasps.\n\nBut there he was, digging about until the earth suddenly gave way, as if one moment he was in a great tunnel, the next he was simply in freefall, great clumps of dirt falling with him.\n\n\"No, no, no no!\" Limbs scrambled through air to find nothing, until he found himself falling into the great junction of corridors that lead toward the royal and birthing chambers themselves. \"Stupid, stupid. Should have turned, back, turned back!\"\n\nLimbs extended flexbily until he was upright on his rears again, antenna flitting about with great apprehension. The scents and pheremones ovecame him in an instant. He knew this architecture, these designs. Knew them all too well, in the pit of his worst nightmares.\n\n\"VESPAE!\" The word chirped in a great cry of alarm as his limbs ran with great speed, slipping to almst gouge out rock before he found himself propelling foward in fear, trying to look for an exit. Unfortatnely, he is heading straight for the birthing chamber itself." }, { "author": "xenics333", "message": "The suddenly fall and tumble got the attention f several wprkers who stared and unable to recognize one of their own let ot an ungodly cry. The howl echoed through the chambers grabbing each wasp citizen's ears. In moments Trizzit would find dozens behind his back some shambling due go missing legs or torso but the scariest ones were of course the beetles that stomped the ground til it trembled.\n\nKrissax was in her throne room smoking away out of boredom when she heard he faint echoing of a screeh til it hit her chambers loud and clear like a choir of screams that came from pure evil.\n\n\"An intruder? Who so ever would be dumb enough to travel into ths barren wasteland? Let alone my personal kingdom! Find the intruder so that we may...\" Krissax was cut off as she saw an interesting sight of the intruder rifht before her eyes.\n\n\"Well. Seems the fun came our way.\" Krissax took a drag of her pipe and filled the air with even more noxious fumes. \"Explain yourself before I become angry.\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "The words she spoke were a jumble of mess as his mind chittered about in sheer panic. All he knew was that he wanted to be anywhre, anywhere at *All*, but here. He could hear the rubmlings of alarm, see the myriad of the kindom's inhabitants coming to the sound of alarm in a great many number. And the beetles, oh the giant terrible things. What were they, and what were they doing working for the waving, gold-backed ones who fed his babies to their children?! At least, that's what stories he heard from the rare number of other fossickers like himself.\n\nKrissax was detected before she was seen, the antennae swishing about the place like reeds blowing about in a storm, one of them clearly shorter than the other. Her own pheremones wafted about the air, and atlhough he didn't know what royal jelly was, part of him just knew who Krissax was. Not just a wasp, but a wasp *Queen.*\n\nHe was dead. Dead,kdead,dead. His racing mind made out words such as 'angry' and saw the myriad of guards clustered about the place. Oh, yeah, he was as dead as a spider's husband. All he could do to answer the queen was chitter and chatter neervously, his body flexing this way and that, trying to look for a way out. But ther was amber, amber everywhere, and a great circled room with guards at every exit. The only way out he knew was either down or through a one of the walls.\n\nHe couldn't fight too well, but digging, he knew how to do that. Trizzit scarped foward, trying to make a beeline to avoid the guards as he scrambled for part of the chamber that looked excavatable. He ploughed forth, not making much headway at all, except to make a great mess of the many pillows about and making a fool of himself.\n\n\"No eating!\" He only managed to blurt out, an odd statement, but if he were able to elaborate, he might say, 'I'd be most appreciative if you didn't capture me and feed me to your young.'" }, { "author": "Krissax Xesstics", "message": "\"Then why in the great blue yonder are you digging in our birthing chamber?! Seize him and tear his limbs off ine by one!\" *Krissax was screaming as Trizzit shamelessly burrowed right where the soil was right and easily shoftable which was of course... Where even she was born. If he had paid attention he would have moticed her beauty and signs of life over the others. Then again he was chittering in fear running all over.\n\nThe beetles waddled over and crashed into the stacked pane of clear amber and swung wildly trying to stop the intruder from further descreting their home.\n\nIf he had explained himself properly then Krissax would have allowed him a chance to leave and never return maybe even offer the forgotten jewels her people once cherished.But here he was ripping away at old artifacts." }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "He wasn't making good progress, and his fear had only led him to desecrating the royal chamber with such abandon. He had only dug less than a foot into the earth beore the great crashing limbs of armoured beetle came stampdeding together with a great mess of anthropodic limbs and sharp, clattering mandibles. \n\nHe scrambledf frantically at the pinning onslaught, hearing remarks about limbs being torn off, and whatnot. Trizzit really liked his limbs, they were very useful, and removing them he imagined would be a quite an agonising experience.\n\nHe found himself struggling with the advance of the queen's guardians, chittering and meeping pathetically like most small prey do when caught by their predators. \n\n\"Not just dig, escape, escape!\" He protested, behing hauled up while armoured claws took hold, ready to tug apart the small crikety-mantis looking creature, who was much smaller than they.\n\n\"Look for shinies! Sell rocks, make trinkets! Not to hurt young or babies. Vespa eat Trizzit, give to babies! No,no!\"\n\nIn the tugging, pulling and struggle, his kit fell out onto the floor, further descrating her Royal Highness' chamber with a trowel, a few small picks, and a myrida of sparkling rocks that looked nice but were probably not worth much." }, { "author": "Krissax Xesstics", "message": "\"Halt!\" *Just as three of the beetle guards took hold of each limb except for his left leg, Krissax ordered them to stop their advance.*\n\n\"I am the self proclaimed queen of the Xesstics Swarm and it's remaining survivor. I am Krissax and you will show respect, Worm!\"* Krissax could feel her own antenna twitch about in stress. This was beyond stressful and she had half mund to murder the pathetic maggot right where he was writhing.*\n\n\"Let's make a deal! Shall we? In return for the treasures of this 'Lost kingdom' I ask that you act out a favor for me.\"\n\n*Krissax waved a worker Qua over her way and the poor thing rushed over and placed itself on the floor for Krissax to sit on.*\n\n\"Bring me whatever jewels you can find for our fine friend here.\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "It was perhaps evident given Trizzit's rather lack of eloquent speech that he was not paritcularly the brightest of Qua, nor the most cunning. It took a while for the cogs inside that exoskeletal brain to start working her words togather after he is uncreemouniously dumped upon the earth he'd spend a short time making a great mess of. Limbs find their puchase again, as his head rotates this way and that between the overwatching guards and Krissax herself. \n\nIt was obvious he wasn't clearly observant enough to notice the crumbling, delapidated state of the place, nor the fact that she perhaps wasn't the greatest of queens as she she so boldly proclaimed. Trizzit spends most of his time in tunnels, so she could have proclaimed herself the Empress of Salvania and he would have believed her without question.\n\nBut her gestures and words made little sense. Wasps were killers, surely? They didn't offer shinies or gifts, nor did they keep 'friends'. His antenna twitched about, ever so nervously. \n\n\"F-friend?\" He looked at the great catastophre of dirty, mishapen pillows about the place. \"But... Trizzit dig. Make big mess. Now... Jewlels? Shiny?\"\n\nHe looked about hastily, but the guards had him wedged in, and he had little places to go. Ha. Trizzit knew how smart he was. Yes, he was smart, very smart!\n\n\"Catch. Always catch. Trizzit must do something. DIg pit of monster. Dig up chest where giants are, get stomped on. Pfah. Shinies. Nobody give shinies, always must give coin.\"\n\nHe looked about again, to the guards, then back to Krissax. He wanted to be rational, but the ever lustful need for the shiny was overwhelming him.\n\n\"What shinies... What jewels have Queen Xesstics? Likes shineies. Very much.\" He chittered his approval, his rear appendages thrumming with anticipation." }, { "author": "Krissax Xesstics", "message": "*Moments later wokers came with large bowls filled with jewelry. Xesstic jewelcrafting had no value anymore and Krissax wasn't one to completely defile her home.\n\nBesides these mere trinkets were useless to her and in the markets. Maybe the poor fool will get his days worth but that's it.* \"Here. Take your fill.\" Krissax waved her servants forward and they treated Trizzit like royalty kneeling at his feet presenting riches untold." } ]

[ { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "So are we good? We could always retcon this a bit if needed.\n\nI think Remy is implying that the jewels she is giving are basically worthless\n\nNot worth anything value whatsoever\n\nBasically shiny rocks\n\n*Trizzit had been nervously looking about to the procession, still confused as to where this sudden generousity from the very creature who'd threatened to tear his limbs off had come about. Usually one didn't just give away shiny things without some sort of boon or desire, giving away free stuff seemed awfully silly. What if you needed to use it later? Wouldn't she miss the shinies? She was a queen, after all.*\n\n*It was then he really began to notice the delapidated look of the place. The dry, hollowed husk of the beetles standing before him, their eyes looking lifeless. The tattered, crackiing look of teh walls, the fading amber. And the lack in general of any... Actual wasps. Beetles, but no wasps.*\n\n*The shinies came out, and his bronze-orange eyes shifted that wideded head, little pupils flitting towards the gleaming array of sparling locks that were worth about as much as a handful of straw. But to him, they were marvellous. It drew him in, near hynotically, his long uper right limb reaching out, tentatively, carefully, until he drew back.*\n\n\"No! No! Trizzit not silly. Not stupid! This is trick! Yes, fancy tricky trap! Trizzit not take free things. Nothing just given, always take. Take, take, take!\"\n\n*His lower clawed foot stamped impetuously, and he suddenly crigned as the guards reacted to his movments with notable ferocity. Anennae twitching, he looked about, head swaying near 200 degrees about the place.*\n\n\"Hey...\" *He enquired slowly* \"Why you wasp queen with no wasps?? Why you have... Beetles? Something wrong.\"" }, { "author": "Krissax Xesstics", "message": "\"Lets just say that my family had a big disagreement.\" *Krissac snapped her claws and the servants backed away. The beetle guards moved forward and took hold of Trizzit and strangely enough even the queen was taken up by guard.*\n\n\"How dare you! I am your queen! Release me! Ahhh!\" He guard that held Krissax by the arm clutched tighter and Krissax drooped in place. She realized what was happening now. \n\nBrfore then a portal opened up yet it wasn't just any portal. What appeared was a slimy green look shine of a wasp who was hunched over. It was almost as twitching Trizzit and its several arms scartched away at its head.*\n\n\"My dear daughter! I had hoped you would be working on your studies or seeking to conquer the rest of Amongko. But here you are sitting around like a spoiled brat! Instead of killing this intruder you let him live while schemeing behind my back!\"\n\n\"This isn't a home at all father! Master Strasstics! This isn't a kingdom! It's a graveyard!\"" }, { "author": "Trizzit", "message": "*Trizzit's antennae twitched this way and that, trying to make sense of the great predicament of wasp family affairs taking place before him. Strange affairs indeed. He just wanted to find some shiny rocks to try and peddle to street vendors and the like. But now everything was becoming as bizzare as an aphid ant farm.*\n\n*He watched the great monstrosity of a wasp that appeared, looking somewhat puzzled and alarmed. It was biggere and more threatening than Krissax. This was indeed a true queen. And it was talking of killing intruders, too.*\n\n*While the debate raaged on, the beetes distracted by the goings on and bustling about, Trizzit struggled to make an attempt to flee with his shinies, but the beetles were far too many to count by number.*\n\n\"Not intruder. Not intruder. Digging! Trizzit dig for shinies!\" *He waved a free appendage at the various tools of his trade still cattered about.* \"I go, leave wasp, not tell anyone, not take shinies either!\"" }, { "author": "Krissax Xesstics", "message": "\"You there help me! Whatever your name is!\" *Krissax pleaded though harshly. The wasp in the mirror looked back at her and gave the order.*\n\n\"Kill them both!\" *Krissax aimed one hand into the face of one dorne firing off a green blast and spewed ichor into the other.*\n\n\"We have to go!\" *Krissax thrown herself on one of the guards holding Trizzit knowing it was his only way to freedom now.(" } ]

[ { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "*Pietra's face fell slightly with the man's answer.* \"Too bad.\" *She looked up to the sky, not being able to find the telltale black dot that was her raven. Pietra looked back down to the man, rolling her eyes at his remark.* \"Thanks.\" *His question made her think.* \"Not exactly. I mostly come out here during the cooler hours... What about you? Have you ever been out in the wastes before?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Well it's not everyday someone wakes up deciding they want to travel out in the middle of a wasteland.\"*He'd say in answer of her question before eventually move his hand a way from his tired horse and tuck it within the folds of his cloak. He figured she must know the landscape well enough, considering she stated to coming out here regularly.*\"First time around here, was hoping to find a nearby town or at least an oasis before my horse passes out from exhaustion.\"" }, { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "*Pietra smiled.* \"That's true. So you don't know your way around here?\" *She sighed, her face falling once more.* \"Yeah. I would be back in my town by now, but my compass has broken. I realized that too late, and now I believe I'm lost... And so are you.\" *She thought for a moment.* \"Do you have a working compass? I have a map, and knowledge of the land. I could get you back to my town in Amongko.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel gave a cheesy grin at the question. The Pig Elf never really needed a compass over a map, especially with his ability to tell direction just from the position of the sun and, thankfully enough, it was still day time.\"Sure, I do.\"*He'd say, not finding reason to explain his lack of a physical compass.*\"Which way are we headed?\"*The Elf has never been to Anongko before, leaving him wondering if it was similar to that of Silanaria's capital or closer to that of the steppes. Nevertheless, he was bound to find out soon enough.*" }, { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "\"Great. That's good... Now, let's see... We go northeast, away from the mountains to the southwest. I came out here this morning at dawn, so we shouldn't be too far away.\" *Pietra looked up to the sky, wondering where Zazu had gone. Maybe she had found somewhere cool to relax. Lucky bird... She over to her her travelling companion.* \"I didn't get your name.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would look up towards the sky, making bit of which way the sun would be setting in since the time he's started traveling from the day. Eventually he'd turn Northeast, grabbing the tugging on the lead of his horse to pull him along.*\"You can call me Terrel, or swine, pig, hog. Any will do, I go by a lot of names these days.\"*He'd say with a hint of humor in his tone as he saw it not as insult.*" }, { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "\"Terrel it is. As for me, I'm Pietra.\" *The Oni began to follow her new... If not friend, then travelling companion?* \"I must ask, though, what's the deal with the pig mask?\" *Pietra knew everyone had their curiosities... She herself was an oddity. The only one in her town with a pet raven, for sure. And... The only woman in her town to run a butcher shop. She still grimaced at the past memories of the torment she had endured for simply upholding her family tradition.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I like to think of it as my own unique thing. Something noticeable yet not too important.\"*He'd answer, before saying with a chuckle.*\"Plus the reaction is always a bonus. People would think others were crazy if they ever said they spoke with a pig.\"*Terrel considered thought, finding it the least bit amusing for the time being before he'd eventually glance back at Pierta.*\"What about you? Besides being an Oni that likes traveling in the desert, anything else strange about you I should know before heading back to your town?\"*He'd ask as a joke, considering what would happen if he were simply a pig being lead to slaughter, especially with her initial reaction of him earlier.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "*Pietra gave a smirk.* \"That's... Interesting. I bet some people haven't been to kind towards it, though. Has anybody ever tried to take it off?\" *She chuckled.* \"I bet. Though I can't believe some people are actually dumb enough to mistake you for a pig-man.\" *Sighs at Terrel's question.* \"Well, like I said, I don't usually travel here during daytime. I'm mostly sensible. But town... Most people there dislike me. I work a \"Man's\" Job, and apparently that's good insult material.\" *She goes silent for a bit, wondering how her town would react to her bringing home this man. Some people might be frightened, but it wasn't like she was from a town of savages. Riots didn't break out, and fights occurred over worse things than this.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Well of course not everyone likes a pig.\"*He'd say jokingly in partial agreement to her statement. At her question of whether or not someone has tried taking it off, he'd respond.*\"Nope, after all, who cares of what someone looks like under a mask?\"*It was an odd thing to say seeing as just anyone could be curious of the face beneath one, but the Elf must have not had many issues of it.*\"Well there was this one time someone demanded I take it off, but I simply refused and that was the conversation over.\"*He'd turn his gaze towards the woman as she stated the town's disliking of her, raising an eyebrow as she claimed to be doing a \"Man's job'.*\"A man's job you say? And what job would that be?\"" }, { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "*Nods along with Terrel's statements about his mask. As he told his story, she perked up.* \"Oh..? Well, I guess you're pretty intimidating to some people, then?\" *Smiles.* \"Must be nice.\" *Pietra looked down as she felt Terrel looking at her.* \"Well, I'm a butcher. And I'm damn good at my job too.\" *She sighed.* \"Some people can't see that, I guess.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Well I wouldn't say intimidation so much as hmm... Persuasive...\"*He'd say. Sure the Pig Elf was completely different while in combat, though he always saw himself as more laid back despite his tall stature and pig covered face. Some could simply see him as a joke which he was fine with, left people doubting his capabilities and there was nothing better than building up a false sense of security. With Pierta looking away from him and stating her life of a butcher, he'd face forwards once more and simply respond with:*\"They're right, that is a man's job.\"*Of course he didn't really mean it, finding humor in agreeing as a way of getting a reaction back. \n\nHowever, he wasn't one to down talk a woman, especially one who can live out their life just fine with others speaking against it. He himself didn't take much to what others think he should do, hence why he was out traveling in the first place, so if she wanted to be a butcher, so be it. Terrel wasn't a meat eater, so he couldn't share whatever feeling drives her to wanting to work such a job, but if she was good at it, he couldn't bring himself debate.*\"What is there to really butcher out here anyways?\"*He'd ask in a more curious tone, after letting his previous joke slide for now.*\"Haven't seen many animals out here for a while.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "*Pietra blinked, confused, then realized Terrel was simply poking fun at her. She chuckled, swiping a few strands of hair out of her eyes.* \"That's one way of looking at it- but I was thinking more of the exploring, finding riches, and becoming famous kind of adventurer. Having stories told about my escapades, hushes conversations happening whenever I walk into a tavern.\" \n\n*The Oni sighed.* \"It's a bit of an ambitious dream, I know. But hey, dreams are just that, right? Dreams. And I wouldn't exactly be miserable spending the rest of my days in a butcher shop. I love what I do.\" *Smiles to herself.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Of course not.\"*He said casually as if the idea was already thought of, most likely to be so in his case.*\"But it'll never be more than an ambitious dream unless you actually put work in for it. After all, can't be much of a traveler staying in town butchering meat.\"*In saying that, the Pig Elf would come or a sudden stop, glancing down at her.*\"Or getting lost from traveling a few feet from home.\"\n\n*He couldn't blame her, not like he hadn't had to rethink where he was going every now and then. The Elf even found himself traveling with a companion which once started in him trying to find a map and somehow ended in him walking away with the whole librarian. The thought was almost amusing to him, but nevertheless getting lost was only part of the fun in traveling. Eventually one would figure out a way.\n\nWith Pierta saying that she could spend the rest of her days butchering and be just fine, Terrel would go back to walking.*\"Sounds like you're planning on settling, which is fine, but you'll never be more than butcher doing the same thing day to day. Besides, sounds like it'll get boring after a while, but who am I to say? I'm but a pig, of course I wouldn't agree with butchering.\"*He'd say with a laugh.*" }, { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "*Nods.* \"That's... Why I'm out here. Well, not here specifically. I wanted to be further out, but... Like I said, I got lost.\" *Looks back at Terrel as he stops.* \"Hey! It's not like I *Wanted* To only travel this far.\" *She shrugged off the comment and kept walking forward.*\n\n*Thinks on Terrel's comment.* \"Well, I suppose it would be nice to find somewhere to settle... Maybe even someone to spend my life with.\" *Smiles at the thought.* \"You're right though. Even though I love what I do, it would get boring after a while. Some days it can be a bit of a monotonous task... But I enjoy it overall. I definitely wouldn't give up on butchering altogether...\" *Chuckles at Terrel's pig comment.* \"It's not exactly the most peaceful of jobs, that's for sure.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Well now you can butcher on the go, and spread the monotonousness task with everyone you cross while you travel.\"*He'd say.*\"I'm sure the animals would enjoy it for those five seconds they have left.\"*The Pig Elf couldn't help but find amusement in the dark joke. Despite his disliking of eating meat, the slaughter of random animals somehow managed fulfill his joking tendencies.*\n\n\"Where to next then fellow traveler until deciding to settle?\"*He'd say, putting emphasis in the long title with Pierta taking an interest in doing three different things. Sure she could butcher and settle or butcher and travel, but with the ambition of finding treasure and making a name for herself, she'd have to do more than settle. He had to admit her plans confused him, but maybe she simply didn't know what she truly wanted or was still figuring things out. She seemed young enough to and it's not like he was any better with it than her.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Of course not, I have nothing to hide.\"*He'd say in ironic response. Whether or not it's true, it probably wasn't, but he didn't seem to care much. With Pierta asking if he was serious, he'd simply respond with:*\n\n\"Well I never said it was a good plan.\"*If she wanted a serious answer for him, he would have just said they simply walk in, but he could tell there was something else on her mind with her questioning what they should do. Coming to a stop, Terrel would turn back to her and say:*\"Look if it makes it any better you can head into town first and pretend not to associate with the talking pig. Sound like a better strategy to you?\"*He questioned her, any sense of humor lost with the inability to really see his expression beneath the mask.*" }, { "author": "Pietra Gray", "message": "*Pietra shrugged. This Terrel guy was... Interesting.* \"You're not being particularly helpful, I must say. But I appreciate the effort.\" *The Oni would say as she smiled.*\n\n*Pietra once again stopped as Terrel did, turning back to look at him.* \"Hm. I... I think that could be for the best. I'll make sure nobody tries to organize a mob against you, ok?\" *She chuckled, which gave way to an awkward silence.* \"I want to thank you for helping me... And trusting me. You had no reason to, but you still did. It's... It's good to know there are still decent people out there.\" *Pietra gave a weak smile, and a weaker wave.* \"I'll... See you in town?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel gave a nod in response to her first question, hanging back as he suggested for her to go into town. It was rather odd, she knew little of him but yet still found him trusting enough as it was. He considered pointing it out, but he could tell she had it hard enough without the jokes making it any more annoying to her. Perhaps she was right when she spoke of most townspeople being against her. Maybe she simply sought someone to understand her. Not that Terrel did really, but it was still interesting nonetheless.*\"Don't have to worry about me, if the mob comes, just free business for you\"*He'd say with a laugh in reference to her job. \n\nTerrel didn't doubt his own capabilities in a fight, nor did he overestimate himself. Still though, worse case he could simply mount his horse and leave as soon as possible. It was rare he went unarmed, but even he can keep cautious with the possibility of several random townspeople attacking him at once. After being lost in thought for a while, he'd eventually wave back to Pierta, giving a smirk in response as if it were his way of reassuring her that he'd be fine.