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Norquinal

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[ { "author": "Korin", "message": "Korin would take a quick hop back, towards the knight and would shout \"Shield!\" The death knight, hearing her command would hand off its shield to Korin. Since the master and the summon had the same strength Korin would be able to wield the massive shield with ease. Using it to block as much of the barrage as she could. The death knight would place both hands on the massive handle of the flamberge, wielding it like a zweihander, and readying itself to counter any of the goluths moves, with a counter to the broken stoneskin and fractured arm" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Swinging his arm would cause the masked man to miss his mark and stab the blades into Brakken's shoulder, but was completely negated due to his stone skin. He flips backward, brandishing his weapons again.*\n\n\"The pig chooses to roll in the mud, which has become stone. Interesting.\"\n\n*The Dao user simply waits for Shidori to attack, keeping distance. Her sword is poised above her head, while her other hand is extended, prepared to launch another blast of flame.*\n\n*The barrage of arrows is met by the Treton's arms as she bends down to protect her friend, the leather armor preventing major wounds. The elf has gotten back up, and fires another arrow at Invola. The enemy ice golem resists, and pushes the friendly one to the ground, trying to beat it down.*\n\n*The large shield would block basically all the punches, but the Qua's spirit arms grab the top of the shield and attempt to pull it down, while launching more punches above it to attack Korin's face. The Goluth simply waits for the knight to attack.*" }, { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "\"I'm gonna break that sword across yer face!\" *Brakken rushed forward, even though he was slower than the average creature. He made for a swing raising his fist going on the offensive this time. While placing attention to his fist above his shoulder his other hand extended out attempting to grab at anything even the sword if able.*" }, { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "Shidori grunted, widening her stance. Her red form flickered once. Twice. The earth cracked as she suddenly shot towards the Dao User with incredible speed, using her maximum running speed this time combined with Fleet Foot. Her blade made a ringing sound in the air as she aimed a slash with one hand.\n\n[Vibrant Strike Used]\n[65/120 Mana]" } ]

[ { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*The swords would already be in the masked man's hands, and the punch would fly wild as the assassin steps to the side. He's waiting for the stone skin to run out, it seems.*\n\n*The Dao user yells as her body glows red. Her sword once again clashes with Shidori's. This looks like a good battle.*\n\n*The elf would have readied her bow, aimed at Invola, ready to fire, but hesitates. So does the Treton. The elf, Jenna, speaks.*\n\n\"The elf must have sent you. Those fools, actually believing the gods have given them the right to build temples, take from those who have nothing.\"\n\n*Both Ice golems would end up stabbing each other in the gut, and would stagger away, not dead yet, but soon,*\n\n*The Goluth and the knight simply wait, until the mountain of a man lunges forward with the unhurt arm forward. He fakes a punch, then throws a quick sweep at the knight's knee.*\n\n*Korin's angling of the shield would prevent punches from hitting her, but the shield bash doesn't do much to the balanced Qua, simply clanging against his shin guards. He's still holding it, and tries to shake it off Korin from side to side, while hammering away at the tower shield using his fists.*" }, { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "Brakken felt like bull fighting a matador. He took the moment to watch his opponent and in him deciding to wait it out Brakken took out his mug and began to fill it with more ale.* \"Waiting on you ya fancy smancy cheater.\" Once the mug was filled Brakken would send a glowing fingertip around the rim of the alcohol container and begin to drink his worries away." }, { "author": "xenics333", "message": "``Share a Drink: 15 mana/40 mana``" } ]

[ { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "Shidori huffed, staring at the Dao user. She twirled her blades in her hand, before charging forward, a bit slower this time. Her hand glowed blue, the color spreading and covering her sword. With a grunt, she swung her Katana again, swiping for the Dao user's neck.\n\n[Empower Strike Used]\n[60/120 Mana]" }, { "author": "aviatorenthusiast", "message": "The elf should know by now Invola could mostly likely dodge a single arrow with no trouble, and she would try just that while readying her sword to meet the masked man with." }, { "author": "Korin", "message": "Korin would launch the shield at the Treton who fired the lightning, as the shield wasn't in the targets field of vision coming from behind. The knight would sidestep the bolt and begin charging toward the caster. Korin after throwing the shield and rolling out of the range of the fists would send a bolt of black lightning at the man punching.\n\n[Dark World Lightning used]\n\n[1/45 Mana]" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Brakken is able to punch the stony leg away from his face, the goluth still standing because of his height. The giant retracts his leg, and this time aims lower towards the dwarf's gut.*\n\n\"YAAAAAA!!!\"\n\n*The Dao user glows red again, and blocks the sword swipe at her neck. She begins to press against Shidori's blade.*\n\n*The masked man would not slash at Invola, but instead launch a force blast at her legs. Sneaky bastard.*\n\n*The shield would be noticed by the elf, and as tower shields are bad at being thrown, Jenna is able to kick it away, before stumbling back due to its mass.*\n\n*Crystal looks like she's tiring, After all, she's been casting spells non-stop. Her hands glow red, and a Holy Volley of fire is sent to the dark knight.*\n\n*The dark lightning stuns an arm of the Qua, but he still has 5 other ones. He does refrain from attacking though, reeling after the lightning bolt.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "\"Meeeeeeh!\" Brakken mocked the goluth and raised his fist in an attempt to hammerstrike the goluth's foot. Hopefully to smash some bones." }, { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "Shidori grunted, keeping the grip on her blade still. She suddenly lurched, keeping her blade high and locked with Dao, and flipped the tanto in her hand. With eyes screaming for her opponent's death, she thrusted the dagger towards the Dao user's neck." }, { "author": "aviatorenthusiast", "message": "The force blast was completely unexpected, thus Invola's legs would be blasted out from under her and her face would soon be planted against the dirt \"Damn...\" But she'd soon recover, hopping to her feet and quickly starting to sprint towards the masked man with her sword ready to slice through his midsection, and her face blank enough to mirror the man's own mask." } ]

[ { "author": "Korin", "message": "The knight took advantage of the girl stumbling back from the mass of the shield and took a few swipes with its flamberge at her chest, the biggest target. As Korin rushed towards her knight and began to pincer the elf, striking out with continuous punches, ready to counter if the need arose. \n\n[7 mana regained]\n\n[8/45 remaining]" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*A downward hammerstrike would successfully knock the goluth's foot into the ground, but not enough to break anything. Van'gar shifts his weight and throws a punch at the dwarf using the same side that he had kicked from.*\n\n*It looks like Shidori and the Dao user are equally matched. The woman once again blocks the attack, but goes for a risky blow, swinging her foot into a roundhousekick aimed for her opponent's knee.*\n\n*Invola's heritage as an Oni would prove to be powerful, and as the man blocks using the crossguards of his blades, he's knocked back. He's able to keep his balance though, and lunges at Invola's neck using his left knife, keeping his right blade close to his body to deflect any attacks at his torso.*\n\n*It seems like the knight would take the full force of the holy volley, the fireballs splashing against its armor. That wouldn't stop it though, as it was a summon. Crystal's eyes widen as she realizes that her spells have no effect. Jenna is able to rebalance herself, and pulls Crystal out of the way of the flamberge swing, keeping her friend safe. However, Korin is able to land a well-thrown punch which hits the elf square in the jaw. She stumbles back, trying to crawl away while pulling out a knife. The treton rushes towards her, and desperately tries to drag her friend away to safety.*\n\n*The Qua's arm would now be completely fine, and would rush towards the knight, attempting to restrain his arms. If he swung, the plates on the qua's arms would block the incoming strike.*" }, { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "*The dull greyness would wear off and Brakken could be seen belching bubbles as he readied another retaliating attack. Brakken would aim for the wrist with first dodging to thr side just enough to not get hit but close enough to where he could throw his own punch to affect the Goluth.*\n\n``Effects: Stoneskin has worn off, new effect Loosey Goosey/4 turns - 15 mana (35 mana left)``" } ]

[ { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "^Brakken had to make a move. This Goluth would wait out his spells just like the swordsman but this Goluth could toss out attack after attack while doing so. He couldn't throw any attacks since he was much smaller but he could attack back against those limbs. \"Good thing about larger opponents is that they flag their moves a lot more.\" Brakken readied his arm to catch the leg and would hop on it to see if he could maybe get in some more cheap blows to the knee." }, { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "Shidori huffs, swiping her daggee to the side to clean the blood off. Sensing blood on the water, literally, the blonde swordswoman charged forward and threw her dagger towards the Dao user's face, before sliding and slashing, aiming to slash her opponent's legs to immobalize her. A very rare smile slips from her emotionless facade." }, { "author": "Korin", "message": "Korin continues with her flurry of attacks, striking as quickly and a hard as she can at the elf, as the knight steps in the way of the blade and parries it with his own blade, then swiping twice at the friend in quick succession\n\n[7 mana regained]\n\n[15/45 remaining]" } ]

[ { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "Shidori winced slightly as the vibrations on her leg from the block travelled across her body. Huffing, she staggers back from his shove... But that was fine with her. She suddenly throws both of her blades at her enemy and ducks, charging towards the man. She crouches low as she aims in elbow strike at his stomach." }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Brakken would be no match for the overwhelming strength of the Qua, taking two blows to the face. However, the bug would end up leaving himself wide open, taking the blaze straight to his face. He quickly reels back, trying to put out the flames with his many arms.*\n\n\"Aaargh!\"\n\n*As Shidori throws her tanto, the man quickly sidesteps and blocks it to the side, but it lands a cut on his arm. The Odachi though, is not meant for throwing, and is easily blocked. The elbow strike would connect though, sending the man stumbling back, possibly fracturing a rib. If it does, the man doesn't show it though. Instead, he would diagonally slash at the now unarmed Shidori twice.*" }, { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "*With his face bruised, Brakken took a moment to collect himself and swung wildly with his right arm.* \"Block this ya c *That arm reeled back and launched forward looking to return the blows done to his handsome round face. Yes Brakken adores his round look.*" } ]

[ { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "Shidori grunted and raised her arms, hissing as the blades slammed into her gauntlets. She backflipped away, grabbing her Nodachi on the ground, and stood a few feet away. She focused once more, her blade glowing blue. Staring at the masked man, she performed a diagonal slash, sending a wind blade at the man, before twirling and doing the same slash in another angle. Then, she waited, as if wanting to see what her opponent would do after.\n\n[Tsubame Gaeshi Used]\n[5/120 Mana]" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*The Goluth is now dragging himself towards the tiny dwarf, and raises his fists, trying to slam them down on the dwarf.*\n\n\"Eat this, shorty!\"\n\n*The qua is still trying to recover from fire being blasted into his face, and reels back even more after tanking a blow right to the face. He looks like he's getting dizzy.*\n\n*Crystal by now has successfully brought Macy to safety, near Jenna. Both are recovering, but out of the fight. Crystal though, seems to be back in the fight, and begins to walk towards the dwarf.*\n\n*The masked man on the other hand, would simply slash twice to counter the flying blades. Afterwards, he holds both knives in one hand, and launches a Force blast at Shidori's legs, then rushes in slashing twice diagonally.*" }, { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "Shidori grunted, slamming her sword on the ground to halt her advance and jumping over the Force Blast. With another grunt, she quickly jumped back to avoid her opponent's slash. The swordswoman mentally checked her reserves, and she scowled.\n\n\"Fuck.\" She whispered, glancing at her blade, and scowling even further at the chips and dents present. \"Can't last long. There's only one solution.\"\n\nA memory of her brother resurfaced. *Remember, Shidori! If all else fails, use the Van Lichdt ultimate technique. It's called...*\n\n\"Run the Hell Away.\" She blankly stated, turning around and running towards Invola. \"Brakken! Retreat!\"" }, { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "*Brakken took the Qua by his arms and raised up above his head to prptect against the giant's fist slam.*" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Brakken's height allows him to easily block the goluth's slam, breaking the Qua's forearms. He yells out in pain as his bones break under the force of the goluth, who is quite mad. He moves his hands back, and tries to grab the obese dwarf.*\n\n*Meanwhile the masked man would simply point his blade towards Shidori.*\n\n\"We do not wish for conflict. Take your comrades and leave. If you do, we will not pursue you.\"" }, { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "^Brakken belched put bubbles and administered another set of spells to prepare for any situation that would come his way. He held the Qua to his knees using his moment of pain to seize him by the neck.* \"Ah ah ah, Laddy! Make another love and I'll snap your friend's neck!\"" } ]

[ { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "\"Hey, Moron!\" Shidori snarled, ignoring the masked man as she picked Invola up, carrying her body gently in a bridal carry. \"Think of something OTHER than booze and food for once and grab Korin. We've lost. I'm out of mana, and they still look raring to go.\"\n\nShidori glanced around, finding her dagger. Making sure Invola was secured in her arms, she walked towards it. Using her foot, she expertly flicked it into the air and grabbed it with her teeth. She'll sheathe it later. The Swordswoman turned to Brakken and gave him a look." }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Brakken's hands would prove to be too small and his arms too short to effectively try to grab the Qua's neck, and he simply uses two of his other arms to pull them off. The Goluth grabs the obese dwarf, and throws him away to about where Shidori is.*\n\n*The masked man would now be at where his fallen friends were, but was still keeping an eye on the two.*" }, { "author": "Brakken Hornswaagle", "message": "*Did his best but found himself tossed over to his ally. Chucked like a ball he yelled at Shidori to warn her.* \"Make waaaaaay!\" *So much for his plans but that's what happened when you tussle with a giant.*" }, { "author": "bluedabe", "message": "She was tempted, oh so **So** Tempted to kick the dwarf. That being said, she ducked, watching him soar above her, then scowled. \n\n\"I hate that dwarf.\" She muttered through the dagger between her teeth as she walked over to Korin. Hooking her leader's bead necklace with her foot, she started dragging the unconcious Korin to where Brakken flew off to." }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "**Quest failed. Compensation for such a long time, +6 UP to" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Silnaria. Home of the High Elves. Normally, one could consider it safe.*\n\n*This night was different.*\n\n*3 sets of footsteps echoed throughout the hallway, 2 of which falling far heavier than the first. Yakaiyo's feet slammed down on the carpeted floor, her side aching, nearly out of breath. Several cuts lacerated her black robes, staining areas a dark red. All she had to do was make it to the window. They wouldn't jump out. But if they caught her, she would greatly suffer the consequences.*\n\n*She's made it. She braces herself for impact, jumps, and slams into the glass, shattering it into massive shards, fracturing into dozens of razor blades, cutting open the Treton. To make matters worse, a crossbow bolt flies out, striking her in the back of her calf.*\n\n*And that was what would cause yet another problem.*\n\n*Originally, she had thought to perhaps roll onto the harsh cobblestones, reduce the impact. That wasn't happening.*\n\n*Her _other_ leg, the one that's not struck, hits first onto the stones, and her ankle twists horribly. The sheer force of the blow caused a massive pain up Yakaiyo's leg, and she hears something snap. The bow flies in a different direction, only a few feet from her. It might as well been a mile though, as Yakaiyo struggles to bring herself together through all the pain she's going through.*\n\n*It's just a little bit over there. Just a bit...*\n\n*Her teeth grit as she stifles a scream. It wouldn't be good for a criminal such as her to be found.*" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "*Silnaria.* Home of the High Elves. An enormous metropole of an empire built upon the collars of slaves and pools of a century's worth of blood, spilt on the world's ground. Brushing aside such context, the capital itself.. Is magnificent. \n\nHigh-rising bricked pillars housing many of the country's finest of both intelligence and arcane. Food that one would think came from the Divines' feasting hall, spice measured with perfection to fully take in its whole potential. And the \"Street\", which seems to be nothing more than an ornate art piece from its engravings. \n\nThis place is paradise.. If it was not known for its dark history.\n\nTapping against the chiseled floor, a woman walked briskly through a sparsely crowded street. The bright star merely drifting towards the horizon, painting the sky a warm orange, met with a purple as it seeped through. It was unwise of her to not anticipate this time of arrival, considering how infuriatingly bureaucratic the Salvainian empire is..\n\nNo time for wonder. With a cat's pace she hurried, turning in many corners and detours the normal man wouldn't dare to consider, the heels of her boots echoing as she folded her sleeved arms across her chest. \n\nSo much for her pride." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*She has to get there. Now.*\n\n*Yakaiyo tried to shift her body like a fish out of water, twisting and turning every which way in order to try and get to her primary weapon. Every movement sends a jolt of pain, but she has to continue.*\n\n*And then she hears the footsteps.*\n\n*Panic begins to set in, as the Treton desperately pushes off of her legs, and the overwhelming pain forces out a scream. She's reached it though, and she readies her bow and draws an arrow, but her hands are so shaky she's not even sure if she can aim properly. There's only been two other time in her life that she's felt this helpless.*" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "*Goddess, I'm late.*\n\nA shadow soon swooped in the alleyway, a shadow grew smaller and smaller as it boasted a mushroom-topped head and a slim body. Footsteps becoming more and more audible, and before long Yakaiyo would face her soon-to-be grim reaper...\n\n.. Turning around the corner is a fairly young girl, atop her head lies a wide-brimmed hat synonymous with a wizard or a witch's image. Covering her body is a simple buttoned robe. \n\n\".. Wrong turn.\" \n\nA voice hiding an echo of frustration as the magus quietly seethed in her place, darkened eyes darting across the alleyway for any semblance of a turn or another opening — only to meet another shadowy form at the side. She could barely make up its shape, narrowing her eyes as it adjusted to the lightning (curse these elves and their architecture). What're they holding, even?" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The Treton has to do a double take to make sure that she's seeing things correctly and not hallucinating from the pain.*\n\n*The figure looks like a simple mage, albeit slightly goofy looking with an almost oversized hat. The bow isn't drawn yet, and it's lowered slightly.*\n\n\"You're not an elf, right?\"\n\n*That's all Yakaiyo needs to confirm.*" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "The magus jumped from the shadow's voice; a woman's. In all honesty she didn't expect to meet another crazed mine much like hers this deep into the capital's alleys...\n\n... *This is Silnaria.* Scratch that, this woman is a holds a much higher level. \n\n\".. No, Miss. I'm no elf.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The 'shadow' lets out a sigh of relief, a wince, and a groan as she shifts. Whatever she's holding is lowered.*\n\n\"Alright, good. Could you help me-ow-a bit? I'm hurt.\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Of course, the girl met Yakaiyo with a tinge of suspicion. Meeting her in an alleyway, asking if she's an elf, and to mention just that *Shady* Aura she has going around. It's rude to judge off first impressions... But there's no wrong in doubt.\n\n\".. Sure? What happened? \n\nThe magus stepped forward, hands now at her sides, hidden beneath the comically large sleeves of her obe." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Can-can we save that for later? I think someone may be after me...\"\n\n*If Pyetra could see them, she would see that the Treton's eyes are pleading. It was rare to see her like this, but this was a time of desperation. She needed to escape those elves. They could be coming any minute.*\n\n\"It's quite a bit, and I don't think I can walk.\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Gazing against such eyes, something tugged within her stomach. \n\nPyetra is a cautious girl. A world like this, it would pay-off.. Yet met with a desperate voice she could barely heed her own gut feeling. She nods her head slowly, taking another step forward before stretching out an arm. With slight hesitation she wrapped it around Yakaiyo's back, supporting the Treton from her own weight. \n\n\"I'll take you to the main street, miss.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"No, please, anywhere but there. A secluded place, away from people. No elves.\"\n\n*This was a problem. If the girl brought her to the main streets, she would be recognized in an instant. She liked to think herself as a terror to elves, but if that happened, then she would simply be another serial killer.*\n\n*Serial killer. Was that what she was?*\n\n*No, it wasn't. It was retribution.*" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "*Ping pang. What was that? Suspicion, that's what it is.* \n\nAs if there's little time to think more of it. Whoever was after the woman would may as well be after her too! Her heart beating softly against her chest, Pyetra took a pause, eyes scanning the corridors ahead of them before shuffling forward. \n\nUnder the veil of night, it was hard to determine an exit. Each corner is hidden by a dark sheet as the buildings around them tower amongst one another. Luckily, there was a crossway to another alleyway. Heaven knows why this woman would rather be anywhere else than the main street... But oh well.\n\n\"Why exactly are you being chased..?\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Letting the mage's arm support her, Yakaiyo props herself up on one leg, the one that's not broken and with a crossbow bolt. A small grunt can be heard from her.*\n\n\"I don't have time to explain. They could be coming at this instant.\"\n\n*Ruby red eyes dart around the dark streets, searching for potential exits. Both her and her helper seem to spot one.*\n\n\"There, maybe?\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Little time did she waste, already moving with Yakaiyo in tow. \n\nOut of all the things Pyedra could have encountered, helping a woman out of an alleyway from her would-be... *Killer* Was out of the possibilities. She could hear her heart now, just punching while her stomach felt like it ate a brick. \n\n\"*Hrm..*\"\n\nTurning the corner, the corridor winds through many other lanes, connecting with another as it does the same. Without a single thought of it, Pyetra and Co. Began to make their way through." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Good. Now it looks like they were safe. No way they could be found now. Yakaiyo's leg gives way, and she collapses to the side of a wall.*\n\n\"I think this is ok now.\"\n\n*Now, if Pyetra looked, she would be able to see the extend of the Treton's injuries.*\n\n\"Just let me take a breath... I'm going to try and use some healing.\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "The weight at her side quickly alleviated, opting the girl to quickly set her sights to the Treton, now leaning tiredly against the bricks. Returning her sleeved arms back at her sides, Pyetra's eyes soon took in the extent of the stranger's injuries.\n\nShe pursed her lips, slowly turning her head away. It'd be rude of her to keep staring, especially at someone invulnerable. \n\nYet she still couldn't just.. Stand there, shame-faced. The magus ushered forth, now stood beside Yakaiyo as she directed her gaze back at the Treton's own scarlet eyes.\n\n\"Let me help.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Thank you.\"\n\n*The extend of the woman's injuries would be quite severe. Several cuts that look like they've been made by a saber, a dozen more coming from the shards of glass, an arrow in her calf, and a broken ankle and fractured shin in the other. Yakaiyo tries to pull out the bolt, but it causes too much pain for her, so she instead opts to heal her cuts.*\n\n\"Damn thing is barbed...\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Folding a knee, the young magus crouched down to Yakaiyo's head level, tucking back her onyx sleeves. With stern eyes she took in the Treton's wounds, pale hands gently tapping against skin which bloomed a nasty red and blue, merely uttering out a few apologetic words before continuing her inspection. \n\nShe's no doctor. Seeing the arrow embedded nice and comfy in the Treton's calf, Pyetra knew a professional should tend to it. She left the barbed bolt be in the meanwhile. \n\nSetting a hand behind Yakaiyo's shoulder, the young magus nudged the older woman forward, just enough for her to access her back.\n\nWith shut eyes, she clapped her hands softly together — a light surge of snapping green would flicker across her pale fingers like that of lighting; And beneath the flesh of her arm, it too highlights her veins and arteries with an interesting display of a bright verdant green. \n\nWithout much cause for alarm, she simply gave Yakaiyo a comforting smile. Interpret it as you wish, the magus seems to know what she's doing. Maybe.\n\nDespite such a flashy move, it was all for fading the many cuts and abrasions Yakaiyo had received from her harsh descent. A warmth spread through-out the Treton's spine, breaking away the discomfort she received. \n\nShame it was not the same for her many other severe injuries. But what could she do? Might as well kill her if she attempts to tear the arrow out." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton really was grateful for the mage's help, but she had to get patched up. The sheer amount of injuries and the subsequent pain would damper her own healing though, as she found it difficult to concentrate.*\n\n*However, she soon found relief by the young mage.*\n\n\"You're a healer?\"\n\n*Thank goodness for that. Yakaiyo feels the calm rushing through her as her wounds begin to close, from the smallest cut to the largest slash. She closes her eyes and lets the savior do her work.*\n\n\"Thank you. Really.\"\n\n*Now all that was left was the broken ankle and fracture, which still throbbed immensely. She'd have to do that herself, if she could. The treton's hands glow blue, and gingerly tries touching her own leg. The fracture would begin to heal first, the large cracks in bone reversing themselves.*" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "A healer? Hardly. Possessing a single restoration spell would be an insult to such a profession\n\nA small smile soon graced the young magus' unblemished features, her attention soon taken by the Treton's own display of magic. Her eyes as if glued to the procedure had a slight twinkle, much like the stars above them this night. \n\nShe couldn't handle a fracture at her level. Seeing this woman commit such a thing is a cause for inspiration of course. Refraining herself from staring any longer, Pyetra turned her sights elsewhere - the alley from which they exited.\n\nWhy was she being chased exactly? \n\n\"Do you care to tell me what happened?\"\n\nShe spoke softly as to not off-set the woman, leaning herself back against the brick wall." } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Carefully, she begins to heal her broken ankle, feeling the sinew and tendons knit together. It almost itched as it healed, in a tickling sort of way.*\n\n*Oh great, she had to think of something. She couldn't outright say what she was doing now. That would cause massive distrust, and put her in danger as well.*\n\n\"I was in a... Museum, looking at a display of art. Particularly, weapons. The way they utilize their white and gold is beautiful.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's lying out of her teeth. That white and gold... She hates it. Absolutely hates it.*\n\n\"The security yelled at me for something, but I couldn't understand it. I ran where I could, and eventually ended up on the roof. I'm sure I was going to die, so I jumped.\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "The young magus blinked, scanning Treton's face with an inquisitive look in her face. The story did sound kinda stupid, that she'll say. Miss Treton ran because she didn't understand? Surely the museum guards had good intentions to come up to her yet instead they ran her off the roof. Whatever Yakaiyo was doing, it felt simply wrong to her.\n\nShe didn't dare speak out against it. For one, she isn't even supposed to be here, and dealing with anything else would be ghastly for the young magus to handle. Pyetra slowly nodded her head, adjusting her hat with both hands before gesturing at the Treton's calf.\n\n\"I think we should get that fixed.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*As the magus blinks, it's obvious she's confused. And she has every right to, since not all of what she's saying was true.*\n\n\"I'll explain later. For now.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo would unsheathe her butterfly swords, one blade red, the other blue, handing the crimson one to the magus.*\n\n\"You'll have to cut the area open and remove the bolt that way.\"\n\n*Oh god, this is going to hurt. The blade was razor sharp, and would create a bleeding wound if the girl wasn't careful.*\n\n\"Wait. Before you cut me open, can I know your name? I'm Yakaiyo.\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Of course, the magus stared back at the sword.\n\n***Me? Cut you open? Ma'am, I just met you!***\n\nAgain, she's no *Doctor!* Why can't they just go to an actual healer instead of second-hand surgery in the middle of an alleyway? It's crude and overall disgusting.\n\nBut really what else could she do, leave the Treton helpless with a barb in her calf? It was tempting (not really, no). With a slight quiver in her motions she gripped the crimson blade with both her pale hands, sending a small glance at Yakaiyo.\n\n\" Uh.. Pyetra..\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Look, I know that it's odd to ask of you but-never mind. Thank you, Pyetra. You've done more than enough really. Just, do you have anything for me to bite onto?\"\n\n*Shaking hands? That wasn't good. If Pyetra continued, she would certainly worsen the wound. Maybe she should just pull it out? No, that would rip out the surrounding flesh. Her own grip wasn't the most reliable either.*\n\n\"Fuck. Alright, we can do this later. Do you have a place to stay or sleep?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's hand extends, taking back the crimson blade and sheathing it.*" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Pyetra slipped the blade back on Yakaiyo's hands, tucking her arms back at their respective sides. What was the woman expecting really, handing such a thing. While Pye is fairly confident with her arcanic abilities, it couldn't be said the same for knives; Let alone one of that size.\n\nAh right, somewhere to stay. That could've been dealt with if it weren't for... No use mulling it over now. The girl shook her head as a sigh escaped her lips, one hand rubbing the back of her head.\n\n\"No, but there's an inn down at main.\"\n\nHere's hoping the Treton's 'dislike' of elves wouldn't bar them from having a good bed." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Well, shit.\"\n\n*And here she was, hoping that Pyetra maybe had a home here somewhere. Seems like the macen was simply wandering about.*\n\n\"I guess I can try to go through a window. Ok. I'll have to explain this, otherwise this will only get more confusing.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo slowly stands up, careful to put most of the weight on her finally healed leg.*\n\n\"I'm wanted here. That's why I wanted to go to someplace secluded. It's also partially why I was being chased.\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Ah, there it is.\n\nShe knew there was something wrong with the Treton. Honestly, it was all partially spelled out at the beginning. In spite of Yakaiyo's meager attempt of deceit, the young magus couldn't blame the woman's desperation. She came around after, too.\n\nBut she's a criminal. Even worse, she could be a murderer. What's there to guurantee her own safety? The judgement of the mind before her, who inflicts harm to the innocent? Assuming that's who the Treton targets. It wouldn't matter anyway. Pyetra should've turned heel and left before this.\n\nA silence soon enveloped the air, the Macen taking an appropriate step back in an effort to build up a distance between her and the Treton. Her eyes still a-fixed on red eyes with furrowed brows, an uncertain frown drawing upon her face." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*There it was. The cat was out of the bag. Yakaiyo looks down at the gray cobblestones in shame. She begins to reach for Pyetra as she takes a step back, then stops.*\n\n\"I know why you're stepping back, and I understand. I would do the same thing.\"\n\n*She sits back down, both because it hurts to stand, and because she hopes that it'll help fix whatever trust she's broken with Pyetra.*\n\n\"I'm not going to hurt you. You may feel that I've used you for help and healing, but I assure you, I am thankful. I couldn't harm a girl as innocent as you.\"\n\n*And as a sign of desperation, the Treton gets on her knees, holding her hands together. Her eyes soon become pleading, with a sign of wetness in the corners.*\n\n\"Please, help me! They'll kill me if they get me...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "She turned her head, heels tapping against the cobbled floor as the magus stepped away. There wasn't a semblance of comfort present upon her, neither any notice of relenting from the Treton's pleas - that could be seen, that is. The magus looks fairly composed than before. \n\nIt felt wrong to leave someone on their lonesome, especially someone so desperate. Even so, it'd be a somewhat poetic closure, a consequence for whatever they did...\n\nReally, to think she'd judge without so much of a slip of information. \n\nWhatever Miss Yakaiyo did, surely it would be worth breaking the law for? To risk her own life over? Pyetra met her own share of desperate folks, willing to steal in an effort to accommodate their families or their own stomachs. In a widespread metropole such as Silnaria, all that is quite common. Pitifully so.\n\nAnd yet this woman looked decent for her health (aside from her wounds). She had quite an athletic build, required to use the pair of swords she had on her person. So what did she do? She doesn't strike her as the common thief. A bandit perhaps? A smart one? Whatever it may be, her morals stood above her instincts. Hopefully, it won't bite her in the ass.\n\nSoon after five minutes had passed, she drew out a sigh. As much as she wanted to leave, she couldn't. Not until she harboured enough insight from the Treton before her. \n\n\".. I'll help you.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton slowly stands up, slowly walking towards Pyetra, and embracing her gently if she would allow it.*\n\n\"Thank you.\"\n\n*Oh god, she's doing the exact opposite of what she had first wanted. Bringing someone into the close circle, one that was horrible and corrupt. She has no choice though, if she wants to survive. Her mind hurts as part of her knows that this young girl is now cursed with knowledge and association. Now she has to do everything she can to protect her.*\n\n*Just like how you protected your own children.*\n\n*No. I'll never let her out of my sight.*\n\n\"Do you want to hear the full story? I understand if you don't.\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Pyetra had not voiced against Yakaiyo's embrace, yet she didn't like it either. Her touch felt... Wrong, as if salt coated her skin, grinding against the young magus' heart. She began to second guess herself if this truly is the right call; To help someone like her. \n\n*Can't back out now.* She cleared her throat, tearing herself gently from the Treton's hug, now stood an arm's length away from the swordswoman. \n\n\"Uhm, later. Tell me later.\" \n\nShe has no clue if whoever was chasing the Treton gave up. Standing here awkwardly of course would be problematic if that weren't the case. As much as she wanted to hear the woman's story, she'd rather not shot in the meantime. \n\nTurning a heel, the young magus swung her hand up, gesturing for the Treton to follow." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Yakaiyo would let go as she felt Pyetra tearing herself away. She simply nods towards her. Maybe the treton's becoming a little too clingy. It was only right for the magus to try and push her away. She simply follows Pyetra, albeit with some difficulty due to the bolt still in her leg.*\n\n\"Do you know where we're going?\"\n\n*Now that she's established a connection, Yakaiyo's not sure how exactly she's going to continue her work. She had to tell Pyetra about it, but how would she react? Would she be horrified? Would she expect it? No, no sane person would expect it.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "An onyx veil dotted with glittering specks of white still covered the sky. Pyetra walked in a brisk pace, occasionally casting a glance at Yakaiyo's way before marching forward. \n\nStaying in the alleys are out of the question, nor exiting through the gates of the city - not with a bolt sticking out of her acquaintance's leg. Best bet? Staying in an inn, but discreetly. \n\nRight. Establishing the plan.. Go to an inn, rent out a room, figure it out from there. It sounded like a good plan, at least by her standards. What else can they do? Stand? \n\n\"A place to stay.\" Few words said with a tinge of confidence from the young magus, whose eyes darted cautiously as she crossed a scarcely crowded street." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The Treton nods, nervous. At least when she was uninjured, she could keep her head down and wear a hood. Unfortunately, she seems to have lost the cloak she was wearing. Now her face would be revealed, and she would have to check in at an inn. She had to hope that the people there don't recognize her.*\n\n\"Al-alright. Just, a note. If anything goes wrong, leave me.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo would then follow Pyetra, trying her hardest to not be noticed by anyone, though it was difficult with her cut up clothing and the bolt in her calf.*" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "She remained in silence, boots tapping against cobblestone as Pyetra and Yakaiyo traversed the winding street. Dodging the sights of many and more importantly, guards. Though, this is exciting in a sense, peering around the next corner all the while keeping an eye on your back? \n\nYes. *Invigorating*.\n\nThe Treton's statement prodded out another glance from Pyetra, still looking ahead as she walked. \n\n\"Don't worry, nothing will go wrong. I'll make sure of it.\" \n\nThere was a certain... Reliability in the Macen's words, as if spoken to by an older sibling. Surprising, considering one's older between the two. Guess uncertain times bring uncertain things, as many would believe. \n\nAnd after an appropriate measure of walking was done, both Pyetra and Yakaiyo would near the front of the inn. Standing tall and double-decked with shadows of men and women musing within the establishment. It is well-lit with an attractive palette of warm orange and red, clashing against the black abyss of the night sky. Outside of the inn stood four tables, one occupied by an elaborate game of Cards™️ and another by a single elf. \n\nWith a hand, Pyetra motioned the Treton to halt." } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*This was certainly awkward. The younger one assuring the older one, who was a mother at one point, that nothing will go wrong. Ironic.*\n\n*Yakaiyo has no time to think about that, as she feels the sweat start to collect on her skin, her body tremoring. She's trying her best not to panic, but with so many elves around, it's incredibly difficult.*\n\n*The Treton nods. There's no way she's going in there. Yakaiyo moves into a corner, trying to not be noticed.*" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "Sensing her companion's discomfort, she took a breather. Leaning on a side of a wall, she scanned the Treton with her eyes, nodding along to herself. \n\nYakaiyo (for some reason) can't toughen up and face a knife-eared asshole, nor can she sneakily scale up a wall and enter through a window - which is preferred, considering how limited of a budget Pyetra currently has. She blames her stupidity. \n\nUnfortunately, there's really no pass to this. As much as she wanted to mitigate the little risks there are, it would only lead to more problems on the path ahead.\n\nAnd so, she drew out a sigh. Grasping the sides of her wide-brimmed hat she slid it off her head, unbuttoning her robes and stripping it off her person as well. She wasn't out nude, rather she wore an additional white sweater beneath it. \n\nStaring into Yakaiyo's scarlet eyes, she simply placed the hat atop the Treton's head then sliding the loose-fitting midnight garmat in her hands. \n\n\"Wear it. Cover your face as much as possible.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Elves. Too many elves.*\n\n*Soon, she sees the magus take off her robe and hat, slightly confused, then realizing it was for her once she handed them to her. The fact that Pyetra was doing this, not just leaving her in the open, Yakaiyo already knew what her character was.*\n\n*The treton obliges, staying silent. She's now completely covered by dark robes and a wide hat.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "They walked to the top of the stairs, thuds on the maple floor as the voices of the clientele began to drown out. At the end of the last step, it revealed a sizable hallway for three with doors on the sides. \n\nPyetra brought the key to her eyes, scanning the number engraved on the metal before darting across each door. She soon found their room, second to the corner. With a satisfied nod, the young magus walked up to their door, gingerly inserting the key in the lock. With a twist and another the lock clicked, a hand on the knob as Pyetra pushed the sturdy wood door open.\n\nIt's a simple room. A green carpet laid down on the floor, a table free of any contents sitting out at the northeastern corner. More importantly, a moderate-sized bed with woolen sheets. It didn't seem to have enough space to hold two bodies atop of it. The young magus drew out a long-drawn sigh.\n\n\"We're here..!\"\n\nExclaimed the bluenette, pulling the strap of her bag over her head and carelessly throwing it atop the bed. There wasn't still a cause for relaxation, for Yakaiyo's leg still has a crossbow bolt nestled in it.\n\n\".. Take a seat, quick. Your leg.\"\n\nIn the meantime, she took hold of her bag, lifting hte flap open then rummaging through its contents." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Finally, a place to sit down, relax. Wait, what if there were wards here? No, that's being paranoid. Sure it may be helpful but there came to a point where it wouldn't make sense. She flops on top of the bed, enjoying its soft, woolen sheets.*\n\n\"Wow, it's been so long since I've been in one of these.\"\n\n*She sits up properly, taking off the mage's robes and lifting up her own to reveal her bloody calf. Blood's beginning to trickle down, staining the sandals.*\n\n\"I'm paying you back by the way. For all this. So uh, how are we going to do this?\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "She took out a roll of wrapping linen, a waterskin, and a small vial of some glistening liquid. Setting the bag aside, Pyetra cleaned her hands with the waterskin, washing away what dirt that clung on her skin.\n\nPyetra doesn't know how to take out a bolt, nor even how to suture it after. With the amount of walking they had done for the past few minutes or so, she assumes Yakaiyo wouldn't be up for another pace to the doctor (in the case that the Treton would even be happy with the idea of an elven healer tending her). \n\nClapping her hands together, she nods to herself with fire of determination within her heart. Spinning on her heels, she looked down at the sitting Treton, whose calf is torn and bloodied. It took a good while to tear off her eyes from the wound. \n\n\".. I don't really know... You're gonna have to guide me.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Alright. You'll need to move the flesh out of way of the barbs. You need to-oh god- spread open the wound, and pull it out, making sure the barb doesn't catch.\"\n\n*She could certainly take the easy way out and just yank the bolt from her calf. That was far too painful though, and while she's had her fair share of injuries, she doesn't need to experience _more_. She only hopes that Pyetra knows what she's doing, at least a little bit.*\n\n\"Whatever you do, don't yank it out. That's going to tear a chunk of me with it.\"\n\n*The treton's trying to stay calm, but there's a hint of panic in her voice.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "When the impromptu towel swept her tears, it was met with a few jerks away. When she was suddenly lifted off the ground, pried from the cool breeze flowing in the room; Something she desperately needed else she'll throw up again.\n\nPyetra hasn't the strength to fight against it, however. Being carried like a child.. It was weird. The magus is still a few inches taller than the Treton, yet she barely weighed a single brick on Yakaiyo's arms. Feeling the warmth irradiating from the Treton's chest, heart beating faintly.. It brought an odd comfort to her. \n\nTheir short-trek coming to an end, Pyetra suddenly rolling out of Yakaiyo's arms then onto the cushions. Through some miracle it was left unstained by their earlier procedure, remaining a clean white on its fabric. A huff escaped her lips, the foul smell of vomit opts her to keep it shut for the meanwhile. \n\nWith legs tucked back on her chest, a flush of red enveloped her cheeks. Head turned down hiding away while the Treton brushed her tousled silver hair." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*It was both awkward and comforting. Pyetra was taller than she was, yet she was easily picked up and now being comforted like a child. Like a large child.*\n\n*Her delicate fingers would continue to move through the magus's hair, picking up her head and letting it rest on her lap. How the tables had turned. Yakaiyo had went from begging Pyetra to help her, and was now comforting her from sickness. The macen can hear the widow humming, in what seems to be a song, and soon she hears it.*\n\n\"Ni wen wo ai ni you duo shen\nWo ai ni you ji fen\n\nWo de qing ye zhen\nWo de ai ye zhen\nYue liang dai biao wo de xin...\"" }, { "author": "Pyetra Einsdottir", "message": "The sweet lullaby lulled the young magus to a rest, her head set comfy atop Yakaiyo's lap with no protest. What was once the Macen tending to the Treton with reluctance, laid a quiet girl who longed for such comfort. \n\nToday was a strange event. Having arrived and was met by a woman with an arrow sticking out of her leg, needing to escape the narrow alleyways with the threat of *Whatever* Was chasing them, and tearing out said barb.. Very graphically. \n\nWhatever plagued her mind then was buried by a long-deserved nap. Her breathing slowed, and her eyes tucked close. To a dream, she went.\n\nA hand softly grasped Yakaiyo's own." }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Ni qu xiang yi xiang\nNi qu kan yi kan\nYue liang dai biao wo de xin\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's normally dead expression turns upward into a smile as she feels Pyetra grasp her hand. Memories flooded her mind, once again giving the treton the need to care, tears forming ever so slightly in the corners of her eyes. Those memories were lost forever. She could never experience it again. But the fact that it happened made her somewhat glad of her decisions. Maybe, just maybe, she could have something like them again. Perhaps with Pyetra. Those were her last thoughts as she finished the song that her husband had always sung to her, and fell asleep.*" } ]