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Desert sands would sweep their way into the small town as Terrel would make his way past the gates after giving the last Oni he had met some time to head inside before him with the fear of being looked at differently at how the man was dressed. For the most part, his outfit seemed relatively basic, a red cloak draping over most of him despite the natural warmth of the area. However, atop his face, he would bear the mask of a pig. \n\nIt was an odd fashion choice, but Terrel didn't seem to mind as he'd make his way along the streets with the occasional person whispering or pointing at him. He was used to it of course. For now, he would make his way towards the marketplace, hoping for at least some food or water to spare him from the heat of his journey here. Him and his horse of course. Around one hand, a lead would tied to it while remaining attached to the horse at the other end. Carl would quietly trot alongside him, his head slightly lowering under the rays of the sun. Terrel could tell his horse was exhausted, after all, he wasn't really built for the terrain. Hopefully they could find some place to rest at for now.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*A puff of dust would swing into the air beside him as the Oni went from under the gates to inside, trailing Terrel. Arco wore a black cloak that for the most part shrouded his body, the usual thing a Caster would do. He wore boots that were steel-toed in front and his hair was much dryer today. It seemed the one he met might've had magic in them too, but it was best not to make assumptions. Hurrying closer to Terrel, Arco flicked his eyes to the mask.*\n\n```coffee\n\" What's that for? \"\n```\n\n*He spoke in Silnarian. His voice was relatively young for someone with extended life, barely at the middle of his life and not even close to peaking yet. He hadn't had much on him, considering he sold everything his late parents owned for money, and then spent that on armour and a shield. All he had with him was equipment, money and the knowledge of Necromancy. The horse looked exhausted beside the one he considered an acquaintance as of now. He hoped that he'd find a comrade that was able to go quest with him.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel's head would turn back at the sound of the voice, more so surprised in anyone around here speaking Silnarian in knowing the Onis around here typically stuck to their own language. The Elf wasn't fluent in it, but at the very least it seemed someone here spoke his language.\n\nHe'd eye the young individual for a moment, most of his expression hidden away under the mask. The person seemed equipped for a fight, though the sound of his voice seemed to contradict it. What a strange individual. Perhaps there was a war going on somewhere that they're sending young people into. The Elf nearly chuckled at the thought.*\n\n\"You'll have to be more specific.\"*He'd say in his usual gruff voice.*\"What are you referring to specifically?\"*Though his tone came off as sarcastic, the slight smirk forming on his face where the mask didn't cover suggested otherwise. It seemed he was going to humor the man's questions for now.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "```coffee\n\" The mask. Behind the one in front. \"\n```\n\n*Arco smirked, clearly making a joke. He wondered why the elf was somewhere here, where the Onis like him were much more prominent than the elves, but they were definitely a traveller, as shown by the horse. By looking at the direction they were going and taking a look at the horse, he figured they'd be heading to the market like he was anyway.*\n\n```coffee\n\" You going to the market? I need a drink, so I'm heading there to pick up supplies, before I find a group to go questing with. \"\n```\n\n*The Oni swept away the cloak for a moment wiping sand off of his large mane of hair that left a sizable lump at the back of the cloak. It was clearly enough to stop a bullet. His parents had died and he had spent years preparing for it, this was his time, the first contact he'd have in a series of more and more as he strived to the best adventurer, and the biggest harem owner.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Very funny.\"*The Elf would say, admitting to the cleverness of the man's joke.*\"That mask is usually what keeps people alive. I'd figure that obvious enough.\"*Terrel decided to play around with the joke in referencing his hidden face as if it were common knowledge.*\n\n\"Yes I figured I'd get some supplies before fighting the desert again.\"*He'd say to answer the Oni's question.*\"I assume my horse could use the break.\"*He'd continue his way on towards the market, though keeping Arco in his peripheral as he did.*\n\n\"Planning on making your own gang of Oni warriors or something?\"*He'd ask. It didn't seem like such an odd thing, Oni's being better known for their fighting capabilities. Where Elves are better known for magic, Terrel found himself being the complete opposite of his kind. Nevertheless, who was he to question the Oni's motives? He seemed like a Mercenary in the making.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Arco raised his eyebrows in exaggeration at this fact, lightly gasping, as to not kill his lungs from breathing in any puffs of dust that might appear, truly one-shotting him.* \n\n```coffee\n\" Wish I had one of those. \"\n```\n\n*The Oni perked his head up at the mention of fighting, like any other true warriors do, but he kept quiet, glancing at the horse for a moment, before looking back to the road ahead of them. The elves question had him cock his head straight back to him. With a smile, he replied,*\n\n```coffee\n\" Not just Oni. And I doubt they'd like the fact that I never bothered to learn actual fighting aside from magic. I'm just looking for friends to take down obstacles with and get rich with, you feel? \"\n```\n\n*It did happen to be that he never followed in the footsteps of Oni's being fighters, rather becoming a necromancer more versed in magic that if things were different, he'd better suit the life of an elf. The elf seemed to contradict his race too, which he acknowledged and respected.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'm sure most people have a face.\"*The Elf would joke back before eventually coming to a slow stop upon making his way to bulk of the marketplace. He'd look back at Arco, finally getting a better view of him in his surprisingly tall frame despite the voice that came out of him. Odd.*\"But I'm sure you can find one at any typical marketplace. One with enough silks and clothing anyways.\"\n\n*It was funny hearing him speak of deciding not to learn fighting outside of magic with Terrel himself being the complete opposite. It seemed he was looking for quests to take with others for extra money. To which Terrel could accept. The Elf would continue what he was doing, walking up to a nearby stall in looking for something to eat while continuing to speak to the man.*\n\n\"Sounds like Mercenary work if you were to ask me. Companions are always nice to have around, but in my case, they can tend to make my job harder then necessary, sometimes costing money too even. Still though, I suppose there are some positives to traveling in a group, like not going crazy from isolation.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Nodding back with a smile, the Oni would look down at the elf, their size an oxymoron to their voice, but it was best not to judge a book by its cover. Pulling out his coin pouch, he collected enough for supplies that would last the time between getting to another town for supplies. Onis by nature were largely tall, even if he was small for their average size. This was obviously due to the fact that he was a magic user.\n\nHe hoped he was able to make it up to his parents in whatever form they were in after death. It was the best he could do. Arco looked at the stall, staring at the two talking, before grabbing his stuff and getting ready to pay.*\n\n```coffee\n\" Yeah, I just need the companionship and some extra support from time to time. I'm not exactly confident I can hold my own as of now, but I might learn how to fight with a sword. You could even show me how, haha. \"\n```\n*There was a list of negatives and positives, that was for sure. As long as they were skilled, positives were naturally outweighing negatives by a truckload.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Who? A frail Elf like me?\"*Terrel would say, laughing aloud at his own hypocrisy in playing out their stereotype. With the cloak draped over him, it was hard to see the weaponry he carried, but looking long enough would allow the ability to notice the hilt of the Greatsword he carried.\n\nIt seemed the man was seeking companionship in the Elf and while Terrel didn't mind, he also didn't care much of tag alongs that couldn't contribute much. Of course there was the possibility that he had something to add in coming along with him, but as far as Oni's went, Arco seemed to question his own skill.*\n\n\"I travel the countries too much for my own good, let alone yours.\"*The Elf would further comment upon his laughter dying down.*\"You sure you'd be up to all the walking?\"*Upon asking that, the Elf would grab the small batch of vegetables he had bought, adding it to his horse's saddlebags as he continue on. It appeared as if they'd have to keep walking and talking, seemingly proving the Elf's statement.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Arco grinned at the elves words, which truly highlighted the hypocrisy. To think, an elf with a sword larger than him would beat him in close-quarters. It stained his pride as an Oni, but it didn't really matter. Looking up into the glowing sky, the Oni figured it was hilarious actually, and was beginning to think of Terrel as a good friend.*\n\n*True, he was seeking companionship, but also someone to support him in the fact that he was lacking in the melee aspect, as Terrel would lack in the magical aspect. He figured that the benefits would be hand in hand and hard to refuse, even if he was a low level mage. Something like necromancy was versatile anyway too, so he hoped that the Elf would understand.*\n\n```coffee\n\" I haven't ventured out much, actually so I would like to travel and well, I'm not an Oni runt. I do happen to be able to walk for as long as I need to, even if I don't follow the brawny stereotype. We'd better go get water. \"\n```\n\n*Taking the fruits he bought, he kept one in his hand, as the others went under his cloak and never out again. The Oni had no issue with trivial tasks like walking or talking, considering the fact that this was something Arco dreamed of doing ever since he wanted to be an adventurer.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would walk past the different stalls of the marketplace while the Oni spoke, raising an eyebrow at him stating that he wasn't a runt. It really was a wonder. If him being a runt was up for debate then it really would leave someone considering just how tall they could get. However, Arco's stated otherwise, leaving that debate for another time.\n\nHe'd listen to him at the mention of getting water, tugging his horse along to a nearby place where he could fill up his waterskin before looking for a stable to give his horse some water himself. The horse's movements would be slowed, hardly attentive to the Oni as his timidness would have usually forced him to be.*\n\n\"You good at anything besides walking?\"*The Elf would ask him as if considering the thought of bringing him along.*\"And managing to be the one Oni that hardly knows how to fight?\"*The last part was of course a joke, but he didn't add more onto it as he would look back at him and question:*\"Know where a nearby stable is around here?\"*At any rate, this Oni could be a guide for him while he's here considering he's most likely been here longer than the Elf. Maybe he could even locate a tavern to escape the worst of the heat in.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Smirking, Arco looked over to Terrel as he pulled his waterskin out that was clearly empty. The truth was, Oni were able to go 2 feet taller than he was without issue, even if it was rare and it was most likely an average size anyway in truth.*\n```coffee\n\" Yeah, I'm good at stuff besides walking. I've got skills one would need. \"\n```\n*The unfortunate part - he didn't know where most of the stuff was since he didn't really grow up here, instead around Irunia, where Blue Onis lived there more. It was somewhat unfortunate in this situation, but he'd be able to lead him crudely around somewhere where there was a stable from some hidden memory years ago.*\n\n```coffee\n\" I'm able to fight. Not the same as the others, but that can change. I'm a Necromancer, and also have a spare dagger from home if anyone gets too close to me. Although, I can just summon a creature to battle for me. \" \n```\n*Explaining his circumstances, the Oni nodded about the stables, turning around and hanging around for a second to think about where they put a stable, before going to fill his waterskin up. He was getting really thirsty now.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*A summoner it seemed he was. The Elf had to admit, it had been a long while since he's met one, the last being an Elf with his own episodes, but still, he had a firm grasp on his capabilities. This one was a necromancer however.*\"A necromancer? So what, you bring back the dead or something?\"*The Elf would say with a chuckle. Though he didn't care much to study that kind of magic, the Elf had seen something similar to it what with this woman raising a horde of zombies before suddenly running off.\n\nWith the Oni claiming to know where the stables were, the Elf would wait for him to fill up his waterskin before showing him where to go. A gloved hand would pat at his tired horse in waiting, trying to sooth the dehydrated steed. \n\nAt the very least the man seemed to be capable in the most basic form a fighting, perhaps able to handle himself if ever ambushed by the common bandit, though the Elf doubted he was ready to go on the kind of missions he did.*\"While that may help us to not get attacked out of the blue, the stuff I do can turn deadly real fast. Are you really sure you'd want to put your life on the line for something like that?\"" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Waterskin full, the Oni capped it off, and turned to them. In truth, Arco did know a summoner like him was rare, it was also looked down upon usually because some people liked to ruin his fun as a necromancer. It didn't matter though. In truth, he did bring back the dead in a way, but it was really more a summoning magic than anything. So far, at least. He figured having an army of undead slaves to do your work wasn't that bad in the end anyway.*\n```coffee\n\" I can summon a skeleton warrior right here, right now. But I wont. Need the mana for if I get attacked. You never know. \"\n```\n*Looking to the horse, he nodded downward and began to walk toward where he thought the stables would be, by staring at the tracks and rationalising where they would most likely be.*\n\n*Arco had been in fights, and had seen the effects of his magic. He took a look at Terrel. Perhaps.* \n```coffee\n\" I don't have anything that I could leave behind. I've wanted to do this kind of thing for years. I'll put my life on the line because I have nothing left to lose in all honestly. \"\n```\n*He didn't have friends except for the Elf, or much of a family anymore, so for the past decades of his life he prepared for this exact circumstance which was inevitable. Then he could get a jumpstart on his ability and become the best necromancer in the whole entirety of the continent and perhaps further. That was one of his dreams, at least. One he'd try hardest to make a reality.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*A slight smirk would appear on his face, the sign of added interest as far as what the pig mask would allow him to portray. There was something intriguing about the ability to raise the dead and summon them at will. Though magic was never something he took to learning, it never failed to surprise him. Part of him wondered if constantly working with the dead made anyone desensitized to the idea of death. This Oni didn't seem to care much of what happened to him, maybe that could be of use if he were to become strong for the Elf to take along with him. A summoner was never a bad addition.\n\nAt him nodding towards showing him where the stable was, the Elf would follow after him.*\"All for the money I see.\"*Terrel would suggest in the man's statement of not wanting to do anything else.*\"Not a bad mindset. Who knows, maybe you'll create your own guild some day with whatever money you manage to get along the way. Putting your life on the line would be worth it for the extra companions, eh?\"*The Elf would question him, toying around with whatever it is the Oni hoped to achieve with the money he gained.\n\nThe Elf assumed he'd want to make more companions along the way, especially with him coming to a random Elf in the Oni lands of all people. Maybe he simply wanted to travel around as well, meeting people along the way for his sake of finding something to do with his life. It was as great a story as any the Elf supposed. Most travelers ended up that way anyways.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*The Oni could see the Elf getting more interested, so he most likely had a chance of being able to follow him around and get stronger. Maybe it did desensitize him to the dead, if they were so easy to bring back up from their graves, why would he be scared of the very nature of what he controls? Either way, he wouldn't let himself die easily. It was perhaps a good duo, a good way to have meatshields (rather boneshields) to soak damage for you while you deal the main damage.*\n\n*Turning his head back to the elf behind him, he shrugged. It wasn't just for money. Arco explained:*\n```coffee\n\" Not just money. Power. And perhaps womanly fame. \"\n```\n*He exhaled sharply out of his nose in amusement. Creating a guild would be okay, he'd have probably already tackled the old age that comes with growing. Maybe having an end would be preferable instead. That was usually when people got famous anyway, right after death. The money would help though, weaponry, staff upgrades and the such. He wasn't sure where the skills of a necromancer would lead him, but hopefully it wasn't to absolute eternity in pain.*\n\n*The Elf wasn't too wrong, making companions and becoming part of a skilled party was something anyone probably wanted. Terrel was an obvious choice. All the other Onis? He couldn't see past the same things over and over, but seeing an Elf in the Oni lands? That was how he knew the Elf would be someone strong, even if they were seen as feeble magic casters at times by the brutish ones.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"That is what money typically leads to.\"*He'd comment in a more thoughtful tone.*\"Wouldn't be wandering about with all this weaponry without it. I suppose that's one thing the empire has going for it. Somehow managing to make everyone follow this one person without even getting to see them.\"*It seemed the Elf was referring to the Silnari's emperor. No one he cared to meet as he wasn't one for following rules that inconvenienced him. Perhaps that was why he had so much blood on his hands.*\n\n\"That's power, but any one person trying to rule over the actions of several others is bound to bring problems.\"*The Elf would shift his gaze towards the other Onis walking about. He wasn't sure of their own customs. Perhaps they had some hierarchy of their own under their brute force and fighting nature. Nevertheless, he found it more captivating than the Elf's teachings of how to attack from afar and hoping you don't run out of mana before then.\n\nHe shook his head to and fro at the thoughts. Magic hardly ever saved him, but he supposed to rest found their own uses for it in more creative ways than he could.*\"I guess it's nice to see someone who knows what they want. Most stray away from it in the thoughts of morality, but they simply let that be the reason in of it getting in their way. But I suppose playing with death changes your mind on some things.\"" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*The Elf was not wrong. A hierarchy was never healthy, after all. It always bred the worst of the worst who never deserved to live at the top. But such was the nature of a societal hierarchy that separated rich from the poor in drastic ways. The poor were used as pawns to make more money for the rich, and that was something he wouldn't stand for. Being one with the people was the best a leader could do. It had him think for a moment, but he kept on leading the Elf and the horse to the stables, eventually reaching it.*\n\n*Sometimes he wanted to learn swordfighting. It'd make him versatile, considering he had a good magical affinity naturally and being an Oni, you couldn't go wrong with being good with swords, huh? Nodding, he ate the fruit in his hand fully, within two bites. Then he took a sip from his water, humming in agreement.*\n\n```coffee\n\" It's the nature of all who think for themselves. They will not always follow. \"\n```\n*Entering the stable, he let the Elf care to his horse. It was nice, knowing what he wanted at that moment, but he was not sure on what would be of the future. He could become a spellblade, a powerful mage that knew three magics at once, or the necromancer of all necromancers. It was best not to think of the future. Arco nodded.*\n```coffee\n\" It does change your mind. Makes you see life and death differently, more similar to eachother in a way. Seeing and playing with death makes you think differently. It's no wonder necromancers are known as evil, hah. I won't summon hands from the floor and pick you apart, though. \"\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Well isn't that reassuring. Maybe we can get you a Vulture mask to show how well you work with death.\"*The Elf would say at the man's last comment, giving a brief nod to him before heading to the stable as they had finally arrived to it. He'd talk to a man at a front for a short while, eventually paying him some silver before grabbing his horse's lead and taking him over to a nearby trough where the horse could finally get a drink from. \n\nCarl would hardly wait for him to bring him over to it fully before he'd start drinking from it with more haste than need be. Not like it was going anywhere after all. The Elf would grab his own water skin, taking a drink from it as well to quench his own thirst for the time being with the desert heat to be weary of. A tired sigh would escape him as he'd lower it from his mouth.*\n\n\"Definitely not crossing back across the desert again in this heat. Might have to find a place to rest at for today before setting off again tomorrow.\"*He'd turn to look back at Acro, having to tilt his head up slightly to look at him.*\"Though I'm guessing you already gotten everything you needed from this town?\"" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Acro nodded at that idea. The Vulture mask would fit, but he'd prefer something like a Crow mask. Watching from afar, the Oni took a large sip from his water skin again. The desert was tiring, no wonder his parents went to another Oni region. The shade brought relaxation that he truly needed at this moment. He'd nod at the statement. It was way too hot, so they'd have to go to sleep now and wake up early in the morning before the sun decided to set them all on fire.*\n\n```coffee\n\" Just about everything. Not leaving yet. I might grab some more supplies and then leave. I only just came here, you know? \"\n```\n*The Blue Oni glanced outside, the floor quivering in the heat, air warping. He doubted the Elf knew about Irunia, his actual hometown. This was the most well-known Oni area. He barely ever lived in Amongko, in fact, only visited.*\n```coffee\n\" I think a Crow would look nice. \"\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I think both work well enough.\"*He'd say in agreement to him getting a crow's mask. One was at least much more appealing anyways. The Elf would turn away from his horse, allowing him time to himself for a while.*\"You seem to know your way around here well enough.\"*Terrel would point out in reference to him finding them a stable.*\n\n\"I think you'd learn to become a good navigator, at least as good as a crow would entail, what with the eyes in the sky and everything.\"*He'd shift his gaze to look out towards the heated area, saying:*\"Think you can find a Tavern around here? Might not be a bad idea to look for one before night falls. I've heard the deserts get cold at night. Ridiculously at best.\"\n\n*At the very least, his clothing provided an abundance in protection against the cold, making the passage of winter much more bearable in comparison to the coming of summer. Nevertheless, some things never changed in certain environments and, even then, one didn't want to have to face the elements in the middle of the night.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Nodding, the Oni left the stable, immediately getting hit with the heat again. The other Onis here that were red were probably just sunburnt Blue Onis. Any town had an inn, so they just had to look for a tall building in the middle of town around the market. That's where they got the most money, right? With this logic, Arco led Terrel back to the middle of town.*\n\n```coffee\n\" They aren't wrong. Take that from an Oni. You can never trust the cold or heat in a desert. \"\n```\n*It did make sense to be good at navigating, but all he really did is use logic and his height to see past thing that someone smaller than him like a dwarf wouldn't. Either way, crows were servants of death in a way, and if he could have any mask, it'd be that one. Wearing armour and a cloak over that was tiring, not because it was heavy, but the heat basically cooked him alive in a way.*\n\n```coffee\n\" Where do you come from? I sure as hell know you aren't a tiny Oni. \"\n```\n*He said this in reference to the gruff voice, and the fact that there was a sword hilt sticking out from his back.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*The Elf would follow him out into the heat, warmth radiating along the metallic plated armor he wore. Needless to say that the heat affected him more than others with his choice of attire, but he kept the discomfort to himself in not letting it get to him.\n\nBefore leaving the stable, he'd speak once more with the man working there before allowing him to take his horse into the stable for the time being. He could go back for him later. The Elf would continue down the road as they headed closer to the center of town. He'd scan the area for any sign of of a tavern, eventually giving up in letting the Oni show him where to go.*\n\n\"Was that up for debate?