[ { "author": "valethros", "message": "And there he stood, on the precipice of a cliff by the ocean, his mismatched eyes gazing into the seemingly endless tapestry of water below. His cloak flower in the midnight breeze, the light of a countless distant stats above shimmering upon his blackened fur. A lone jackal, forlorn and forsaken by the whims of fate, unable to find reprieve at the grandiose view. And worse yet, he knew he would never find reprieve as long as his tormentors still drew breath and still tread on the same soil as him. Only when he stained that soil red with them, did he believe he could find absolution, only then would he knew peace.\n\nYet as the starlit embers flickered in the sky, so did the looming shadow of a New Moon, the absence of its pale glow weighing on his spirit. He could sense that void in the most feral recesses of his mind, recall the tribal teachings of a life long past. *A deathly night, to mourn those lost*, as the elders always said. \n\nCould he still bring himself to mourn for them, though? And if so, *Who* Would he mourn? His tribesmen, whose fate remains unknown to him? His enslaved kin, who still suffered every passing moment in chains? Or should he mourn for himself, who had been severed from the never-ending cycle of life and death, and became a crude, bloodthirsty mockery of it?\n\nIn truth, he did not know. But all the same, he would *Try*. Three hours of that evening he had spent carving a hand-sized effigy of his kin from ashen wood and laurel leaves. Kneeling and placing it before the precipice, he poured red wine from his flask. He stood stool for a moment, the clenched one fist, his claws plunging underneath his palm. Blackened ichor seeped from it before turning into blackened flame that he spread into the effigy, setting it alight. He drank deep from the scent of burning leaves and stood back on his feet, preparing for the final offering. Head arched upwards, he howled, a mystical and haunting melody echoing across the Silnarian countryside." }, { "author": "Psyche Yorecaster", "message": "She had wandered far and wandered quickly since her liaison with the other pale Oni. She had watched the farming family come home with little coin in their pockets and ruined vegetables, witnessed what it was doing to their lives and how little else they had left to give. Then she had left the farm, traveling out from there and towards the coast. She needed time away and time to herself. She may get precious little to herself around that boy.\n\nThe Pale Oni exhales as she walks and finds the cliff edge, walking along it calmly. The sound of the water is almost soothing and the lack of others? Calming. Like having room to breathe in a tight, airless room. She pauses seeing a shape upon the cliff's precipice, walking that way. She walks slowly, steadily in the direction of the burning leaves, the scent of ichor and then hears the melody, head tilted. Oddities persist. \n\nShe stood some ways away, but did not look dissuaded from watching. Not dissuaded from observing. She stood watching with pale round eyes." }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "Once, twice, thrice the beast howled, his harrowing voice resonating in the dead of night. Even the leaves in surrounding flore seemed like they rustled to his tune, like his melody carried a chorus of spirits with it. A somber sigh brought it to end as his triangular ears perked, sensing the oni's presence. What would break the fleeting moments of silence that followed, however, has no melody in it, only an audacious growl. \n\n\"Have *They* Sent you to haunt me as well?\" The jackal demanded, his back still turned to the woman. The bristling fur on his head stood on end, and a scorpion-like tail made its presence known underneath his cloak. Ever so slightly, his head arched sideways to regard her with a pallid glare, his right eye a silvery-grey hue bereft of a pupil. A scar etched in either side of his eye broke the monotony of ebony fur. Lips ever so slightly pulled back on his angular, well-defined features to flash his canines like an array of daggers within his muzzle. \n\nHis expression eased on a moment later, seemingly sniffing deeply of the effigy, now burnt into cinders before speaking once. This time, his voice was an eerie calm, gaze unfocused into the distance. \"Tell me... Do we hunt monsters because they hurt us and those we care about... Or do we hunt them because we see part of ourselves in them?\"" }, { "author": "Psyche Yorecaster", "message": "Tilts her head as she hears the howls. One tap, one howl. Two taps, two howl. Three taps, three howls. Her ears ring and she listens for responses. Her eyes focus on Ashnard, head tilting, expressionless. Her pale eyes glow in the low light. Then he speaks and she tilts her head the other way as she processes the words.\n\n\"Sent me? No. I'm doing it on my own,\" She says as he exposes the scorpion-like tail and bristles. She doesn't change her expression. Her tone is missing from her voice. She looks thin, pale and with darkly shadowed eyes. Probably homeless. No one, in fact, would probably miss her if she up and vanished. She begins walking slowly closer as his voice calms, unconcerned, looking at the effigy as she does so.\n\n\"Why? Perhaps it is both. You are them and they are you. So why do they attack you then? Why do they hurt you?\" She asks simply as she stops, eyes on him. \"And if they are you then the question becomes, why would you do this to yourself?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "valethros", "message": "\"Do you really?\" He inquired in a dark tone, tail shifting from one side to another. He turned to fully regard the scrawny woman, raising a brow. One tends to grow paranoid in an eventful, solitary life, and the jackal was not exempt from this. Yet, he sensed no hostile intent from the oni to warrant his ire as of now, and in his current mood, he was more than eager to entertain grating thoughts.\n\n\"I sometimes wonder if *Any* Of our deeds happen by our own accord. I've strived to believe in that freedom once... Now I'm not so sure,\" The beastkin's words grew somber with every passing moment, ears folding against his temples, though still remaining taut.\n\n\"When I was feverish as a pup, monsters used to haunt my every dream. I didn't understand them then. I didn't understand them... Until I was made into one myself. Then, they began haunting my conscious world as well,\" He sighed, head lowered until he raised it to focus his mismatched gaze on the woman, a single pupil in a sea of seething scarlet narrowing at her. \"Monsters merely struggle to survive this twisted world, not unlike everyone else. And they struggle the only way they know how.\"" }, { "author": "Psyche Yorecaster", "message": "\"As far as I am able,\" She says simply as she stands just a few feet beyond where the effigy threw a circle as it burned; just outside the soot and burned grass and dirt. She still remained unafraid, or maybe just too distant from the situation to care. Her eyes held a constant, distant cast as if her mind were a million miles away somewhere. They only seemed to focus, briefly, when he spoke.\n\n\"Whether they are, or are not may not matter. If I told you 'What you do doesn't matter because it's predetermined, right down to your struggle against predestination' would you be despondent and irritable with your fate? Or would you feel freedom because it doesn't matter anymore?\" She said, head tilted again and pale eyes shifting to him, and then away to the sea. She briefly figured someone in a mood to light effigies and howl, then question random passerbys may very well pitch her into the ocean to suit their fancy, but... Well, if she lived, then she'd figure out where the ocean and tide go.\n\nAs he made his decision on why monsters and 'not-monsters' struggled, she paused. \"Perhaps a fair assessment. Everyone is struggling. Everyone is struggling to survive in the ways they know how to with the tools they have. Some struggle more and some struggle less, and if you struggle very little you must be fortunate. Is that accurate?\"\n\nShe shrugged, dark tangled hair sharply contrasting on her paled face. \"It may not matter. What matters, to many, is that the way you struggle defines what you are to them. Perhaps you do so by going to your work day in, day out, putting goals of your life and family before you while ignoring pain it causes. Perhaps you do so by preying upon your fellows and continue to do so because to stop is to stagnate and die before your body follows.\" A slow exhale. \"Everyone struggles against each other. Some ways are simply more palatable than others to the masses. It's *Cleaner* To them.\"" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "\"Perhaps fate has already decreed all my struggles pointless in the end. Perhaps I will achieve nothing... Change nothing... *Be* Nothing when it all comes to pass...\" He drawled morosely, raising his wrists and palms in a shrug. \"Whatever fate might have in store for me though, I cannot sit idle. I cannot grow complacent or accept defeat before the fight even begins.\"\n\nThe jackal followed her gaze into the distant sea once more, unfocused and looking at nothing in particular. \"I never expected a benevolent fate for me, nor did I ever ask for the hand I've been dealt. None of us did. But it is up to make everyone to make the most of it, even if we change nothing in the grand scheme of things. I cannot be a prisoner to my fate, nor will accepting it bring me any liberation... Never again...\"\n\nHe bit back a snarl, lips retracting to flash his canines before continuing. \"Someone *Has* To make the difficult decisions. To do what must be done. Someone *Has* To be the villain, the monster everyone loathes. And it seems that fate shaped me to be that one, regardless of the wishes I once had.\"" }, { "author": "Psyche Yorecaster", "message": "\"Perhaps, but there is freedom in futility as well. Your mistakes will not matter, because they will be forgotten. Time will erode away your legacy like the sea on the cliff; Worrying away your footprint in this world until it's all dust,\" She said. Like talking to the void in a way she answered with entropy but seemed... Comfortable with it? \"Though if fighting against it and scoring your claws into the earth makes you comfortable, then that's fine as well. I will watch and observe the ripples you make to see how far they spread.\"\n\nAs he went on about refusing fate, refusing liberation or chains, she comments, \"Contrary. Rather, you will not let go of your individuality, nor your own importance to yourself. That friction of understanding you did not succeed in what you wished, accepting yet not what you are seems a sore place for you.\"\n\nShe closed pale eyes, \"So now you wish to make the most of it? Being a 'villain' or a monster, or another archetype which easily shapes you into a base idea that is easy to store away and ignore.\" She opened them. \"You could simply *Be*.\"" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "The jackal's gaze was distant and unfocused, but his ears stood perked attentively listening to the woman's reasoning. \"I suppose that is a sensible way to view things,\" He nodded flatly. \"But it isn't one I can be content with. We all stop walking this earth one day, but our deeds remain. And some deeds last through time. Some ripples are strong enough to bring the tallest walls crumbling *Down*.\"\n\nThe intensity in his voice was mirroring in his left eye, the scarlet iris seemingly burning like wildfire as his words resonated with the weight of an oath. His head turned west, towards the Silnarian capital of Ulnoor, towards a pile of rubble where a formidable fort stood not very long ago. The rumours had spread in the empire by now of the fiendish black beast involved in its downfall, but only a select few would ever know the truth. \n\n\"The man I once was... Died back in that prison cell. Only the Beast remained. I have come to turns with what I've become- what I was always meant to be.\" The sharp sheen of his fangs glimmered underneath dim lights, and midnight black embers dancers at the claws of his fingertips. \"They can put a man in chains. Beat him. Torture him. Break him.\" For the briefest of moments, a single tear trickled down his left cheek, the drop weaving a path between his coarse fur, though the jackal's voice remained unwavering. \"But they can do nothing against an idea. If one becomes a single purpose to exist for, nothing can stop them.\" He paused for a moment, the midnight embers fluttering around his hands and spiraling around the wrists before fading out. \"And I strive to become one; Vengeance.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Psyche Yorecaster", "message": "\"You sound as though you wish to dig your claws in so deeply the collective minds of all are scarred by you.\" She says, pale eyes somewhat focused upon him. \"To leave a mark to prove you existed, or is it to remind them of what they did to you? And what you did in return? Like some karmic exchange of scars.\"\n\nHer head tips. \"Or do you want to rob them as they robbed you? Was it the man who died, or was is the child who feared the monsters in their fever dreams?\" Edging slightly into more sensitive territory, though her tone still lacked. There was no judgement, or pushing, but a simple question as if seeking cause and effect. As he detailed his capture, the beating, torture, break down, she did so impassively. He could very well be talking to the empty air, but this air had ears and a mouth as if to ask and pull more out into the open from an infected wound. Draining it, or hurting it worse. Who knows.\n\n\"Vengeance?\" She repeats. \"For who? You, or the child you carry within you? Perhaps for both?\" As she looks at the water. \"If you become them, what will happen to you? Or do you seek to become a brief, violent storm as impersonal as the gods? There is perhaps freedom there as well for you.\"" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "\"Oh there is no reason to remind them. They *Know* What they did to me- what they *Do* To my kin every moment keeping them in irons,\" He growled bitterly. \"And they still have the *Audacity* To claim a righteous cause and moral superiority. 'High' elves, they even call themselves.\"\n\nThe jackal's tone oozed with venom at the sheer mention, his malignant glare seemingly searching for enemies even at the vast expanse of sea below. \"The *Boy* Was locked up. The man died in chains. What left that prison keep... Was a monster. *That* Was the only part they did not plan for.\"\n\nHis breathing halted still on a whim as a dark metallic sheen formed around his jaw bones. A pair of aberrant scarlet horns began to slowly sprout atop his forehead, and the jackal bore his fangs, biting back a harrowing snarl. A sharp obsidian coil began to form around his uncovered hands like armour, growing out of his own skin beneath blackened fur. \"The Beast hungers once more. For vengeance against that child... And every child that suffered such fate. The Beast will be free soon. He will claim that vengeance... One kill at a time.\" His already thin composure seemed to slip away with every word, reverberating with a morbid growl. \"And when *He* Does, you'd be wise to stay out of his way.\"" }, { "author": "Psyche Yorecaster", "message": "She could hear the attempt to separate himself from who he was; Both man and child. He sounded like he wanted a wall between himself and them. She wasn't surprised by it. She could remember being the same at one point.\n\n\"High elves are used to being at the top of the 'food chain' of sorts,\" She says, \"They prey upon those they view as 'lessers'. Children. Women. Young men. If you twist them,\" She says, twisting the bottom of her own shirt, \"You can plant a seed. You can make them believe they deserve it. You can make them look weak... Or make a monster, and let them prove it themselves.\" She let go of her shirt, eyes unwavering. The sheen formed. The covering appeared. 'The Beast' though there wasn't anything visible in her eyes.\n\n\"It's just a little bit. Like the last straw that break's the back of your donkey. If it wasn't there it could be fine, but that's why you do it many times to increase the chances. Then you make... Men like you, who are 'Monsters'. And let them prove their point.\" She then raised her hands, spread in a motion of offering, \"And then they don't need to justify themselves. Easy. Like wiping out Oni and pushing them to the edges.\"\n\nShe didn't respond to the somewhat threat. It didn't seem necessary." }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "A shaky arm reached underneath his cloak to procure a flask of strong, chugging down its content vigorously. He exhaled, letting the warmth of liquor wash over him, which had also seemed to slow down the twisted contortions upon his body... If only for a while. His expression tread a fine line between weary and unhinged, body arched backwards to lean against a nearby tree stump.\n\n\"*Top of the food chain*... An apt choice of words,\" The jackal snarled with a shallow grin showing his canines. \"They never belonged to the top though, as much as they kept convincing themselves they are. My kin *Earned* That spot, and it is my task to remind the elves of it. I will remind them *Why* They feared us, and *Why* Had to keep us in chains... One way or another.\"\n\nAnother deep chug of liquor. His legs were shaking mildly now, the sharp claws on his feet scarring dirt and stone over the precipice. \"Perhaps that was truly their intention for me. A monster to serve their will. Another beastkin slave to order around. A mistake that will cost them *Everything*.\" \n\nHe breathed in deep of the night air before continuing. \"Perhaps in the end, true freedom is not having to justify your deeds. I do not need a self-righteous reason for murder, unlike the elves. Whether it is long-overdue, deserved, or made to free my kin, murder is murder. Those are simply reasons to relish in it. Because it is necessary.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Amos", "message": "Typically in the Silnaria Empire, you'll find Oriate slaves. Canifor of unique colorings and gem colors, slitted eyes following your movements. If you were used to it, then it was just... Well, it was common place. It was *Normal* Perhaps. If you weren't it could be quite disconcerting. Many of the pricier ones went for a pretty penny at markets where the price was driven up by competition. \n\nOthers like this one were more about getting rid of unwanted stock than anything else. Thin boned perhaps. Ill temperaments. Weak bodied. They were sold like some stores sold unwanted wares; Marked down for consumption and given away without much forethought. Amos found himself there, after a hundred years or so of misuse and misdeeds. His shackles had long since worn smooth, unmarked lines in his wrists, ankles and around his neck from the constant rub rather than scarring him, and he let his head rest on the bars of the cages loaded onto the carts. He didn't overly mind being out for once though. The sun was nice at least. He smirked at an Oriate's hushed words and returned a barb in return, soft hisses of laughter rising up from the two.\n\nThat was quieted quickly. Sort of. Amos, who was decidedly not an Oriate and perhaps some.. Elf? Oni? Called out, \"What's a slave got to do to get sold around here? I'll do windows!\"" }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu had been passing by slowly. He stared at the cage with a look of disgust and hate. He despised slavery more than anything. That was saying something cause Enu didn't despise many things. He looked around to make sure no one was watching as he approached the cage.* \"Hey I can get you out of there if you want.\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "The loud mouthed not-Oriate received their customary response for such an outburst- He got separated from the rest and had his nose bloodied. Sitting mostly by himself now, thin clothes doing nothing for warmth, he pauses looking up at Enu as he approaches, brow raised. \n\nAmos didn't *Have* Much energy if he was honest about it, but didn't show it as he sat up from his somewhat slouched position to give Enu his full attention, then visibly suppressed a laugh. Then he saw Enu's face, \"Oh, wait, you're serious aren't you?\" He says very softly, though still smiling with amusement, golden eyes bright.\n\n\"Going to buy me? I'm certain I'm quite cheap at this rate given the inconsistent horns. Oh, and the whole being an asshole thing, that too I guess,\" He says, watching Enu curiously with a smile. A bit out of tune with the general feel of slaves; Like he just didn't much care or mind what was happening. He dropped his voice lower then, speaking softly, \"Unless you have other plans, but if so, well, might want to be careful of your countrymen.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu looked around over his shoulder then back at him. He placed his hands together and moved them up, leaving behind a pair of glowing blue arms. He gripped the bars of his cage and the blue pair did the same. He began to pull trying to pull the bars apart.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "He'd taken to resting his head on his hand as he spoke. It certainly looked lazy, but really he was... Well, pretty tired. Who knew being stuck at the whims of another all day (and for *Years*) could be so exhausting? No wonder his father told him not to marry anytime soon. He raised his brows with polite curiosity when Enu looked behind himself and then back. \n\nThen there was the arm glowing thing. Then he started pulling the bars apart. He felt a sudden, odd shock in his belly that made him raise his brows. It was... More than surreal to see someone just *Bending* Bars that he'd grown so used to surrounding him. It didn't feel real. He acted accordingly to that feeling.\n\n\"May want to hurry there before they notice you're destroying public property,\" He says quietly, not quite rising but getting his feet under him. \"Never take kindly to that.\" Hearing the low groan of metal slowly giving way." }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*He finished moving the bars and stepped back. He had made a space large enough for him to slip through. He turned around and kept watch making sure that no one was watching.* \"How about you hurry up.\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "\"Terribly sorry, I'll try to be quick then,\" He said as he pushed himself rather easily through the opening. He didn't have much weight on him to begin with. Once he was out he felt an odd, deep seated unease in the pit of his belly as he looked back at the other cages. Even while he began to move away and at least out of sight of the slavers. \n\n*Fuck.* He couldn't do a whole hell of a lot though. Not right now and not half exhausted. He forced his steps to look steadier than they were and picked up his pace to get to some kind of cover, feeling an ache already forming in his joints. \"Well come on, off to parts unknown before they notice. Slavery isn't after all *Illegal* Here. Stealing is however.\"" }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu slowly nonchalantly walked backwards toward the slave. He watched for anyone who could have been giving them any attention.* \"What about your friends?\" *He looked back into the cage and looked at the other slaves.* \"Don't they need saving as well?\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "To say the statement irked him would have been an understatement as he masked his irritation with a slow, inward breath. Maybe the man thought that he'd managed to pull a soldier out of the cage like a particularly eventful ring toss prize. Regardless he reached some ways out of view before pausing to breath and *Think*, for the moment ignoring the man. \n\nHe couldn't exactly lie and say he wanted to leave the Oriates He just also, perhaps equally, didn't want to go back. Though he supposed if they did get him, it wouldn't be a cage again. He smirked. \n\n\"They're not my friends, but yes, they probably dislike being held up in cages about as much as I do,\" He said helpfully. \"How quickly can you bend cage bars?\"" }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "\"Magic.\" *That was his only response as he went around the corner.* \"Well if thats the case they can get out on their own. If you could get out so can they. Come one then.\" *He began to walk down the street, away from the cage.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "\"Oh, I *Probably* Should have figured from the *Glowing blue arms*,\" He said, opting for sarcasm over correcting the man about what he said. There's time and energy for everything; Just not that right now. Especially not with that unease rising into a low grade nausea as he follows without, for once, speaking. He tried focusing on the sun and on moving more than a few feet in one direction, trying to keep his mind off it." }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu looked back towards the man and stops, noticing that he is not well.* \"Are you okay? Are you hungry?\" *He placed his hand against his forehead to test his temperature.* \"Come on well get some food for you and maybe a place to sleep.\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "He blinked a minute feeling the Macen's hand on his head. He was not, luckily, running any fevers. If anything he was cooled to the touch. Not ideal; But not ill. \"Hungry might be a word for it,\" He says though despite the somewhat obvious dislike of being touched like a sick child, he neglects to ask for him to remove his hand. Neither does he do so himself. \n\n\"Where are you going exactly?\" He asks, skipping entirely over how he feels and any other potentially uneasy questions to remind him of what happened." }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*He looked back over his shoulder at him* \"To find us a place to get some rest and food.\" *He waved for him to follow. He began to walk the down the street quickly.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Amos", "message": "He nodded, mentally rolling his options around in his mind. He could, very well, just ditch and run. He'd probably get some distance *Before* Slavers found him again. Still he did need to eat and rest before deciding what to do. Run. Hide. ...Go back and help the other Oriates. \n\nHe followed without speaking, following down the street not as if he'd just escaped but like he was following a new master of sorts. It was both subconscious and to avoid any looks from anyone recognizing his state of being." }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu entered an inn and sat Amos at a table.* \"Stay here ill get us some rooms and some food\" *He walked over to the counter and began to speak with the bartender. After about 30 minutes he came back with two plates full of meat, bread and cheese, along with glass if water.* \"Here eat up, but not too fast.\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "And now he felt like a child. Honestly. He closed his eyes and tried to *Ignore* The continual feeling of nausea and anxiety, but found himself cycling right back around to his usual behaviors. If a coping technique isn't broken, might as well not fix it. \n\nHe opened his eyes when he heard the clink of the plate on the table, looking at it. There wasn't any urge to eat but he dutifully picked up some bread and began eating. \"So, are you going to cut me loose after this or keep me around to clean your home?\" He asked with faux seriousness." } ]

[ { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu looked up at him, pausing from eating. He sat his fork down and took a breath.* \"What you do after this is none of my business. But I will not leave you with nothing. Here.\" *He reaches into his pocket and hands him a pouch of silver.* \"Take that and get out of town. Find you something that will get you on your feet.\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "Amos wasn't sure *How* He felt exactly about the man helping him. Some part was still convinced it was a joke, and the rest of him had simply readily accepted that even if it was, he had to keep moving forward. He ate just enough to seem acceptable, like a child wanting away from the kitchen table, then finished his water.\n\n\"Fair enough then.\" He says, that smirk never vanishing like there was some punchline to come. He picks up the pouch, pushing himself up and ignoring the slight ache in his stomach. \"Well then, I think I'm going to sleep. Thank you for your intervention.\" He says with a wink. Kind've an ass, isn't he?\n\nStill he heads up the stairs where he can be by himself for a time, and once he locates his room, doesn't hesitate to open the window wide despite what weather they may be having. It sort of helps his anxieties. Sort of. Then it's off to bed for however long that happens." }, { "author": "Enu Mattithiah", "message": "*Enu sat at the table for a long time, wondering if what he had done was the right thing. He had just committed a serious crime and he wasn't sure if the one that he saved was totally grateful.* \"What have I gotten my self into?\" *He sighed.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Soft snow fell onto the streets as a cloaked figure made his way through the white haze. The wind gently whistled outside, biting at those who had come unprepared for the sudden cold. A hand delicately opened the door of the tavern, door quietly creaking as it was swung wide. Out of respect, the figure brushed snow off of his shoulders before stepping in, the sound of a homely fire crackling and lively patrons bustling about in the background meeting his soft tufted ears. They twitched gently, craning. Taking his hood off, he made his way to the bar silently, leather boots making little to no sound. Firelight glistened in his vibrant eyes, catching the silver flecks in a way that resembled opal. He'd sit at the bar next to another patron, waiting to catch the barkeeps attention. The young man carried himself in a somewhat-regal fashion, despite the fact he seemed like he had only recently become an adult.*\n\n~~Sorry if this is hard to read because it's a block, I can separate it out if it'd be easier to read~~" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*Delo's had been taking up odd jobs in Silnaria, at this hour he happened to be the waiter of this tavern, a rather fancy job for this place. Regardless he's paid to serve his customers and do so he shalleth. He would walk up to Nik and would inquire* \"Your beverage, sir?\" *Delos would always had been good at being a waiter, whether it was for a well-off family or a shanty tavern dotted among the city.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawas ears perked up as he was approached, and he would situate himself so his back was in a straighter position. He paused for a moment, putting some thought into his choice, before looking back up at the other man.* \n\"Warm cider, or mead, if you have it.\" \n*He looked at the other patrons of the tavern out of the corner of his eye, always wary, it seemed.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"That would be 5 copper coins, for the mead, that is.\" *The waiter would extend a hand with a handkerchief covering it, intending for Ishikawa to place the coins on top of it. Delos would prefer to avoid physical contact with any of the patrons of this tavern, he doesn't know where their hands have been, especially since adventurers are the most common to take a mug of beer here. While Delos is an adventurer himself, he would always tell others to wash their damn hands, 'no merchant or noble will ever want to deal with a pigs hand' as he would always say to adventurers he meets, and if this wasn't his job he would certainly tell Ishikawa this.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa rifled through his coin purse before setting 4 copper coins on the handkerchief. The 5th he would eye for a moment before wiping some dried off of it with a gloved hand. Then, when he was satisfied with the condition, he'd place it on the handkerchief with the others. He wouldn't comment on the mans apparent cleanliness, though he would absentmindedly trace his fingers over an old pox scar on his arm. He murmured as the other would presumably go to fetch his drink,* \n\"Have you any food for purchase either? It's been a while since I last ate.. Least a day.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Of course. If I dare to suggest a dish, sir, I recommend you purchase the meat pie, our specialty in this establishment\" *This suggestion wouldn't be earnest, its more of a ploy to get the man to purchase the most expensive dish they serve, this isn't to say the meat pie isn't delicious but the main goal is most certainly money. Delos wouldn't have to use such tactics if he were still with his master, quietly cleaning and serving his dishes...*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa would raise an eyebrow at the suggestion, nodding with an intrigued look on his face. He was aware that it likely wasn't earnest, he had been to enough taverns in his travels to know so, but he would humor the man, smiling.* \n\"How much for such a thing?\"" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*The waiter would smirk a little, Delos would normally expect an adventurer to be too exhausted to ask for the price and would just take it without asking, then resign themselves to paying the outrageously high price* \"It would be 25 copper, sir.\" *Most adventurers would purchase such a food item that expensive, some do if they have a lot to spare, whatever the case, this man will likely purchase a cheaper dish.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*While he did seem to be quite tired, the dark circles around his eyes could attest to it, even, it seemed like he was more alert than the usual adventurer. He would be silent for a few moments, calculating how much he could truly afford to spare, then decided, giving the man a grin and an enthusiastic nod.* \n\"Well, I shall trust you good sir, as I am famished.\"" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Verily well, sir, I shall get your drink and meal... The drink shall come in a quick minute, the meat pie will come 30 minutes.\" *Delos would take the copper and goes into the basement, coming back a minute later with a mug of mead, putting in-front of Ishikawa on the table.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa nodded, gently drumming his fingers across the counter as he waited for his drink. As his mead was set down, he would grip it, proceeding to down it. While he didn't chug it like the average adventurer, it went down quickly. Once he had finish, he took care as he set it down, noting the marks on the table from previous patrons.* \n\"Say, you wouldn't happen to know if there's any work to be done around here, would you? Any buggery creatures that need to be dealt with, perhaps?\"" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*Adventuring jobs, huh? Delos wouldn't know the adventuring landscape nowadays, it's been a while since he was an adventurer... At the age of 30, a whole 220 years ago... He wouldn't even try to think of anything today, he would just point to a board on the wall, which has many bounties and requests. While taverns aren't really the place you should be looking for quests, New Sunlight would be a better place to look, this tavern does attract some adventurers so they allow cheap requests.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*The young man looked over at the board, slowly standing up. Before he left the bar counter, he'd look back at Delos, giving a nod of appreciation.* \n\"Many thanks.\" \n *He'd weave his way among the tables, taking care not to bump into anyone. He didn't want a fight. Not today. Eyeing the board carefully, he would see if there was anything worth chasing. He wasn't hurting for cash, but he did wish to refine his skills. Less dangerous missions would be perfect for practice.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*Delos would start washing the dishes Ishikawa left, as there's not much else to do at this hour. The tavern is always pretty empty 8 hours into the day, doesn't mean there aren't patrons, but it's only ever just 1 or 2 people.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*After examining the board for a good amount of time, he stepped away, finding himself unsatisfied with the selection that was being offered. Perhaps another time. He'd go back to the bar counter, taking his previous seat. He still had a meat pie to eat, after all. Looking at his surroundings, he wound murmur, turning to the barkeep.* \n\"Not very lively around here, hm?\"" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Indeed, business here isn't frequent... At this hour. In an hour and a half we'll be crammed for patrons\" *Delos would say, but he wouldn't be working at that point for the very reason. He prefers to not work here at rush hour, too stressful for him and way too many dirty adventurers. Once he worked during those hours and it was good time, but he had a bad rash for the next three days, he haven't the foggiest on what the hell got onto him, but he sword to never work during rush hour ever again.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Saito adjusted his fur cloak, the light pink, almost permanent blush on his face deepening as the alcohol finally began to kick in. He sighed at the mention of large amounts of people, but he would likely be gone by then, or at least sleeping. He tilted his head, fluffy ears flopping down in a ridiculous manner.* \n\"You seem much too refined for a place such as this, what brought you here, barkeep?\" \n*The same could be asked of himself, given fur clothing wasn't the cheapest...*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*Sleeping just 9 hours into the day, is this man a sloth?*\n\n*The question of 'why are you here, if you're so fancy' is always a difficult question to answer, how are you supposed to say you got fired from your prestigious occupation 200 years ago because of a poisoning?* \"Certain circumstances has forced me to apply myself to other forms of work, and my previous habits are hard to forget.\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*From the looks of him, it seemed like he hadn't slept in at least a day, maybe two. He raised an eyebrow at Delos's answer, grinning slightly. Being tipsy seemed to help make the man a bit less formal.* \n\"Lay the wife of your lord perhaps? Or, let me guess, the soup wasn't to their liking so you had to steal away in the night?\" \n*He chuckled slightly to himself, eyes falling shut for a second. Almost falling asleep, he forced them open again.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"I suppose we can go along with that story, but please note that that is an incorrect telling my lifestory, so please refrain from telling that rendition claiming it's the truth\" *Delos look neutral and calm about Ishikawa's answer, but on the inside he would complaining about that story being 150% inaccurate.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*The young adventurer didn't quite seem how to react to that. Having been sheltered most of his life, he wasn't the best at conversation in the first place, but this was certainly something new. He shifted in his seat, attempting to hide his confusion. He ran his hand through his hair, deciding to change the subject.* \n\"Well, er... How about that weather?\"" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"You're desperately grasping for a conversation starter, aren't you, sir? I'll bite, the weather is... Exactly 'that' as which you refer to as 'that' weather.\" *The butler would dryly respond to Ishikawa, he doesn't seem too interesting to be around, it appears. Delos doesn't try to be as bland as he is, but this is as far as he can go in a conversation without dropping his polite act and going all 'classic dwarven speech' everyone finds obnoxious.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawas ears folded against head, and he sighed, leaning his head on his hand, still trying to keep his eyes open.* \"Aren't barkeeps supposed to be witty? Or was that butlers?... Either way, you are... Quite dry sir.\" \n*Was he baiting Delos to adopt his true accent? Who knows. Adventurers can get quite cranky when tired.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Butlers are only supposed to be as witty as their master or patron, otherwise we're overstepping our boundries, sir\" *Delos would wittily roast Ishikawa without remorse. Of course butlers are witty, but they'll always make sure to make themselves the least important person in the room when it suits them and their masters wish, or to play some tricks like this.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa would snort at that. Delos was lucky he wasn't the type of adventurer to take such a thing personally.* \n\"Well, if you wouldn't mind a humble request, could you be witty enough to keep me awake until I have the chance to eat? I don't fancy falling asleep on your counter.\" \n*Ishikawa would gently trace his fingers over the various scars that dotted his body, namely his arm, as he spoke. It didn't seem to be something he did consciously, but it did draw attention to what would normally be unnoticed by the regular person, unless they had particularly sharp eyesight.*" } ]

[ { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Sir, you would just look like another drunkard having too much to drink, and most take little note of those. No one would ever remember someone sleeping on the counter, in my professional opinion, the professional opinion of a waiter\" *Delos would comfort Ishikawa, these words of comfort aren't particularly helpful, but at least Ishikawa knows that beyond this day, no one would ever judge him for sleeping on a counter.*\n\n\"Thanks for those kind words, sir\" *Unfortunately for Ishikawa, Delos wouldn't be looking for a job as a butler, at least actively.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*The Kistune would seem slightly comforted by the others words, but still unsure. Being a monster hunter, he didn't like to let his guard down, especially in a crowded place... But he wouldn't have much of a choice soon, his eyes were starting to betray him again.* \n\"Maybe I will. After I eat. Not starving is a big priority of mine.\" \n*Ishikawa was going to make a remark at the mans second statement, but was interrupted by a painful cough. He'd look to the side, being polite enough to avoid coughing at Delos, but his fit of wheezing was still concerning, for sure. Looking back at the barkeep with a slightly pained expression, he'd try and manage his best smile,* \n\"T-the pleasure is all mine.\" \n *The young man held his chest, taking shaky breaths. He then muttered to himself, face paling as he looked down once again,* \n\"This can't be good...\"" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*Delos would look disgusted towards the sickly Kitsune, and would coldly berate him* \"Sir, I implore you to be more concerned with your health. I earnestly believe you do not need food, especially the incredibly heavy meal of a meat pie, rather you should most definitely get some rest.\" *While Delos wouldn't know much about Ishikawa, he would most certainly know that he can't ever recover if he doesn't sleep.* \"I'll delay your meat pie for later and get you a soup as compensation for now, then you focus on having a nap. I'll see about contacting a healer, but I make no guarantees, the number one priority of mine is to make sure someone doesn't die in this establishment.\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*He shivered slightly, his ears drooping as he was berated. He mumbled,* \n\"Damn, I wish my parents had me inoculated.\" \n*The Kitsune would sniff slightly, whining as he spoke.* \n\"I haven't eaten in day-\" \n*He'd do his best adorable pouty expression, but the constant shivering and sickly palor didn't help his case. He would wrap his twin tails around himself, begrudgingly giving in. His voice softened, becoming quieter,* \n\"Oh, alright... Fine.\" \n*Ishikawa seemed to be the type of person to disregard his health in lieu of a goal, maybe he isn't best left alone.*" } ]

[ { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*The butler would go into a room and grab a blanket for Ishikawa, just to make sure he doesn't freeze to death or whatever his shivering is for. He would then deliver the soup to the hungry lad, but definitely not the meat pie... That wouldn't do for someone this exhausted. Delos then would start washing the counter.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa smiled appreciavely at Delos. He didn't have to do this for him, even if it was just to keep him from dying at the counter. He was greatful, truly. As the soup was placed in front of him, he restrained himself, eating carefully and deliberately. Shaking, he'd sip slowly on the soup.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*Delos would react with internal annoyance at Ishikawa's smile, he's not helping him because he wants to, it's because it would leave a bad taste in his mouth if he let someone die infront of him. That smile of Ishikawa's makes it seem like Delos did something because he's an altruistic person... It's really annoying and he wishes he'd stop smiling at common decency.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Unfortunately, Ishikawa seemed like he wasn't shown much common decency in any regard. Adventurers seldom were, unless they were well-known. It made sense, no one really likes dirty bloodthirsty 'heroes' busting into their towns and demanding food. Not all of them were like that, but a good chunk were. Ishikawa eventually finished the soup, sniffling. He fought back a cough, a small bead of sweat falling off his pale face. It at this point was likely called into question how Ishikawa had survived at this point.*\n\n*Ishikawa weakly pushed the bowl away, and proceeded to pass out onto the counter.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "*Ishikawa would finally sleep his healthy recommended time of 8 hours, and would wake up in the same tavern... If he were to look outside it would look pretty dark, but it's certainly not the pitch of black. The blanket, still resting on his back, would shield him from the nights chills. When he woke up he would immediately notice Delos with a bucket and some cutlery, washing the dishes, now Ishiwaka doesn't know how long he's been doing that, but it's been before he woke up.*\n\n*Delos wouldn't take note of Ishikawa awaking and would just continuing washing the cutlery, it's strange that he's still here, since he said that he wouldn't work beyond the next hour.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa blinked lazily, groaning. Waking up was always a problem. Well, going to sleep was also a problem, which is why he preferred not to sleep at all. He moved his head off of the counter, softly wheezing shortly after. He was still sick, but not nearly as bad as he had been earlier. Instinctually the Kitsune pulled the blanket tightly around himself, his ears perking up at the sight of Delos.* \n\n\"I thought you left?\" *He tilted his head, confused. It was also pretty late...*" } ]

[ { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Something unexpected happened and I had to work over the night fixing it... The meat pie was left cooking and never got taken out. Made a huge mess that took me... Until now to clean up\" *Delos would lie, but Ishikawa wouldn't know this. He was still here because he was a little concerned about the kitsune, leaving someone in the tavern with no protection wouldn't be a good idea, someone could kick him out or steal from him, and that's a no-good thing to happen to this establishment... Reputation wise of course.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawas ears folded down at the news that his meal was probably wasn't going to be available anytime soon. The young mans face fell slightly as well, but he wasn't going to say anything about it. Delos had been so kind to him already... The Kitsune looked around, murmuring,* \n\"I didn't... Say anything in my sleep, did I?\" \n*He shifted, seeming somewhat distressed at the idea. He had mumbled some things in his sleep, but they were largely unintelligible. Whatever he was mumbling about seemed to be upsetting, though.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Something about meat pie and being hungry, you had actually gone into disturbing detail about it. Did you really want the meat pie that much, sir? Though in between, there may have been something else, it hadn't left a mark upon my memories so I can't recall it clearly\" *Another lie, Delos would remember pretty much everything Ishikawa mumbled in his sleep, he always had a great memory. As an ex-butler, his primary job was to know as many things as possible for his masters convenience, however it's become a habit to remember everything he hears. His memory hasn't degraded in the least, but he often flushes unimportant memories, as he usually has no use for them.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawas ears perked back up upon hearing that, being relieved he hadn't said anything too... Too *Strange*. Talking about food was strange, but it was better than what he normally would say.. Ishikawa licked his lips, his stomach growling quietly.* \n\"Meat is harder to find in the winter...\" \n*His twin fox tails wagged lazily behind him.* \n\"That being said... I'm famished.\" \n*Ishikawa had a good sense for some things, but when it came to general conversation, he was a bit oblivious to social cues.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Of course, sir. It's about time I should \"Hit the hay\", in a manner of speech.\" *Delos would indeed be very tired, staying up this late. Even as an overworked butler (in the past), he would rarely if ever work this late, but he did ask to work on the clean-up late at night. He didn't do so because of the extra pay he would get, but he still worked that late.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa would nod, glancing outside once again. Normally he would continue on his way after sleeping, but he still wanted that meat pie he was promised, so he supposed he would remain another day. Just a day, though... He would try to keep himself to that, at least.* \n\"I bid you a goodnight,\" \n*Ishikawa paused,* \n\"-But, where should I remain? I find it hard to believe I'd be welcome to stay in this here tavern alone for the night...\"\n*Ishikawa clearly wasn't going to give up on his meat pie that easily, plus, he was still sick.*" }, { "author": "pindlewand", "message": "\"Sir, we let you sleep on the counter and our target audience is that of the adventuring type, I assure you there will be no issue\" *Bluntly explained Delos, no one really cared that Ishikawa slept on the counter and just mistook him for a drunk, freeloader, or other. And even if they thought that of Ishikawa, they wouldn't even care in the least bit and would forget shortly after seeing him.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa still seemed a bit concerned, but he would trust the words of the other man. He'd have to find something to do to pass the time by himself, but he'd manage... Something. Perhaps a game of cards. With himself. Internally, he sighed. This would be a long night.* \n\"Well, then, sir... Have a good night.\" \n*Ishikawa stood, turning to find a more comfortable place to sit.* \n\"And... Thank you, really.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*A bubbling stream flowed gently through the middle of the snow-capped woods. It wasn't too far from an old, beaten path that went through the heart of Silnaria, visible through the trees. A figure cloaked in heavy fur sat next to the stream, a fire crackling nearby in a cleared out space. A chestnut brown, Southern Silnarian horse lay close to the fire, and a hawk perched on the beasts back. The figure at the river had mid-length black hair that obscured his face from those who would attempt to approach from the path, and it appeared that he was collecting water in a pot. \n\nOccasionally a chunk of ice would flow passed him as he worked, and light snow dusted the coat he was wearing. It was clear he had been out there for quite a while, at least since the last snow.*" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae was walking in the woods without apparent direction, just following a slightly visible path hoping to encounter something to do. She had left the city because of all the people present in there, it was impossible to be relaxed if there was at least one person behind her at all times.\n\nShe heard some water flowing and decided to go and take a drink, so she walked a bit more, until she saw someone in the distance, Renae decided to try and be stealthy but she stepped on a stick.*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa, for the moment, appeared to be Macen, but the moment he heard the snap of a stick, he gently set his pot of water down at looked quickly back. Whistling softly, he called the hawk over, the bird fluffing its wings before speedily flying over to his shoulder. It was more clear now that he had moved that he had a sword at his side, and a pair of bright blue eyes. He looked young, likely around 16-20 in age. He stepped forwards slowly, tilting his head. He seemed curious.* \n\n\"It's a bit cold out for someone to be traveling by foot, what's your business out here stranger?\"" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae sighed, she just wanted to drink some water. She watched as the stranger called a hawk and turned around. For a moment she thought he was a Macen and got tense, but she didn't jump to conclusions yet*\n\n\"I was just wandering through the woods and I got thirsty, then I heard the river and headed here to fill my canteen.\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa turned to his hawk and gently scratched it's head beneath its feathers, smiling softly at the creature. He looked back to her, his hand laying at his side. It didn't appear that he was going for his weapon yet. He picked up his pot of water and brought it next to the fire, leaving the river open for her.* \n\n\"Go ahead then, I wont keep you.\" \n*He still seemed a bit suspicious of her, as this was quite far from any city...*" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae walked calmly to the river, withe her hands in the back of her head, relieved that the stranger didn't try to attack her or something, she got a bit lost when she entered the woods, but she wouldn't admit that in front of a stranger, and her pride held her back from asking for directions, so she decided that after getting some water she would turn around and walk until she found a safe place to camp*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa put the pot over the fire and took an apple out of a bag that had been sitting on a stump. He'd take out a knife and begin to peel the apple with it, watching her all the while. The hawk on his shoulder would take off, soaring high above the both of them, as if it had seen something in the distance. Perhaps a mouse for it to eat. Taking a bit of pity on the woman, he spoke,* \n\n\"....It's going to snow again soon, I can feel it in the air. If you'd like you can remain here at my camp, at least until the snow passes.\"" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae filled her canteen in the river, trying her best to not drop it in the cold stream of water, when she was done she put the canteen in her bag and stood up. She had started walking, she didn't like the idea of walking in the snow but since nature wasn't on her side that day she didn'thave other option. Or perhaps she was wrong, she thought as the stranger offered her to stay for a bit*\n\n\"Thanks, its very nice of you, but I won't stay for too long, I don't want to be a burden\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*After he was done peeling the apple, he gave bits of the peel to the horse. Then he cut a chunk off, impaling it on his knife before eating it off the blade. He shook his head, gesturing for her to sit by the fire.* \n\n\"You wouldn't be a burden, I have plenty of food, besides, it's easier to survive together.\" \n\n*Ishikawa would brush some some snow off of a felled log, looking back at her. He didn't smile, but his expression wasn't hostile, either.*" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*She looked at him for a moment in curiosity, after a moment of this she began settling in the camp, she cleared some snow and took a seat near the fire, taking some bread out of her bag as she began to feel hungry*\n\n\"Well, that's a relief, because I have no intention of freezing to death, at least for today\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa turned his attention back to the fire as she sat down and took a metal cup out of his bag. Slowly, he scooped some of the boiling water in the pot out, taking care not to spill any as he sat it back down. He took out another cup and put some tea leaves from his bag into it, then poured the water inside. He didn't look up as he spoke,* \n\n\"Would you like some tea?\" \n\n*He'd rifle through his things.* \n\n\"I have Jasmine...\" \n\n*He seemed to be attempting to remember if he had anything else.*" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae started playing with a small rock she found in the ground, she bounced it from one hand to the other like some sort of weird dance, she had forgotten what in some point was an habit to keep her from grabbing her dagger and attack the nearest person, but she just started doing it again, just for fun this time. *\n\n\"Uuh yeah, some tea would be lovely thanks\" \n*She watched as the guy searched through his things*\n\n\"Jasmine is fine\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa repeated the process from earlier, cautiously handing her a cup of tea. It of course would need some time to steep. He watched her move, frowning slightly. He didn't say anything about it.* \n\n\"Here you are.\" \n\n*Ishikawa leaned back against his horse once she took it, carving off more of the apple and alternating between having some himself and giving some to his animal companion.*" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae looked at the cup of tea for a brief moment, remebering better times and then took a sip, the sensation of the hot tea burning through her mouth and then her throat, exploding with the flavor of jasmine and the leaving a tiny trace bitterness followed by the essence of the flower. All of this happened in a second, yet it didn't fail to make her smile, regarding of how many times she had a cup of tea it was always the best*\n\n\"Thank you for the tea, it was really good\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa waited for his tea to steep, raising an eyebrow at how quickly she downed the hot water. To each their own, he supposed. As they sat, a few snowflakes began to trickle down, landing on the 'Macen's nose.* \n\n\"No problem.\" \n*He looked at the snow on his nose, a neutral expression on his face.* \n\"Ah, and there's the snow. It shouldn't get bad quite yet.\" \n*He shifted, turning to her,* \n\"So, stranger, since we'll be here for a bit, would you mind if I ask your name?\"" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "\"Im Renae Soranus, the annoying elf at your service\"\n*She bowed jokingly, an action that was a habit to this point*\n\"May I ask yours?\"\n*She said as she sat again, looking at the stranger with curiosity while playing with the small rock again*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Firelight reflected in Ishikawas eyes as he listened to her, the silver specks within shining like hot metal. He tilted his head.* \n\"Hm, well, I don't believe you're annoying..\" \n*He paused for a moment, then nodded at her question.* \n\"My name is Ishikawa.. I hunt monsters.\" \n*The Chestnut horse gently nuzzled his face, and he gave it a head scratch, still looking at Renae.* \n\"What exactly do you Renae? If anything at all?\" \n*Ishikawa had never seemed hostile to her, but he did seem very curious..*" } ]

[ { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*She looked at the sky for a brief moment before continuing the conversation*\n\"Thank you, but a hole lot of people think otherwise\"\n*Being a monster hunter sounded like a really interesting job, but she thought it might be a bit difficult, especially because of the competition*\n\"That's an interesting career choice if you ask me\"\n*Renae thought about her situation for a moment*\n\"Im just wandering in these vast lands, with curiosity as my incentive and a faint desire of revenge that keeps me going. But the reason im in these woods today is mainly because I don't like being in the cities for too long\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa finally finished off the apple, and began to take a sip of his tea, listening.* \n\"It's what I was raised to do, a birthright, I suppose you could say.\" \n*His hawk was still nowhere in sight, but he didn't seem too worried about it. Talk of revenge always piqued his interest..* \n\"Revenge? A fair goal... Or perhaps not.\" \n*He had a dark look on his face for a moment, before perking back up,* \n\"Cities are... Undesirable at best, yes. I understand that feeling.\"" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae removed some snow that was acumulating in the top on her head before continuing talking*\n\"Sounds quite honorable\"\n*After hearing his response, she started thinking about her long lost friend*\n\"In this case it is very very fair, death begets death after all\"\n*So many years have passed but the sparks of her old wrath still lit the fire of revenge every time she remembered that*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa didn't react much to the snow that was beginning to pile up on his head, allowing it to fall off naturally. Ishikawa shrugged when she called him honorable.* \n\"Well, I wish you luck, then.\" \n*Ishikawa looked back to the fire, lazily prodding it with a nearby stick before adding another log.*" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae looked as her rock fell to the ground and rolled, going directly to the fire, stopping just a few centimeters away*\n\"I might really need it\"\n*She responded as she leaned over to get her rock*" } ]

[ { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa's eye twitched a little as they sat there together, but that was likely from the lack of sleep that showed on his face. Deep circles under his eyes and all that. Ishikawa nodded, although there was a hint of sadness in his expression.*\n\n\"Something of the sort, I suppose..\"\n\n *Ishikawa murmured quietly, looking up at the sky as day began to transition into night.*" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae once again cleared the snow in her head, wich wasn't as much as the beginning of the night but still bothered her a little, she noticed an aura of dismay but didn't comment, instead she tried to lighten up the mood for what was left of the night*\n\n\"Seems like the sun is rising soon, it's always lovely to watch a snowy sunrise, don't you think?\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa lazily prodded at the fire before, them, making sure to add another log to it to make sure it continued to burn. Ishikawa squinted his eyes as he turned to view the sun over the horizon, grimacing. His eyes were more accustomed to the dark.* \n\n\"Er... I suppose it is, yes.\"" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae glanced at the rising sun, the light already reflected in the snow making it seem like it was whiter than ever. She looked away though, trying to preserve her view, as her parents always taught her*\n\n\"Well, anyways I should get going. Is there anyway I can pay you for letting me stay with you?\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa closed his eyes entirely as the snow made an attempt to blind him, and he looked over to her, shaking his head. However, he paused for a second, mid-shake, and he opened his eyes a tiny bit.* \n\n\"No, no, you don't have to repay me, it's simple courtesy... But, if you happen to spot a Winter Wolf not far from here, I would appreciate it if you were to let me know. I'm tracking a pack of them currently.\"" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae looked at him back, trying to remember when she had heard about those animals before*\n\n\"Oh, some locals where complaining about some big white wolves killing the livestock, perhaps they where talking about them. I think that was a bit to the north from the town\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa looked at her, raising an eyebrow. He nodded, putting his hand to his chin, pondering.*\n\n\"Hm. They don't usually stray that close to humans...\"\n\n*His expression softened, him smiling gently at her.*\n\"Thank you.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae stood up and picked up her bag, then she stretched a bit her legs who were a little numb from the long night of sitting*\n\n\"Maybe there's less prey than other years because of the cold temperatures and the heavy snowing\"\n\n*She looked directly at him and smiled back with a joyful expression*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa fully leaned back onto Yukons side, his eyes threatening to close. It seemed talking to her was the only thing keeping her awake. He murmured, starting to fade off.* \n\n\"It's possible, I suppose...\" \n\n*His smile weakened a bit, but only because he was starting to fall asleep.*" }, { "author": "shafulafu", "message": "*Renae noticed how sleepy he was, and started to walk away, with the snow crunching under her feet. But just before going into the woods she turned around to say gooobye*\n\n\"Bye bye Ishikawa, I hope you have a good sleep and great luck finding monsters to hunt\"\n\n*Then she swiftly entered the forest to wander until she finaly found her path again*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa closed his eyes, giving a nod and a weak wave.*\n\n\"I wish you luck on that revenge quest of yours... Farewell, for now, Renae.\"\n\n*Ishikawas hand fell, and he slept for the first time in a couple of days.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Narrator (Glockcry)", "message": "**'Drinks on the house!'**\n\nAn uproared cheer broadcasted from the direction of the bar keeper, raising a mug of ale in joy as the room lifted its spirits. Shouting, yelling, drinking and dancing as the night faded away in the ambience of heavy liquor. A lone kitsune found himself on a stool adjacent to the window. From outside of the solitary bar we're the lush out lands of vast green planes and ovaled hills. Covered in the shroud of darkness for the moon gazed at the glistening surface with its shite haze. The Rey of the room was much more quaint and quiet, old folks who had watched many before them pass and leave a thousand times over. Locals from nearby farms who had settled and taken over the farms of their predecessors. This part of the Elven kingdom was faraway from the capital, from the politics and the violence. It was a peaceful residence in which a drink at night was shared by all ages, big and small. Through it all the ambience was encapsulated by the light melodies of a lone piano man. The same tunes he would play every night, taking requests for free and refusing tips.\n\n**Scream!**\n\nThe wholesome atmosphere was shattered by a chilling yelp. Disturbed many patrons found themselves falling over and shocked as they each got onto their toes and rendered whatever alertness they could. The piano man collected his hat and rushed outside, the man then called the room outside; each scrambling like a swarm of bees coming out of one hive. The piano man held the panicked woman as she pointed to the distance over a rolling hull. They all looked and stood awestruck as in the distance a raging torrent burned and pillaged.\n\nThe night was still young, but the sun had come out through the inferno of a distant fire. \n\n*'What was that..'*\n*'Should we help-'*\n*'That thing's burning up.'*\n\nThis moment was his to decide. Everyone around him was flabbergasted and frozen, the unruly hardy men too drunk to stand and the tendered women gasping in shock. Perhaps there were people there, no it didn't matter if he knew; someone had to go. So,some had to be the hero to rescue the damsel in distress from the raging dragon that kept her in a tower. This moment called to him, and was ready to be received by a daring adventurer or a fearsome warrior. The piano man then collapsed, laying into his knees as he came to the realisation it had been from his homestead's direction. Suddenly tears swelled from his face as he caught them in his hands.\n\n*'Oh please, no- Please don't be home my daughter.'*\n\nThat was the final string, a pleading call from a desperate father who was helpless to save their stranded kin. After an uneventful stride through open countryside and even through farm plots he would arrive not too late. The kitsune found himself in the horrifying scene or an isolated house set ablaze. The burning crisp embers dancing like a kindred wildfire, seldom can their beauty be found in destruction but it didn't allude to the atrocities. Black smoke seeped to the air to become all but invisible in the darkness, yet it's chocking intensity swept the area just as harshly as it would in broad daylight. Surely he had to do something, as the reading wooden house began collapsing. Floorboards buckled and ceilings loosened as piece by piece the lively settlement was being devoured by smog." }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa stared into the roaring blaze the dark bags underneath his eyes contrasting starkly against the ominous firelight in front of him. Moments ago he had been relaxing, moments ago he had finally gotten a break, but no, here he was again. He of course wasn't bitter about helping. Ishikawa wouldn't allow himself to turn away a stranger in such dire need, but at the same time, he just wanted have a peaceful night for once. The Kitsune tied a piece of cloth around his face, wheezing as he inhaled a bit of the tainted air. Ishikawa understood that he was racing against time itself in this endeavor, that there may be in fact no one still inhabiting this place, but he to make an attempt.. Yes, he had to.* \n\n*The young man quickly approached the building, wrapping his head in yet more cloth to shield his face from the heat of the flames. It was thick enough to hopefully stay off burning for a good minute if need be, while he figured how to enter with the least harm done to himself. His ears twitched, the man attempting to pick up anything besides the roar of the flames with his sharp hearing. Even while he listened, the Kitsune tested the waters by sending out a blast of Frost Mist into a part of the blaze that wasn't as high as the others, hoping to clear a temporary path into the wreckage of the homestead.*" }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "The raging Phoenix soared high to the night sky as it burned through the darkness and the abyss. Having followed the sight of the hellfire a mysterious black knight appeared from behind him, himself being unaware all together as he doused the flames with magical incantations. *Pathetic waste of time*. Never would she tend to investigate 'accidents' such as this, however her curiosity drew her toward the scorching heat. If nothing else there was a homestead with potential haul, and outside appeared the onset of a small timid boy. She walked over, *Silently* As her sabatons were muffled by the weaving grasses; being quick to observe the situation.\n\nThe kitsune expelled his icicles to minimise the flames, but after casting the roaring thunder consumed it and melted it almost immediately; it was too much, too strong. It seemed suicidal to go inside, nevertheless he was met with the entrance mere meters away from the flames. Suddenly the Kitsune was grabbed, feeling a weighted arm pressed against his shoulder before thunderously being pulled back. Luckily too, as an internal explosion flew a debris of wood straight toward his former place. Having been chucked to the floor turning back the man could see the ominous image of a raven clad warrior, smashing the collapsing debris with a closed punch that split the wooden beam into two with her left. Her image rendered a dark knight, contrasting like a black hole stepping towards the all consuming sun. Taking a step forward a large circular shield formed on her left bracer as the woman entered the building.\n\n*Thud*\n\n*Thud*\n\n*Thud*\n\nThrough the scolding inferno a deafening aura pierced itself from within.\n\nThe mysterious warrior had been gone inside for half a minute, her footsteps only being prevalent at this moment whilst the Kitsune stood guard outside; unable to pierce the flames. Floorboards etched and creeped under her weight as revealed the dark silhouette of a knight and a body in her arms. Once more the house roared as loud as the flames as the final supports began to give in, like a collapsing cave it was falling in on itself. The warrior seemed Como,telex unscathed but it all, walking casually with her hands blanketing the woman's face as her exterior rendered her immune from the consuming wrath, The shadowed knight exited, laying the scorched woman outside the burning house as she knelt beside it. Placing one hand over its neck the woman kept its attention to the wounded daughter. The warrior then spouted to him, and in a mocking voice her tone made clear of her temperament and intense prove hostility toward himself.\n\n'What are you supposed to be?'" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa tensed as he prepared to spring into action once the aftermath of the Frost Mist had cleared, desperation showing in his eyes as he readied himself for what he was going to do. Was he really going to jump into a raging inferno for the sake of a girl who may or may not even be inside? No, it was decided, as the short man was yanked back unexpectedly. Ishikawa grimaced as he hit the ground with a thud, the rather unpleasant smell of burnt hair filling the air. While he had been saved from the heat, the fur of his tails had come out of it singed.*\n\n*Ishikawa didn't move for a good moment as he watched the woman tear her way into the inferno, partially from the shock of the explosion mixed with the sudden jolt, and partially to avoid any further debris that may go flying out of the structure. Eventually, he stood up with an almost composed grace, waiting. There wasn't much he could do except wait. Partially he was relieved that there had been another there to enter the building, but he still didn't exactly like the foreboding air that this new-comer brought along with them.* \n\n*Ishikawa quickly padded over to the scene of the woman and injured girl, taking out what little he could to aid in caring for the injured... If there was a way to help, even. He wasn't confident as he saw her laid out on the ground, the Kitsune hastily rifling through his things to grab some sterile cloth and water. As he kneeled next to the girl, he looked up at the shadowed knight, replying rather dryly, despite the urgent nature of what he was doing.* \n\n\"Was that a jab at my race, or at my profession?\"" }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "'Simply a question of your mere existence.'\n\nPlacing her hand around the neck of the woman, the dark knight seemed completely unaltered and disregarding his presence. Forcing his own self to lean backwards otherwise he would be met with her shoulder. Having swayed him away the lady took a brief pause as the atmosphere around them gathered. The flames glistening in the background danced as yet large pieces of roof finally fully collapsed, a giant sway of wind gusting out and pushing away to his direction. It was like the sound of a tremendously large tree collapsing, fast and intense. Soon the darkness seeped in once more as Ishakawa was again thrown back by the intense ferocity of the burning building. The dark knight laid beside her unresponsive and unremarking at the scene beside her, fixated on the woman and glaring a faceless helmet straight down.\n\n'This one won't live.'\n\nThe callous deathly words left her mouth to his disbelief, what was she saying. He wouldn't be given the chance to respond for even a brief meme to however.\n\nTo his horror a shocking image transpired, the woman began lightly coughing and yelping as the dark knight had her gauntlets wrapped around her throat. It took no less than but a few seconds for her neck to crack, a brief gasp leaving her mouth as her last struggle before passing. There was no way for the man to have stopped her, even if he had tried for a brief moment in stagnation all that he could do was watch frozen in disbelief of what he saw. Why did she suddenly kill her, why would she have saved her only to kill the girl herself.\n\nAgainst all principals and morales one could grow up with this was a spit in the face of all of them. What could she possibly say to justify her actions, Nay; it was impossible to justify. She had to be brought to justice, she had to pay for her crimes. This was not morale, it was evil, heresy. The sudden mood spurted our every wrath of vengeance and judgment seeped into Ishikawa. It was his choice now on what to do, was he the type of person to let it all go, the evil, the sin, the corruption." }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa grunted indignantly. Who did this woman think she was? Some sort of towering paragon of darkness? Above others because she lived in a world of shadow or some sort of crock like that? Ishikawa was a man who preferred the night sky, but he did not make that a core part of his identity, the night was simply that, the night. Not some sort of symbolic force that determined his moral compass. Ishikawa stumbled back as the sharp sound of the building collapsing hit his ears, the Kitsune covering them as he attempted to regain his balance. His ears, being quite sensitive, did not appreciate the sound in any which way or form.* \n\n*Ishikawa stared at the woman, and then looked at the form in her arms. She was save-able, he could see it clearly, if taken to a healer... No... It was at times like these that Ishikawa reminded himself of what he was. A monster hunter. Ishikawa stepped further back away from the woman, a glare forming in his icy blue eyes. It was the only part of his face that was visible as a silvered rapier formed in his left hand. He realized that he would likely lose this fight, but it was the principal he clung to, the morality.* \n\n\"You asked what I was, and I shall tell you.\" \n\n*Ishikawa braced himself for what was to come.* \n\n\"I am a Monster Hunter by trade.\" \n\"***I have found that I hunt men more often than I do beasts.***\" \n*His voice dropped low, the hunter preparing to strike.*" }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "*\"Shutup.\"*\n\nIshikawa felt a sudden jolt of pain etched on his left arm. A dagger, slivering of silver pierced his flesh and found itself embedded in his bone. His spell naturally dematerialised with the loss of concentration and sudden trauma. Hynes revealed but another blade collected from her bandolier, held up by her left arm as she stood up and faced his direction.\n\nPowerless from every step she took toward him the woman expected to face no such resistance. Whereupon she wrestled his throat into her gauntlet, and single handedly lay slammed himself down to the ground. The force alone led him to choke for a brief moment as Hynes lay atop the man disappointingly down. A race of thoughts would bring him back to reality, whereupon the stinging pain of the dagger in his bone seared more than the flames of the very building he refuted from.\n\n'Just shutup for me for a second, or else I'll present to you your scalp as a hand knitted scarf to a flock of orphans. You're not that enthusiastic are you?'" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa dropped his sword as he grabbed his shoulder, hissing through his teeth. The magical weapon imbedded itself into the ground, but still remained. He would have to de-summon it for it to truly disappear. He would weakly reach for it with his uninjured arm as she approached, before gasping for air, finding the wind knocked out of him as he was slammed to the ground. While he was expecting to lose this encounter, he had figured he would stand at least a small amount of a chance against the behemoth that held him down.* \n\n*Ishikawa gritted his teeth, trying to find reason behind the callousness of this... *Thing* Before him. For all of his hatred of the undead, of vampires, he found the woman before him to be much more revolting than either. The lack of emotion was what disturbed him the most. Ishikawa didn't say anything, but it was more from an inability to than lack of words.*" }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "Hynes grabbed the man with his hair, straining it and pulling him across the ground as he was dared to resist her. Walking to the direction of the burnt lady she threw him towards her, forcing him to cushion his lading with his own hands lest he cradle the corpse. Curiously she turned back, collecting the icicle which he has formed but failed to arm himself accordingly with. Inspecting it closely she remarked.\n\n'There are two kinds of pain. The sort of pain that makes you strong..'\n\nThrowing it with a flick of her hand to the fire the weapon fell to the ash and began melting. She followed her remark seamlessly as then her hands were held back and rested behind her.\n\n'*Or useless pain. The sort of pain that's only suffering.*'\n\nIt sizzled for a brief pause until it all but burned, for a brief stagnation it appeared to almost be fighting to survive; yet finding the inevitable. To the shock of Ishikawa he felt his hand grabbed, the woman beside him desperately clinging as tears ran down her eyes and onto her cheeks. Her ashy tender skin half seared and half burnt lip was a spitting image.\n\nHynes took disgust in it, not the body itself but the needless suffering. She upheld one desire for most, a simple, painless and quick death. It was born between a mix of pragmatic death and one without suffering. Only those who would wish to inscribe further unnecessary harm onto others rendered for her desire to return it tenfold to themselves. Otherwise a quick death was all she needed to satisfy her craving to spill blood.\n\n'I have no patience for useless things. Moments like this require someone who will act, who will do the unpleasant thing; the **Necessary thing**.'\n\nTurning to face Hynes a levitating spear drew out from her back case as it slowly began tilting its spear down toward himself. The eerie image that his life could flash before his eyes a mere instance of her throwing it gravitated the situation. The levitating javelin then shot itself toward the head of the lady. \n\n'*There, no more pain.*'" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa suppressed the urge to help as he was dragged by his hair, the Kitsune clenching his fists as he bided his time, rolling across the ground as he was thrown, attempting to avoid touching the body of the dead woman. He wasn't disgusted by her, but he refused to touch her, out of a respect for the dead. He watched as Hynes attempted to pick up his weapon, but she would find it enchanted to be nigh unpickable.* \n\n*Ishikawa glared at Hynes, until he felt something grab his hand, turning back to the woman he had believed to be dead. He would make an attempt to sit up, turning his back on the woman in black armor behind him. Thoughts raced through his head. If he could grab this woman and run off, if he could just find a healer... Ishikawa murmured softly to the dying woman, knowing in the end he would likely end up a liar, but of no fault to his own doings, but rather because of the mysterious woman. He murmured softly,* \n\n\"I'm sorry this happened to you...\" \n\n*Ishikawa turned back to glare at Hynes, realizing what she was about to do. There was nothing he could do about it, and he hung his head, quietly stewing in his own emotions. Ishikawa didn't do anything for a good amount of time, before slowly standing, gently letting go of the now dead womans hand.* \n\n\"Useless things? A life is not useless. I'm not sure if your skull is as thick as your **Fucking** Armor, but that woman could damn well have lived if you hadn't stopped me from helping her in the first place!\" \n\n*Ishikawa looked at his sword which was still imbedded in the ground, clenching his fist. Ishikawa was angry. In the past he had felt strong emotions in times like this, fear, pain... But here he was consumed by a righteous anger.* \n\n\"A burn can be healed. Pain fades with time, it always does...\" \n\n*Ishikawa shielded the body of the woman with his own, though she was dead. He didn't trust Hynes to not try and desecrate it further.*\n\n\"What you've done is needlessly kill someone who full well could have recovered...\" \n\n*Ishikawa paused,* \n\n\"Initially, at the very least.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Hynes", "message": "A tear of rain fell on his wound, heralding another beside it and another; A storm was coming. Should he attempt to meet her eyes through the miniscule slits in her helmet he would see a pair of piercing mirrors, silver and reflecting the moonlight back to blind his own gaze. Regardless of his attempted resistance he was nevertheless all but to her mercy, one seldom met; *And for a very good reason*. Perhaps her moon stared eyes were not the bloodshot red of a pure psychopath he anticipated, but they were corrupted with the unbridled rage of her own self. \n\n'People are wicked. We make choices based on our own needs. *Good* People only do *Good* Deeds if they will be recognised or acknowledged for it; otherwise they're demented. \n\nHer voice stopped, then overshadowed by the distant call of the howling wind as a charged thunder rang like a steeple bell in the background. She let the silence ensue as the clouds above gathered and began lightly pouring. The sounds of the flames hissing as heavy raindrops fell from the night sky. All the while he was to be fixated on the pain, helplessly enduring the worst of it as she swayed it lightly side to side.\n\n'So you're just going to give up. I should've never wasted my time on you. '\n\nPlacing her finger atop the knife's scale she once more pushed down, the rearing pain agonizing to no end. When others torture they can be so overzelous in style or method.\n\nWhat is the point when simply exercising it as painful as one could render was all that was needed. It was pure and untainted pain, dealt from the shining slivered blade of her arsenal. Hynes slowly folded her fingers around the handle before violently ramming the entire breadth of the blade down into his arm, juxtaposing the other end.\n\n'You are with anger, hate, respite; *And retribution*. **Good**. Anyone who cowers in the face of me or pleads without resistance is one who deserves a fate worse than yours. Though is it truly tenacious morality guiding you, or delusional lunacy. Either way it doesn't matter I suppose, the one thing you said correct is that death will tear us all one day.'\n\nSlowly and steadily he receded the blade, shifting it side to side to ensure the maximum amount of pain by further damaging his bone and seared flesh. He was losing far too much blood, as like an over poured glass of red wine it ran down his hands and onto the soaked pool of wetted grass. Perhaps she was referring to his death being much sooner than he had anticipated. Though perhaps in that moment he had already accepted such a fate. Taking the pressure off his right hand from her knee she grabbed it, forcing it to hold onto the dagger itself. Then in a swift motion she recovered the blade and pressed it towards her neck, inline between her helmet and collar; one of the few openings of her exterior.\n\n**'Do it then. Show me justice. Show me what it means to do the right thing.** Every man is his savior and executioner, every man has the responsibility to decide his own right and wrongs. We judge right and wrong the same way we tell night from day. However when the clouds of obscurity come forth then suddenly it is not so clear. You may think of me as a coward, and I will think you equally as a fool. Both judgments are equal in weight, meaning neither is more right nor wrong than the other. The difference is I learnt that, you deny it. '" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa stared into her eyes for longer than he intended, flinching at the reflection. He stared up at the sky as it began to downpour, allowing the cool rain to wash away the blood on his face, and the tears that had began to form. With the rain, it was near impossible to tell that he had begun to cry. His expression hadn't changed, his demeanor hadn't changed, it was simply the pain forcing his eyes to water.* \n\n\"I did not come out here because I wanted to. I did not come out here for whatever reward might be had. I came out here because there was a chance someone was in need. In all honesty, I wanted to rest. **But I didn't.** Call me demented if you will, but that's the truth of it.\" \n\n*Basking in the silence, Ishikawa reflected on his situation. The thunder. The pain. His anger. Was this how he was going to die? He had so much left to do. His family was waiting back home for him, and there were still demons that he had to conquer. He grimaced as she continued to torture him, voice wavering,* \n\n\"No, not yet.\"\n\n*That didn't seem to be aimed at her. Ishikawa continued to tremble, closing his eyes, attempting to keep his breathing steady as he endured the worst of it. It was all he could do. Endure. As the blade was finally shoved further through him, his defenses were broken, the man unable to keep himself from calling out any longer, gritting his teeth in a last ditch effort to silence his agonized cries.* \n\n\"**G-ah**, f-..*Fuck!*...\" \n*Ishikawa lowered his gaze, breathing heavily. He didn't respond.* \n\n*Ishikawa watched the blood pour out of his wound with an apprehensive gaze, yet more tears making their way down his face. The anger was still there, it had just quieted itself. Though silent anger was often far worse. His already pale face became almost ghostly as he continued to loose blood, though a determination still shone in his eyes. Ishikawa slowly met her gaze once again, making no attempt to hide his pain this time.*\n\n*His words were few, and his voice shook, barely audible, but there was a decisiveness in them that were unmistakable. A lack of emotion, even. As if judgement had taken hold of his body, and he had no agency in his actions, only a righteous desire.* \n\n\"***Certainly.***\" \n\n*Ishikawa would make an attempt to slash across her throat, being cold and methodical if he was able. The man certainly knew what he was doing. Whether he was successful or not, he would use the last of his strength and make an attempt to pull away, forcing his body to wrench itself from her grasp, running. He held his shoulder, stumbling as he continued, making a break for salvation through the steaming wreckage of what had once been a humble homestead.* \n\nIshikawa was prepared for death, but he would not let it claim him today." }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "**Snap!**\n\nIshikawa felt a jolt of agonizing pain in his arm as he was forced to release the blade. Before even striking Hynes had felt his fatal intent and had grappled his wrist, having never left her guard despite the dagger inches from her throat. Testimony to her speed and supernatural like reactions. Of course she did not just grab his wrist, whilst he did exactly as she had hoped him to, she still attempted her life; and for that he suffers. Regardless of his intent or will she had prophesied exactly his actions, not expecting anything different and being met with fulfilled aspirations. The only part he didn't fulfill however was the crucial part, and that was killing her.\n\n'You speak of justice as more than killing injustice, yet what do your actions speak. We really are not so different, infant we both realise that by now; only the other denies it.'\n\nHe suddenly found himself propelled backwards when his jaw was bent from a high straight kick. Landing on his back completely as her metallic sabaton flew directly upwards, then stomping onto his chest.\n\nShe planted her foot hard enough to blow the oxygen from his lungs, forcing him to recover momentarily choking. It wasn't long before the rain found itself littering his near corpse, while a dark raven stood over. \n\n'There are two types of pain. The type that makes you stronger, and needless pain. I can resolve one of those types whilst giving the other. If you believe the girl deserved a choice, so be it; *I'll give you a choice.*\n\nA dark fogged aura resonated from the woman as the rain began to pour against her shadowed spear, expanding the dark mist behind her. Retrieving it from her back she revealed what appeared to be a long pole a head above her height. It wasn't shaped like an ordinary weapon however, putrid black miasma blocked its shape and disfigured detail. It was like a pure black stretch of unbridled black smog. If anything at least he would die fast and quick to a single stroke; Hynes not having the desire to torture or torment him with pain anymore. Perhaps death in itself was the greatest thing that she could ever hope to give to people, a way out of this cruel and hateful world.\n\n'So tell me boy, will this pain make you stronger; or **Should I end it**. Right here you will decide. I will give you three seconds to consider your life. You now have no functioning arms, your left arm is fractured whilst your right wrist is snapped." }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa let a screech of agony past his lips as his stance weakened, allowing his arm to fall limp as he tried to keep his thoughts straight through the haze of suffering. Past all points of laboring to conceal the effects of what she had done, he stood there, focusing on his breathing, not allowing it to get too fast. It was a struggle. The sound of his heart beating pounded in his ears, the world around him beginning to blur as the figure before him swam across his vision. He made an attempt to stutter, but was silenced as he was knocked harshly to the ground.* \n\n*He sputtered and gasped desperately for breath as he lay on his back, choking. Blood still flowed from his lip, giving the appearance that we was coughing up blood as fought for air. Feebly he looked up at her, watching the tip of the almost demonic weapon she carried be levied at his head. Using the last bit of his willpower, he hardened his expression, staring his possible death in the face with the most dignity he could muster in this undignified state. His eyes still shined, his chest still heaved, struggling to breathe. He was was still alive, and he intended to stay that way, even if he was on the brink of annihilation. Spitting blood up at her, he wheezed, letting his head fall back as he closed his eyes.* \n\n\"**I'll get over it.**\"" }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "'Getting over loss isn't good enough. If you mourn for the dead you'll only regret your shortcomings in being unable to stop them from dying. It's a cruel thing, but in reality it's simply better to not have forged bounds to that degree in the first place.'\n\nThe black lancer stood over her like the mythological grim reaper. Swaying her dark spear towards him he felt the verocious chaotic aura seeped within it as it could raise the hairs on any person's skin. Her deathly spear took in the soaking rain but turned it to a corrupt black liquid once it had passed through it. Falling onto his skin and then toward his neck the black raindrops even in the rain smelt of rancour. She placed what was the tip against his neck, running it down to his chest whereupon she firmly left a large gaping cut, it's pain normally being severe in it of itself; however overshadowed by the other severe wounds. Reaching the place of his heart she then balanced the spear on his chest, spinning lightly as to tear the flesh as she penetrated. A slick of blood began running out of the hole, until she stopped to trace along his soon to be former scar and towards his head once more. Forcing it between his lips she then placed it into his mouth, the taste of a foreign and strange metal with an indiscernible tinge. Though immensely discomfortable, had she pushed it down further, he would begin choking.\n\n'**Beg.**'" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa lay on the cold ground, surrounded by a pool of his own blood, ash, and mud. Every sense was on edge, the kitsunes ears perked. The foul smell emanating from the weapon was nothing worse than anything he had smelled before, but coupled with the rest of his state, he gagged, soon gasping as his skin was cut. The warmth continued to drain from him as yet more crimson liquid gushed from his wounds. The life was being choked from his body, leaving behind inky pools of ichor, glistening attractively in the dour landscape like a fine wine. Blood fell further down his face as an old scar was made anew, the stinging pain of the past being muddled in with the suffering of the present. Ishikawa just barely opened his eyes, resolving to not let the woman conquer his spirit, though it would just be easier to give in and die. His words barely made it past his lips, the man struggling as he choked them out.* \n\n\"I'll... Never stop. Trying to bring people like you to justice. *N-*\" \n\n*He wheezed,* \n\n\"*Never.* No matter-\" \n\n*He cringed, weakly trying to blink blood from his eyes.* \n\n\"What you do to me. Everything that you do... Only adds fuel to the fire.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Hynes", "message": "'I suppose the world would be a boring place without others like me to slaughter. Bad people kill bad people all the time, at least we admit evil. For people like you to kill all the same but label it as a strain of good, *Justice*. That disgusts me.'\n\nThe spear was retrieved from his mouth, graciously allowing him to breath once more as she thrusted it to the side; throwing off his entrails. She'd swiftly place it over her shoulder once more. Collecting a stringed purse from her bandolier she placed five golden pieces in her hand. Turning back to the fallen Elf she once more knelt beside him, grabbing his hand. Forcing it open she placed the five coins in his hands, then clenched his fist as blood poured through his fingers and tainted the gold.\n\n'I cannot understand as to why you refrain, why you hold back, why you hold on. You're frankly as dead as the girl. Well I did offer you a choice, and I suppose you answered. Very well, I will make you see what you truly are, what we all truly are deep inside; **Monsters**.'\n\nThe dark lancer, who up till now had no resemblance of any humanity gripped onto the wings of her helmet. Twisting it to the side she loosened the seal before slowly raising it. Heavy rain poured on black hair which flowed to her shoulders and down to her back. As a pale mouth revealed itself and up to the pair of visceral moonlight eyes. As expected of a vampire the woman looked not a day beyond her prime, placing the helmet on the ground beside her.\n\nStanding up herself she'd lean down to grab him by the collar, pulling him up with her. With the left he was suspended in mid air. Forcefully grappling his neck with her right hand she lifted his chin up and faced it to the side. \n\n'The Dark side is a path away for many abilities some consider, *Unnatural*. If you only knew the **Power**. You could have saved that girl, you could have defeated me. You are weak, but through my suffering; you will become stronger. You will then kneel before me.'\n\nA vampire's touch is often romanticized as something graceful, something reminiscent to a kiss or unholy blessing. In reality it was far more skewed and feral. Like two miniscule daggers her fangs pierced his flesh, instinctively selecting a blood vessel to administer her virus to its maximum potency. Before this scorpion released her venom however she took a moment to simply bleed him dry. His skin frantically growing pale and frail within his eyes as by now the amount of blood he had lost would render a man to a petrified corpse. The sight was akin to that of a rabid animal massacering its prey, flesh and muscle being devoured. Before her vessel would succumb to his severe fatal wounds however she then graciously offered the virus. Turning the ever so defiant vigilant into the very being he dreaded the most." }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa simply spit blood in her direction, too weak to give much of a response. He hissed through his teeth as his hand was forcibly closed around the gold, letting it fall to the ground. Ishikawa could barely see, his vision already beginning to blacken, but as he looked up, as she took off her helmet, he knew. Ishikawa always knew. It was too late to protest, he didn't have the strength. So there he lay helpless in a pool of death, unable to change the fate he had been forced into. He made a weak sound as his flesh was penetrated, his eyes turning glassy as he had begun to finally die... He would have, anyways. His vision went black, the monster hunter finally going limp in her arms.*" }, { "author": "glockcry", "message": "``` Fade to Black ```" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Juna and Yaikayo, the two of you had mysteriously received a letter asking for your services in 'dealing' with some individuals that had cheated the sender. Nothing else is known, not even the name of said employer, but somehow they knew your names. Though that wasn't a surprise for Yaikayo who had previously worked with said employer, but still a surprise how they were able to find the two of you and deliver said letters.*\n\n*Alas, either out of curiosity, personal vengeance, or simply greed, the two of you had seemingly accepted the job. You two would wander the streets of the city for a while, and after asking a few questions here and there, you two would find yourselves at Frogcroak alley. The sun doesn't reach inside, creating a rather shady atmosphere. True to its name, you can hear frogs croaking from the nearby sewer entrances.*\n\n*The two of you would arrive around the same time, and would be the only two in the alley way. Conveniently the nearby streets are somewhat empty with no guards were in sight, an ideal environment for illegal dealings. You two still have a couple of minutes or so before it is noon.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna crept through the alleyways, her ears flicking at every croak that met them. It would be a lie to say that she felt comfortable in finding themselves having to meet this employer in some strange, dark alleyways, but she could only hope it wasn't a trap of sorts especially with them coming so far. She needed the coin with winter being upon her and, straining her abilities to hunt for much prey, left her reduced to having to find other jobs to do in the meantime.\n\nShe had left Jace back with her friend, part of her feeling guilty in leaving the Jackal behind again. Hopefully this trip wouldn't take as long, but she wasn't quite sure what she'd be dealing with in subduing these alleged targets that have done her employer wrong. \n\nAt least she wasn't alone with this which should hopefully speed up the process, but Juna never felt too comfortable with company she knew little of. Every now and then, she found herself glancing over at Yaikayo and opening her mouth as if she were about to say something, only to drop her gaze once more with nothing to come up with. Hopefully their employer will be here soon, they must simply be a bit early.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Another day, another task. To kill. Once, when the employer had hired her, she was afraid. Nervous of what was to come. But angry. Perhaps it was that task that drove her into madness, seeing the young children and the frightened adults taking care of them. Yet she held them at bowpoint just the same. Now, she had nothing; no home, no family, and no equipment, and she pursued her goal nonetheless. To kill the elves. She would beat them with her bare hands.*\n\n*The canifor next to her kept on glancing towards her. It was understandable; Yakaiyo was a vampire, after all.*\n\n\"What's wrong dear? Something wrong?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Nothing... Nothing...\"*Juna quickly said in a quiet tone before looking away from Yaikyo once again.*\"Just... A bit uneasy here...\"*The Canifor rubbed at her arm absently, not wanting to really express how uncomfortable she was so much as uncertain of the job they'll be having to endure. Killing was never her strong suit, more so to anything other than the prey she caught, but she could only hope it didn't come to that.*\"Do you... Think our employer will be here soon...?\"*She'd eventually ask after a moment of silence.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Hm. Well, they'll be here. The employer's always been reliable.\"\n\n*Preparing for the event, Yakaiyo begins to cast a useful spell she learned.*\n\n\"Here. Just in case.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo would cast Facial Disguise on both Juna and herself, changing their appearance to look pretty much normal.*" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*A couple minutes pass as you two continue to wait in the alley. Still no one in sight. Perhaps the two of you were in the wrong location, perhaps needing to go deeper into the alleyway? However, you two then notice a frog hop out of the sewers. It would look side to side with uncanny intellect in its eyes before staring at the two of you. It would then tilt its head as if it was trying to examine something. It would then simply hop over to the side of the road and sit there, as if it was waiting for someone.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Thank... You...\"*She murmured in confused gratitude as she casted her gaze down to look at herself in question of what she did exactly. After a while, Juna had found herself looking out towards the dark alleyway in waiting. It felt as if they were sitting here waiting forever. Yakaiyo did say they were dependable... Right...?\n\nHer internal question went unanswered, instead finding herself seeing a frog hop out of the sewers and glance around before hopping off towards the side of the road in waiting. The Canifor didn't know much about frogs nor did she favor them, but this one seemed different from most she's seen. She continued watching it from her safe distance, taking more interest in the creature than having to wait for some employer that didn't seem like they'll show up.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Juna didn't seem to know how the employer did things. Yakaiyo walks over to the frog, looking to where it tilts its head, then talks to it.*\n\n\"Same as always? And where?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The frog would turn to face Yaikayo and have a confused expression on its face. It would attempt to jump into the sewer while cautiously poking out its head before ducking back again. It would keep on doing this for a few minutes, as if it was scared of Yaikayo.*\n\n*However, a couple of minutes later another frog would leap out of the sewer and would seemingly make eye contact with the frog hiding from Yaikayo. Upon seeing the other frog, the hiding frog would quickly attempt to dash between Yaikayo's legs toward its supposed friend. The two would glance at Yaikayo and Juna before hopping down the road and around the corner.*\n\n*The road would be empty once more, with only the two of you in the alley. It was now past noon as well. Perhaps this was all just a prank? However just as that thought would cross your minds the two of you would notice an individual entering the alleyway.*\n\n*Turning to face them, the two of you would see a short male green haired macen wearing a blue nightgown holding a blue blanket in one hand and a stuffed animal in the other. Those more familiar with exotic animals would be able to recognize the stuffed animal as a sloth. The macen would be yawning as he walked down the road while rubbing one of his eye lids with the blanket. As he got closer to the two of you he wouldn't even make eye contact, rather her had trouble keeping his eyes open at all. Still, he would at least open his mouth and ask in a sleepy voice*\n\n\"Hmmm... Did you two...\"\n\n*The individual would then close both of eyes with their head nodding back and forth, their body barely standing. It would appear as if he fell asleep standing. But just as he would seemingly fall over the macen would wake up and jolt his head up*\n\n\"Oh!....Where am I?....Right, the letters... Did you two receive letters?...\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna watched as the Vampiress would walk up to the frog and begin speaking to it, wondering if she had either gone mad or there was something she was missing like the last traveler she's seen to speak to animals. Fortunately enough the frog didn't respond back, otherwise Juna herself would have thought she'd gone crazy. \n\nShe watched as the frog hopped away, soon accompanied by another before Juna would eventually look away from the scene. Maybe they were just regular frogs after all and Yaikayo was simply trying to fill the silence. For the time being, it seemed as if the person wasn't going to turn up, leaving Juna wondering if the trip was worth it. Eventually she'd spot a short man appear at the entrance to the alleyway and instantly she found herself straightening up only to realize that they were seemingly half sleep.\n\nIt wasn't exactly what she was expecting, but after watching the man practically falling over from sleep and asking them about the letters, she would hesitantly say:*\"Yes... We received the letters... Are... You the one that sent them...?\"*She asked, unsure if he was fully listening with his sleepiness.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*She didn't expect the employer to take this long. Last time was much faster. Though she couldn't complain too much, it was an opportunity given to her after all. She simply let Juna talk to the man in the nightgown.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The green haired macen would nod his head, though it might have been from his sleepiness than him confirming Juna's question.*\n\n\"That's good, was worried I slept in... The boss wouldn't have been happy if that happened...\"\n\n*The macen would stretch out his arms and yawn once more, but would finally look a but more attentive* \n\n\"So, yeah. I think I give you these maps? And explain the job? Yeah, that sounds right\"\n\n*He would clear his throat and hand the two of you a piece of parchment. Looking over it, it would look like a map of the city with a circled location that was labeled as a monastery*\n\n\"So the job is simple. Some elf priests have rebuilt a monastery the boss had taken down before. But boss is forgiving, and was willing to carry out business with them again. What was done was done sort of deal. But it seems old habits die hard...\"\n\n*The green haired macen would start to doze off again with a bit of drool dripping from his mouth. Unlike last time though, he would completely fall on the floor before waking up with a snort. He would look relatively unhurt though as he got up and rubbed the drool from his face*\n\n\"Uh, sorry about that. A bit sleepy... Anyway, as I was saying, the elves are cheating him on his wares again. Would think they would know better, but they bragged about how a new world order has occurred and that the boss wasn't a threat anymore. So you guys are to prove them wrong through whatever means you want. Kill them, capture them, it doesn't really matter. Just need to get the message across. Sounds good?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears simply flicked in response to the man's segmented explanation. 'Preferably just capture...' She thought to herself, hoping that Yaikayo would have similar intent despite the Canifor knowing little of her. She took the parchment and scanned the map to find the location he wanted them to go before giving a small nod.*\"Alright...\"*She whispered.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"With pleasure.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo takes a glance at the map and rolls it up, smiling, and begins to head towards the monastery.*" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The map the two of you were given would be detailed enough to show the shortest paths monastery. Both of you being relatively light on your feet would be able to quickly traverses the city streets and eventually makes it to the monastery.*\n\n\n*Even from a distance, the monastery's beauty could be clearly seen. It was also certainly more on the bigger side in terms of monasteries, and as the two you got closer the two of you would be able to notice its walls were arguably over-decorated with the inlaid gold and silver designs. If either of you were familiar with the elven pantheon, the symbols on the wall were clearly dedicated to the elven God of the sea, Osin.*\n\n*In terms of activity, there didn't seem to be anyone around the monastery, and there didn't appear to be any guards by the front entrance either. The doors however leading to inside the monastery were closed. Though even through the doors the feint murmuring of prayers could be heard*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*With a small incantation, Yakaiyo casts Spider Climb on both herself and Juna.*\n\n\"Let's go up the wall. See what's inside. Oh, and my name's Yakaiyo, by the way.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo then begins to casually walk up the wall.*\n\n\"So, what exactly do you think we should do here? We can either kill or capture them.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna kept by Yakaiyo's side as they walked in silence for a while, most of the noise meeting her lowered ears being the faint sound of prayer. One of her ears found themself raising up as Yakaiyo introduced herself, soon casting a spell on the both of them to allow them climb up walls.*\"I'm... Juna-\"*She'd say, coming to follow Yakaiyo all the way up to the wall before waiting at the ground more hesitantly while Yakaiyo seemed to walk up it with ease.\n\nWith the Vampiress asking what they should do for then on, Juna would say quietly:*\"Capture them... Possibly... You don't... Think we'd have to hurt them too much that way... Right...?\"*At least Yakaiyo's question possibly meant she was up for the suggestion. Juna hardly had the stomach to kill another person. Carefully she'd press her hands against the wall, testing out the extent of the spell before she'd climb up the wall as she'd climb up a tree back in the forest. She was probably putting more effort than needed, but it felt more natural that way.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"How do you think we can capture them? My plan was to just kill them off. Like hunting prey. Dangerous prey.\"\n\n*Now on the presumed rooftop, Yakaiyo tries to see if there's any entrances she can peer through to see the elves singing. So high and righteous, acting as if they were the preachers of the gods. If the gods existed, they were cruel, racist gods.*\n\n\"I can't see a way to *Not* Kill them, unless you have a rope or we hold one hostage.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"...Knock them unconscious...?\"*She'd suggest in a tone of hope. Juna didn't like the idea of considering them prey, it sounding less humane to her as a Canifor who simply hunted woodland animals. She wasn't personally sure how they'd do it that way, but so long as they were still alive, the Canifor didn't care. Juna would make her way up to the top, joining Yakaiyo on the roof with her tail curled around her. She'd gaze over to Yakaiyo, keeping her ears lowered as she tried to make herself not appear too obvious with them sitting on the roof for any to see.*\"Just... Please can we try...\"*She asked quietly.**\"Please...\"*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Ontop of the rooftop, Yaikayo would still not be able to find any entrances to peer inside. However from her position she and Juna would be able to see the court yard with a large tree growing in the center of it. Around it they would be able to see 4 elves in monk clothing tending to their garden.*\n\n*There also appeared to be a gate leading to the outside where two elven monks could be seen carrying various baskets of vegetables to a cart.*\n\n*Yaikayo and Juna would also be able to see a some sort of stone bridge to the northwest. Past it they would see a stone shrine with an elven monk praying to it. None of the elves seem to have noticed the two of you on the roof. For now at least*" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The two elves loading the carts wouldn't leave per say as one of them was always by the cart, probably organizing it. The second one was going back and forth, delivering the baskets of vegetables from the garden to the cart. The priest praying by the shrine would still seem to be deep in prayer though*\n\n*As for the courtyard, they priests inside would simply still be gardening though it looked like they were almost done with their harvest as two of them had started to get up and dust themselves off*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would flick as she watched the priests working on their harvest below. They seemed rather nice. Then again, she supposed anyone could with cheating someone off. The Canifor glanced over towards Yakaiyo, figuring that she must be stuck in her own world at this point as any predator would on a hunt and, with a sigh, Juna decided to begin crawling down the side of the roof towards where the elve's were harvesting.\n\nThe Canifor wondered if it would be too suspicious of her to be found walking along the roof of the place, but even she wasn't sure how'd they react to her without a weapon draw. Perhaps bringing herself in their sights was enough to warrant aggressive behavior, but she'd rather show up in reason rather than going ahead with picking them off.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The elves weren't moving? Fine. Seems like she would have to alter the plan ever so slightly. She instead targets the closest elf loading vegetables on the cart, sliding down the wall and jumping towards the elf with a flying elbow, aiming to land at the the neck or back of the head.*\n\n*If she didn't kill the first elf instantly, she would land a followup left punch to take him out. If Yakaiyo killed the elf immediately, then she would aim for yet another spinning elbow at the other elf next to it.*\n```HP: 39/39\nMana: 10/12\nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 0\n\nMovement: Yes\nAttack 1: | 26 | 16 | Cripple\nAttack 2: | 30 | 12 | Cripple\nYakaiyo uses Work Up!```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*As Juna made her way down to the courtyard the elves would take notice and look alarmed. However, they wouldn't act with any sort of hostility but were clearly weary of her presence. As she made it to the ground the closest priest would approach slowly with their hands folded over one another and take a bow*\n\n\"Good afternoon mam. If you've come for prayer the hall entrance is behind you. But I don't suppose that is the case since you've come from our roof.\"\n\n*The elf would then motion to their garden* \"Were your perhaps planning to steal? The gods will not take kindly to that, especially stealing from a place of worship. But the gods are forgiving. If you leave now, you can still find salvation\" \n\n*The priest would then motion to the gate leading to the outside toward the cart with a shooing motion with his other hand. The other priests would simple continue to observer Juna as they dusted themselves off while the other elf that was transporting the vegetables would stand by the gate and hold it open*\n\n*As for Yaikayo, her flying elbow would land true on the elves neck, and with a resounding crack the elf's neck would cave in and he would fall to the ground. The elf would foam from the mouth for a bit before the light of life faded from its eyes. It would seem her spinning elbow follow up would be unnecessary. The elf by the shrine would also seemingly still be in prayer. Overall it seems like she got away with the kill undetected with not even the elf she killed knowing who killed him*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Right... Sorry about... Walking along your roof...\"*She'd say with a slight dip of her head in a sort of bow.*\"I figured it would be... Less disrupting than taking the main entrance...\"*Her ears would lower slightly as her gaze shifted to the other priests. So many eyes on her it seemed, but she figured it was best to not waste too much time hesitating.*\n\n\"I didn't come to steal... But I think you should know that... Your boss does intend to send a message across for cheating him out of a deal...\"*She'd say. Though she was giving away the bosses intent, she doubted the priestesses would have much time before the Vampiress came back around to prepare or go against his words.*\"I think it would be safer to go see him than to carry on here...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The elf was killed instantly. Beautiful. The vampire then begins her original plan, strolling towards the elf in the shrine, but on alert. She had initiated battle; she had no way of knowing if the elf was waiting for her to leave to sound the alarm. As she walked towards the praying elf, she would be on alert, but would give the appearance of simply walking. After all, she wasn't very intimidating; not very tall, and not noticeably muscular either.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Within the monastery, the elves would look at one another with a confused expression. The priest that was speaking to her would continue to motion to the gate*\n\n\"We do not know what you're talking about mam. The only 'boss' we have is our lord Osin, and we speak to him on a daily basis with our prayers. It is also uncouth to accuse others of 'cheating' without any proof. So run along now, no need to keep on making excuses for your sins. We have a lot of work to do\"\n\n*The priest holding the gate open would open it wider as it trying to urge Juna to leave while the others continued to stare her down. A bit jarring feeling overall.*\n\n*However, as the priest opened the gate wider he would catch some movement from the corner of his eye and notice Yaikaiyo walking toward the priest that was praying at the shrine. The priest would yell out*\n\n\"Mam, these are holy grounds! If you've come to pray then the entrance to the prayer hall is in the front. If not, we must ask you to leave!\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Spotted. As much as she wanted to slaughter the easy target in front of her, it would probably incur the wrath of the other priests. Best to wait for later.*\n\n*The treton jumps as if she'd been startled, turning towards the priest.*\n\n\"Oh, so sorry sir! I wasn't sure where the area was, so I was going to take a stroll around the area. Thank you! I'll be on my way.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo then runs south towards the main entrance, but as soon as she's out of sight of the priest, heads towards the wall and begins climbing it again, getting onto the roof. The angle wouldn't allow her to see the elves, but it wouldn't allow the elves to see her either.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Lord... Osiris...?\"*She questioned, her ears lowering in confusion. Juna wasn't personally sure if they were just lying directly to her face or actually didn't know what boss she was talking of. Her gaze passed over towards the other priests, noticing their confusion as well. Surely these were the right elves, right?*\"But... But I don't understand... They... They said you did...\"*She murmured partially to herself.\n\nShe looked towards the man at the gate, sensing the urgency in their wanting for her to leave. The stares didn't help, causing her to feel like wanting to shrink away from them.*\"Right... Right I'm sorry...\"*She murmured, turning to walk towards the gate with her gaze lowered. If they had no more to say, she'd continue along the wall until she was out of sight to be able to climb back to the roof. Juna wasn't sure where Yakaiyo had gone off to, seeing as she was nowhere in sight, but maybe she could at least find her from higher ground.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priests would simply watch as Juna left while not paying much attention to Yaikayo after she left their line of sight. The two of you would be able to climb back ontop of the roof and see each other once more. The only elf in sight was still the one praying by the shrine while the rest were still in the courtyard.*\n\n*The said, it wouldn't be long till the elf that was transporting the vegetables would come out again and notice their fellow priest laying dead in the cart, something Juna would've noticed as well when climbing ontop of the roof.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would glance down towards the dead body as she made it, finding herself not too surprised with the turn out of the man as she'd let out a quiet sigh. Seeing Yakaiyo back in her line of sight, she'd crawl along the top of the roof to gradually make her way back over to her.*\"Yakaiyo-\"*She'd whisper to catch her attention, hoping it would be loud enough to travel to her without it alerting anyone else.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*It was time. Yakaiyo quickly moves towards where Juna is. She couldn't jump across the gap, there wasn't enough time. She would simply lie and wait for her next prey, whispering to Juna.*\n\n\"Just wait here. If I'm not able to take one out silently, fire away.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo prepares to lunge at the returning elf, watching carefully before attacking, of course.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*As you two waited the priest would come out as expected with a basket of herbs in hand. The priest would simple continue toward the cart whistling a pleasant tune, unaware of the predator waiting for him up above.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yakaiyo wait-\"*She whispered in a more harsher tone than intended with what urgency she had.*\"They don't know who the boss is-\"*Juna wasn't sure if she'd be able to get her message across before the Vampiress made her move, but the Canifor couldn't bring herself to fumble around for a bow to attack someone with her uncertainty.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*There he was. Fresh meat for the slaughter. Yakaiyo ignores Juna's marks, pouncing like a tiger onto the unsuspecting elf. Once again she aimed for the neck, the cervical spine. That would kill him instantly...*\n\n*But missed her mark, instead crashing into his temple, dealing massive damage nonetheless, requiring her to follow with a left ridge hand straight into his throat, severing his breathing almost instantly. She then looks around, trying to drag him quietly behind the cart.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The elf wouldn't even be able to let out a scream as he head got bashed in and his throat punctured all the way to the spine. He would fall over into Yaikayo's arms with blood dripping from his mouth as he dropped his basket of herbs. The basket would make a solid thud as it hit the ground, spilling the herbs all over. That said, it didn't like the priests inside were alerted, so Yaikayo would be able to drag his body over to the cart without much trouble.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yakaiyo...\"*She whined, flinching away from the sight as she drew herself back so that she didn't have to watch her drag the dead elf away. The Canifor would reach for her bow, feeling along the string of it to calm herself. It did little to help knowing the fate of the rest of the elves but she did it nonetheless as she sat and waited.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Done. Now she could finally head over to the lone target. Immediately after Yakaiyo drags her finished target to the cart, she begins walking towards the lone target, sprinting in order to do so, going for a flying knee right into the elf's skull.*\n```HP: 39/39 \nMana: 12/12 \nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 1\n\nMovement:\nAttack 1: 16 | 27 | CHARGE!!! ```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*As Yaikayo sprints over to the lone priest praying , aiming to deliver a flying knee to his head, she would be able to hear him mutter*\n\n\"...Is your bloodlust still not satisfied?...\"\n\n*And he would easily shift his body*\n\n*The priest would slowly turn to Yaikyo and she would see the priest's eyes were still closed. Holding prayer beads in his hands, he would chant*\n\n\"Then the lord Osin said, let the sea be clear. It shall reflect the purity of the sky and purify the filth of the earth. Yet neither the sky or land dwellers would be able to see its kindness, only disgusted by its salt\"\n\n*As he said this Yaikyo would find his image harder to focus on. He would then clap his hands together and chat*\n\n\"The sea shall spit out the sun so the world may be graced by its light, and all shall receive its warmth\"\n\n*And his body would start to glow with a golden aura. He would then raise his hand toward both Yaikayo*\n\n\"Leave these holy grounds at once. I can sense great hatred from you, but you've spilled enough blood here vile one. Be like your friend and live in peace. If not, at least take your bloodlust elsewhere... I simply wish to continue meditating here\"\n\n*The priest would then slowly back away closer to the stone shrine, still facing Yaikayo but would not take a meditative stance just yet, as if waiting to see what Yaikayo would do next*" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"If there is a god, he is unjust. Your kind is the one that is vile. That smooth mask holds only poison, one that only other snakes can touch. But I will leave you, for now.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo sensed a powerful magic user here. It would be better to leave him for now so she could get the weaker ones; she didn't even know if Juna would help her, that weak willed girl. How much of a hunter was she, anyway? The treton spits onto the ground, then turns tail and walks away, seemingly towards the entrance, turning every so often to see if the priest was looking at her or not.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would raise as she tried to listen to their conversation, only daring to gaze over the edge of the roof as she heard Yakaiyo's footsteps getting closer to notice the priest still alive. For a moment, a wave of relief washed over her. It may not last, but it seemed Yakaiyo had spared one for the time being. She'd wait for Yakaiyo to pass, keeping a steady eye between her and the priest.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priest would turn his head toward the ground toward where Yaikayo had spit and his brows would furrow*\n\n\"You desecrate the monastery with blood and violence, and now you desecrate the shrine with spit and lies. You are the vile one, you are the snake. Don't think I didn't notice your trickery in 'leaving' only to come back and kill even more of my fellow brothers...\"\n\n*The priest would raise his hand toward Yaikayo and chant*\n\n\"Osin, angered by the sins of the world for disrespecting the ocean, the source of all life, cursed them with rain, flooding, and earthquakes. But he did not take a single soul, only tormenting them so they may repent\"\n\n*As he finished chanting a wave of dark miasma would fly toward Yaikayo and he would then take a step to the side and point to the ground she had spit on*\n\n\"...Repent. Cleanse this soil you had tainted. Pray for forgiveness. Then leave these holy grounds. Your lies and trickery are not welcomed here...\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*As the dark cloud hit her, Yakaiyo could feel herself weaken. She should have hit him given the chance.*\n\n\"Striking an enemy that has their back turned. You're no better than I am.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo turns to face the priest.*\n\n\"A life of suffering is worse than no life at all. People everywhere suffer for simply existing. Do you really thing that simple repentance will help them?\"\n\n\"Shoot him, now!\"\n\n*Yakaiyo yells to Juna without turning, hoping that the canifor can muster up the courage to fire on him, and charges at him with a kick.*\n```HP: 39/39 \nMana: 12/12 \nFocus: 5/6\nTempo: 0\n\nMovement: 6 tiles West\nAttack 1: 21 | 17 | Cripple + Backstab \nAttack 1: 24 | 10 | Cripple```" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna stared between them, scrambling for her bow upon hearing Yakaiyo yell out to her as she found herself moving more out of urgency than want. She grabbed an arrow, notching it in the bow just as she had so routinely become used to, but when it came to having to actually draw the bow back to attack, she hesitated. The Canifor's hands quivered as she had forcefully stopped herself from moving in the motion, knowing very well she could kill a person who's people had already been killed in their potential trespassing, but maybe Yakaiyo was right. He was no better than her when striking with their back turned. She was no better than him for killing two of his companions.'I can't...'\n\nThe words didn't even leave her, coming out as her mouthing them despite Yakaiyo probably not being able to see with her back turned. She couldn't, she simply couldn't. Yakaiyo expected her to shoot a man as if he were any other prey she's killed, but she couldn't because he wasn't. How she wished the priest would have just left when he was given the chance, his actions only seemed to pain her more in sitting and having to watch with her inability to make a choice.*" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "\"Striking an enemy? I see no blood or injury on you. The curse was simply a deterrent to ensure you shall not carry out your bloodlust any longer. If you had honestly decided to leave in peace you would never have felt its effects...\"\n\n*He would then block Yaikayo's first kick with his palm*\n\n\"...But it's clear you never had those intentions. I can see your mind is deranged. You equate the killing of two of my brothers, deceiving them, and desecrating holy ground the equivalent of me casting a deterrent curse on you with your back turned.\"\n\n*He would then tilt his head up toward Juna's directions at Yaikayo's command to shoot him, though his eyes were still closed. Satisfied at the result, he would turn his attention back to Yaikayo*\n\n\"It seems your friend has better morals than you. I do not know why you two have come here today, but it is obvious the two of you have different intentions. Is that why there is such hate in your words?\"\n\n*As he says this he would lower his hands and Yaikayo's second kick would land true against his knee, bruising it. But the priest would not grimace in pain but rather hold his hand out and chant*\n\n\"Osin's presence is with us...\"\n\n*And a small banner with the symbol of a sun rising out of the ocean with a fish attempting to swallow it would appear to the south of the shrine. Yaikayo's foot would also burn as it made contact with the priest as radiant energy burned her. The priest's eyebrows would raise in surprised over this and mutter*\n\n\"I see... You're one of the tainted ones. I suppose your bloodlust may never be satisfied then...*\n\n*He would then would limp over toward the banner before his knee would lock up and he would let out a sigh*\n\n\"I don't expect a dark being such as yourself to understand, but repentance helps ease the pain of the mind. The work my fellow brothers and I do by healing those in agony and providing food for the hungry eases those people's physical suffering. We may not be able to save everyone, but we do our best to carry out Osin's grace. Has your needless bloodshed eased anyone's suffering? Can you even say it has eased your own?\"\n\n*The priest would then hold his hand out toward Yaikayo and it would glow bright yellow*\n\n\"This will be my last warning. I do not wish to spill any blood, but I cannot allow you to continue spilling mine or my bothers' either. Leave in peace while you still can. Follow your comrades' example\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton's leg seared up with pain as she kicked him, realizing exactly what magic trick he had pulled. A maniacal laughter comes out from her mouth, simply flexing her leg once.*\n\n\"A strike does not have to be physical. I could feel the disrupting magic in my body, and I can feel it still. Yet your kind has done far worse to me already. I do not fear death. I have taken *Many* Of those who you consider brother or sister, yet nothing amounts to what you have taken from me. Every kill grants me *Satisfaction*, the snapping of limbs, the impact of bone against flesh, the feeling of feeling their insides rupture.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's eyes flash red as she crouches down.*\n\n\"Your faith supposedly grants health and well-being; yet when *I* Came to Silnaria, I was despised, shunned. I was treated like a monster for existing.\"\n\n\"So I'll be the monster you say I am. I *Will* Kill you, and everyone else in this monastery, or die trying.\"" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "\"So that's your answers... I'm sorry Osin's grace did not reach you in time. But I cannot allow you to bring others down into your darkness. I will now dedicate myself to purifying you from this world. I pray that your suffering isn't long.\"\n\n*With that said he would launch a ball of holy light toward Yaikayo. However, perhaps he still had some reservations about harming her or the pain from the knee blow finally got to him, the blast would veer off a bit to the left the miss her*\n\n\"...It seems Osin still seeks to give you a second chance. It's still not too late to leave\"\n\n*Yaikayo wouldn't be able to tell if he was serious or if he was just trying to play off his miss, but in either case his hands would be poised up again ready for combat*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"That's what they thought they were doing when they burned down my home. Purifying me from their lands. My suffering ended a long time ago.\"\n\n*The elf would soon have a feeling of being hunted as Yakaiyo rushes towards him with a lunging body hook aimed at the liver, followed by an almost wild overhand.*\n```HP: 27/39 \nMana: 12/12 \nFocus: 4/6\nTempo: 0\n\nMovement: 6 tiles West\nAttack 1: 34 | 11 | Cripple + Backstab \nAttack 1: 10 | 8 | Cripple\nBloodlust Activated on priest!```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "Side Note: Treton Racial ability activate!" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priest would be unable to block Yaikayo's swift kick to the liver and would cough up blood as it made contact. Like previously her leg would burn up as radiant energy flowed into her, but her heritage helped her endure the pain. As for the priest, despite coughing up blood, his face still remained stern, and would raise his palm to block her overhand.*\n\n\"Hate begets hate. You can only find peace if you forgive. I do not hold a grudge against your killing my brothers or attempting to take my life. Feel the difference in our ways, feel Osin's love which flows like a waterfall\"\n\n*As he finished saying that a beam of light would appear over Yaikayo and much like a waterfall radiant energy would wash over her. Thankfully with her quick reflexes she would only find her should caught by the downfall.*\n\n*That said, the priest wasn't finished. With his other two palms he would hold them out toward Yaikayo and chant*\n\n\"The sailors who did not have faith in Osin were lost at sea, with no way out. Looking into the sea they only saw the abyss\"\n\n*Two balls of light would shoot toward Yaikayo, but her reflexes would be quick enough to dodge them as well.*\n\n\"I see you are at the very least dedicated to your craft. If only you showed the same dedication to do something good for the world...\" *The priest would mutter as he coughed up more blood*\n\n```\nYaikayo hits the priest for 11 dmg. \nYaikayo receives 6 shroud damage\nPriest hits Yaikayo for 29 and 9 dmg respectively\nYaikayo avoids 29 of the dmg\n\nYaikayo total damage is 15 and is now illuminated\n```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"I'd rather have justice than peace. And the only love I needed was taken away from me.\"\n\n*She could sense that the radiant magic was quickly destroying her. She needed to end this now. Quickly, Yakaiyo performs a Rolling Thunder, twisted to aim at the back of the elf's neck.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The kick would contact with the priest's neck and a crack would be heard, but the priest would remaining standing. Blood would start pouring through the sides of the lips, but he would still reach out and grab a hold of Yaikayo's leg, ensuring the radiant energy that he surrounded himself with would seep into her*\n\n\"...This isn't justice. It's simply needlessly vengeance. Justice doesn't bite back, but vengeance does, just like how this energy flows into you. You've dealt more damage to yourself, than I had done to you... If you have chosen peace you wouldn't be in as much pain. Love isn't limited, you can always get more. Love can heal...\"\n\n*As he says this his hands would glow with a feint gentle yellow, but would feel warm. Yaikayo would feel some her wounds start to recover as the energy flowed into her. The energy would come to an end and the priest would take a knee, still holding onto Yaikayo's leg*\n\n\"...I could've shown more love to others. But it seems my time has come. My time to return to Lord Osin. And as such... As much as I would've wanted to leave you with love... I must protect the brothers I love dearly as well\"\n\n*With that his hands would glow once more but unlike before it would be a harsh burning sensation and it would flow up her leg. The priest would keep on desperately holding on as more blood continued to spill from his mouth and nose, the glow reaching Yaikayo's gut before finally his grip would loosen and he would fall over to the ground. It would seem Yaikayo had finally killed the priest...*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Do you think I care about the love from someone like you? The race that killed my family in cold blood? You do not know true love like I do; the love of a husband, of a *Family*. And you ripped it away from me. Nothing can ever replace that. Ever.\"\n\n*The treton grinned as she saw the elf stumble, but was soon replaced by a look of confusion as she felt warmth flow through her leg, and then anger as she felt the magic burn through her, yelling out and gritting her teeth. She took a knee as she felt her leg burn, her internal organs rupture, and her blood pressure drop. Nevertheless, she stood back up, draining the fallen priest of his blood.*\n\n*The obviously injured vampire looked to Juna, a look of hate and anger in her eyes. Yakaiyo is silent as she limps over to the other two fallen elves, draining them of blood as well, climbing back up to Juna.*\n\n\"You stood back and did nothing... We would have been done right there!\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's voice is bitter, but quiet.*\n\n\"Right now you're as useless as a sack of rice. It's like if someone gave me a feather and told me to kill someone with it. If you don't start doing *Something*, then I'll kill them all myself or die trying. And there's hell of a lot more of those things in there. The job's never going to get done at this point.\"\n\n*The treton lets out a sigh.*\n\n\"Look, whatever people you think these are, they're not. They're monsters. Monsters that learned to speak and build like us. They may have a smile on their face, but deep down inside, they want nothing other than to get rid of you by *Any* Means. And *You*. You're a beastkin. Do you know what they do to your kind? They *Enslave* Them, forcing them to work or die, for nothing while they laugh away and party. If not, you're treated like trash. So are you really going to spare monsters just because they look nice?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would lower as she heard Yakaiyo yell out, finding herself slowly backing away from the edge of the roof. Her hands had gone numb while holding the bow and arrow in them, having not found its use in the brief moment of tension. She could hear Yakaiyo climbing up and seeing her at the edge of her vision, the Canifor would lower her gaze.\n\nShe couldn't say she would have been surprised to get some sort of lashing back from her hesitation and, from the bitter way Yakaiyo spoke to her, this much was expected.*\"I know...\"*She'd murmur under her breath when the Vampiress said she did nothing.*\"I know...\"*She'd say again after being called as useless as a sack of rice.*\"I know...\"*She'd respond with a sigh as she mentioned the job never going to get done at this point.\n\n The Canifor listened to the woman's lecture, hearing of how they enslaved her kind. Juna knew little of it, she hardly knew her own kind for that matter. Yakaiyo asked if she was willing to spare them and internally she wasn't sure if she should yes or no. Were the elves monsters? Would she be a monster for attacking those that may not have partaken in it? It was confusing for her to think about, so much weight in having to decide of whether or not someone deserved to lose their own life.*\n\n\"I'm sorry Yakaiyo...\"*She'd say instead. Juna rose a hand to her face, partially to rub at it to rid herself of the stress in considering it, the other so that she didn't have to cry in front of her.*\"It's so hard for me to take a person's life Yakaiyo... I'm sorry, I'm not like you... I just can't...\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton looks down. Would they really not be able to complete the mission because they gave her a teammate that wasn't willing to kill?*\n\n\"Do you at least have something that could help me? A healing pack, or something like that?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's eyes flash with a sudden sharpness.*\n\n\"Wait. I don't need you to kill them. I need you to shoot them. Can you do that for me? Please? I understand that it's hard to do this at first, so I won't try to force it on you the first time; maybe just a little target practice. I'll take care of the rest.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's tone is almost motherly, as if she were teaching a child about a new subject or idea. It might have been heartwarming if the topic wasn't so grisly.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"No...\"*She'd answer quietly to Yakaiyo's question of her having a healing pack of some sort. Even Juna felt a bit disappointed in her own response. They could have prepared more she supposed, though it most likely wouldn't have made the outcome any better. With the Vampiress asking if she could just shoot them for her while she did the rest, Juna would slowly lower her hand from her face, the whiteness of her eyes appearing as a more puffy red from what tears she had already shed which were most likely already collected in the palm of her hand.*\n\n\"You want me to wound them to make it easier for you to kill them...\"*She'd say in a dry tone, seeing no other reason why Yakaiyo would ask her to simply to do that. Juna casted her gaze down towards her arrow. An archer shot to kill, anything less was but torture for the victim. It was something she'd come to realize in all her attempts at trying to avoid hitting someone lethally only for them to bleed out later after countless wounds inflicted on them.\n\nShoot as target practice. Don't kill, simply shoot them. This was just practice for Yakaiyo wasn't it? Just bodies to attack and reap the rewards of later as if they weren't worth anything more. Juna supposed she was half as guilty for it as well. She considered pleading with Yakaiyo to let them be, but it was already too late for that.*\"I'll fight if I need to... But... I won't spill blood without reason...\"*She'd say.*\"Your hatred for them runs deeper than this mission... I know...\"\n\n*Juna would continue, thinking back to what Yakaiyo had mentioned about losing her family. Juna didn't know how that must of felt nor could she bring herself to try to reason with a Vampiress who's already sworn vengeance on an entire race.*\"I can't avenge them for you... And as much as I'd rather we let them be... I know I can't stop you from going forward with it anyways... I'll stay here in case anything happens... But Elves are people just like anyone else... And I won't treat them like targets because you don't\n\nSee them as I do...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*That was disappointing, to say the least. Yakaiyo was hoping for a teammate, but it seems like she would have to do this alone. Hopefully the priest at the shrine was the strongest one of them.*\n\n\"Shame, I could have had a functioning teammate. I suppose I can only blame the employer for putting you on this job; a peaceful hunter working with a serial killer isn't a good idea.\"\n\n\"Might as well leave. The only thing that happens now is death. Mine, or theirs.\"\n\n*And Yakaiyo continues to the roof, scouting out the courtyard.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would watch the woman continue along the roof to scout out the area. Reaching into the folds of her clothing, she'd take out the map and letter she had been given to come here.*\"Stay safe Yakaiyo...\"*She'd murmur before she would place the two slips of parchment on the roof. Taking the one arrow she had taken out, the Canifor would stick it into the sheets of paper so that they wouldn't blow away in the wind before getting back up and turning away.\n\nShe'd walk down the side of the roof, making her way to the ground as she found herself passing by the drained corpses of the elves Yakaiyo had already taken down. Pulling her cloak closer around herself, she'd head off from the monastery with her tail between her legs.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*While it would be a long walk, eventually Juna would find herself face to face with the green haired macen. He would be laying on the ground, snoring, but would seemingly wake up as soon as Juna approached. He would glance up to her and look around with a droopy smile*\n\n\"So... Don't see the other one. Did she not make it? Is the job finished?\"\n\n*He would get up and fully stretch as he awaits Juna's response*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gazed at him with a lack of much expression. She wasn't sure how aware the man was to be falling asleep so easily after sending people out on a job like this, but she knew little of the boss who hired them in the first place.*\"No... The job isn't finished yet...\"*She'd say, running her fingers along the string of her bow.*\"Yakaiyo is trying to take them on all on her own... And... I couldn't stay much longer...\"" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "\"Oh...\" *The green haired macen would rub the back of his neck, unsure how to respond.*\n\n\"I am not too familiar with this, but I guess you can leave? Just don't tell anyone else what happened here today. As for the job, guess I need to find someone else to help finish it...\"\n\n*He would look side to side and sigh. He would then slowly drag his feet down the road, heading toward the shadier part of the district in hopes of finding someone willing to take on mercenary work. He wouldn't offer even a second glance toward Juna, leaving her alone on the road*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She gave a small nod to his request, saying a quiet* \"I won't...\" *Before watching the Macen walk off and eventually deciding to take her leave.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would be making his way along the cobbled roads Silnaria, tugging his horse along with a lead extending between the two.*\"Next time we're taking my shortcut to the Capitol...\"*He'd say to his steed as he found himself making his way down the unfamiliar path. His horse merely gave a snort in response, clearly shrouded in exasperation.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The green haired macen would be looking side to side for anyone at all, murmuring to himself*\n\n\"The boss is going to kill me if I don't find someone...\"\n\n*His eyes would then light up with hope upon seeing Terrel and walk up to him*\n\n\"Hello there traveler! You look like the sort to take on mercenary work. I've got a job that pays well and is close by! 3 gold a head, 6 gold if captured alive. Sound alright to you?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel raised an eyebrow at the approach of the man, most likely finding it strange to have a random Macen walk up to him with the offer of a job. 3 gold a head and 6 for capturing alive? What was this, some kind of game? Terrel wouldn't consider it his first target mission, though coming from a person walking up to him about it, it sounded more ridiculous if anything*\"What are you going on about?\"*He'd question.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "\"Just some mercenary work. I kind of screwed up, sent some people on a job to clear out a... Monastary of cheating elves I believe?\" *The green haired macen would say with a bit of uncertainty*\n\n\"In either case, one of them left and the other is still fighting or possibly dead. I just need the job finished or my boss will have my head. You look like someone who can kill or capture people easily. So this is a way to earn some quick cash, can buy yourself and horse a fancy meal afterwards. Not a bad deal, right?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"So you want me to kill a bunch of elves for some quick cash to buy a fancy meal later?\"*He'd ask, staring at the man dubiously with how confused he already seemed to be only to give a light shrug later.*\"Works for me.\"*He'd say before turning away to bring his horse closer to him. His horse would let out a huff of air, enough to cause some of his hair to blow over the front of his mask.*\"Your choice to come this way.\"*He'd say to his horse.*\"Might as well reap the rewards while we're here.\"*The Elf would walk to the horse's side, hopping up into the saddle before gazing down towards the man.*\"Where's the monastery at?\"" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "\"Well, meal, sleep, shelter, whatever you want really.\" *The macen would say with a bit of worry in his voice. It sounded like he was about to fail on his recruitment, but would let out a sigh of relief when the pig-masked man agreed*\n\n\"Perfect! The monastery is...\" *He would reach into his pockets only to realize he didn't have any more maps*\n\n\"...Uh, well I think it's down this road and to the right? It's on a hill and looks fancy and such. Shouldn't be too hard to find right?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"You think? Can't see anything going wrong with that...\"*He'd say sarcastically while repeating the the directions in his head. Terrel would give a light snap of the reigns to get his horse moving forward a bit before suddenly stopping and glancing back at the man.*\"Actually, before I go... You think I can borrow that blanket of yours? Just for a short while until I get back.\"" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The macen would look at his blanket and then at Terrel, then back at his blanket and his face would scrunch up as if in pain as tears formed around his eyes*\n\n\"I... This is... But the boss...\" *And he would slowly stretch out his arm toward Terrel with the blanket while sniffling* \n\n\"Please return it intact please...\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'll be sure to keep it out of harm's way.\"*He said, taking the blanket with less care than the Macen had giving it to him. Terrel would place it into one of the saddle bags at the horse's side, deciding to leave it there for the time being.*\"Down the road, to the right, up on a hill.\"*He'd say.*\"I'll be back in a bit...\"*With that, he'd snap the horse's reigns, getting him to run off in a gallop.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Terrel wouldn't have much difficulty finding the monastery as it was on top of one the few hills in the area. It would just take a bit to make it to the top, but no more than a few minutes with his horse*\n\n*As for Yaikayo, she would find herself having to tend to her wounds for a bit before being able to really get back on her town two feet. Or as close to it as she can. The priests were almost finished with their gardening but now had a look of alarm as they just noticed their large pile of vegetables they made weren't being transported to the cart. It was clear they were going to check outside soon enough to find out what was going on. Yaikayo would also hear the feint gallop of a horse coming toward her direction, and looking behind her she would see a pig-masked man riding a horse*" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Seeing how large the pile of vegetables had gotten, the monks would each take a basket and head out the gate*\n\n\"We have brought the vegetables Brother Johan. Did Brother Yevron need help with the cart?\" *The front most monk would ask as they walked outside, unaware of Yaikayo's presence up above*\n\n*As for Terrel, the front door would infact be unlocked. They were firm and heavy, but putting a little back into it would cause them to creak open. They would find themselves in the vestibule of the monastery. It was a simple room with a sconce on the wall to hold a singular torch. The room smelled of incense. By the door leading to the main chapel there would be tapestry of what Terrel could assume to be of Osin.