\"*He'd ask for a chuckle in Arco stating that he wasn't a tiny Oni. The Elf wasn't sure whether to take the comparison as a good thing or not, but he thought it funny if that was the case. Maybe with enough swordsmanship skills he'd be compared to the warrior of one. It wasn't such a bad idea.*\n\n\"I'm from the Steppes mainly.\"*He'd say.*\"Being a Steppe Elf and all. Been traveling around Ramul Ta for quite a while now.\"*Though it was a strange that the Elf was typically a bit taller than most of his race usually grow to and his voice growing to be much deeper than it used to be in his youth, some traits of being an Elf never left him what with the pointed ears and long locks of pink hair that matched too well with the mask he wore.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Arco snorted. Perhaps he was a tiny Oni. All he needed was some paint and horns to full transform him into a warrior that resembled one. Surely he had the skills to be one too, send him off into a school of actual children to see who would come out alive.*\n\n*The Steppes. He had heard stories about the elves who lived there. They must've been shorter than this, he thought. The hair did check out, and it was quite respectable. Keeping on walking, he read some of the signs, before coming up to a neat building. This seemed to be it. Back in the shade, Arco pulled out his coin pouch, before going up and conversing with the Oni.*\n\n*After paying, the Oni went back to the Elf.*\n```coffee\n\" Okay, you gonna come with, or get your own room? \"\n```\n*Once they answered, he'd hang around for a second, before going to rest in the room he paid for.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'll get my own room, but I'm planning on getting something to eat from around here if you'd care to join me.\"*The Elf would answer before the Oni had left to go head to his room. Whether or not he decided to come with, the Elf supposed he'd find out later on whenever he came back down to get something to eat.\n\nThe Elf would go speak with the Oni as well, handing over some coins to pay for his own room before he'd turn away to begin heading up to the rooms to rest for the time being until they could potentially regroup back downstairs if the Oni agreed.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Setting his stuff down, Arco unpacked for a little, before deciding to go eat, since he was feeling a little peckish now anyway. Downstairs again, the Oni's face seemed to be moist, and that was because he took time to wash it. Waiting outside, the Oni wondered how far the Elf would let him go along with him.*\n\n```coffee\n\" Hope he understands that my skillset is valuable. \"\n```\n\n*A friend like him wouldn't be bad anyway, it was the only thing he lacked in as of now. Melee.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*The Elf would gradually make his way back down to stairs after some time of getting rest in the cooler environment. At least with the time he took relaxing here, the sun would no longer be at his highest point, sparing them from the heat of it with it nearing its horizon. \n\nTerrel would head outside, being met by the Oni who was waiting to him.*\"Glad to see you decided to join.\"*He would say simply soon turning away from him in beckoning for the Oni to follow while he would explore the area a bit to see if there were any restaurants around worth checking out.*\n\n\"I suppose I never introduced myself.\"*He'd say after a while of walking.*\"The name's Terrel. Mercenary for hire as I'm more formerly known.\"" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Terrel would see him smile, before he began to follow the Elf through the town. It was finally cooler, and his body had stopped boiling. Arco was grateful the sun had stopped now, since he could actually eat up properly. All he wondered now was where they would eat after buying their room. His head perked up, though, to Terrel speaking again.*\n\n```coffee\n\" Well then, Terrel. I'm Arco. A necromancer is what I'd likely be formerly known as, I guess. Haven't really found a job yet, but I'll find a guild some time. \"\n```\n\n*Eyes gazing up, the sky had darkened significantly, from the bright blue to a more mellow tone. The environment was much more fitting to eat in without tearing apart your eyeballs from how bright it was. It likely wouldn't be too fancy anyway, considering the fact it was just a small town and they were probably not prone to frequent visitation.*\n\nI have writer's cock sorry" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*A nice cool breeze would pass by, giving added relief for a while. Terrel would turn off the main road to another branching out in his search of a place to eat, soon finding a small building that seemed to advertise some meals they offered.*\"Well Arco at the rate you're going at, you may just end up being a Mercenary as well.\"*He'd point out, allowing his cloak to cover around him in making him appear more passive as he walked which, in a land of Oni's, was probably not needed at his stature.*\n\n\"There are plenty of guilds around the bigger Capitols. I wouldn't look into joining them personally, but they do offer some jobs, being the chivalrous people they are at times. If you ask me though, the higher paying ones won't come from the guilds that are better known, more so private organizations of sorts or people with enough things they hate that they're willing to overly pay in order to exterminate, but you didn't hear it from me.\"*The Elf most likely wouldn't take him on those kind of jobs, those ones being more of a hassle than the simpler ones the guilds offered, but at least he'd know where to look. Maybe he would even get lucky with one.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Finally, they hit a restaurant and Arco smiled with a nod. Perhaps he could be a mercenary, it did reap high rewards, but so did guilds with the added protection of the guilds themselves. He wasn't sure how it would turn out as a mercenary, but he doubted at his level it would be too pretty. Still, there was room for improvement, for development, for skill to be gained. With Terrel's help, he'd get some real training done and would be able to adapt in a way to overcome obstacles he faces.*\n\n```coffee\n\" I hear adventuring is getting more common. It'd be good for me to start there though. Being a mercenary is risky is it not? Dangers come with jobs like that, but if I start with the guild, I can really find my magic's place and well- It's easy training for my ability. I'd like to be a mercenary for a little while though, I'm sure I could gain some skill there. \"\n```\n*It was really all about what type of jobs he would get if he was one. He wouldn't put his whole life on the line just yet, even if he had nothing to lose. It was a cowardly way out, even if he didn't follow what other Oni's did, he did know the principles of a true warrior. Letting himself die easy would be humiliating at the least. Arco needed luck for now, though.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I can see why. It's typical for people to want to travel away from home. Guess there's not much to do around the house after several years of living there.\"*The Elf would say with a laugh before reaching the restaurant. Making his way inside, he'd find a table for them to sit at what with the place being more set up like a tavern than anything too fancy.\n\nFinding a nice place in the corner, the Elf would take a seat in one of the chairs, soon relaxing back while he eyed the rest of the people there. It wasn't too crowded at the very least with it being a smaller town and all, something the Elf could enjoy in comparison to the larger Capitols.\n\nOnce he was settled, the Elf would continue the conversation.*\"I'm sure the guild could train you plenty.\"*The Elf would say with a snort of suppressed amusement.*\"But it wouldn't be anything compared to on the job experience.\"*Terrel would comment.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Nodding to Terrel's statement, Arco agreed. Everyone must leave at one point, or if you have stuff like farming to do at home, then that's acceptable. That was the most known type of at-home job, and there wasn't much else at home anyway. Following the Elf inside, he took a look at the other patrons. Then the food, which didn't look too bad.\n\nRelieved, Arco strolled over to the end, slipping into the part next to the corner facing Terrel. It seemed people really paid no mind to them being there, simply glancing at them like they would the rest. Maybe that was in part due to the fact he was an Oni too, but them being cloaked let them basically blend past their vision anyway.*\n\n*Raising his eyebrows, he replied with an enlightened tone, turning back to the Elf.* \n```coffee\n\" Hmm. Very fair point. I should become a mercenary then if I really want to grow strong, no point just being another wanna-be adventurer, huh? They get enough of those already, I bet. I'll definitely tag along with you then. \"\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I guess I can bring you along in that case. Planning on heading to Salvania which should be practically crawling with guilds to check out.\"*He'd explain.*\"You can decide what you want to do from there. I'll be setting out by next morning so it would be best to get plenty of rest before then if you want to get up early enough to beat the desert heat.\"\n\n*With that being explained, the Elf would wait for someone to come take their order, soon deciding to buy a simple platter of vegetables for his own taste, never being one to favor meat over it. As the waiter would walk off to go prepare the order, Terrel would turn his gaze to look back out the window.*\"Ever visited the other countries outside this one?\"*He'd ask.*" } ]

[ { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Flicking a thumbs up, he took a look outside. It wasn't too late yet, but people who were travelling would naturally sleep earlier in desert areas to make up for the fact that the heat was unbearable. Salvania. It was a popular place, and there he'd decide if he'd follow in Terrel's footsteps or become an adventurer. There were good sides to both, and he'd have to think about it in the early morning while travelling instead.\n\nThe person going to take the order came, and he obviously got something with a good amount of meat with it, like how he was raised to eat. Arco's mouth watered at the thought in fact, but he left his imagination and gazed at him, which then had him stare outside the window too.*\n```coffee\n\" I'm from a Blue Oni type of place called... Irunia. I'm not from here, but I've also been to Runra when I was younger and my parents weren't sick. Or dead. At least I hope they haven't climbed out of there. \"\n```\n\n*The Oni tried to make a joke about it, referencing the fact he played with death, so that the mood wouldn't die out. It was funny. How would his parents have died if he was a necromancer. He could have brought them back? It would have been disrespectful to bring them back in such a painful body. Letting them get properly buried and put to rest was the obvious choice.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Might want to go check if you're unsure.\"*The Elf would jest alongside the Oni about his parents. Listening him mention the places, Terrel would consider if they were worth visiting at some point in time. He never really had a reason to travel to Irunia, but Runra he could at least speak their language from all his studies. It would have been nice to finally find use for them, though considering most either speak Silnarian or hardly spoke a language he understood at all, it was hard to find one.*\n\n\"Maybe I'll go check the place out at some point.\"*He'd say.*\"I have yet to travel to all the countries after all.\"*Something like that sounded like it would take a while, but as long as there was reward at the end of it, the Elf didn't see the problem.\n\nHe'd wait patiently for the waiter to return with the food before he'd finally sit up and would begin eating at the food he had ordered. With a good night's sleep after, maybe traveling out of the desert won't be so bad tomorrow.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Smirking, the Oni let out a chuckle that he held in within a second. Hey, maybe he should go check, you'd never know if they decided to become a parent again.*\n*Arco nodded, thinking about his home town again. It was a refreshing thought, something that cleansed his brain for the most part. Looking away from the window, his eyes met the chipped wooden table, that must've been at least a millennium old.*\n\n```coffee\n\" You should go there. Good scenery. We're known for being quite strong with magic, actually. A contradiction from the usual stereotype, huh? \"\n```\n\n*The meat feast arrived, and he immediately began chowing down on it. Some urges couldn't be suppressed after all. The sky dimmed even more, night setting onto the people, which meant it was near time for them to go to bed and prepare for the trip in the coming morning.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Sounds strange if you asked me, then again, I guess I'm no different.\"*He'd say between bites.*\"Magic is great and all, but it doesn't beat fighting up close in my eyes.\"*The Elf would think on it for a moment. What would it have been like he decided to continue pursuing magic? Well for one thing, he probably wouldn't be traveling so much in this get up he was wearing. Perhaps he'd be just like any other Elf in that case, blending in with the rest of his kind.*\n\n\"I guess I can go check it out then.\"*He'd say, eventually finishing his meal in a few more bites before relaxing back in his seat once more. Peering out the window, he'd say:*\"Seems like it's getting dark, might want to head back soon before we start missing the desert heat.\"*Though he had been told the desert could get very cold at night, the Elf didn't want to test that theory with having to walk all the way back to the inn to get some rest for the night, especially in having to travel all day anyways.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Maybe the Elf was right. Magic couldn't beat the rough grit of sword-to-sword battle. But, they wouldn't understand the euphoria from using a spell, and not blundering instantly. The instant feeling of greatness that coursed through the body. Perhaps it was the same for the other side, but he would not understand unless he became a Spellblade.*\n\n*Finishing his meal, Arco glanced out the window, wiping his mouth down and tidying everything up before he packed his stuff and began to walk off.* \n```coffee\n\" Good talkin' to ya. I've had a good amount of fun for the past few hours thanks to you. Just kick my door if I'm not awake in the morning, and if I'm not awake then... A spirit must've angrily choked me out in my sleep and I won't be waking up any time soon. \"\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would give a nod to him, soon coming to stand up from his seat and following Arco out of the restaurant in them heading in the same direction. It wouldn't take as long getting back considering they didn't have to search from it, but still, the chill of the night would make it feel a bit longer than needed.\n\nHe'd shift his gaze to him, stating:*\"Well at any rate, I can go fight the spirit if need be.\"*He'd laugh a bit at the statement. Never before had he really witnessed a spirit, let alone fought one. However, he'd imagine it to be an interesting battle when thinking about it. In reaching the inn, he'd head inside, getting ready to head back up to his room as he'd say:*\"I look forward to traveling tomorrow.\"*With that, he'd turn away to head off to his room, leaving the Oni to head up at his own accord.*" }, { "author": "glory2", "message": "*Arco snorted at the thought, fighting a spirit that was strangling your friend to death. Would they even have physical forms? Would they be see through or something, like heard in tales? A fascinating thought, that he'd have to find out later if he happened to kill somebody while travelling.*\n\n*They reached the inn, and he entered, waving at the innkeep.*\n```coffee\n\" Okay, good. I look forward too. \"\n```\n\n*Once Terrel was up, Arco followed shortly, heading off into his room, inspecting the room for any spiritual essence, before hitting the decks for some deserved rest.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Soon after the stranger's question, Obakko started laughing with his big Oni's voice, similar to a demon, he replied* \"We are all traveler in this world, and everyone has his own mission\" *Take out his flask and drink from it* \"Mine? My mission is feeding this horse\" *He giggle for a moment, his smile was from cheek to cheek, he seems to enjoy the moment, he look at the stranger and said* \"What's your mission in life?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Seems like he was a bubbly one. Terrel supposed he could work with that.*\"In life?\"*He questioned before answering casually.*\"Probably gathering the world's riches when it's not swordsmanship that's needed.\"*Terrel gave a light shrug, soon putting the book back in his bag.*\"It varies really. Though I would assume your entire life's mission isn't just to feed horses.\"*Terrel got up to walk over to his steed, grabbing onto its lead to get the animal's attention as the horse finally looked up from grazing.*\"If that was the case, you've already completed that ages ago.\"*He tilted his head off towards the stranger's horse.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Smiling with a relaxed face* \"He's not the only horse in the world\" *Drinks again from the flask, he start looking at the crown of the trees, and with a relaxed voice said* \"Well... The horses are only a part of the things i take care in my life, i love to take care of the things around me\" *He felt the gentle breeze slightly warm than before, and that made him full of joy that the people around him could feel his joy* \"Well i think the world is telling me to rest a little bit\" *Look at his horse while he puts his flask away* \"I suppose you too want to rest, right?\" *Walks toward his horse and take off the weight of his stuff and his heavy Kanabo*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Going to be hard feeding every single horse.\"*He said idly, giving his horse a light pat to make sure the animal was still okay.*\"Looks like there's not really much to take care of out here other than that though. Unless there's some secret underground business thing I'm not aware of around here.\"*As his horse went back to grazing he decided focus back on the man with the next question he had asked him.*\"Sure, traveling the city can get to be too much at times. Not much that goes on out here as far as I can see.\"*He answered.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Obakko Replied while he took off the weight from the horse* \"Taking care of the things around us is simply taking care of the plants, animals and people\" *The giant Oni tooks off his armor and put it on the ground without making too much noise. He took a deep breath and sits near a tree* \"From your posture seems like you need to take a bath and relax a little bit\" *Giggle* \"Take\" *He throw gently the flask to the stranger* \"This will cheers you up, are herbs and warm water\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He caught the flask and stared at it for a while.*\"Y'know there's a certain degree of sense in not drinking something a random stranger gives to you in the middle of the forest.\"*Terrel said, knowing full well he only followed that situationally. He walked over and held it back out to the man.*\"You probably have better use of it. I'm doing just fine out here despite the enemies made up until this point.\"" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Takes back the flask smiling and closing his eyes for a few seconds* \"Where i come from its common to give a sip of herbs to a friend or a stranger, also i think there's nothing to worry about a stranger that gives you a flask, Unless there's some secret underground business\" *Laugh and slap his knee, looked at the stranger and calm down* \"Sometime... You need to have enemy in your life, especially if you follow what you have inside, and you just need to understand that. Why you made enemies until this point?\" *Relaxed the shoulders against a tree closing his eyes and feeling the wind on his face*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Hey, you could very well be trying to poison me. If there aren't enough bounty hunters as is, there are definitely a lot of crazy people roaming around. That I can confirm.\"*He says with a shudder in thinking back to an old memory.*\"You tend to meet a lot of them being a mercenary. Some take your jobs personal. Some ban you from returning to certain places.\"*Terrel returned to the tree he was once sat at, laying back down against it in seeing that the Oni was looking to just relax here.*\"Typically a flip of a coin at this point as far as encounters go. Besides, I suppose I draw enough attention to myself as is.\"*He ran his hand through his long locks of pink hair. Between that and the mask, it was hard to go completely unnoticed. Not that he was really trying though.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "\"Mercenary... Mhh, so you risk your life for money right?\" *Looking at him worried while he sits down*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"At times.\"*He answers.*\"Been doing less of it lately with the income being good enough as is. Besides everyone has been so focused on the mentian war lately, having to force me to traverse the edges of the continent for the sake of work unless I felt like joining in the war.\"*He gave a light shake of his head, reaching for his book once more.*\"I have no interest in it. I can find other things to generate money without it looking like I'm choosing sides.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "\"My home is in my heart, and the world is my home. I dont think about the location of my home, but the emotions, family, friends, the stars in the night, the feel of the wind, and so on. I want you to feel home again in your heart, this time in silence, close your eyes and let the wind, the trees and the flower scent guide you in this\" *Obakko crossed his legs and closed his eyes, breath in and out, and seems like his shoulders melted by how relaxed he was*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel watched him with a rather unimpressed expression.*\"You really are some kind of sage aren't you?\"*He questioned in a low tone. The Elf regarded the man for a moment. He supposed it was a nice change of pace from the typical serious person he's always managed to come across. Though the Silnari doubted the Oni had ever killed a person in their life. Not that the bar was set very high at times.*\"Do you actually have friends and family around here?\"*He asked him, figuring full well that nature would follow no matter where this guy went.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Obakko stood in silence, after some minutes he breath out the air while said* \"Mmhh\" *His face became serious and tense*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Guess I'll take that as a no?\"*He said in partial question of the man's response.*\"It's fine. Meet a lot of people on the road, hard to have many relations while constantly traveling though.\"" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*He breath out another time and said again* \"Mmhh\" *He open his eyes and got up, his face was serious, he took is huge weapon and started to do a little training, handling his kanabo perfectly* \"Friends and family are everywhere, you only need the love and open your heart to them, but first you need to find yourself\" *More he moves his weapon you can see his huge muscles that work for making a perfect exhibition of a kanabo training*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Right... I'll believe it when I see it.\"*He said, rather unconvinced of the idea when a good portion of his encounters resulted in a near death experience. Maybe he was wrong about the Oni though. He at least seemed to have some experience with his own weapon. Terrel furrowed his brow in thought, reaching for the hilt of his sword at his back before getting up and suddenly drawing it. He moved his Greatsword, holding it so that it could block the swing of Obakko's Kanabo.*\"Can't find what was never lost.\"*He said casually. Terrel kept his weapon where it was, idly watching the Oni's movements to see what he would do next.*\"Besides if I opened up to any thing I came across, I'd probably be dead in a river somewhere or the philosophical equivalent to it anyways. Not exactly easy to gauge who's out to get you or not really.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Obakko started to swing his kanabo faster and faster with strength and control, he keeps his gaze on the weapon* \"They say the weapon reflect his owner, tell me about your sword\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He sped up his motions to meet Obakko strike by strike. It seemed that the Silnari had plenty of experience with it to keep the single Oni in check.*\"Been by my side longer than most allies.\"*He said in mimicking Obakko's way of talking about things.*\"But in laymen's terms, it's a large sword with the capabilities of lighting people on fire.\"*Whether or not he meant that seriously was hard to tell. His gruff voice tend to make most things sound sarcastic from him. Nevertheless, he seemed amused in a way.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*The giant Oni seems disappointed when the stranger answered the question, so he decided to play his game. Obakko started swinging with all his power the Kanabo, he has a great strength, uncommon for normal people, but if you look his size you can tell its normal or maybe not the full strength he had. Those swing are like heavy rocks, they are capable of breaking bones behind a common shield, those swing are capable of breaking or bend weapons, like a katana. Obakko is channeling all his emotion on every swing, and he's trying to hit around the tip of the stranger sword to make it heavier to handle. And if he tries to dodge the attack the Oni is prepared to do a step forward and swing back to his sword, he is watching the shoulders and arms of the stranger to predict his movements*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel kept a firm grip on his weapon as the Greatsword began to glow with life. A blue coloring washed over it, marking the finely crafted material it was made out of as he struck at the man's weapon with little concern. He was gauging the man's strength. While the Silnari relied on tanking hits while dealing heavy damage back, it grew harder with an opponent much heavier than him. He's had his fair share of fights against larger beastkin, seeing firsthand just how rough they could be. Terrel wouldn't doubt the Oni being much different, fighting with emotion and tactically using the blunt of his weapon to try to displace Terrel's ability to hold onto his weapon. Terrel decided to test that. While he did have full range of his sword, he typically only attacked from distance when it it was a much faster opponent. He didn't see such thing here. The Elf drew closer to the Oni, using his sword near base of it to counteract against the Oni's strength. He kept his form firm as he watched the Oni beneath the visor of his mask.