*\n\n*There would also be two monks standing side by side next to door with their hands in prayer. They would open their eyes when Terrel opened the door and bow slightly*\n\n\"Greetings traveler. Have you come to pay your respects to our Lord and Savior, Osin? If so we ask that you leave your mask and equipment with us. There is no need to hide your face or carry needless earthly things in Osin's presence\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*As Terrel would make his way inside the room, he'd find himself scanning the area. It seemed to be a relatively small space with the only real source of light being the singular torch providing just enough to show the tapestry on the wall of whatever Lord it was they prayed to. He didn't have much time to look around, however, as he had come to notice the two monks sitting in the room, soon giving a bow to him and asking if he were planning to pay his respects.\n\nHe doubted taking on two of them in such a confined space would be the best idea, especially with another door leading to who knows how many just nearby. The Elf would give a slight bow back to them, a small frown forming upon his face.*\"Ah... Actually I've come here to seek some help.\"*He'd begin.*\"You see I work on this farm not too far from here and I'm afraid that some of the horses have gotten loose while under my watch. I've been trying to collect them, but they can be quite the hassle for one person to try to round up, so... I've come here hoping that I could possibly find an extra set of hands to help out.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*There they were. The elves, unsuspecting. However, fighting them all at once might be a bad idea, especially since they were 4 of them. Maybe she could take out 2, but then the rest would be incredibly difficult to deal with.*\n\n*Dropping down like a jaguar, Yakaiyo aims to slam her elbow into the top of the first elf's head, then quickly clambers back up the wall and onto the roof again.*\n```HP: 33/33 \nMana: 12/12 \nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 1\n\nMovement: 4 tiles up, Dash\nAttack 1: | 32 | 16 | Cripple!\nAttack 2: | | |```" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priests would look to one another and would politely bow toward Terrel.*\n\n\"We can spare a hand to search for your horses, for we must help those who are suffering. However, we cannot leave these holy grounds without proper preparation. At most we can search with you around the premise. We apologize we cannot be of further help.\"\n\n*Assuming Terrel is fine with their conditions, they would lead him out of the monastery and search around the premise for said 'horses'*\n\n*As for the situation with Yaikayo, she would drop down again and in similar fashion crack the foremost skull's head and would climb back up to the roof like a cat. The remaining priests would scream in horror upon seeing their comrade fall to the ground like a puppet that lost its strings, spilling the vegetables, herbs, and spices, all over the ground. They would point up to the roof with terror in their eyes*\n\n\"Y-y-you?! Why?! What have you done?! Brother Felver is dead! Did you kill Brother Johan and Brother Yevro-\" *They would then notice the priest was no longer praying at the stone shine and gasp in disbelief* \n\n\"-you even killed Brother Gabrell?! What kind of monster are you?!\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would hold an arm out in gesture for them to lead the way as he would follow just behind. As they'd make their way outside, Terrel would glance over towards his grazing horse. Slowly, he'd lower his hand to the hilt of his sword, speaking to the two.*\"It seems my suspicions were correct...\"*He'd say, bringing the sword out from the hilt.*\"One of my horses have wandered out here-\"*Before giving the two a chance to respond, Terrel would raise his sword, bringing the hilt down on the back of one of them before swiftly aiming a second blow to his head to quickly knock him out. He'd turn to face the other Elf, saying all so casually:*\"I suppose I should thank you for your assistance, but I think I can handle it from here.\"\n\n```HP: 53/53\nMana: 0/0\nDefense: TBD\nMovement: N/A\nFocus: 8/8\nAttack 1: | 24 | 11 | Sword\nAttack 2: | 20 | 8 | Sword```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Seeing the elves look in terror made the treton smile. Now they saw it. Now they experienced but only a fraction of what she felt that day.*\n\n\"I'm the monster you created. Now drop on your knees, or I'll kill the rest of you just like them! 'Brother Gabrell' was a tough little bastard, but he died just like the rest of them. I've slaughtered hundreds of you, so don't try anything funny.\"" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The remaining priest on Terrel's side would look in shock as Terrel downed his fellow brother*\n\n\"Br-Brother Almer?! Oh by Osin's grace, please be alright!\"\n\n*He would then glance over to Terrel with disgust in his eyes*\n\n\"You have sinned on sacred ground. I do not know what your intentions are, but know that in the afterlife you shall receive your due payment...\"\n\n*The priest would take a defensive stance while holding his prayer beads, ready for what Terrel may try next*\n\n*As for Yaikayo's end, the priests in their shock would comply with her request and go on their knees*\n\n\"Wh-why are you doing this?! You killed good men! What have we ever done to you? How did we create you?!\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Dropping down from the roof, Yakaiyo grabs some nearby rope from the cart.*\n\n\"Shut up! Hands behind your back.\"\n\n*If the elves comply, Yakaiyo would tie the elves' hands behind their backs, tying it to their feet as well to prevent them from getting up, finally tying all 3 to the cart as well.*\n\n\"Now stay. Don't try anything funny.\"\n\n*Almost softly, the vampire caresses one of the priest's chins.*\n\n\"And if you're all good boys, maybe I'll let you live.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Relax, he's not dead...\"*Terrel would say before tapping him slightly with his boot.*\"Well hopefully anyways.\"*Seeing the priest go on the defensive, Terrel would readjust his hold on his sword. To answer the other priests question, he'd say:\"My intentions are simple really, typical business. Should be happy, you guys have quite the bounty over your heads right now.\"*He'd say before swinging his blade in an attempt to knock the man out cold like his brethren.*\"Thanks for the warning, but I don't plan on going to the afterlife anytime soon.\" \n\n```HP: 53/53\nMana: 0/0\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: N/A\nAttack 1: | 20 | 8 | Composed Attack Sword\nAttack 2: | 14 | 5 | Sword ```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priest would charge up 2 bolts of radiant energy in their arms and shoot them at Terrel. However, there is a reason spellcasters hang in the backline to cast their spells, as having someone infront of you with a pointy blade sure makes it hard to focus and aim at them. However, it would seem Osin's grace was with them, as even though their first shot would go wide, the 2nd would hit Terrel square in the face*\n\n\"Take that you fiend! If you don't plan on going into the after life, then I will at least make sure your existence is a painful one!\" \n\n```14 dmg dealt to Terrel```\n\n*As for Yaikayo's side, the priests would comply with her orders, murmuring under their breath at how they can't believe Brother Gabrell was killed. Their hands and feet would tied with rope found on the cart and they would be pinned to the cart. They all have their eyes close and seem to be chanting in prayer for Osin's grace to be with them, but seems to be the sort of religious sort of chanting and not the spellcasting. Even as she caresses the closest priest's chin he would continue his chanting and praying, at most flinching a bit from her cold touch. In the end though it seems like she got her message across and they will not cause any trouble for the time being*\n\n*Having no more obstacles in her way, Yaikayo would be able to freely enter the courtyard. It was a quaint little area, clearly well maintained and filled with life. It can be seen plenty of time and effort was spent to tend to the garden inside. While not as lush due to the recent harvest it could be seen new crops were already growing. A wonderous sight to behold to say the least. Other than that, the courtyard seemed to be connected to many other rooms. The only obvious one with people behind it would be the southmost door, most likely leading to the prayer hall. It is clear her job wasn't over just yet*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would draw closer to the spell caster. Typical for a bunch of elves, he didn't expect anything different. With the first attack missing him, Terrel would grin at the Elf. It seemed even spell casters couldn't save themselves in every situation, he'd raise his sword to bring down the hilt of it, only to find himself getting struck in the face by the bolt energy. He'd instinctively found himself using his sword wielding arm to try to shield it, though of course that did little to the pain that came with it. Terrel gritted his teeth, turning his gaze to face the priest with a look holding more malice than that of his usual relaxed composure. He'd rub his thumb along his mouth, seeing the trickle of blood forming on it before he'd stare back at the priest and, without another word, delivered a punch to his face to knock him out alongside his companion. \n\nTerrel took a deep inhale of air, turning towards his horse who only seemed to stare back at him with a neutral expression. The Pig Elf reached down grab the two unconscious men by their collars, slowly dragging them to the corner of the outer wall near the entrance to the building.*\"Keep watch of them Carl...\"*He'd say to his horse.*\"If they try anything, just give them a kick to the head or something.\"*Of course he doubted his horse would get involved, but it would probably be the last he'd speak to his companion before he finished the task he had set out for in here. Walking up to the two doors, he'd forcefully open them up before heading back inside.*\n\n```HP: 39/53\nFocus: 8/8\nDefense: TBD\nMovement: N/A```" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Yakaiyo would approach the entrance to the prayer hall before stopping and walking back towards the priests.*\n\n\"How many of you are there? If you tell me, I'll let them live and capture them instead. Oh, and I need a little something from you as well.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo drains all three of them of blood, grabbing another bundle of rope.*\n\n\"And believe me, I *Will* Kill them if you don't answer me. Or lie.\"" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Terrel would find himself back in the vestibule of the monastery. Nothing has really changed since he was last in there, just that there were no longer any priests in the room. Praying chants could still be heard through the door with a multitude of voices. Though given it's size, it wasn't nearly as loud as one would expect if they assumed it to be full. There wouldn't be any other doors to really open, so unless Terrel decided to explore a different entrance way, the only way forward was through the doors infront of him*\n\n\n*As for Yaikayo's side, the priests closest to Yaikayo would stop his prayer chant and let out a sigh*\n\n\"By Osin's grace, my remaining brothers won't be the ones that need to be spared. You shall be the one burned by your sins if you continue down this path. But if merely knowing their numbers can spare them their lives, so be it. 14 of us remain...\"\n\n*The other two priests don't say anything but have their heads downcast as they stay vigilant in their prayer chants. That said, the moment Yaikayo attempted to drain any one of them for blood they would shriek in terror and resist*\n\n\"Y-Y-You are a tainted one! You are a monster! Is that why you've come here?! To try and sate your insatiable hunger?! Get your hands off of me!\"\n\n*They would all attempt to struggle against their ropes with no avail, but would at the very least resist any attempt to drain them. The closest priest would close his eyes and start to chant*\n\n\"Forgive me lord Osin, for I have sinned. In my ignorance I have aided a tainted one... Forgive me lord Osin, for I have sinned. In my ignorance I have aided a tainted one...\" \n\n*He would continue his chant over and over again while trying to break free of his ropes. It would seem despite their fear, upon learning Yaikayo's true nature they no longer had faith in being spared and were now desperately struggling to save themselves from their fate*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would press his ear against the door, listening to the amount of voices coming from the other side of it. Fortunately, the place didn't sound full, but it was still many nonetheless and if there were spell casters like the rest, the place was bound to get... Destructive. He'd move his head away from the door, glancing between the torch and the tapestry that hung across from it. 'Worst case, I suppose I won't be getting the full pay...' He would think to himself as he would sheathe his sword, soon grabbing his crossbow right after and loading a bolt into it before drawing it back. Pressing a hand against the door, Terrel would try to open it ever so slightly to see what he could find inside.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"14. Who knew so many of you could gather in this brooding nest?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo leaves, returning to the prayer hall entrance through the courtyard. She put on a good display of power in front of the elves, but truth be told, she was hurting. Her breathing is deep as she tries to manage the pain from internal bleeding, trying to think. What should she do? Could she intimidate 14 elves at once? Maybe, if she killed one of them. Slowly, she opens the door, peering inside.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The door would creak over so slightly as Terrel pushed it open to peek inside. It was a heavy door after all. Inside he would see a wide room with a tall ceiling. The walls would have plenty of tapestry along with tainted windows that all appeared to be sea themed. There would be rows of benches infront of him as well and as expected they weren't full, but there could be seen seven monks kneeling in prayer. Unfortunately for Terrel, there would also be a monk praying right next to the door, and he would tilt his head to glance at the sudden creaking. However due to Terrel only opening it ver so slightly the priest isn't able to see who was opening the door, but it has clearly got his attention. Terrel would not be able to see the front of the prayer hall till he completely entered the hall*\n\n*On the other hand it would be the opposite for Yaikayo. She would peek through the door and would be able to clearly see the front of the prayer hall but not the rows of benches with the monks. She would see a priest in white garbs and blue sash leading the prayer along side another by the alter with two monks by his side. They are all standing and praying, with the closest one standing by a prayer stand leading the prayer. The alter behind the other priests is well ordained with fine cloth and threading laying over it along with a large book laying at its center. None of them appear to notice Yaikayo for the time being, fully immersed in their prayer. However, just from the echoes alone she can tell there are many more monks out of sight*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would narrow his gaze as he looked around the room from where he was located. As far as he could see, there didn't seem to be any other entrances and exits which was fine enough with him. He found himself looking straight ahead to see another monk praying right in front of him and without a word he would seize opportunity. Raising his crossbow just enough so that it could lock on the man, he would fire off a bolt at him before retracting the crossbow so that he could load another bolt into it. He doubted it would be much longer before the rest became aware of his presence, but if they wanted to get to them, it wouldn't be without their own risk.*\n\n```HP: 39/53\nMana: 0/0\nFocus: 8/8\nDefense: TBD\nMovement: N/A\nAttack 1: | 20 | 6 | Crossbow Precise Shot\nAttack 2: | | |```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*With almost reckless abandon, Yakaiyo charges at the closest elf, disregarding her injury. It would still hinder her and prevent her from doing more than she would like; however, she could still attack. That was what mattered. A flying knee would be too risky with her injured leg, so she settles for a 12 to 6 elbow straight to the spine.*\n\n```HP: 33 / 33\nMana: 12 / 12\nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 2\n\nMovement: 6 \nAttack 1: 24 | 22\nAttack 2: | | |```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The monk closest to Terrel would leap in surprise upon hearing the crossbow 'twang', but given the distance there was no way for Terrel to really miss. The arrow would pierce his leg and he would yell out in pain. The prayer hall would halt their praying at the sudden yelp of pain*\n\n\"Brother Tasar, what's wro-\" *The priest by the prayer stand would ask right before receiving a sudden blow to his back, causing him to cough up blood. Turning their attention to what caused the sudden disturbance the priest would see a bloody dark-haired Treton standing behind him. The prayer hall was now in disarray having two intruders enter the hall at the same time, but the monk that Terrel shot would at least limp over to the door and open it fully and locking it in place while yelling*\n\n\"Who dares spill blood in the holy temple of Osin. Show your face coward!\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*With the man limping his way over to the door, Terrel would back away from it slightly in waiting. Moments later, he'd find the man opening it up for him fully only for Terrel to quickly swing at him with a punch directed to his face, soon followed by a second blow for greater measure. With the door now opened, Terrel could at least see a little bit more into room, but it was nothing to the amount of yelling coming from the opposite end of the room. There was definitely more here than he had originally thought, but he couldn't focus on the rest right now, for now he could only try picking them off one by one.*\n\n```HP: 39/53\nMana: 0/0\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: N/A\nAttack 1: | 17 | 5 | Unarmed Strike\nAttack 2: | 21 | 8 | Unarmed Strike```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Off the mark. She wasn't an expert assassin who could land the first strike every time, and she was injured. What she did have was follow up. The treton slams her fist into the elf's liver, easily rupturing it, and holds her hand to the back of his neck to drain him.*\n\n\"Listen up! Surrender now or you're all going to die!\"\n\n```HP: 33 / 33\nMana: 12 / 12\nFocus: 6 /6\nTempo: 2/2\n\nMovement: 0\nAttack 1: | 33 | 16 | \nAttack 2: | Drain |```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priests and monks would be in shock at the sudden bloodshed, clearly shaken by the violence, but upon seeing her drain the priest their eyes would harden with resolve. The remaining priest in the white garb would scoff at Yaikayo's proclamation*\n\n\"Why would we trust the words of a tainted one?! Espeically after killing Father Lucian! How many have you killed to get in here? Brothers, purify this monster from this holy ground!\"\n\n\"Father, what about the other?\" *A monk would ask while motioning to Terrel who had successfully knocked the monk right infront of him out cold. The priest would motion to the two monks closest to the door*\n\n\"You two deal with that one! The rest focus on the evil before us!\"\n\n*With that said the monks would all take their positions and multiple chants can be heard echoing through the prayer hall before a volley of holy energy was hurled all over the room. Thankfully Terrel still being by the entrance way would find most of the blasts colliding with the wall around him as it proved difficult to aim in such a tight spot.*\n\n*Unfortunately for Yaikayo though, being in an open space would leave her vulnerable to many of the holy blasts of energy as they collide with her. She is able to focus and avoid the brunt of it, but would not be able to escape unscathed and would find her vision being filled with white. It would appear her nocturnal eyes weren't used to being barraged with this much holy energy*\n\n*As for the priest in white garb, he would chat some words of his own and Yaikayo with her battle hardened sense would be able to feel the priest strengthening himself, similar to what Brother Gabrell did*\n\n```\n36 radiant damage dealt to Yaikayo\nYaikayo is blinded\nYailayo evaded 30 dmg\n6 dmg received by Yaikayo total```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would turn his gaze towards the group of priests, most of which seeming to focus more on another person that had entered the monastery. Hearing her yelling out to the rest of the elves of choosing between surrendering or dying only to receive a response of several blasts of light, Terrel couldn't help but snort under his breath in suppressed amusement. He had to admit, the lady was bold to assume a bunch of elves would fall to her demand, especially with this many against her, but he didn't have time to focus on it right now. With the priest ordering the two other monks' attention on him, he would quickly refocus on the fight at hand. Pick them off one by one. \n\nIf they wanted to fight him, they'll have to get up close and personal or as close as they could get. He knew how elves like to fight, it was about time they left their magical comfort zone. The Pig Elf would fire off a bolt at one of them, quickly reloading and firing off another at the other monk before he would reach for the door to unprop it from its locked position.*\"If you ask me, I'd say the greater threat is the room with you right now.\"*He'd tease before closing the door.*\n\n```HP: 39/53\nMana: 0/0\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: N/A\nAttack 1: | 8 | 13, 6 | Rapid Shot\nAttack 2: | ~~Door closed~~ |```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Well, that was stupid.*\n\n*She had hoped her fear tactics would work as it had the previous group before, but it seems like this time the elves chose to stand their ground. It was not going to be good for her if she stayed. Her pride didn't matter; that was gone a long time ago.*\n\n*Yakaiyo dodges one of the bolts by slipping to the side, but ends up taking two others, with one holding a dazzling light, blinding her. Yelling out, the treton rolls and slips past the monk behind her, past the door and closing it.*\n\n*There was another, stronger beast. Just like that other priest near the shrine. She didn't remember their names, and she didn't want to. They weren't deserving of them.*\n\n*Update: use a blood charge, restoring 10 HP, use Treton racial resistance*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The monks fighting Terrel would wince in pain as the crossbow bolts pierced into their shoulder and thigh respectively. But they would still be standing and rush toward Terrel upon seeing him close the door*\n\n\"Get back here you coward!\"\n\n*The one shot in the shoulder would dash to the door but would pull against it to no avail*\n\n\"Damn it, he locked it!\"\n\n\"That's fine, just keep the door shut on him for now. I'll have a spell ready to blast him if he manages to open it. At least this way our brothers can focus on the tainted one\"\n\n\"Alright\" *And the priest closest to the door would move Brother Tasar's unconcious body to the side and hold the door shut to the best of his ability while the other seemingly stood guard. Of course none of this would be seen by Terrel, but they weren't exactly whispering their plans either so he would at least be able to hear what they were planning*\n\n*As for Yaikayo's end, the priest would give a haughty laugh as Yaikayo stumbled about through her blindness toward the door*\n\n\"Not so confident now, are you fiend?\" Come brothers, we shall not let the tainted one escape. Brother Kelcan, open the door for us!\"\n\n*The monk would nod and run after Yaikayo, opening the door she had closed and smirk upon seeing her desperate state. The other brothers would also rush forward alongside the priest, and many of them would start chanting once more and let loose a volley of spells toward Yaikayo. Once more the radiant energy would bite away at her. It would seem she really might have bitten more than she could chew. It would be miracle if she could survive another volley, and despite being on holy ground, it didn't seem likely*\n\n```\n40 dmg dealt\nYaikayo healed 10\nYaikayo evade 16\nYaikayo takes 14 dmg total\nYaikayo is blinded and is now illuminated\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*'Blast me?' He'd wonder to himself, listening to them past the door. Terrel supposed that was fine enough for them. As for him, however, he didn't plan to go the same way the other lady did. It seemed like she was on the move from the priests speaking of stopping her escape which meant it was time Terrel made his own for now.\n\nHe'd glance over to the torch that hung up on the wall. Looks like this was going to have to be his friend for the day. Reaching up to grab it, Terrel would turn away from the door that the priests stood behind. He'd reach up to grab at the tapestry before eventually yanking it to pull it down to the ground. Walking past it, he'd lower the torch just enough so that the tapestry could kindle in flames before he would continue on to the door that led back to the outside. 'If there's another way out, the monks will be sure to head that way... I'll just need to find it...' He'd think to himself, opening up the door to head back outside to where his horse was waiting. 'If not, I'll have to improvise...'*\n\n```HP: 39/53\nMana: 0/0\nFocus: 8/8\nDefense: TBD\nMovement: Back outside```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton leaps for the wall as the elves prepare to cast another volley, climbing onto the roof and away. She'd have to rethink her plan. She was spotted, with no ranged options, and quite literally with nothing. Let the pig masked man deal with it, whoever he was. Or maybe just work with him.*\n\n*The treton makes her way over to the man with the crossbow. More likely than not, he was her new partner for this job.*" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*On Terrel's end the tapestry would quickly set aflame and its smoke would quickly fill the room and out the cracks. Slight coughing could be heard along with panicked screams from the monks inside, but Terrel would already be too far out of the building at that point to clearly hear what they were saying*\n\n*As for Yaikayo's end, to her surprise she would find the monks and priests would not be chasing her. A few would run out and curse at her as she run away her in illuminated/blinded state across the wall toward the roof, but would suddenly turn their attentions back toward the inside of the building upon hearing one of the monks screaming*\n\n\"Fire!! The pig-masked man set the monastery on fire!\" \n\n\"Calm down, the monastery won't burn down that easily! We still have time to put it out. Quickly, to the wine cellar! We can put out the flames with the wine!\" \n\n*With that command given to them many of the monks would head toward the room just below the outside gate while others would start rushing out of the gate with the priest yelling at them to search the premise. Needless to say, they would take notice of Yaikayo's handiwork and would be in shock, but would also work on setting their brother's free.*\n\n*While the situation wasn't great, at the very least the priests seemed to have many other pressing issues at hand than to pursue Yaikayo, allowing her to escape and meet up with the pig-masked man at the front of the monastery. Behind him she would be able to see two knocked out monks next to his horse as well as smoke coming out the front of the building*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would add a bolt to his crossbow, locking it in place as he'd walk over to his horse while carrying the torch in hand.*\"Not a bad job Carl.\"*He'd say, offering his horse a pat on his nose.*\"I may need you for the next part.\"*From all the yelling coming from inside, Terrel would find himself glancing back at the building only to see the woman from earlier making her way over.*\"Well if it isn't the woman who thought she could take on an entire monastery.\"*He'd say with a grin before looking away from her, back towards his horse.*\"Gotta say, surprised to see you alive after all those hits you must have taken.\"*Putting his crossbow away, Terrel would grab his horse's lead to tug him alongside him.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"I had hoped that I could scare them like I did some others, but it seems like one of them is strong willed enough. And the sheep follow the shepherd.\"\n\n\"I have some other bodies, as well as 3 captives. But they're going to be released soon by the others. I need you to help me kill them. No holding back. We'll make enough by the sheer amount of elves slain.\"\n\n\"Let's make it a slaughter. I'm Yakaiyo, by the way.\"\n\n*The treton extends her hand to the masked mercenary.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would regard her outstretched hand for a moment, looking her up and down with his smile fading to a more neutral expression.*\"As much as I wouldn't mind killing a monastery full of elves... I'm here to make this trip worthwhile.\"*He'd say, walking past her.*\"And that would include getting as much gold as possible from this, which from the sound of it, I was already too late for some...\"\n\n*His horse would trot after him, eyeing the Treton nervously as he passed before Terrel would finally turn back to face the woman.*\"But you need my help to take them out either way. You've done it your way, now you'll have to do it my way if you want my help.\"*He'd say, inclining his head towards the monastery.*\"Your choice, but you won't have much time to think before they recover from the initial shock.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Hm. Well, fine then. I suppose trying not to kill them is good enough with a teammate. Let's get this.\"\n\n*Before she does so, she casts Spider Climb on her and Terrel again.*\n\n\"This can help us climb walls. Might be useful with a crossbow.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo climbs back onto the roof and heads towards where the bound elves are.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would watch her head up to the roof as she casted Spider Climb on him, soon deciding to test it for himself as he would place a foot up on the wall and continue climbing up with ease. He'd let go of the lead of his horse, whispering back to him:*\"Stay safe for now.\"*Turning back, he'd make his way onto the roof in following Yakaiyo.*\"I'm Terrel by the way.\"*He'd finally say.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Terrel. So what brings you to this location?\"\n\n*While Yakaiyo's fast, Terrel can obviously see that she's limping her right leg hindering her movement.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Got a random job offer off the streets.\"*He'd answer.*\"So I came here on the whim that there would be large monetary value in storming this place.\"*Terrel would watch Yakaiyo limping ahead of him. He wasn't quite sure if she was any fit to continue fighting, even less sure if she carried any weapons on her or simply relied on pummeling the enemy to get whatever it was that she wanted. But she seemed insistent on killing them all and who was he to deny someone their own funeral.*\"You?\"*He'd ask back.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"About the same, though more formal. It offered me the death of those bastards.\"" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Upon climbing onto the roof Terrel and Yaikayo would be met with the unpleasant surprise of a white robed priest along with 3 monks climbing a ladder and having made it to the roof. They would be breathing heavily, but would smirk upon seeing Terrel and Yaikayo up there with them*\n\n\"Thought you could get away did you? All our brothers have mobilized and are now surrounding the perimeter. We have dealt with your pathetic attempt of a fire as well. If you knew what was best for you, you would surrender and accept Osin's divine retribution for your sins\" \n\n*The priest didn't appear to be lying either. Looking around the edges of the monastery, two other groups of monks/priest could be seen circling the building with prayer beads in hand, prepared to launch an attack if given the opportunity. The smoke from the front of the building appears to have dyed out as well. Things didn't look good for the two of them, but at least the priests and monks have split up. Perhaps that will make it easier to deal with them?*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Yakaiyo whispers to Terrel \"Got any light, ranged weapons? Or maybe thrown? I think we can shoot them from here, just stay back and wait for them to come to us.\"*\n\n*This was not good. The elves had gotten time to prepare; there was little chance to win in a straight on fight. She certainly didn't wish to back down; Yakaiyo wanted these elves dead. For now though, she would back away towards the very edge, so that the elves would have to move closer in order to attack her.*\n\nMovement: 3```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Seeing the elves having already made their way up was surprising to say the least, though he should have figured as such with them running after them. Now wasn't the time to dwell on it however, they had little time with the patrols coming. Without responding, Terrel would fire a bolt towards the priest, soon following it with another immediate shot at the monk to his left (or right from Terrel's POV).*\"Thanks for the offer, but I choose life.\"*He'd say, saluting to them as he'd back away to the edge of the roof, just enough for his feet to catch onto the wall and move down it just out of sight.*\n\n```HP: 39/53\nMana: 0/0\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: 5 Backwards \nAttack 1: | 20 | (7) (11)| Rapid Shot```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Terrel's aim would hold true and pierce the priest and the monk to his side, hitting their foot and shoulder respectively. The priest in particular would yell out in pain as its foot got skewered to the roof. He would motion his hands forward and yell*\n\n\"Go after them! I'll be right behind you!\"\n\n*The monks would nod and dash toward the other end of the roof, not making the distance completely but were clearly getting closer. The priest would have to take a moment to yank the crossbow bolt from their foot before limping forward while casting a spell toward their leg, sealing up the wound slightly.*\n\n*The other groups of monks/priests would continue circling the building, and it won't be long till they make it to the side of the wall Terrel and Yaikayo were hanging from, but for the time being they were safe*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would grab Yakaiyo's arm and whisper to her in a low and urgent tone.*\"Listen to me carefully. If we're going to get out of this, we'll have to keep on the move and keep them on their toes. You're elusive, I can tell, but right now you're crippled. So answer me this, do you know how to ride a horse?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton takes the torch from Terrel's hand, looks at it, then looks back at the mercenary.*\n\n\"What the hell am I supposed to do with this?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo moves southwest towards the corner, preparing to ambush the elves.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The monks would display some impressive dexterity as they duck past Terrel's crossbow bolts and rush to the edge of the roof alongside the priest. The monk that was closest would lean over and let loose a bolt of radiant energy at his face and smirk*\n\n\"You can only play this game of cat and mouse for so long. If you surrender we can assure you a peaceful rest.\"\n\n*As he says that Yaikayo would be able to hear the other group of monks and priests coming around the corner with prayer beads ready in hand. Looks like there were more white robed priests than was believed. Things certainly weren't looking good for the two of them*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Use your imagination.\"*He'd say to Yakaiyo before she would move away to ambush them. Terrel would turn his gaze away from her, soon finding himself staring directly at one of the monks as he had stood over the Elf and shot a blast of energy at his face. Again, with the face. Times like this, Terrel was glad he had the mask on. For a moment, Terrel could feel himself sliding down the surface of the wall as he had to regain his balance, before eventually responding to the sneering Elves.*\"You're right. It seems you have us just about cornered.\"*He'd say, reaching for the hilt of his sword.*\n\n\"What say we switch up the roles to make things interesting.\"*The Elf would pull himself up the wall towards the monk that stood above him, swinging his blade at him with the hope that Yakaiyo would be able to split the others' attention. Taking the opportunity, the Elf would make his way back up onto the roof, standing center to the three monks surrounded him.*\"I'll be the cat.\"*He'd swing his blade towards the monk that had originally attacked him, pivoting around to swing at the priest before soon following up with another swing at the priest as he'd arc the blade around to attack the monk to his left. He'd have to trust the Yakaiyo could take care of the remaining one for the time being. It seems that Terrel may have his hands full for now.*\n\n```HP: 32/53\nFocus: 7/8\n\nMovement: Left 1, up 2\nReaction: | 27 | 4 | Sword\nAttack 1: | 23 | 13/13 | Sword Sweep\nAttack 2: | 14 | 11/13 |Sword Sweep 2```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Damn this blasted leg wound! If only she didn't get injured there; then she would be able to strike the priest twice! Now she was forced to put all her weight into one attack, hopefully not missing.*\n\n*The treton climbs back onto the roof and charges the nearest elf, throwing a wild chopping right hand.*\n\n```HP: 32/33 \nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 1/2\n\nMovement: 6\nAttack 1: | 21 | 27 | \nAttack 2: | | |```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Terrel's wide swing swing would cut into all three of the monks/priests infront of him. Unfortunately the priest with his higher quality blows did not take as much damage as Terrel might have hoped, but it was nevertheless a nice show of swordsmanship.*\n\n*The monks would cough up blood, grimacing in pain. The priest would tap the one that was most severely injured and heal his wounds, but he would still be bleeding through his deep gash. But even in their pain, they would stand firm and all raise their hands up at Terrel*\n\n\"The only role switching that will be happening here is which one of us will end up being dead.\" \n\n*The priest would say with a scowl before all 3 of them would let loose a barrage of divine energy at Terrel. Like Yaikayo, he would feel his body burn him with holy energy, and the flurry of blows would overwhelm his eyes, blinding them. Things weren't looking good for him, and things weren't about to get better*\n\n*From around the corner the smaller group of monks and priests would arrive with prayer beads ready in hand. It would take them a moment the assess the situation before realizing the two of you were on the roof still and would hold their hands out ready to blast the two of you once they had a clear shot*\n\n*But at least not everything was for naught, as for Yaikayo side her charging wild chop would connect with the monk's neck, snapping it in half before he could even let out a chant. It was a small victory, but a victory nevertheless.*\n\n```\n25 dmg dealt to Terrel\nTerrel is blinded\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would nearly double over, having to use his sword to help him balance under the weight from the wave of pain washing over him. His eyes squeezed shut, the light growing to be too much to him. At least it was better than trying to force them open again, but now he has to fight blinded and it didn't take a good swordsmen to see the disadvantage. Funny pun there.\n\nAt the very least he could hear them surrounding, knowing very well he had wounded the lot of them. However, it didn't seem to be enough to down them completely. He rose his sword, launching himself first at the priest as he would speak to him. Swinging his sword, he'd quickly alternate to the monk to the left before arcing the sword around once more to swing at the priest again. It was hard to tell where he was aiming exactly, having to go based off of memory from where they were and having to make sure he didn't fall off the building in the process. He'd spin around, aiming for the monk to his right before quickly slashing back at the priest once more.*\n\n```HP: 22/53\nFocus: 6/8\n\nMovement: N/A\n\nAttack 1: | 10 | 5/5 | Sweep \nAttack 2: | 20 | 7/6 | Sweep```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*It looks like the elves were using teaming tactics. Completely unfair, especially with the priest. Just like always, they were too afraid to fight one on one. After killing the closest elf, Yakaiyo moves onto the next, following up with a left spear hand once again aimed for the throat, and then targets the priest with a right backhand to the back of the head.*\n```HP: 32 / 33\nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 0/2\n\nMovement: 3\nAttack 1: 22 | 17 | Cripple | \nAttack 2: 32 | 5 | Cripple |```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The monk that was coughing up blood would tend to himself to stop the bleeding while the priest poured more divine energy to recuperate his strength. They would then turn all their attention toward Terrel and once more release a barrage of holy energy at him in conjunction with the group down below that could see him. Being blind, one could say he was a sitting duckling as he was cooked alive in a radiant energy, blasting him down into the roof. Looks like the priest was right after all*\n\n*Alas, he would not have the last laugh. He would suddenly catch dark movement from the corner of his eye and quickly grabs the monk to save him from Yaikayo's strike*\n\n\"Look out Broth-!\"\n\n*And unfortunately he would not be able to finish his sentence as Yaikayo delivers a skull crushing blow to the priests head. The monks would stare in horror as Yaikayo's bloody fist while those on the ground would stare up in confusion unaware of what had just happened, but would slowly come to realize and also grow pale but still have a burning hatred in their eyes*\n\n\"You shall pay for that demon spawn!\"\n\n\n*And the monks and priests take a readied stance against Yaikayo once more*\n\n```\nTerrel is downed\nTerrel is hard of breathing\n```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Yakaiyo saw Terrel get absolutely blasted by the elves from all directions. It was even worse than what she had taken. Ouch. However, after she backhanded the main priest, she would spinning elbow the closest elf in the neck, and then lunge towards the other one on the rooftop.*\n\n*He was casting a spell. The radiant bolt fires away at her, but Yakaiyo slips to the side and ducks. She springs back up and uppercuts the elf right in the chin, causing his head to snap back and sever his spine, and the force of the blow lifts him off the tile, just a bit.*\n\n*Afterwards, she backs off, not wanting to get shot at by the elves on the ground, moving 2 tiles north.*\n```HP: 32/33 \nMana: 12/12 \nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 1\n\nMovement: 3\nReaction Attack: 23 | 8\nAttack 1: | 23 | 16 | \nAttack 2: | 14 | Miss |```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would drop to his knees, the pig-like ear flaps along his mask lowering before he'd inevitably collapse under the blasts of energy. He fell face first, his sword clattering against the hard surface of the roof, while it sat in his outstretched arm. The world seem to blur around him for a brief moment in his blindness and the only thing he could do was hear the sound of others dropping around him.*\"Yakaiyo...\"*He would say in a mild groan under his breath. The Elf could only assume she was still up fighting somewhere, but he couldn't help but silently curse at the fact that the Elves had been lead up here. His opposite hand balled into a tight fist as he counted the time that went by to maintain focus on his surroundings while the Vampiress continued fighting. The pain was hard to bear, but given enough time, he could at the very least find some sense of movement to get away from the current enemies they found themselves up against.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The elves on the ground would click their tongue in irritation, realizing there was no way for them to get up there and that even if they nothing would stop the vampiress from running across the wall like a cockroach. They would however notice their two knocked out comrades by the horse. The priest would motion to two of the monks and say*\n\n\"Brother Yarek, Brother Alen, take those two inside. I shall keep watch from this side along with Brother Taeral. If you find anyone inside tell them to come to our side so we can make sure they don't escape. You two then find the other search party and corner them in the rough once more. They are running on fumes, it won't be long now till they fall...\"\n\n*With those orders received, the monks will set out and carry them out. A bit of a stalemate so to speak, but a fragile one that can break at any moment. The air is tense, as the next encounter will surely be the turning point*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would place a hand on the ground, pressing against it so that he could roll himself over onto his back. He could feel numbness coming from his right arm, making things feel rather fuzzy for him. Terrel would open his eyes, glancing up at the sky above him as he tested his left hand to make sure he wasn't dead just yet. He seemed okay for the most part as far as being alive went, finding himself sitting up with a labored breath from the earlier attacks. Nope, not dead quite yet. The Pig Elf would gaze out towards the scene below him, watching the other Elves drag their fellow comrades into the Monastery with them. He'd push his feet against the roof, slowly moving himself back from the threatening edge of it before finally taking notice of the bodies that surrounded him. It seemed Yakaiyo had managed to finish the job, at the risk of himself anyways.\n\nThese Elves were no joke, that was for sure, but Terrel no longer felt the need to be on joking terms with them anymore. He would try to grab his sword, finding his arm unable to move in the attempt and forcibly having to use his other hand instead to sheathe it. Getting up, he would take a moment to test his footing, coming to discover that his legs still worked at least and would soon enough begin making his way back to Yakaiyo.\n\nNo words left him as he would near her. Reaching out towards the torch he had given her, he would carefully take it before walking away without a word. He'd head over to the edge of the building where the Elves had originally stood, peering down at the ladder they took to get up before crouching down and holding the flame out to the side of the wooden step. He'd wait for it burn, making his way slowly down the wall to make sure that it the fire would catch the entire ladder before eventually moving the torch away and heading back up. For the time being he'd find himself checking out the surroundings. No other Elves in sight, at least for now.*\n\n```1/53 HP\nFocus: 2/8```" } ]

[ { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priests and monks would scramble about, organizing each other to prepare their assault on the roof. They would try to capture Carl as well, but being the smart horse he is he would escape down the hill, not wanting to turn into a liability for his rider. The monks that were knocked unconscious by Terrel would be brought back inside the monastery, though it doesn't seem like they were able to bring them back to consciousness.*\n\n*Eventually all the preparations were complete and three groups could be seen around the monastery, each with a ladder. The group would be split to the south, east, and west. The west and south group in particular all appeared to be made of monks, with the west group looking particularly tired as they would take notice of the burning ladder and try to take it down before its flames could spread to the building*\n\n*Thus the only two groups that were truly ready to engage their assault was the south and east group. The east group was made entirely of the white clad priests, but there was also a new face among them. Unlike his compatriots this elf had completely dark clothing and a large dark pointed hat. The priests around him had worried faces as they glanced over his grinning face. The black cloaked priest would look up to the roof and let out a haughty laugh as he yelled out*\n\n\"To think only two pieces of trash would cause so much ruckus in my monastery. You must be particularly strong, especially considering you took out Brother Gabrell. Must thank you for that by the way, he was always a bit of a thorn to my side, wanting to stick to his 'holy' ways. But alas while I'm grateful for the bloodshed, I can't have you killing any more members. But rest assured, you will be welcomed sacrifices for our lord and savior Osin!\" \n\n*With that said he would motion for the priest to lay their ladder against the wall and yell out*\n\n\"Come brothers! Let's put an end to the fools who dare to stand up against Osin's might! Come, let us deliver their divine retribution!\"\n\n*The group to the south would then also put their ladder against the wall and start climbing up. The group to the west would still be putting out the burning ladder, but would also be quickly setting up the ladder to follow suite*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton whispers to Terrel.*\n\n\"We're screwed if we stay here. We probably can't fight the tough ones yet with the small bastards blasting us from behind. Let's take out the easy ones first. Carry me there, we'll get there faster that way.\"\n\n\"When we attack, make sure it's at the same time. We don't want to give them any warning.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Hearing the voice of the priest coming from behind, Terrel didn't need much confirmation to know that the groups were moving around them, especially with more of the ladders being propped up. As Yakaiyo whispered to him, he say back in a tone of sarcasm:*\"I could have told you that a while ago...\"\n\n*Last thing Terrel wanted was to be shot at from multiple directions again, it was enough to make him collapse just thinking on it. Nevertheless, if they were going to move anywhere it seemed like Yakaiyo was going to need assistance getting there.*\"Hop on...\"*He'd say with a sigh, turning his back to her. Seemed like he was taking over for Carl while he was out of the picture, not that it was too much of a hassle outside of his already limp arm in trying to balance her on his back.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton smirks as Terrel responds sarcastically.*\n\n\"Let's get these rats over with.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo hops off Terrel's back, approaching the edge of the roof. Dropping down, she attempts to slam her elbow into the elf's head once again; shame she couldn't axe kick him due to her leg.*\n\n*Immediately after that, she moves south, attempting to whack the other elf with a simple punch.*\n\n```HP: 33/33\nMana: 12/12\nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 0\n\nMovement:\nAttack 1: | 33 | 20 | \nAttack 2: | 17 | 8 |```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*As Terrel would drop Yakaiyo off at the edge of the roof, he'd quickly grab his crossbow, locking aim down on the second Elf she went for (Orange) as he would fire his one bolt down before alternating to the javelins she had given him. He'd readjust his hold on it, throwing one down towards the Elf closest to the wall (blue) while quickly following with another javelin being thrown at his ally just south of him (red). After which he'd gradually begin making his way down the wall, moving carefully to keep close to Yakaiyo in the event of a needed escape.*\n\n```HP: 17/53\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: 3 Tiles south\nAttack 1: | 25 | 10 | Crossbow\nAttack 2: | 19 | 5/5 | Rapid shot, Javelin```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Yaikayo with gravity on her side was able to deliver a skull shattering to the closest elf that was about to climb the ladder. He wouldn't even know what hit him as he fell to the ground as his gray matter spilled all over the ground.*\n\n*The monk behind would stare, a bit traumatized as the blood pooled around his feet, leaving him wide open to Yaikayo's gut punch, causing him to heave over in pain. Unfortunately his suffering didn't end there as a crossbow bolt would puncture his shoulder. Already thrown off balance with Yaikayo's punch along with the wet footing from the blood in conjunction with the force of impact with the crossbow, the elf would slip over backwards and slam his head against the ground. His eyes would roll backwards upon impact as foam formed around his mouth. As long as the bolt wasn't removed from his shoulder prematurely, he shouldn't die of immediate bloodloss. A lucky shot for Terrel to say the least*\n\n*The remaining two monks would wince in pain as they get hit by Terrel's javelin, but would mostly turn their attention to Yaikayo, as she was the one that had just brutally murdered their comrade and in their rage would shoot a bolt of radiant energy at her head. It would connect and Yaikayo would feel her vision turn white once more as well as feeling a strong sense of dizziness. They wouldn't be smiling at their success though, knowing full well this wasn't enough to stop her bloodthirsty rampage, but at least found some comfort in that it would slow her down*\n\n```\n6 dmg to Yaikayo with confused status\nYaikayo has blind condition\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would walk down the rest of the way towards the Elves as their attention seemed focus on Yakaiyo. Grabbing his blade, he'd quickly swing at the Elf (Blue) closest to him to before going in for another swipe (Blue) and switching over to attack the Elf (Red) next to him. Turning his blade around, he'd bring his hilt town towards the other Elf (Red) in an attempt to bash him in the skull, hopefully giving Yakaiyo opportunity to finish them off.*\n\n```HP: 17/53\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement:\nReaction: | 25 | 10 | Sword \nAttack 1: | 14 | 5/12 | Sweep\nAttack 2: | 7 | 11 | Sword```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*She could take this bolt. It wouldn't hurt __too__ much.*\n\n*What she didn't expect was the blindness and confusion. The killer stumbles, going for a wild left hook, hoping to hit something.*\n\n```HP: 33/33\nMana: 12/12\nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 1\n\nMovement:\nAttack 1: Defend!\nAttack 2: | 19 | 8 |```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The monk closest to Terrel would receive a deep gash from his sword swing, quickly realizing his mistake on only focusing on Yaikayo. The monks would go on the defensive, and with impressive show of athletic ability duck and sidestep the rest of Terrel's blow as well as Yaiayko's disoriented left hook.*\n\n*The monks would turn to face each other and nod, as if affirming some of silent between the two of them. The monk closest to Terrel (blue) would launch a bolt into his eyes, and once more Terrel would find his vision turning white. He would try to shoot another bolt of radiant energy but the initial first slash Terrel dealt started to bleed more deeply, so he would tend to it to reduce the blood loss.*\n\n*The other monk (red) would attempt to confuse Yaikayo once more, but she her disoriented movements would work to her favor as the blows would narrowly miss her. They both would curse under their breath, asking why Osin had abandoned them. But the farthest one would at least yell out*\n\n\"They are by the front! Forgive us Father, but we won't be able to hold them off for much longer!...\"\n\n```\nTerrel is now blinded\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel's found his gaze being clouded once more, unable to pinpoint where exactly where the others were as he'd turn to face the last place he remembered them in before swinging the hilt of his sword at them rather wildly.*\n\n```HP: 17/53\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: N/A\nReaction: 14 | Miss | Sword\nAttack 1: | 4 | 5 | Sword\nAttack 2: | 7 | 4 | Sword```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*As her eyes cleared up, Yakaiyo let out an almost beast-like growl. Stepping in between the two elves, she throws out her arms, performing a double backfist to strike both elves at once.*\n```\nHP: 27/33 \nMana: 12/12 \nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: 0\n\nMovement: 1\nAttack 1: | 29 | 19 | \nAttack 2: | 26 | 12 |\n```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The elves would continue their assault, launching a volley of radiant spells at both Terrel and Yaikayo. Terrel would find his eyes being burned once more, making it difficult to see, thus his wings would swing a bit wildly, but he would feel the second swing actually connect. Perhaps the monk was knocked unconcious?*\n\n*Even if he was, it looked like fate had other plans for him. Yaikayo with her sight and balance restored would be able to dodge all spells aimed at her and slam a critical backfist to both of the monks' head. A resounding crack would be heard before both monks bodies would fall to the ground, limp, with their head out of place with their neck and blood dripping from their mouths. Looks like mercy wasn't an option for them*\n\n*However, there was no time to celebrate their victory, as glancing up they would see the dark robed priest looking down upon them from the edge of the roof with a smirk. There would also be a white robed priest next to him and he would be chanting under his breath and a stronger presence could be felt around the dark robed priest*\n\n\"I hope you are satisfied with all the blood you have shed, cus you won't shed anymore. You are surrounded. Don't even consider surrendering, you had plenty of chances to do that before. Accept your fate and say praise be to Osin when you meet him\" *The priest would say with sinister laughter*\n\n*As if to reinforce his point, around the corner the other group of monks could be seen running toward the front. They are a bit out of breath, probably from all the running, but they still have their prayer beads in hand and clearly ready to fight*\n\n```\nTerrel is blinded\n```" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Yakaiyo grabs onto Terrel's shoulder, turning him to the new group of monks. The treton merely grins, locking eyes with the black-robed priest.*\n\n\"Look all around you! What makes you think you can stop me?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo then charges towards the closest monk, attempting to uppercut him to knock his head up, then chop down with a left hook.*\n\n```HP: 27/33\nMana: 12/12\nFocus: 6/6\nTempo: +2 -2 = 0\nBlood Charge: 2/3\n\nMovement: 3 Left\nAttack 1: | 27 | 16 | \nAttack 2: | 23 | 8 |```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Key person being her...\"*He'd utter, unsure of what exactly was happening around him as he could only hear the words from the other eleves and Yakaiyo standing next him with her hand grabbing onto his shoulder. It seemed like they couldn't catch a break here. Turning his head back towards the direction the voices were coming in, Terrel would grab at the javelins and throw one up at the Elf in the white cloak, soon following it up with another one towards his comrade before he'd grab a third and throw it up towards the original speaker. It was impossible to tell if he'd hit in his moment of blindness, but he knew very well the punishment he was about to endure from not being able to see where the attacks were coming from.*\n\n```HP: 17/53\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: N/A\nAttack 1: | 20 | 6/6 | Rapid shot, white cloak priest/dark cloak priest \nAttack 2: | 4 | 6 | Javelin throw dark cloak```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The Dark Robed Priest would simply keep a cocky grin on his face as he looked own upon Yaikayo and her taunts*\n\n\"Well, for one thing, I am stronger than all those bodies around you. But don't let my words alone convince you of that fact, for I am a man of action\"\n\n*The father would then raise his hand toward Yaikayo and chant* \"Tormented by the unending waves of the sea, the sailors finally sought refuse by diving into the sea itself. There, they were embraced by the drowning love of Osin over despair, and peace was made\" \n\n*As he finished his a chant a wall of holy light would shoot toward Yakaiyo. Unfortunately for him, it would seem he took too long to say his chant and she would be able to easily side step it. The father would click his tongue in annoyance, but would smile and shrug*\n\n\"Just a warm up, keep you on your toes. Wouldn't want your death to come too quick. I'm sure my brothers would agree\" *And he would glance over to the monks and the priest next to him, giving them the silient order to begin their assault as he walked toward the ladder with the priest by his side continuing to enhance him. That said, it would seem they were a bit too cocky as they would both be hit by Terrel's Javelin and would wince in pain. They father would scowl and look down to Terrel while avoiding their second throw*\n\n\"...You will pay for that. Not as badly as the she-demon, but you will suffer nevertheless\"\n\n*Meanwhile, the monks on the ground would let loose their own volley of spells as they circled around the building to get a clearer view. Once more a bolt would collide with Terrel's eyes and singe his face, continuing to rob him of his sight. Yaikayo would be pretty nimble on her feet and evade all the blows, but the flurry still overwhelmed her eyes and blinded her as well.*\n\n*But even in her blinded state she would be able to deliver a solid uppercut to the monk's head forcing his jaw through his skull. He would fall to the ground and lie over dead like all his other fallen brothers. Truly the scene was beginning to look like a bloody hellscape*\n\n```\nYaikayo takes 42 dmg\nYaikayo evades all dmg\nYaikayo is blinded\n\nTerrel receives 3 dmg\nTerrel is blinded\n```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Like a wild animal, Yakaiyo charges towards the elves, positioned so she can reach all 3 monks at once. She focused her efforts on the leftmost one, throwing two wild hooks.*\n\n```HP: 27/33\nMana: / \nFocus: 0/6\nTempo: 0\n\n\nMovement: 1 Southwest \nAttack 1: | 17 | 14 | \nAttack 2: | 19 | 5 |\nHealing: 13```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel quickly shook his head to and fro, feeling the singed pain of getting shot at by one of the bolts. By now he should have seen it coming, having to grow used to simply keeping his eyes shut in the wake of not being able to see anything with them open. He'd turn his head upwards in the direction that the voice was coming from.*\"Trust me, I already have many times over.\"*He'd say, throwing another series of javelins up towards the two cloaked Elves. He'd reach his hand down for another, finding himself running yet of javelins and soon realizing he'll have to switch over.*\n\n```HP: 14/53\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: N/A\nAttack 1: | 25 | 7/11 | Rapid Shot White Cloak/Dark Cloak\nAttack 2: | 8 | 4 | Javelin Dark Cloak```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priest would look down at Terrel and smirk*\n\n\"Clearly not enough. Do you see all the blood that has been spilled here? Oh wait, you can't see, my apologies\" *He would taunt before motioning to the monks on the ground. They were clearly terrified by Yaikayo and wanted to focus fire on her, but when they met the black robed priests gaze they would be shaken to their core. Thus they would to their best to maneuver around Yaikayo as they let loose a volley of spells at Terrel.*\n\n*But that would be their downfall as the closest one to Yaikayo would have his head caved in by her hooks and the momentum would carry over and batter the other two, causing them to miss all their shots and leave them stunned.*\n\n*The black robed priest would shake his head in disgust*\n\n\"Incompetent fools. This is why if you want to get something done, you have to do it yourself\"\n\n*With that he would raise his hand toward Yaikayo once more and chant the same chant as before. Another wall of radiant of energy would wash over Yaikayo, but perhaps tired from her assault she would find herself unable to dodge and be hit with the full brunt of the spell, blasting her into the ground. The black robed priest would smirk as the white robed priest continued to buff him*\n\n\"Looks like I stopped you after all, didn't I wench?\"\n\n```\nYaikayo takes 40 dmg\nYaikayo is downed\n```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Savagely, Yakaiyo forces her hook through the original target, slamming it into the jaws of the other two monks. However, she's struck from behind by a powerful radiant blast, and she goes down.*\n\n*However, she doesn't let herself fall. She stands back up once more, feeling the internal bleeding worsen. Her arm is seared from the radiant magic, and her head is spinning. Yet her eyes are fierce, and she stands, with a crimson vitality flowing through her as she regains health back.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would open his eyes, finally seeing things around him for the first time in what felt like ages.*\"Finally-\"*He'd say in a tone of exasperation. He looked up towards the priests on the roof, now able to identify them after all this time of being blind and having to listen to their taunts. He was half aware of Yakaiyo behind him, having to face the blows on her own. Maybe he was just lucky this time. Unsheathing his sword, he would dart up the side of the roof, swinging the blade at the Priest in the white cloak before suddenly pivoting around him and aiming another blow from behind.*\"Funny how it took this many of you.\"*He'd say in response to the Dark Priests previous words.*\"You didn't stop her, the entourage of your monks did. All you did was get the final hit and claim victory from it. You say you're much stronger than the ones littering the floor right now, but I have yet to see you do a thing on your own. Oh yeah, perhaps I missed it under all this blindness that your monks had to force upon me.\" \n\n```HP: 14/53\nFocus: 8/8\n\nMovement: 4 up then right behind you on white cloak\nAttack 1: | 29 | 10 | Right Behind you, Sword on White Cloak\nAttack 2: | 21 | 6 | Sword on White Cloak```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The Monks on the ground would be surprised to see Yaikayo continue to try and stand up and would launch another volley of spells against her. With her head already out of the game she would be hit square against the skull and find the world spinning around her once more. However, it wasn't enough to take her down once more, leaving them wide open to her counter attack*\n\n*Up on the roof, the back robed priest would stare at Terrel in surprise as he zoomed up the wall and behind the robed priest by his side. The priest would desperately try to cast a spell to heal himself but the wound would be too deep and he would fall to the ground, dead. The back robed priest would give a slow clap, clearly impressed by Terrel's show of skill*\n\n\"Very impressive. It looks like you are formidable when you can see after all. But you're wrong to believe that I am not strong, and I'll show you why\"\n\n*He would then raise his hand toward Terrel and cast the same spell he had cast on Yakaiyo. However the radiant energy would shine mostly away from him as he parried it with his blade, receiving only minor burns along the sides. The back robed priest would clearly be surprised and his face would turn red in embarrassment*\n\n\"...Well then. No need for me to play fairly, all is fair in war and this is certainly starting to look like a battlefield. Brothers, blind him!\"\n\n*From behind Terrel would suddenly notice two white robed priest tending to the bodies left to the roof. However upon receiving the black robed priests orders they would turn their attention to Terrel and launch a volley of holy lights at his eyes, blinding him once more*\n\n```\nTerrel takes 28 dmg\nTerrel parrys 26 dmg\nTerrel recieves 2 dmg\nTerrel is blinded\nTerrrel is illuminated\n\nYakaiyo recieves 8 dmg\nYakaiyo is Confused\n```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Somehow, she was still standing. She should have been dead a long time ago.*\n\n*Yakaiyo stands back up and throws her left hand onto the floor, her leg flying up and whipping the two elves in the jaw the other way, the force giving them a deadly case of whiplash. Afterwards, she looks at the two elves, draining them of blood. For now, she'd remain silent as she recuperated, looking at the carnage around her.*\n\n```\n\nHP: 26/27\nMana: 12/12\nFocus: 0/6\nTempo: 2\nBlood: 0\n\n\nAttack 1: | | | \nAttack 2: | | |\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel couldn't help but grin slightly, having to suppress a laugh at the damage done from the priest alone.*\"Seems the battleground is almost even ain't it?\"*He'd ask, tilting his head down towards the ground where all the bodies of dead elves laid. Terrel had to admit, she may have made it harder for the both of them, but she could still do damage when it counted. He didn't have much time to think on it, soon finding his gaze clouded once more.*\"I think you've hit me with enough of these for me to get the swing of it now.\"*He'd say, tightening his grip on his sword.*\"What say we test that theory?\"*He'd swing the blade at the dark priest, spinning around to end up on the other side of him before arcing another slash towards the priest's back. After which he'd begin to slowly make his way back down, moving to quickly reunite with Yakaiyo where his blindness couldn't help him.*\n\n```HP: 12/53\nFocus: 2/8\n\nMovement: Right behind, down 2\nAttack 1: | 18 | 7 | Sword\nAttack 2: | 22 | 6 | Right behind Sword```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The black robed priest would chuckle in unamused laughter*\n\n\"Is what how you see it? Guess the blindness has gotten to you, but please, be my guest. Feel free to continue making a fool out of yourself. You are only delaying the inevitable.\"\n\n*The priest would duck past Terrel's sword slash and roll past him as he moved behind and would laugh upon seeing him trying to climb down the ladder*\n\n\"You think you can escape? You think regrouping will save you? Looks like you have a pig brain as well as a face. Brothers, bring him down!\"\n\n*The white robed priests would run forward along the edge of the roof and blast Terrel as he climbed down the roof's edge, once more burning his eyes and cause his head to spin. Meanwhile the dark robed priest would raise his toward Yaikayo and chant once more*\n\n\"The land was tainted with poison and filth. Yet the Ocean cleanses all. Be gone, tainted one\"\n\n*Yakaiyo would once more be blasted down into the ground despite having just fully healed herself from the consumption of the elves around her. This priest did not give the same impression of skill as Brother Gabrell, but he certainly had a lot more fire power. It this kept up who is to say what would be left of her body...*\n```\nTerrel recieves 6 dmg and is confused and illuminated\nTerrel is blinded\n\nYaikayo is blasted down once more\n```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The woman had just recovered back some of her health when she was struck yet again by holy magic. Falling down yet again, her vision turned white.*\n\n*\"Was this the end?\"*\n\n*Then a whisper. The voices grew louder, and anger surged over the treton. She wouldn't let those bastards take her down.*\n\n*She forces herself awake, draining a nearby corpse for sustenance.*\n\n*\"I'm missing a leg, and my other is crippled. They'll pay for this.\"*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He would swing his blade at the Dark Priest while he spoke, saying in response:*\"Why wouldn't I delay it? You seem to enjoy that game. Who am I not to cater to your amusement?\"*He'd give another swing of the sword, gazing back up at the priest in his blind stare. It won't be much longer until he was down as well. With all these attacks hitting, he wasn't sure how much he had left in him.*\"At least you can say you've put up a good fight against a pig.\"*He'd sneer before moving along the wall, gradually making his way just a bit around the edge.*\n\n```HP: 6/53\nFocus: 2/8\n\nMovement: Left one, diagonal one\nOA: | 5 | 5 | Sword \nAttack 1: | 26 | 11 | Composed Attack\nAttack 2: | 2 | 8 | Sword```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The white robed priests would let loose a volley of spells at Yaikayo, but seeing how she had taken cover by the wall most of the spells would fail to reach her. The dark robed priest would laugh seeing her and Terrel's pitiful state*\n\n\"Yes, what a fun game this is. Like playing with rats. Or I guess a pig and a fish in this case. How about I put you in your pl-\"\n\n*And the priest would cough up blood as Terrel cut into, surprised to have actually been hit. His eyes would flare up in anger as he raised his hands over their positions*\n\n\"...How kind of you to line up so I can hit you all at once. Just die already\"\n\n*With that a wave a radiant energy would once more form over the two of them and blast them down into the ground. Their bodies already battered and beaten would only further deteriorate but still their bodies would remain and the priest would spit onto the ground in disgust*\n\n\"...If you knew what was best for you, you would stay down. But I suppose you won't fall that easily...\"\n\n```\nTerrel and Yaiakyo are downed\n```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Yet another leg gone. Despite this, the physical pain was blocked out by the burning hatred for the elves. Yakaiyo pushes herself onto her back, breathing hard.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel squeezed his eyes shut, his grip on the wall sliding as he'd fall to the ground in the midst of the blast. His back hit the ground, causing him to let out a quiet wheeze as he laid there dazed for the time being. He could feel his heart thudding around him, his vision clearing and blurring. Breath quieting, he'd slump on the ground taking a moment just to breathe. Three left. Yakaiyo was somewhere around him, that he knew, though it felt as if his body was on fire from all the blasts he had to endure. He could faintly hear the words from the priest above him, saying it would be best to stay down. Stay down... Stay down... It almost seemed to echo in his head with the beating amplifying it. He balled his hand into a tight fist before it gradually went lax again. Stay down. There was doubt in the priests words. He didn't believe in his own capabilities of taking the two down, Terrel however did, but who was he not to cater to the man's amusement?*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The back robed priest would let out a sigh or irritation as he he tended to his chest that was bleeding from Terrel's sword slash. He would walk toward the white robes and ask*\n\n\"How much 'blessing' do you two have left? Well better worded, think you have enough to put these two out for good?\"\n\n*The one closest to him would nod while the farthest would awkwardly shake his head. The priest would scowl but simply continue walking forward*\n\n\"Brother Elre, you stay here and finish them off. I have unfortunately used up all my 'blessings', and I'm not about to go down there on that filthy tainted ground to beat away at them with my staff like a brute.\"\n\n*He would then turn his attention to the priest that had shook his head no* \"Brother Elduin, heal me. Then come with me to gather the relics in the ritual room. I know we didn't finish the ritual, but it would be best if we take the relic and create a new monastery elsewhere rather than risk these scum taking it.\" *Shooting a dirty glance as Terrel and Yaikayo as they slowly regain consciousness* \n\n\"It pains me to say it, but it is clear that they have succeeded in destroying our monastery. May as well save what we can so that our faith won't die here. It's what they want, and we shouldn't give it to them\"\n\n*Brother Elduin would look conflicted, hatred burning his eyes as he looked over the dead bodies of all his fallen brothers and how the two responsible for all this were still standing, but would finally let out a sigh and nod*\n\n\"Understood. Let's go Farther Aslan... Brother Elre, please finish them off, but don't risk your life. If it looks like you are about to die, flee with us. There is no point spilling our blood anymore. It's clear these two have been 'blessed' by some sort of god to keep on fighting despite all their wounds. Survive so you may continue to spread the faith\"\n\n*Brother Elre would simply nod and take aim at both Terrel and Yaikayo while Father Aslan and Brother Elre would head away from the edge of the roof*\n\n*Brother Elre would chant*\n\n\"Lost at sea, the sailors cried out for help toward the pagan gods. But their cries were not heard, for the ocean waves were loud and unsteady. Instead they found themselves nauseous as they have spoken blasphemy against the lord of the sea\" \n\n*The blast would hit Yaikayo's head and render her unconscious once more, but the other would hit against the wall missing Terrel. The priest would click his tongue in annoyance but would keep his hand steady, preparing the next shot*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would sit up, staring up at the wall with a narrowed gaze. Sight restored for now it seemed. Turning around he'd get up and begin walking back up the wall, coming to see the other priests on the opposite side. Reaching for the darts Yakaiyo had given him, he'd fire off a series of darts at them, coming to reach for another as he readied himself for his final bit of combat.*\n\n```HP: 1/53\nFocus: 1/8\n\nMovement: 4 Up\nAttack 1: | 24 | 6/11 | White Cloak/Dark Cloak Rapid Shot\nAttack 2: | 8 | 7/4 | Dark Cloak/White Cloak Rapid Shot```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*White once again. Was this it? Was it her time to leave? Had she killed enough that she could finally achieve peace?*\n\n*And then she was awoken by the screams, calling for her to kill. To avenge them.*\n\n\"Why won't you let me join you?! WHY WON'T YOU LET ME DIE??!!!\"\n\n*Yakaiyo screams out, her expression that of anger, but also of confusion and fear. She couldn't rest, ever... As long as there were targets, she had to keep fighting, the voices wouldn't let her rest...*\n\n*Her vision turns white once again as the magic sears her body.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Terrel's first pair of darts would sail true and pierce both of the black robed and white robed priests feet, pinning them to the ground as they winced in pain. The Black robed priest would lean over and pull the dart out, narrowly dodging the second dark in doing so and would scowl in irritation*\n\n\"You sure don't give up do you? What more do you want?! Why won't you die?!!\"\n\n*He would limp forward across the roof with the white robed priest supporting him as they made their way to the ladder on other side of the building. The priest on the corner of the roof while wincing in pain from the dart in his leg would glance down to the bloody ground and anger would flash in his eyes once more. Seeing Yaikayo was still breathing he would scream a fury filled scream and keep on launching holly spells onto her body, screaming*\n\n\"Burn! Die! Turn to ash! Return to dust! Begone bitch! Let me kill you!!!\"\n\n```\nYaikayo KOed yet again\n```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel didn't speak as the pair tried to hobble away, instead slowly pursuing them as a cat with its prey. A game of cat and mice.*\"You said we'd switch roles eventually right?\"*He'd recall.*\"Surely now it's my turn to play the cat.\"*He'd throw another duo of darts after them. For what it's worth, they were making great distance, but he wasn't too merciful after all they had done. Casting a side glance to the priest that remained behind, he'd throw a third dart at him, not speaking another word.*\n\n```HP: 1/53\nFocus: 1/8\n\nMovement: Diagonal 5\nAttack 1: | 19 | 5/5 | Rapid Show Dart White Cloak/Dark Cloak\nAttack 2: | 17 | 4 | Dart on nearby White Cloak```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Again. Why?*\n\n*All Yakaiyo can do is release a guttural scream as time the magic takes her right arm.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Seeing that Yakaiyo had more or less been rendered useless, the priest would turn his attention toward Terrel and shoot 2 bolts of blinding toward his yes. But looks Terrel had gotten used to their gimmicks and would easily avoid them while launching a volley of darts toward them all, all them hitting their marks. It seemed being pushed to the brink had unlocked Terrel's true potential*\n\n*The black robed priest would however continue hobbling toward the ladder while pulling the darts of his body while yelling out*\n\n\"Well, I'm done playing this game! You've won, the monastery is destroyed! Just leave us alone you madman! I thought you were more sane than that bloody fish, but it seems you might even be more crazy! Is however much you're getting paid worth all of this! Can you live with yourself after doing all of this?!\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Awake. Elf. Throw. Yakaiyo's mind scrambles, unable to truly comprehend what is going on. She tries throwing a dart at the nearby priest, which misses.*\n\n```HP: 1 /27 \nMana: / \nFocus: 0/6\n\nMovement: 1\nAttack 1: | 14 | 7 | \nAttack 2: Dash```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would come to a stop as they fled, turning his gaze to the priest that remained. He'd reach for a dagger, pointing it towards the priest they'd left behind.*\"Flee if you wish... I have business to finish here...\"*And with that he'd throw a dart to the priest, following it with a second shot at the back of his head.*\n\n```HP: 1/53\nFocus: 0/8\n\nMovement: N/A\nAttack 1: | 17 | 7 | Precise Shot \nAttack 2: | 35 | 5 | Precise Shot```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priest would get pierced by both of Terrel's dark and he would grit his teeth in pain. Consciousness would be fading from his eyes and he would start to tumble, but seeing all of his fallen brothers on the ground again would invigorate him with new found determination. He would touch his wound and slowly heal them while aiming a bolt toward Terrel*\n\n\"You're right... You do have business to finish here. Die\"\n\n*With that the blast would make direct contact with Terrel's head and knock him over. The priest would be breathing heavily, unable to move as the darks had pinned him to the ground, but it didn't look like he had any intentions to move anyway as he stared down to Yaikayo*\n\n\"...You're next\"\n\n```\nTerrel is downed\n```" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The woman draws two more darts, throwing them from her quite horrible position.*\n```HP: 1/27 \nMana: / \nFocus: /\n\nMovement: \nAttack 1: | 19 | 8 | \nAttack 2: | 6 | 5 |```" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would drop his knees, glaring over at the man as he stared down over the edge of the building. A huff of air escaped him, slowly but surely as he'd stand back up.*\"Its like I promised someone not too long ago...\"*He'd utter.*\"I'm never going to die...\"\n\n```1/53```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The priest would be punctured by Yaikayo's darts and would grunt in pain, clearly losing conciousness once again but would touch himself and seal the wound, but would be breathing heavily. He would raise his hand in anger toward Yakaiyo and yell out*\n\n\"This is the end! Die!\" *But would find no energy flowing to his fingertips. He would look at his in disbelief, then frustration, then sadness before leaning over to yank the dart of his leg and start limping away muttering under his breath*\"...Why have you forsaken us Lord Osin..." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He'd grab another pair of darts, throwing each of them at the priest.*\"No more running... Your god won't save you now.\"*Terrel would say, moving after him.*\"Your god couldn't save your brethren from a mere swine and fish...\"\n\n```HP: 1/53\nFocus: 0/8\n\nMovement: 1 Tile Diagonal\nAttack 1: | 29 | 7 | \nAttack 2: | 24 | 7 |```" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The Priest would feel the darks pierce him from behind and would cough up blood. He would look down to his wounds and see all the blood spilling out and would glance over to Terrel with tired but vengeful eyes*\n\n\"...You're right, my god couldn't save my brethren, and he couldn't save me. But Osin so help me, if I am going to meet my maker today, then I'll be sure you will see yours as well!\"\n\n*He would pull the darts out of his leg and rush toward Terrel and take a swing full of passion toward Terrel's head with his staff, but alas, the difference in skill was clear. Terrel was a master of martial combat while he was a mere priest. His staff would be easily blocked and the staff would snap in half. He would glance to his staff, then back to Terrel, and sigh a defeated sigh*\n\n\"...Someday you will pay for your sins. I may have not been the one, but someday... You will see...\" *And with that the priest would collapse to the ground as the last bit of life force left his eyes*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Meanwhile, Yakaiyo would be simply draining blood from the nearby corpses. She looked up to the victorious Terrel, now utterly crippled. Her only limb remaining was her left arm, the others ended in seared stumps.*\n\n\"Is he dead?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would watch the priest collapse over, making his way over to him and staring down at him.*\"I'll pay for it alright, but it won't be in my own blood...\"*He'd say more quietly before looking over to Yakaiyo, his eyebrow raising at the sight of her, but deciding not to question the state she was in after all he endured. It was a wonder how she was still alive.*\"Yeah... He's dead.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Yakaiyo nods, then simply drags herself away. There was nothing else to be done here. This was a failure; sure, she had killed many elves, but failed to slay a key target, who seemed to be unaffected by the deaths of his underlings. The hive would simply move and grow again; she had achieved __nothing__. The cost of healing these injuries would make the reward useless; maybe she could have asked for a higher share from the boss, but she was not in the state to make demands, nor was she in the mood. Plus, the mercenary __had__ helped her; he deserved it.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would watch her drag herself off, his face retaining a neutral expression. Part of him was tempted to ask if she was planning to drag herself all the way back, but it seemed that she was already insistent enough to move on her own. He'd make his own way down, raising a hand to whistle for his horse to reunite with him. Seemed like it was about time to collect the reward, as much as this place seemed to inconvenience him. He'd carefully climb back up on Carl as his horse neared, tapping his foot at his horse's side to not risk further injury to his arm as the horse would soon trot off.*" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*Terrel would reunite with Carl and make his way down the hill toward the streets of Silnari. On his way down he would encounter the Green Haired macen with the sloth doll in his hand and his eyes would shine with relief as he saw Terrel*\n\n\"Oh, thank goodness, you're back! I thought I messed up big time. I assume your return means the job is finished? Do you still have my blanket? Can I have it back\" *He would ask eagerly. However, he would notice something was off and would glance around the side with a bit of confusion on his face* \n\n\"Where is the Treton? Did she die? Well guess that would mean more coin for you once I verify the bodies in the monastery.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"The crazy lady? Dragged herself off and haven't seen her since...\"*He'd say simply before reaching into the sack with his one good arm to grab the blanket and toss it to him.*\"Consider yourself lucky with that one.\"" }, { "author": "frankenstein", "message": "*The macen would gleefully grab the blanket and snuggle his face into it before turning his attention back to Terrel*\n\n\"I see. Well, I'm sure the boss can find her and give her the coin she deserves. Honestly, not really suited to this kind of work, but unfortunately 'he' has been a busy. Well as long as I get the relic back from the boss and show him all the priests you two defeat, I'm sure he would be happy.\"\n\n*He would then walk down the street and start heading toward the monastery before turning back, realizing he forgot to dismiss Terrel.*\n\n\"You can leave as well. The coin will reach you in one way or another just like the letters. No need to worry about the boss cheating you, but if it does...\" *He would glance over to his blanket, but would shake his head*\n\n\"Nevermind, no need to worry. The boss always keeps his promises. He would likely want to hire you again so better to keep you on his good side, right? Anyhow, see you later!\"\n\n*With that the green haired macen would continue his awkward walk up toward the monastery leaving, Terrel all alone on the street*\n\n```Quest Complete\n40.5 gold rewarded to Terrel and Yakaiyo\n50 xp rewarded to each\n```" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Fear leads to anger. Anger to hate. And hate to suffering.*\n\n*The sounds of bone clashing against bone echoed throughout the woods, the elven hunter long dead. His face was now unrecognizable, the facial bones shattered beyond any attempt for reconstruction.*\n\n*Yakaiyo's bloody fist continued to slam into the corpse's face. Right now, she didn't care that he was dead. All she remembered was the pain she felt; the humiliation of being beaten down by magic, the helplessness of being completely cut down. The elves did it. The high elves did that to her. They wanted to see her suffer.*\n\n*And so she would reciprocate a thousand times.*" }, { "author": "Mizu", "message": "*It had been a long while since Mizu had visited the woods of Silnaria. They weren't particularly beautiful, but given the magical nature of the elves she had occasionally found unique beasts around these parts. She wondered if today would bring such fortune upon her and her child as another experience to add to their repertoire. Another source of stimulation.*\n\n*As she made her way through the woods a familiar scent would fill her nostrils. A welcomed scent. Blood. She would turn her head to get a better whiff of the scent and start to follow it. Was there injured prey nearby? She was a bit hungry and wouldn't mind feeding Yuzu some more. A plump baby is a happy baby after all.*\n\n*As she carefully followed the scent she would find before her an interesting sight. A Treton bashing away at what was presumably an elf. Only reason she could tell was due to the ears sticking out of the sides as the rest of the body looked like mushed flesh. A very brutal scene of violence, and she would press Yuzu's face to her chest so hide it from him. The Treton was clearly angered by something and a bit of insanity can be clearly seen in her eyes.*\n\n*It would be best if she left the scene undetected, but before she could back away, Yuzu who had also gotten scent of the blood would start to cry out in hunger. Mizu would do her best to shush him, but knew from this distance it was too late. She would glance over to Treton and tense her legs up in anticipation on how she would react*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton heard the baby's cry. Was this another torment of the voices? Reminding her of the children she had lost? Yakaiyo screamed out, punching the beaten elf one last time.*\n\n*Wait. It was real. Someone was here.*\n\n*Quickly, Yakaiyo turns to face the source of the noise, her fists raised and her eyes fierce, only for her angered expression yi disperse once she sees who's standing near her. Yet another black-haired, red eyed woman, presumably a vampire as well, with a child in her arms.*\n\n*Yakaiyo lowers her fists, tilting her head, looking at the baby, then the woman.*\n\n\"Who are you?\"" }, { "author": "Mizu", "message": "*Mizu would take a step back from the bloody Treton while holding Yuzu close to her chest, grateful that that the Treton wasn't so insane as to attack on sight. Perhaps she can actually be reasoned with? Though that look in those bloodthirsty red eyes made her doubt it*\n\n\"...Just a traveler. Heard some ruckus and was curious what it was, thinking it was some beast roaming about. Looks like I wasn't wrong, though it appears to be more of a monster than a beast.\" *She would say as she glanced over to Yaikayo's bloody first and the pile of mush next to her. It was clear the Treton was strong and Mizu didn't want to get into a fight, so she would do her best to appear calm and docile*\n\n\"In any case, I can see that I've disturbed your... Activity. I assure you I won't tell anyone what I saw here today, so if you could be so kind as to let me and my child leave, I would be extremely grateful\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Breathing hard, Yakaiyo takes a single step forward, then another. Then stops.*\n\n*A monster.*\n\n\"I am a monster, aren't I?\"\n\n*The treton would then look to the woman's ears, reminiscent of that of that of a fox or wolf.*\n\n\"You're a kitsune? Not many of your kind around here.\"\n\n*Another step forward.*\n\n\"How can I be sure you're not going to report me?\"" }, { "author": "Mizu", "message": "*A flash of irritation would flash across Mizu's eyes upon being called a 'kitsune', but would try to hide it with a 'pleasant' smile*\n\n\"Well, I did say I'm a traveler. But perhaps you should try a mirror. I'm sure my 'kind' and your 'kind' are more closely connected than that of fox-eared tricksters and fish warriors.\" *Mizu would say while flashing her eyes red*\n\n\"If that isn't sufficient reason to trust me, then I ask that you think about it logically. You really think those hauty elves would take my words seriously if I were to report this? Even if they did you would be long gone. There is also nothing in it for me.\"\n\n*Upon seeing the Treton come closer and closer, she would slowly reach out toward the adamantine spear on her back* \n\n\"If even that isn't sufficient enough to convince you, may I ask what is the alternative? I can see you are strong, but I hope you aren't so foolish as to believe I am merely a travelling mother with no way to defend herself\"\n\n*She would then tilt her head and mischievously grin*\n\n\"I actually wouldn't mind clashing with you. Been a while since I had a good fight. Alas, I don't wish to risk my child's safety. So I'll be taking a defensive stance on this matter. So come at me if you wish. But rest assured, it won't be easy~\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Another vampire. With a child? Yakaiyo takes a step back as she sees the woman reach for a spear on her back. This was not just some woman. This was a warrior. And a wealthy one too; that spear seemed to be adamantine.*\n\n*And seemed to dislike elves as well.*\n\n\"I know better than to fight a mother defending her child. They'll fight tooth and nail and won't stop until the threat is dead or they are.\"\n\n*Which you should be.*\n\n\"I suppose that's enough of a reason. You dislike the elves as well?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo looks towards the beaten corpse, and kicks it one more time, for good measure.*" }, { "author": "Mizu", "message": "*Mizu would tilt her head to the other side in amusement at the Treton's question. She was relieved that Yuzu would be safe, but the warrior in heart was also secretly hoping that the Treton would attack. But it is what it is, it seemed the Treton trusted for her now, though seemed like she had a misconception about her view on the elves* \n\n\"Hmmm, I wouldn't say I dislike them. Their haughtiness is simply a part of them, and something I find amusing. I haven't met many strong elven warriors, but there is no denying they have skilled casters. The look of surprise on their face when they find their magic isn't strong enough to protect them from those they look down upon makes me smile.\" *She would say with a bit of a sinister smile, recalling all the elven guards she had killed at a nearby fort*\n\n\"That said, not all of them are like that. Would make me no different from them if I were to look down upon them just like how they look down on other races.\" \n\n*She would let out a chuckle upon seeing Yakaiyo kick the body once more*\n\n\"Darling, I'm sure he is long past dead. You could hardly tell that lump of flesh was even an elf anymore. A shame as well, you've wasted so much blood, having it spill all over the ground\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Amusing, huh?\"\n\n*Amusing. As if the elves were anything but amusing.*\n\n\"Strong spellcasters? They're cowards that hide behind their magic. One of them refused to use his staff when he was out of magic, instead running like a dog with his tail tucked between his legs. They'll gang up like them as well.\"\n\n\"As for this thing, I know he's dead. You need more?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo walks back into the alleyway, pulling out another elf. This one looks undisturbed save for his crushed trachea, but still alive, somehow. His eyes dart around in fear as he sees the two vampires.*\n\n\"There's plenty here.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Mizu", "message": "\"Hmm, well the ones I killed weren't strong spellcasters either. If they were I likely wouldn't be standing here~\" *She would say with a wry chuckle imagining how she would've ended up if all the elves in the keep were skilled casters. She would be lucky to leave the place with her limbs still intact much less her life.*\n\n*But that would've been a fun experience as well in its own way. She hadn't experienced humiliation or defeat in a long while, a stimulus she has more or less forgotten. Perhaps one of these she shall experience it again. One of these days*\n\n\"I must say though, that must have been an amusing sight. To see such 'proud' beings running away like a mutt and to rely on petty tactics to 'win'. Yet despite all their struggling, I assume they all ended up like him, no?\" *She would say with a smirk while glancing at the dead body. Given how brutally she had beaten the body Mizu couldn't image the elves the Treton was speaking about got off any better. Or perhaps they are the reason for her frustration? But she didn't dwell upon such thoughts upon seeing the second body and would politely bow her head*\n\n\"Ah, thank you for sharing Miss... Why, I realize we still haven't shared names yet. I am Kyuu and this is my son Ketsu.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*A group full of spellcasters... The one thing Yakaiyo had fought not even a week before. She was absolutely crippled from it; nearly rendered a potato, had it not been for the help of the Boss's healer. If that damn Canifor hadn't hesitated, they would have been able to take down far more of them.*\n\n\"Most.\"\n\n*A scowl takes on the treton's face, though it's not obvious to exactly what it's a reaction to.*\n\n\"Yakaiyo. Yakaiyo Kiriyami.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo lets out a sigh, looking at Kyuu's son Ketsu.*\n\n\"It's nothing. Your son, how old is he? Where is his father?