*\"Of course, they do always say a sword is an extension of yourself hm?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*The giant seemed pleased when the stranger changes his plan and tried a new method to counter his power. Obakko back serious after listening the kid talking, so he thought about finish the training faster, so, he knew that the factory of that weapon was higher than his kanabo, the manufacture was simply amazing, the only method to finish fast this match was to focus on the size of the opponent, and working on the tactics for making him lose the control for a second cause of the firm grip. He knows that these tactics could work in the same way for the kid to bigger creatures. So he fake an heavy swing so he could, when his opponent charge the counter attack, take the kanabo faster from the middle and with the other hand from the grip, to deflect the weapon away to have just one or two seconds to act*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel kept his focus on his opponent, reading his change in emotion as he went for a quick fake out. It didn't seem like the Silnari was interested in attacking back, instead holding his stance to keep his sword ready in preparation of the Oni going in for another attack. The change in power seemed to catch him at a moment surprise, loosening his grip on the sword and forcing it to one hand as he tried not to drop it completely. Terrel eyed the Oni as his sword now remained lowered, holding his gaze before eventually backing off.*\"Ever actually put the fighting skills to use?\"*He questioned the Oni as he turned away from him to go grab his bag.*\"I wouldn't assume too often with the things you say.\"" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*After the stranger back off, the Oni remained silent for a long moment, watching the crown of the trees far away from him, something seems to bother him, seems like he didn't felt joy after \"Winning\" The training, instead he said*\n\"I fight for a reason, we can say that i am a mercenary too, but i fight people to save others from the evil in this world, i fought many duels, some easy and some i end up with huge scars, but in my heart\" \n*Obakko touches his heart with the hand that has the middle of the kanabo, and looked down*\nIm my heart i know for who i am fighting. Do you know why i use this kanabo? *He watches the birds that flew in the air*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel glanced back towards him at the question. It seemed like this guy was some kind of 'hero-type' in a way, but he supposed protecting the people he cared about was a fair enough thought process. Terrel would do the same if it came down to it.*\"You decided to pick up on learning how to use it?\"*He partially questioned back. Terrel supposed it was either that or he had some kind of history with the weapon.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Breath out and looked at the small rocks on the ground, then watched the stranger while he finished the question.\nHe walks toward him with confidence, dragging his kanabo. He ducked face to face with the stranger and said*\n\"To stir the soup obviously!\" \n*He mimics the action of tasting a soup with the kanabo, and then burst into laugh and put an hand on the stranger's head to pat him like a big brother*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"You are a strange individual.\"*He said to him idly, giving an exasperated shake of his head as Obakko patted him before pushing the large Oni away with just enough force to give him some space from the stranger.*\"But no better thing to stir stew with I suppose. Then again, any civilized restaurant would tell you otherwise. Don't really get to visit many of those on the road though.\"" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*The big Oni left him push him away, while giggle and replied* I prefer the good old inn, where the plates are huuuuuuge like my belly, and the drinks are the best.\"\n*He touches his belly with the entire palm*\n\"I think its time to eat! Do you want to eat something with me? Great, lets go!\"\n*He started to put on his shoulders all the equipment, to let the horse rest while he walk, he turned back to watch the kid*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel hesitated for a moment, merely watching as Obakko suddenly claimed them going to get something eat without waiting for response.*\"Okay... I guess I'm going to get something to eat now then.\"*He said in slow agreement. Terrel wasn't sure where he planned on them going, but curiosity hasn't gotten him killed just yet. He went to go mount up on his horse, turning the steed around to gradually follow after the Oni.*\"Inn food is one thing. I get enough of those to every town I visit. Hardly different than the typical tavern.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Obakko keep walking with his apparently new friend, he seemed enjoying that moment of relax, he had a big smile.*\n\"The food is more than decent, but its all deadly food, and remember, dont drink from this flask.\"\n*He giggle, then takes out the flask and drank from it*\n\"We are pretty close to the town, any last words?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Should I be concerned?\"*He decided to ask as his last statement. Terrel wasn't sure if he should take his words literally or figuratively. There was no telling what Onis could be serving here. It could very well poison him. He shifted his focus to the town up ahead, figuring he probably couldn't turn away now anyways.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*He laughed*\n\"They are good people, i met a few guys and we drank a lot, fortunately im hard to take down, also you are my friend so they will treat you like one of us... I think\"\n*The Oni was a few step from the gate*\n\"Here we are ha haa\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel looked up as they approached the gates to the town, coming to a stop just at the entryway. The town streets seemed busy at this time of day, most likely a rush at the marketplaces or whatever the Oni's equivalent to it was. It wasn't often the Silnari got to see any, which always made a town full of them hard to become used to. He looked over to Obakko for a brief moment, saying:*\"I suppose you're going to escort me to this restaurant place then?\"*Terrel was sure that with enough navigation, he could pick one out of the different buildings he could see from here, though Obakko seemed to have enough of an idea for Terrel to not have to go through the effort.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "\"Well this is the first time i see that much here eheh. Follow me\"\n*Obakko led Terrel to the restourant, using his size to create a way. They arrived safe and sounds without any trouble.*\n\"Here we are little one haha!\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel followed after him, only dismounting from his horse as they finally made it to the restaurant. It seemed like a decent enough establishment on its own, though lacking the richer exterior as some older Salvania places had where richer patrons typically went.*\"It's Terrel.\"*The Silnari said to him simply at the nickname Obakko gave. Not that it wasn't accurate when compared to the Oni, but with most Silnaris it was opposite. He decided to keep his horse tied up outside, opening the doors to head in soon after being met by the busied interior. It must have been rush hour or something of the sort which made a lot of sense considering it being the middle of the day. He decided to wait for Obakko to find them a seat, deciding to ask him:*\"What kind of food do they sell here anyways?\"" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Obakko before asking for them a seat, replied to Terrel*\n\"Oni are big and strong, so we need to eat a lot, you can find here plates full of delicious meat\"\n*Obakko asked for two seats, and walked to that table. He sat down.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Any other options?\"*Terrel asked him as he went to sit down, figuring he'd pass on them.*\"Don't really care much for meat.\"*He relaxed back in the chair, silently watching the others in the tavern while he waited. Between the Beastkin, Kemonomimi, and Oni nations, he wasn't sure what else he expected.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Obakko was thinking about other plates other than meat*\n\"Which kind of plates do you eat sometimes?\"\n*This is the first time the Oni met a person who dont care about meat*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Rice, bread, potatoes, pasta, quite a few options out there. I'm not against trying something new.\"*He said, listing some things off. Even if simply seen as side dishes, the options usually seemed to be available one way or another.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "\"Ohhh sure, i forgot about those plates eheh\"\n*He called the waiter to his table and start to order*\n\"For me a huge pot of grilled meats, thank you\"\n*He was already tasting the smell the scent that came out of the kitchen*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*With the waiter coming by, Terrel decided to get himself a drink alongside some dumplings and rice as he had earlier mentioned. He waited for them to leave before shifting his gaze back to Obakko.*\"Do you guys just have a universal type of meat here or does the waiter just happen to know what you mean?\"*He asked in regards to the Oni's order.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "\"Im a regular here, i love the meat here, and they always make me a mix of them\"\n*He seems pretty hungry and excited talking about grilled meats. He focused his attention to Terrel and became a little relaxed and serious.*\n\"You have a Good sword, but you need to know how to control it, you have a lot of potential and determination, but you lose it when you start to think instead of feel\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He supposed that made enough sense assuming the Oni stayed in this town or something similar. At the mention of his sword fighting, he slowly raised an eyebrow.*\"I don't know what you're referring to.\"*He said nonchalantly. Though he couldn't really say he fought Onis before, especially on having to meet them match for match as far as endurance and strength went, he couldn't see how he was thinking any more than he was feeling it. Both in the figurative and literal standpoint.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "\"You dont know and this is obvious, imagine if you know, what monster would you be my little friend\"\n*He pat on his head like a big brother, smiling at him*\n\"When i told you to tell me about your sword, i meant, show me the intensity of your emotion, leaving your thinking mind, and embracing the power of your emotions\"\n*Crossed his arms, he is meditating with a serious face*\n\"Mmhh, too hard for you to understand\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He stared at him blankly for a moment or rather the equivalent of it seeing as he was wearing a pig mask.*\"It's a sword-.\"*He said to him.*\"Besides fighting with emotion doesn't always end well amongst Silnaris. They're good at reading them.\"*Terrel didn't often bring up the others of his race, but he did tend to pick up a thing or two from them. Emotion was occasionally used as a source for figuring out magic, but while it managed to intensify it, it only made them all the more readable in combat. At least, so he's come to learn.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*He stare back at him and said, in a way that only Terrel could hear him, slowly with a deep voice, like he was dead serious on what he is telling*\n\"Now, tell me exactly what you feel when you kill a person, or just hurt him with your sword\"\n*His face gives a strange vibe, not fear but also not happiness*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Picking up on how serious the Oni was becoming, Terrel sat up more, figuring however he answered the question that came was going to require him to have to.*\"Nothing, typically.\"*He said in response. It didn't take him much thought. He hardly thinks much about the victims of battles especially when most fights of his were from a job request in being a mercenary.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*While he was eating fast asked to Terrel*\n\"Remind me what are you doing after lunch.\"\n*He took a piece of grilled Chicken wing and looked at it and said*\n\"Thank you little one, i will use the energy you give me, to make good actions\"\n*And then ate it with two strong bites*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Probably going back to traveling west. Had to drop a few things off, so now I'm getting back on the long road again.\"*He said, picking around the dumplings for a while before eventually deciding to eat one of them. The Elf was partially distracted by stuff, but traveling seemed to fill in the space.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Obakko raised his hand to the waiter like he was his friend*\n\"One to finish, thank you Krog\"\n*He smiled at the waiter, and then looks at Terrel*\n\"I love the homemade drinks, a few and you start to fly in other dimensions\"\n*He giggle and pat Terrel head*\n\"Remember, the longest road is the one inside of us, so smile and stop torture your food\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel raised his hand to slowly move the Oni's away from his head, finding the patting both demeaning and odd.*\"Torturing would be implying that it's alive to begin with.\"*He said, taking a sip from his drink with a lot less enthusiasm towards his meal than the Oni had.*\"No, I'm quite sure the road from East to West is much longer.\"*Yet he's done it so many times. Not that it ever felt any shorter though.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*The waiter came to Obakko with the drink. Obakko with the same chill smile, paid the bill, he knew better the prices for every plate. He raises the drink and cheer*\n\"For us, the little warrior and the big red oni\"\n*He drunk in one shot the liquor and he was sitting as if he was melting on the chair*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Not agreeing to that name, but sure.\"*He said raising his glass as well before drinking what remained of its contents.*\"Do you have a name or do you just preferred being called Red Oni?\"*He questioned, gradually finishing what remained of his plate before pushing it away and sitting up more straight in knowing he'd have to get ready for travels again soon.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "\"Obakko\"\n*Replied before he yawn*\n\"I ate a lot, now i want to fall asleep near a tree\"\n*He starts imagine him with the back against the tree and slowly fall asleep, but he knew he was in the restaurant, so he stand up and stretched*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Obakko.\"*He said, repeating the name. With Obakko standing up, Terrel eventually stood up as well.*\"Well then Obakko, I suppose I should be getting back to traveling. Got a long road ahead, but not a bad eatery you got here.\"" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*The Oni walked toward the exit beside Terrel*\n\"I hope your journey gives you all the happiness you deserve, was a pleasure sparring with you.\"\n*Then proceed to bow in honor to him*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Yeah, same to you.\"*He said with a lot more casualness to the Oni. The Silnari turned away, heading outside to grab his horse and mount back up on him. He gave a light wave to the Oni before having his horse eventually trot off from the restaurant.*" }, { "author": "Obakko", "message": "*Obakko watch Terrel rode away, and said quietly*\n\"You have a lot to learn little one, i'll pray for you\"\n*Obakko sat in the chair outside the building and took out his smoking pipe and start smoke thinking about the next step to be what he wanted to be.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "*The tavern was loud and chaotic, shouting voiced able to be heard through the walls, the windows letting out a strong stream of light and shadows. Just as Terrel would start to arrive a the entrance, the window would shatter, as a large THING would be thrown out of it. The thing would start to stand up, as it tured out it was a person instead. This person was certainly not tall, but not small either, two red horns on her head and a long thing tail from behind her. Blood trickled down her face as she looked up at the man, her clothes torn from the glass.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel took a quick step back as the window suddenly shattered upon someone breaking through it. He held an arm up, mainly to shield any excess glass before glancing down at the woman lying on the ground. It took him a short moment to process it, but eventually he gave her a light tap of his boot, mainly to see if she was still alive.*\"You know if killing you was their goal, they may need to retry a few more times.\"*He commented, offering a hand down to help her up.*" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "*Ari would look up at the strange man in a pig mask, taking his hand with a grin* \"Hah! Dont worry! He's just mad i kicked his ass in the last fight, so he and a bunch of goons grouped up on me.\" She would laugh and finish standing up as she brushed debris from her pants, her hands wrapped in fighters tape." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He regarded the woman for a moment. The look alone would have suggested that this wasn't her first brawl or maybe that was simply how Onis looked. Terrel was never really sure with it being a race of fighters typically.*\"Do you guys usually fight it out in there or did I just come at a bad time?\"*He asked in amusement.*" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "\"Ahhh you just came at a bad time, you *Should* Have come earlier to see the arenas, i totally shattered his nose\" *She flashed her teeth at him with a grin before turning to the window and shouting* \"Hey fuckface! Your throw is as lousy as your punch!\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Too bad. Was hoping to find a place to rest at for the night.\"*He said casually, only drawing silent as she taunted the people in the tavern.*\"You're an arena fighter I'm assuming? Doesn't seem like you have many fans.\"*The Silnari joked in returning back to what she mentioned earlier.*" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Ari growled at his statement of not having a lot of fans, mostly at them and less the man. \"When you look and fight like me, the Oni here don't really respect that\" She said, not the full truth, but enough that it was believable" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He gave her a quick look over.*\"Don't seem to be too different from what I'd expect of an arena fighter, but I haven't really been to one before, so I suppose I wouldn't know.\"*He passed a glance to the tavern then back down at her.*\"You planning on going back in, because if it's going to be a whole ordeal thing, I can grab some food and watch.\"" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Arish'i grinned and stretch her arms behind her back \"Sure thing! And if you enjoy the show you can by me food\" She says with a grin, winking at him as she walks through the front door, slaming it open with a cocky smirk" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He gave an unamused snort.*\"This better be one good show.\"*Terrel said, eventually heading in after. He decided to find a place to sit down at, figuring she'd draw most of the attention to herself with whatever confidence she appeared to have in fighting multiple people at once. It was not something too farfetched, but so far the results didn't seem to be in her favor. Already it seemed like bets were being placed around, but Terrel wasn't too interested in it.*" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Ari was standing in the middle of a crowd, facing what seemed to be a group of 5 red oni, the biggest one clearly the leader. Arish'i on the other hand was a lot smaller than most the Oni here, her supposed opponent standing a lot taller than her. She would speak up loudly \"Fine, you want to do this, I challenge you to a duel of honor!\" She said with a feirce gaze, the one infront of her glowering. Ari knew he couldnt back down or get out of this fight, not while there where a large group of witnessess" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*While she was challenging the other Oni, Terrel decided to order himself a drink for the time being. He questioned what kind of duel of honor would exist in a bar full of Onis, one of which getting double teamed through a window, but he supposed he was just about to see.*" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "A ring would begin to be created, Ari's opponent stepping forward. \"So, are you ready to get your ass handed to you for the second time\" She said, cracking her knuckles with a 'fuck you' smirk. The man across from her growled \"Your just a pompus prick because your mom is a famous fighter, your not worth shit!\" The man said, spitting on the ground. Ari's face lowered as she got into a fighting position, \"Im going to make you eat those words, and some teeth\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*By now, Terrel's drink had finally arrived just as they were getting ready to duel. He supposed this would be the closest he's ever gotten to an arena fight, but he didn't have much faith in either side with how much they were just yelling insults at each other. Maybe this was just part of the entertainment factor. He leaned back in his seat, deciding to get comfortable for the time being. Whatever the result may be, someone wasn't going to be able to walk away from it with their pride still intact.*" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Ari made the first move, quickly dashing up to him and striking him in side, before dodging a strike to her left, sweeping her legs underneath his. Her opponent stumbled for a second before catching himself, turning around to face her as he slammed his fist into her mouth. Ari took the blow, using it to leverge herself withing striking distance, punching him twice in the face before kicking him, jumping back before he could make a counter attack\n\nThe man ran at her, swinging his fist down as she jumped into the air, kicking him in the face. As she lands she kicks hos feet from beneath him, making him fall. Ari breathed heavily as he growled in pain. His arm reaching out and grabbing her tail, pulling her into the ground." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel had to admit she was holding out longer than what he had seen last time. He almost smirked at the thought. Almost. To anyone really look at the man with a pig mask, with only his mouth visible from it, one would think him unimpressed, but it was at least more entertaining than watching drunkards stumbling about, despite it most likely being a similar thing in this sense.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Ari groaned after a second and stood up, waking over to her opponent and nudging him with her foot. When he didnt stir after a fee seconds she broke into a grin. \"And that what you get\" She walked over to Terrel as the crowd closed in on thr man and went to passing around bet winninngs" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He scratched at the side of his face with a thumb, grinning as she made her war back over.*\"I'll admit. Didn't expect you to be able walk away from it.\"*He said to her. Terrel eventually tore his gaze away from the fallen opponent as the crowd began obscuring his view, instead focusing on Ari.*" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "\"And thats *After* We fought today and he threw me through a window\" She said with a boastful grin, sitting down besides him. \"I don't think I introduced myself, the names Arish'i, though you can call me Ari\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Well, you're durable if anything.\"*He commented as he took a sip from his drink. As she introduced herself, he decide to as well.*\"Terrel.\"*He answered simply.*\"Might want to watch your back. You seem prone to getting tossed out windows. Especially in a place like this.\"" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Ari shrugged \"Nah ill be fine, especially after beating him like that, after a loss in an arena duel *And* A duel of honor, most people will be talking and gossiping about him, and if he ever tries to get back at me then...\" She shivered at the though of being labeled and 'honorless'" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I suppose I got a bit to learn about how things work around here. Can't say I've gotten the chance to visit too often, but never really heard of the arena fights around here, much less ones going on in a tavern.\"*He joked. Turning away for a brief moment, he waved over one of the waiters. Once they've made their way over, he looked back over to Ari.*\"Go on then 'champ', order what you want.\"" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Arish'i grinned in satisfaction as she ordered a drink, turning to Terrel. \"Its mostly a red oni thing, whole 'fight for honor and respect'\" She explained \"So what brings you here then?\" She would ask, grabbing her drink" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*While the waiter was there, he decided to order himself some rice and side of vegetables, allowing the man to walk off before turning back to the Oni.*\"Mainly just taking a break to travel a bit.\"*He answered her.*\"Been busy off in the west, but found some time to head here while also getting Mercenary work done as well. I assume you're from here, must not travel outside of Amongko too much, hm?\"" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Ari shook her head \"Not really, the only traveling i have done is with my mom to her fights\" She said. \"Being a mercenary sounds cool, ive been stuck here in arenas by my mother's wishing, but ill never prove myself that way\" Not when her and my brother rule them... Though she didnt say that last part out loud" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Well why don't you just... Be a Mercenary anyways...?\"*He asked as if it were so simple. It was pretty simple in his own case. Had he not left home by his own want, he'd still be stuck at the farm trying to learn magic. The Mercenary life was simply better in his eyes.*" }, { "author": "Arish'i Kiorla", "message": "Ari laughed at the notion and shook her head. \"One, i have no skills beyond fighting, and two, my mom would never let me\" She said with a growl, downing the rest of her drink." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"What skills do you think Mercenaries need beyond fighting half the time?\"*He asked her.*\"Well your mom let you out here already, that's about as big of a ticket to freedom that I'd ever seen offered. Worried she'd come after you if you left?\"" } ]