\"" }, { "author": "Mizu", "message": "*Mizu's eyebrows would rise ever so slightly in surprise upon hearing the Treton only dealt with 'most' of them. Well, given the scowl it wasn't mercy that let them escape. Though, none of that was any of her concern. Instead she would simply smile upon hearing the Treton's name*\n\n\"Yakaiyo. What a pretty name.\"\n\n*She would then look down and cradle her son who was glancing over at the new elf with droll spilling all over his mouth*\n\n\"He is 8 months old. Been raising him all by myself, even through my pregnancy. The father simply did the deed and left due to some family matters. Being a vampire I guess he lost track of the time. Heh~\" *She would say with a laugh, though there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. But even that would quickly fade away and be replaced with hunger upon staring at the remaining elf*\n\n\"Well no point dwelling in the past. My son appears to be hungry and I admit I could use some blood as well. Shall we dine in?\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Kyuu's words unknowingly send a pang of sorrow into her heart as she remembers the first words her husband said to her.*\n\n*\"Yakaiyo. That's a beautiful name.\"*\n\n*Her attention goes back to the child Ketsu. Yakaiyo's brow furrows as she hears about how the father simply left.*\n\n\"A shame, really. The mother and child *Are* His family.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo kneels down next to the paralyzed elf, still alive but unable to move.*\n\n\"Of course. Your son can eat first.\"\n\n*Internally, Yakaiyo is raging at the irresponsibility of the father. To simply get together for lust and leaving soon after, leaving the mother to fend for herself was shameful.*" }, { "author": "Mizu", "message": "*A family. Yes, that is what she really wanted. To raise their child together as a mother and father. Something she never got to experience as an orphan. For that she was sorry, she was sorry her child would never feel a father's love because of her poor choice of a mate. Regret would fill her eyes as she lovingly gazed down upon Yuzu. As much love as she showered upon him would never make up for this fact, but she hoped to make all other aspects of his life pleasant as his mother*\n\n\"Thank you for your consideration. We shall dine in then\"\n\n*She would approach the injured elf and tilt his head to the side while bringing Yuzu toward his neck. As per instinct, Yuzu's fangs would pop out of his mouth and he would bite down upon the elf's neck. Mizu would smile watching Yuzu feed and would massage the elf's neck to increase his blood flow. The elf would only be able to stare in terror as his life force was drained. If he struggled at all Mizu would tighten her grip on him and whisper into his ear*\n\n\"If you cause any trouble for my child, I assure you, you will end up in a worse state than your compatriot over there~ So be a good bloodbag and fill my child's tummy~ Who knows, you might even get to survive\"\n\n*That was a lie of course, but if it would calm the elf down Mizu wouldn't mind whispering sweet nothings. Perhaps it was due to her oriate nature.*\n\n*While she waited for Yuzu to finish feeding she would turn her attention back towards Yakaiyo*\n\n\"So, how about you? Got a family of your own?\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton took pleasure in the elf being used as a mere bloodbag for the baby, seeing his fearful expression, smirking. Then the sentence hit.*\n\n*\"Got a family of your own?\"*\n\n*To Kyuu, Yakaiyo would simply be staring into space, her head looking down. In her mind though, she was replaying the moment over and over again. The fiery halls, the roars of the mob, the clashing of steel and the whistling of deathly arrows, plunging into them-*\n\n\"No!\"\n\n*Yakaiyo awakens from her flashback, breathing hard, frantically looking around, then down.*\n\n\"Not anymore.\"" }, { "author": "Mizu", "message": "*Mizu would be taken aback by Yakaiyo's sudden proclamation. Clearly it was a sensitive topic for the Treton. Her curious nature would've wanted her to delve deeper into it, but having just experience lash back for doing something similar with an acquaintance not too long ago, she would hold herself back*\n\n\"I see, sorry for your loss. Can't imagine the grief you must feel, but I hope a better future awaits you\"\n\n*With that Yuzu would be finished drinking and would have a sleepy look to his eye. The elf would still be alive, but much paler than he was originally. Didn't seem like he would survive being drained another time, but that wasn't something Mizu was overly concerned with.*\n\n*She would place Yuzu over her should as she tapped away at his back to burp him. The silence was a bit awkward, so Mizu would ponder over another topic to talk about*\n\n\"So, you've seen any other vampires around these parts. I know you said you don't see my 'kind' around here, but I assume that was referring to my race. It's pretty rare to find fellow vampires, so today is a pleasant surprise to say the least\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Dark Silnarian streets. Once peaceful, and calm once again, previously disturbed with screams and blood. Yakaiyo had take a vow not to kill, to not give in to the voices; but she still needed to feed. She was facing a problem she never thought she would face: the lack of blood.*\n\n*Ever since Horace had saved her from her descent into madness, Yakaiyo had to find other ways to receive blood, feeding the vampiric aspect of her. She had recently been knocking out Lathians, not killing them, in order to obtain their blood. They would find themselves awake and only with two bite marks once they woke up. The treton didn't care what happened to them afterwards; they could end up being tortured and she wouldn't care. As long as she didn't kill, she wouldn't let the voices grow louder. Yakaiyo couldn't bear them; every time she saw the exposed neck of the elves she knocked out, she felt a whispering in the back of her mind to rip out their throats and feast on their blood. Each time, she suppressed it, sometimes barely.*\n\n*However, today, she needed it. She wandered the alleys, looking for blood.*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana often stood within the alleyways while she scoped out her next target. She couldn't say she was entirely pleased that her life forced her to steal to survive but it beat death. It was easy to pick up food from some lady's basket, as long as one never pressed down the lift would go unnoticed. Just the day previous she managed to swipe some ear-muffs made for the Silnarian people. Macen earmuffs went over the top of the head, the one she wore stretched around the back due to her ears. She never had ear-muffs before, she didn't know they blocked out so much noise too. It was hard enough to hear someone approaching with all the talk and chatter. Moments prior she checked behind her back for any signs of activity and was pleased to not see any at the time, though this was moments ago.* \n\n\"Just need some gloves now.\" \n\n*She whispered to herself as she rubbed her hands together in a feeble attempt to stay warm.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Walking through the alleyways, Yakaiyo caught a glance of silver hair. Perfect. Silently, Yakaiyo begins to stalk the elf from behind, getting closer and closer. Earmuffs too; it appears that this one wasn't going to be detecting her anytime soon.*\n\n*Quickly, Yakaiyo shoots her hands out and puts the woman in a chokehold, but lightly, ending up knocking the earmuffs slightly off. The treton whispers into her ear.*\n\n\"Hush, I just need a small bite.\"\n\n*And Yakaiyo sinks her twin fangs into the woman's neck, savoring the taste of blood. But something was off. It wasn't quite Lathian; no, this was in fact a Steppe elf. But in Silnaria?*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana had just picked her next target, It was a lady with a small child and the child was misbehaving. It would be enough of a distraction for even the most bold attempts. Today she figured she'd bump into the mother, even if she fell her attention would be torn between her items and her child that kept wandering from her. Celeana managed to take all of one step before an arm shot past her cheek and pulled back onto her neck. The first reaction was to grab onto the wrists that held onto her neck. She learned that being knocked out was very bad, the hard way. Once she was certain that she had enough breathing room she reached behind her back for her blades. She found her access blocked by whoever was attacking her.*\n\n*She didn't understand what the female voice said. Something about a bite? It was then that she realized what was implied as two sharp fangs pierced her flesh. Her head tilted back as a pained gasp escaped her lips, from the corner of her vision she saw black hair but that was it. She gave up the attempt at grabbing her blade as her arm found the wall beside them, using it to keep herself upright. It was all she could do for now, prevent herself from falling down and maintain her breath.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*This was not good. Not only had she targeted the wrong type of elf, but Yakaiyo could now feel the blades the woman had behind her. Yet, she couldn't stop sucking on her neck. The blood tasted too good; she was like a hungry animal, feasting ravenously on blood. But she couldn't take in too much. She made a vow to Horace to not kill unless she needed to.*\n\n*Eventually, Yakaiyo is able to force herself away, throwing herself against the wall, panting, blood staining her lips.*\n\n\"I'm sorry, I mistook you for the wrong kind of elf, and I just couldn't stop...\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"What do you mean you couldn't stop? Is this how all you people greet each other h-\" *She turned around to face her attacker, her voice falling silent. She wasn't sure which caught her attention first; her beauty or her bloodstained lips. Either way she had her answer, she was bitten by a vampire. She raised her left hand to her neck, tracing her fingers around two puncture wounds that still bled.*\n\n*Celeana pushed herself off the wall, unknowing to how much the vampiress tapped into her blood supply. She almost toppled the other direction before finding her balanced.* \n\n\"I'm not sure if I should be flattered or not. I guess I'm thankful that you did stop.\" *She stood in front of the Vampire, now getting a full profile instead of a side glance.* \"You have some of my.. Uh, some blood on your lips, Vampire.\" *It wouldn't take long for the Treton to realize Celeana's gaze was fixated on her face.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"I'm sorry, I really a~flattered?\"\n\n*Seeing the twin bite marks, Yakaiyo is initially overran by guilt, but then surprise as the elf complimented her. Not like the high elves. Not like the high elves at all. Typically, they would have screamed and tried to run, calling her a monster. This one was just glad that she stopped. Was she scared?*\n\n*Then she saw that the elf was fixated on her.*\n\n*Yakaiyo blinks twice, then uses a finger to wipe the blood off her lips.*\n\n\"Um... Thank you? You're not scared of me?\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"I'm not entirely sure. On one hand, you attacked me from behind. On the other, all you did was make me feel a little dizzy. I heard of vampires, never met one in person until now. That is what you are, right? I have two holes in my neck that support this assumption.\" \n\n*Celeana's gaze fixed on the Vampire's lips, expecting to see the trademark fangs that most vampires seem to possess. For a vampire she did have soft looking lips, she thought to herself. As soon as the thought crossed her mind she averted her gaze to the depth of the alleyway.* \n\n\"Were you that hungry? You would've been found out if I had yelled, you know.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"I am, yes.\"\n\n*Dizzy. A clear sign of some pretty harsh blood loss. Had she really sucked out that much?*\n\n\"I know, it's just, I wasn't thinking right. Are you sure you're ok? I might have taken a little too much blood if you're feeling dizzy.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo lacked the long fangs a vampire typically had; instead, her canines were only slightly longer, if at all, and barely sharper. However, it seemed enough to create the mark of a vampire; a twin fang bite.*\n\n*One thing Yakaiyo did have was acute observation from years of being a mother. The gaze the elf had was at her, seemingly in fascination.*\n\n\"Are you looking at my face?\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"I think I'll be alright. Actually, I have no idea. I can't say I spend my afternoons getting bitten and choked.\" \n\n*She mused at the Vampire. Maybe the rogue should be more cautious around the person who just finished leeching from her neck. From the stories she heard, vampire hunger was no joke and most people didn't survive against their bloodlust. For all she knew that vampire was still hungry but she stopped once and apologized as well.* \n\n\"Sorry, I was told that vampires are these shadow-like creatures with bat ears and fangs. I wasn't expecting them to be so... Well to be honest, beautiful.\" \n\n*Celeana turned back to look at the vampire to witness her expression. Times like these she was thankful that reading faces came naturally to her, granted she wasn't sure if it even worked for creatures of the night.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Yakaiyo assumed that the vampire was talking innocently. Before she was married to Hakaze, she had found some... Questionable material in the vast library, some of which were unread simply because it was so vast.*\n\n*Upon the compliment from the woman, Yakaiyo is visibly stunned, blushing slightly. The only person who had called her beautiful was Hakaze. The only one. The elves never complimented her; at best, they referred to her neutrally.*\n\n\"Be-beautiful?\"\n\n*The incredibly rare affection the elf was giving to her immediately struck her emotions like a tidal wave across a desert. This woman... Was actually showing kindness?*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"You can't honestly expect me to believe that you haven't heard that one before.\"\n\n *She picked up on the traces the vampire's emotions through her face. Something that looked like disbelief or shock rippled across the females face. A small smile stretched across her lips as Celeana noticed the blush across the vampire's cheeks.* \n\n\"Apologies, I'm probably making you feel flustered. Just so I'm clear on everything, I'm not turning into a vampire now am I? I've heard so many rumors that being bit turns you into one. I've also heard rumors that some type of blood swap needs to happen. I don't think I'm ready to bind myself to eternal darkness quite yet.\" \n\n*She tried her best to sound confident and nonchalant about the topic. She was rather afraid that she would become a vampire. She just found her freedom from the crystal mines after years, she wasn't quite ready to serve a different master yet. Celeana's left hand lifted to her forehead as she massaged one of her temples. This dizzy spell wasn't leaving nearly as soon as she had hoped.* \n\n\"Would you like to grab a bite to-\" *She eyed the vampire with a rather apologetic look in her face.* \"I wasn't trying to make a pun. I think I need food because I still feel rather dizzy. Seeing how you hold the most answers about vampires, I would appreciate it if you joined me. We can call it even then.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Not many people call me that at all. I can think of one...\"\n\n*Her eyes darted around, noticing that the elf noticed that she was blushing, causing her cheeks to turn redder. Flustered was an understatement; Yakaiyo was internally panicking.*\n\n\"No, you won't become a vampire. A vampire has to transfer their essence into another sapient being, which transfers the vampiric disease onto the person. Unlike others, it must be willingly given. I've never turned anyone into one, and I don't plan to anytime soon.\"\n\n\"Wait, are you hungry? Do you need food?\"\n\n*This was bad. It would be very difficult to show her face in public. Even if she used a spell, being a treton meant she would attract attention. Plus, she didn't want to hide her face...*\n\n\"I can't show my face in public. Would it be ok if I hid it? We can go to a local place and eat there. I'll pay, as payment for biting you.\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"I'm not feeling particularly hungry, I just know that food or sweets usually help. I'm not a medical expect but it's worth a shot.\" \n\n*Celeana turned from the vampire, facing towards the crowded street just beyond the alleyway. Again she didn't even make a step as she listened to the vampires words. A part of her wondered if she would ever make the step, two attempts have been made so far.* \n\n\"I'm not sure why you're asking me, You're free to do whatever you like. Do you recommend any local places nearby? All the places I know are busy.\" \n\n*She picked the busy places because pickpocketing always felt easier when patrons were drunk and loud. Celeana looked over her shoulder as she looked over the female's face. This time she was being very intentional with it, almost as if she wanted her to know what she was doing this time around.* \n\n\"Now you may cover your face, if you please.\" *As she took a final look in an attempt to remember the facial features.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"You need fluids and salt, like broth. And I'm... Not accepted in the general public. They hate me.\"\n\n*Going to a busy place would be bad, especially considering her most recent encounter had probably resulted in her being wanted everywhere. Bounty hunters would be swarming the streets, and she couldn't afford being seen.*\n\n*However, the elf's gaze charmed her once more, convincing her. Despite the danger, she just wanted to go with her.*\n\n\"I'll change it really quick.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo mutters a small incantation, and her face suddenly shifts to a much more generic treton. Still pretty, but lacking the stunning beauty of her original form. She puts a hood over her head, then nods.*\n\n\"I, uh, didn't get your name.\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"Salts and fluids, gotcha. I suppose if one of your hobbies is running around and biting people. I don't entirely blame them.\"\n\n*She stepped close to the alley exit, mostly looking for prying eyes. Out of respect she didn't watch the female change her appearance but she did hear some whispering from whatever spell she decided to use. Only when she spoke again did Celeana turn back. Not even a second later before a small warm smile appeared on her face. The elf found both appearances to be rather beautiful.*\n\n\"My name is Celeana Ashwood, May I ask for yours as well?\" \n\n*She extended a hand in greeting, her palm facing upwards. She was rather intentional by standing directly in front of the Vampire, using her body to block sight. She didn't know exactly how much 'hatred' the public held for this person. Maybe she should feel a little cautious with aligning herself with this person, but she felt rather okay with getting into trouble with this one.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Celeana's warm smile began to remind the treton of her late husband. Maybe it was because they had been the only ones who had looked at her like that, or maybe it was because she was genuinely attracted by the steppe elf's face. Regardless, Yakaiyo follows suit.*\n\n\"Yakaiyo Kiriyami. It's nice to meet someone who finally regards me as a person, Celeana.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo bows, her hands at her sides, before taking Celeana's hand. The treton's is hard worn yet soft at the same time, with slender fingers yet hard and bony knuckles. A mixture of elegance and hardship was the best way to describe it.*\n\n\"I haven't gone to any local restaurants in about 25 years. Maybe one that doesn't have that many people?\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana held the female's hand as she learned her name. 'Yakaiyo' It was a rather unique name, She liked it immediately just from the way it sounded. Instead of releasing the Vampire's hand, Celeana tightened her hold upon it. With their hands connected Celeana turned back to the busy road and began walking. Truth be told, she was rather new to this city. It seemed as if neither of them knew exactly where to find a secluded restaurant.* \n\n\"Do you feel like broth or what are you feeling tonight?\" \n\n*The question itself seemed innocent to everyone nearby, just two ladies talking about dinner plans. Celeana was more curious if the vampire even ate food outside of blood and the question was just a way to ask in a less direct way.* \n\n\"I'm sure we can find something delicious nearby, or do you want the same thing you had last time?\" \n\n*By the time she finished her question they stumbled across a restaurant that seemed rather empty inside. Celeana opened the door for them both. Normally she would have allowed the person behind her to enter first, but Celeana figured otherwise in this case. She greeted the waiter before the waiter even had a chance to greet them both, a tactic she used if she wished to distract the person from their surroundings. In this case, from focusing on Yakaiyo entirely.* \n\n\"A table for two please, Some place away from the windows as well. I've had enough people for today and would appreciate not being stared at. We'll share a menu as well, no need to bring two.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton widens her eyes in surprise as Celeana drags her along, following her as not to look like she's been dragged out of the alleyway. Now they were just like two friends going for lunch. Though, she didn't think friends held hands like this...*\n\n\"As long as there's good food, I'm looking forward to it. Last time I had... A tonkatsu curry with a bed of white rice. It wasn't an elven place, it was Runran. It's not in this location for sure.\"\n\n*It seems that Celeana was quite street smart. She accomplished her needs in simply a few words and taking the initiative; her charisma was extraordinary. Unbeknownst to Yakaiyo, it had swept her up as well.*\n\n\"Thank you. Really.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo takes out a few coins out of her pocket, laying them on the table.*\n\n\"I'm paying. It's only fair.\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana raised her hand to motion the server back to their table before he began doing an other task. She slid the menu down onto the table while pointing at a selection near the bottom.* \n\n\"I would like this soup please, and if you have anything similar to Tonkatsu Curry as well.\" \n\n*She nodded to the server as he swept the menu up and walked away. Soon after he left she returned her focus Yakaiyo who was seated across from her.* \n\n\"I'll be honest, I have no idea what I ordered. It sounded salty and... Brothy?\"\n\n *Celeana placed her hands above the table, something she had learned to help ease a conversation if the other person had full visibility of each other's hand.*\n\n\"So what kind of elf were you looking for? You mentioned it earlier right after you.. Well you know. Do you have a certain preference in the 'company' you keep?\" \n\n*She was speaking in a way that hopefully didn't come off as suspicious, she only hoped Yakaiyo knew what was being implied.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Under her hood, Yakaiyo swore that she saw an odd look from the server. A high elf, as expected in Silnaria. It was unlikely they would have anything like tonkatsu curry; at best, the latter, with rice. Everyone knew what rice was.*\n\n\"You got the wedding soup. A broth made of green vegetables and a type of meat, usually beef. Sometimes with pasta. It's called 'wedding soup' since the flavor is described as the marriage of the vegetables and meat.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo knew quite a lot about cuisine; she used to cook, after all. She never quite learned how to make it; she instead read about it in one of the books.*\n\n\"I'm much more fond of ramen myself, but we're not in a restaurant that serves Runran food. Silnarian will have to do here. I can make some mean katsukare.\"\n\n*The treton goes silent as Celeana mentions the elves. Whispers begin to appear in her mind once more before fading, and the Steppe elf can tell that she's been disturbed.*\n\n\"It's not a good idea to say this too loudly... But high elves. Anything else I almost never go for. And it's not because I like them either.\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"Yeah, I think I found that out the hard way. I won't pry on it, for now let's enjoy this 'wedding soup'. You seem very knowledgeable in cooking, are you a chef?\" \n\n*She noted the change in facial expression and knew to stay away from the topic entirely. Celeana placed her hand onto the table once more, searching for the menu that had been there moments previous. A few taps in random locations before remembering their menu had been taken. 'Right' she told herself. Her hands meeting once more in the middle of the table.* \n\n\"I'm not well versed in food, can you tell me what Katsukare is?\" \n\n*Even with the changed appearance she continued to look at Yakaiyo with a rather content smile. She was also genuinely interested in Yakaiyo's experiences with food. Did she come from Runran or just liked their food? She found herself wanting to know more about Yakaiyo. She assumed that her dislike for high-elves and the reason why she was hated were connected. But what about things she was passionate about? She told herself to calm down, as excitement started to swell up inside her chest.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"No, but I used to cook. For about...25 years. Katsukare is simply tonkatsu curry. A breaded and fried pork cutlet on curry. It's delicious. I used to make it for—never mind. It's a Northerner food, though I'm not truly Northern. My original family is from Pinnacelia, and we had some Northern influence.\"\n\n\"The tonkatsu portion is a pork cutlet that's salted, peppered, coated in flour, then coated with egg and panko, or bread crumbs especially made for this type of frying. It's then deep fried. The curry is simple; just curry. Typically eaten with chopsticks and spoon, though I've seen some eat it with a fork.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo realizes just how long she's been rambling about katsukare, and sheepishly brushes her hair behind her ear.*\n\n\"Sorry, that was really long.\"\n\n*Celeana, to her, was an instant hit. Only a few other people had made her feel like this. Her family, the servants in the house, Horace, and now Celeana. It was true. The steppe elves truly were different than the bastard Lathians.*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana could almost smell the food that Yakaiyo was describing in her head. At least what she thought it would've smelled like since she never had such delights before. She had met someone from Pinnacelia once, he was a wise older gentleman who took care of Celeana when they were both salves in Irunia. Multiple times she received lashings for stepping out of line and he was the one who tended to the lacerations during her time of need.* \n\n\"No need to apologize, I would love to try it one of these days. It sounded delightful\" \n\n*Right after Yakaiyo finished describing Katsukare the waiter came with their meals. For a while Celeana looked at the Waiter as he walked away from their table and then down to her food. Reaching for a spoon as she scooped up some of the broth and allowed it to fall back within her bowl*\n\n\"No offence to the chef, What you described sounded way better than.. This.\" \n\n*She pointed her spoon towards her own bowl and then pointed to the curry with rice that they brought out as well.*\n\n\"That certainly doesn't look like Tonkastu curry, from what I was hearing.\" \n\n*Nonetheless she began eating the soup she had ordered, it wasn't half bad though. It definitely could have used something to make it look more appealing. After every bite she took she lifted a hand to her mouth as she chewed. She made sure to look away anytime Yakaiyo took a bite as well, both gestures of form of table manners. Celeana found it a little amusing, never once before did she care so much about how she presented herself to another person. Even with the smallest of things so far, she was concerned about leaving a bad impression.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton waited until the waiter had left before she began to slander the food and chef.*\n\n\"It's a restaurant. It's never going to be as good as a home cooked meal. They like to use more fillers like rice and cut back on the meat, giving you not much and not good quality either. The curry is probably lacking flavor. And there's no cutlet, though that's to be expected. The chef doesn't know what tonkatsu is. The word isn't native to here.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo elegantly takes a scoop of rice in her spoon, dipping it into the curry, blowing on it, and taking a bite, careful that the sauce didn't touch her lips.*\n\n\"Mediocre, at best.\"\n\n*Despite Yakaiyo insulting the food, she continued to eat. She was hungry, and she couldn't afford to let food go to waste considering her financial status. She noticed that Celeana lifted a hand to her mouth when chewing, as well as looked away whenever she took a bite. Cute. To tease her, Yakaiyo takes an incredibly long bite, taking an entire ten seconds before finally putting the food in her mouth.*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana listened to the words that flowed from Yakaiyo's mouth before she found herself fighting the urge to spray her food into the palm of her hand. Tilting her head back so hard that she knocked it against the wooden booth before swallowing. The moment her mouth was absent from food she began laughing. The poor man had just walked away and this vampire wasted no time on the criticism. Truth be told, she didn't expect it at all.* \n\n*While wiping at her eyes with her palm of her hands, as tears pooled at her eyes.* \n\n\"I would love to try some of your home cooking. I'm sure you would use fresh vegetables at the very least.\" \n\n*She held up a piece of carrot that looked like it had seem better days before scooping the content into her mouth, averting her gaze once more as Yakaiyo did the same. Celeana managed to look away from the vampire, then looked back to see her mid action. Finishing the bite of soup while looking back to see Yakaiyo still in the process of taking a single bite.* \n\n\"Uhm.. I didn't know you and your.. I didn't know you both were intimate.\" \n\n*She looked at the spoon full of food before settling her gaze on Yakaiyo's lips. They were shaped perfectly and they looked soft to the touch. Her eyes flicked up to Yakaiyo's face before she averted her gaze, now staring at her less appealing soup. The soup was warm and it helped with the dizzy spell she had felt before, it was good enough.* \n\n\"What do you do for a living, if I may ask?\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Instantly, Celeana's laugh made her smile. Pure and honest, an absolute euphony to Yakaiyo. When was the last time she had heard someone laugh? Horace? The sound is contagious, and the treton can't help but giggle giddily as well.*\n\n\"It'll be with fresh ingredients. Always. Be generous with meat and spices; you want flavor with every bite, but not so much that it's overpowering.\"\n\n*Seeing Celeana stare at her, Yakaiyo decides to finally eat her food.*\n\n\"Why are you staring at my face so much? Not that I mind. Am I really that beautiful to you?\"\n\n*When the elf asked her about what she did for a living, she froze. Technically, she was homeless and was living off of small crimes. Before the incident, she was an herbalist. However, she had forgotten nearly all knowledge of the medicinal plants. Yakaiyo didn't want to kill the mood by answering wrong.*\n\n\"I, uh... Prefer not to talk about that. You?\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana couldn't help but look at her own bowl of soup differently now. Yakaiyo's speech about food quality and her own home cooking made the 'wedding soup' look lackluster. She only had a few bites left remaining and was please to know that her stamina bounced back accordingly as well.*\n\n\"I'm sorry for staring, I actually just can't help myself. You're stunning to me. My plan was to talk to you about well- Well what happened earlier. But I find myself wondering so much more. Oh, I can cross off the 'What does she look like while smiling' question as well.\" \n\n*She took Yakaiyo's words as a type of permission to watch her, so Celeana did. It would take some time to get over the initial embarrassment she felt when they made eye contact. During those moments she felt her chest ache, spreading this warm sensation through her.* \n\n\"Eh, Normally I wouldn't speak of it either. I'm rather ashamed of what I 'need' to do in order to survive. I was a captured slave and I worked the mines for years before I managed to escape, I try not to take too much from other people, just enough to get by.\" \n\n*She didn't exactly feel like telling Yakaiyo; 'That's my reason for being in the alleyway' but it would've been pretty easy to associate her words and her actions if one thought about it.*\n\n \"Sometimes I help at the tavern for a room, I can only take so much harassment.. That being said, I think I have enough for a small house or cottage in the poor district. Assuming nobody found where I hid my money.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Celeana's final words settled it.*\n\n*They were different. The high elves were absolutely different. Celeana saw the beauty in her when no other Lathian would. Hakaze, her children, Horace; all of them recognized her; no Lathian ever had. They truly were indeed monsters incapable of compassion. And now she had someone she could trust.*\n\n\"When I first came to Silnaria... I spent my entire life wondering if I really was ugly. People were disgusted at me, shunned me like a plague rat. Thank you, Celeana, really.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's smile widens, and the steppe elf can see her almost tear up, though is wiped away by a napkin.*\n\n\"You worked in the mines? As a woman? How desperate were those slavers exactly? And how are you doing now?\"\n\n*She was a criminal as well? Yakaiyo had been forced on the run ever since the destruction of her house. But Celeana... Celeana spent her entire life worrying about the next day, barely surviving. She didn't need to hide her criminal side. Maybe. But could she reveal her killing, especially they had met so recently?*\n\n\"Was it the Silnarians that enslaved you?\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"Well the weak went into the mines. All the strong men became fighters for entertainment in Amongko. The weaker people, I was sent to Irunia.\"\n\n*It was clear that this conversation made the elf uncomfortable. She resorted to looking at her hands for the duration of the conversation. No matter how tramatic her experience was, she wanted to tell the vampire everything. Even if they parted ways, she would probably search until they met once more. She hope they wouldn't split so soon though.*\n\n\"I'm struggling, I'll admit it. I'm not dead, or a slave. So I have that going for me. I don't remember who exactly captured my family and I. I remember getting whipped by this one Oni. They're pretty frightening, did you know that? But it was the Elf that made things worse for me. Pretty sure it was a high elf but he loved making me choose between getting whipped by the Oni or whipping one of my people. I think he liked me, liked seeing my choices. I think I chose equally. Somedays I couldn't take another whip so.. I whipped another slave.\"\n\n*Celeana fell quiet after that, her consciousness bringing her back to that awful place. Waking up next to people who died over night. Remembering carrying their bodies to the flame despite talking them just the day before.* \n\n\"I feel bad for the next slave owner that I come across. They owe a blood debt.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"The weak-\"\n\n*Lathians. Lathians. Lathians. It was the Lathian's fault; all their fault. They had caused the destruction of her family, and the treton had wondered if it was simply because of something transpiring. It was not the case. The high elves had certainly chosen their fate due to their race; and they were doing it to others as well. To be used, as if they were toys or tools.*\n\n*The whispering began once more, calling for the death of the high elves. But she had made a vow to Horace to not kill anymore, and she was going to honor that pact. Instead, she chose to focus on Celeana.*\n\n*Yakaiyo wraps her arms around Celeana, pulling her in and caressing her gently.*\n\n\"You're not alone. I'm with you. I, too, have suffered under their hand. Celeana, if you ever buy a home, promise me you'll leave Silnaria. It's not safe here for people like us.\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*She was shocked at the sudden embrace. For sone reason she thought vampires were cold to the touch. Yakaiyo's touch was warm and gentle, something she hasn't felt in a long time. The initial shock died quickly, her body easing into the vampire's.*\n\n\"I wouldn't know where to buy a house anyways. I think I'd still want to be around people. See those who own and trade in flesh. Maybe you could visit me.. Maybe stay if you wanted to.\" \n\n*For her proposal she leaned back from the embrase. She made no attempts to hide that she searched for the truth in Yakaiyo's face. She honestly wasn't thinking about what she was saying. Of course the Vampire wouldn't just go with a stranger.* \n\n\"I don't know of any place that is safe. But I hope you feel as safe around me, as I do around you.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Salvania. Salvania is safe. We could be roommates, I'll help! I can cook, clean, wash clothes, even work if needed. I just... Need to get away from here after some business.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo didn't want to let go. Celeana felt too warm, too comfortable. She wanted to leave Silnaria; here, she was being constantly hunted. In Salvania, maybe she could start a new life, mourn properly, and honor her family's memory.*\n\n*Yakaiyo's face is a smile, honest, yearning for the new opportunities that awaited her.*\n\n\"So. Thoughts on me joining you?\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"Looks like we have a trip to make, we'll both cook and clean. We'll do this together. How long before you can leave? I'll try and.. *Obtain* What we need in the meantime.\"\n\n*She was smiling too, Yakaiyo's excited look was simply contageous. She too held onto the Vampire. She went from escaped slave to maybe owning a home. Something she never would've dreamed possible. Part of her wanted to buy drinks but nothing good ever happened from celebrating so far.*\n\n\"I think we'll need a lot of soup ingredients. Your needs shouldn't be too difficult to maintain. Some blankets and a tent would be useful. Do you need extra clothing? Maybe I can buy a horse as well, yeah that should make traveling faster.\"\n\n*Her mind was already racing on what they would or wouldn't need. But suddenly her cheerful tone turned serious as she asked her final question.*\n\n\"You will be safe, right? Can you promise me?\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"It'll be quite a while before I can leave. The mission I have for myself might be a bit dangerous. But I've endured worse. I have a contact who can help me as well. Clothes should be easy to get and transport. I prefer to walk on foot; it's easier to react to things, as well as stay hidden.\"\n\n*Internally, Yakaiyo was worried a bit about her killing side. She just needed to focus on something to drive her attention away from the voices in her head. She was already incredibly minimalist; the years of running without shelter and stable sources of food and water had taught her to scrounge anywhere she could.*\n\n\"When we leave, it might have to be silently and quietly. Possibly illegally. We're not exactly lawful, right?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's expression is still happy, but with the mentions of leaving, Celeana could see a deep scarred sorrow rooted in the back of her mind. As if part of her didn't want to leave.*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana raised an eyebrow, faces weren't the only thing that she could read. It was an interesting choice of words 'We're not exactly lawful. Granted she laid her hand before Yakaiyo. Admitted to being a run away slave and minor thief. She still didn't know what the Vampiress did.* \n\n\"Maybe I could be of use to you, whatever it is that you do. I could try?\"\n\n*With the idea of a horse being rejected meant their supply list would need re-evaluating. She figured if she brought enough food for herself to survive, things would be fine. Celeana was oddly already considering herself the primary source of food for the beautiful vampire beside her.* \n\n\"I'm pretty sure me being here with you is illegal. Is there a legal way for an illegal person to come and go?\"\n\n*She paused for a moment, she picked up on the hidden expression. The question wasn't 'if' or 'when' they left. It was something else, despite needing to leave this city. Being detested to the point of hiding, constantly looking her shoulder. Something or someone kept her here.*\n\n\"I don't know if you're a very good tracker with your special set of skills. I'll be around for as long as you need. I'll try and work at the disgusting tavern up the road, stay out of trouble.\"\n\n*She placed her hand on top of Yakaiyo's and gave a reassuring squeeze.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"It's... Dangerous, and sensitive. If you really want to help, you're more than welcome to.\"\n\n*On one hand, Yakaiyo didn't want Celeana seeing her past. Not quite yet. And what if she got hurt? On the other hand, what if she went mad again? The steppe elf would help her stay calm. And maybe she deserved to see the truth.*\n\n*The tension is broken by Celeana's humor, bringing out a small laugh from the treton.*\n\n\"Not really. It'll be quick; just slip past and climb the walls. And I'm not that good of a long term tracker; I tend to be better at short hunts. But I can remember places well.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo's breathing begins to sharpen and her heart rate quickens as Celeana squeezes her hand. She had only felt this way with one other person...*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "\"Well if I'm honest. I would rather not work at a tavern. I've seen what they do to women, when they're sober. It's up to you, Yakaiyo. We'll leave here together either way.\" \n\n*Climb over the city walls, Celeana settled that they would not being packing supplies. It was already a chore getting up and over. No way in hell were they going to do so with pots and pans. Not to mention the noise they would make. Easy way to get captured. Celeana had the stamina to run for a while, but if she had to pick between fighting with Yakaiyo or running. She would fight.*\n\n*A hand moved to her stomach as she remembered dispatching a couple of bandits to protect a certain Canifor. Although she recovered from the incident well enough, she sometimes imagined the ache. The following day was the worst, she met another thief. She wished she never had left the crystal mines that day. Even now she had some hair missing on the left side.*\n\n*She decided that she wouldn't run like the Canifor. The two bandits wouldn't have broken her rib if Juna had help.*\n\n\"I offer my assistance, if you want it.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Yeah. Alright. You, my contact and I will go there then. At most, it will be a night. Celeana, if you come with me, I think you deserve to know what we're going into.\"\n\n*It was time. Having Celeana go in blind would inevitably lead to questions, and possibly would risk her life.*\n\n\"I used to be of a noble house. Not born into, but married into. I had a husband, Hakaze, and two children, Nodako and Asake. Another baron created a mob, sending them to burn my house down, and kill us. I-I...\"\n\n*Yakaiyo couldn't bring herself to finish the sentence. It brought back memories; painful memories. The images flooded her mind once more; of her beautiful life and family, and the sudden and violent end of it all.*\n\n*Yakaiyo's hand clenches into a fist, her nails biting into her palm.*\n\n\"I have... Enemies. Powerful enemies.\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana grabbed Yakaiyo's hand and flipped it so it was palm side up. Gently she began pulling at Yakaiyo's fingers, a trick she learned in the mines. Once she loosened the fist she placed her fingers on top of the Vampires.*\n\n*It made some sense to Celeana, this was the reason why she couldn't leave. If she left her murderers would get away with it. She watched the pain ripple across her face. She had a feeling that they weren't going to alert the authorities to the injustice.*\n\n\"Soo... What you're trying to say is.\" \n\n*She frowned at Yakaiyo, her own expression being that of contemplation. She even turned around to make sure nobody was listening before she leaned in close to Yakaiyo's ear. Her lips almost brushing against her skin.*\n\n\"So what you're saying is, we're going to have to move reaaaaallllly far away.\" \n\n*She planted a small peck against the Vampire's cheek before leaning back.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton begins to shake, and quiet sobs can be heard from her. Tears inevitably form in the corners of her eyes. Right now, only the past remained on Yakaiyo's mind.*\n\n*In response to Celeana's words, Yakaiyo simply nods. She so desperately wanted that elven noble to suffer. To pay for what he had done. Yet she was powerless; he was too powerful to take down, and Horace had gotten her to stop killing. Would vengeance even bring her solace?*\n\n*The feeling of the steppe elf's soft lips against her cheek interrupts her nightmare, visibly. Yakaiyo simply leans back, snuggling into Celeana.*\n\n\"Can you... Hold me for a bit?\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana nodded as she wrapped an arm behind Yakaiyo's back. Her right hand pressed firmly against her spine, slowly pushing up her back and then back down. Her left hand found Yakaiyo's arm. Her index and middle finger pressed against the Vampire's wrist tracing their way up to the inside of her elbow and then back down.*\n\n*Celeana felt sorry for her, to lose everyone you cared for. Living in a city that hated her for multiple reasons. Thankfully it was a noble that created the suffering. Nobles created suffering almost everywhere, including the mines. It made the idea of dispatching one a little easier to swallow at least. Celeana hoped this noble had slaves as well. Then she wouldn't think twice before claiming their blood debt.*\n\n*She didn't answer the question, her actions should be answers enough. Of course she would comfort for as long as Yakaiyo needed.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Celeana can feel ragged breathing from the Treton as she held her. Eventually, it began to calm down as Yakaiyo rested against the steppe elf, feeling her warm embrace. Resting against her, the vampire knew what her future was going to be. At first, she was concerned about what she was going to do once she left Silnaria. Horace wasn't exactly reliable; he would have to leave to do things, eventually, she would break down. With Celeana by her side, she would be ok.*\n\n*Before she knew it, she was entranced by the comfort of her new friend, and begin dozing off into sleep.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Silnaria was often a beautiful city of white and gold. But in a far corner lay an ashen ruin. The Kiriyami castle was once tall and proud, but was now merely a shell of what it used to be, burned out by flame, looted by the mob that was once here. Warning signs surrounded the place, warning of danger. The place was unknown, hidden from the world. The tragedy that occurred here would never be heard.*\n\n*Yakaiyo stood in front of the hollowed structure, her expression melancholic. Today would mark the end of her life in Silnaria. The midnight sky showed a waning moon, the crescent barely showing light.*\n\n\"I'm just... Going to take a few memoirs. That's all. We should be done at night.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo turned towards Horace and Celeana.*\n\n\"And I expect both of you to behave, alright? I'm looking for a sword, a knife, and a pendant.\"" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*A chilling night, was this one here. The crescent light accompanied by a brief breeze that would make any poor sap without a coat shiver. Horace was one of those fools, his toned and tough skin kissed by the air of the area.*\n\n*None of it quite compared to what he felt inside however. Looking across the ruble that Aka had once called home. It wasn't as if he knew the area, or even how it looked before it's destruction.*\n\n*And yet destruction it still was. So this is what had become of Aka's home, her family, her life. Why she was the way she was when they'd first met. He shivered at the thought, prying his eyes off the rubble to look at Yakaiyo.*\n\"Of course...\"\n\n*He glances off to the side at the stranger next to him. Another elf? Someone he didn't know certainly. Someone Aka liked to of been brought here. He doesn't say much save for an extended hand, hoping to find some common ground in their friendship of Yakaiyo.*\n\"I'm Horace. Nice to meet you, miss...?\"" }, { "author": "com.co", "message": "Didn't mean to type quite that much but" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana turned to face the man, she didn't immediately grab his hand. Instead she began walking around Horace instead. She wanted to know what weapons he had but also to remember what he looked like. She heard stories of people attacking allies in thr dark. Once she completed her lap she grab hold of his hand and shook it.*\n\n\"I'm Celeana, it's a pleasure to meet you... Assuming I have all my blades when we're done.\"\n\n*Rogues often spotted each other almost instantly. Just as she figured him out, he probably figured her out as well.*\n\n*Once the greeting was over, she turned to the castle. A long time ago she lived in this castle. She remembered how happy Yakaiyo felt at the chance of moving into some small cottage.*\n\n\"Should we be expecting company within?\"" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*Horace raises an eyebrow, looking to Yakaiyo as if asking if he did anything wrong. His attention cutting back to Celeana as she comes behind him. What the hell was she- Ooooooooooohhhhh...*\n\n*It must of been the grandjeur of the destroyed castle, or some carelessness on Horace's part, but he had not noticed. A dark cloaked maiden with a rather dexterous fit, and a look in her eye that screamed thief.*\n\n*Horace himself has a similar look, save for a lack of dark clothing. There wasn't much sneaking around to be had here, so he was dressed more plainly. With that said, the search for weapons on the elf was rather fruitless. Nothing much, save for a hidden dagger that wasn't so hidden if you knew where to look.*\n\n*Horace, though alot more awkward than at first, shakes Celeana's hand back. His grip firm and hand calloused, suggesting he worked with his hands often.*\n\"Yeah... Sure.\"\n\n*He glances to Yakaiyo as well, stepping away from the other elf.*\n\"Dunno who'd be set up in a place like this. If raiders or bandits had set up camp, we'd certainly of seen some tracks.\"" }, { "author": "com.co", "message": "I'm writing too much ;~;" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"No. At most, looters. But no one comes for the 'cursed gold of Kiriyami.' You should be able to trust each other. Celeana has blades, Horace has fists. Let's... Let's go.\"\n\n*A heavy amount of pain can be heard in her voice as she begins walking through the grand front doors, brushing her hand on the scorched stone, once carved delicately to match vines on wooden beams.*\n\n*This was where Hakaze had his last stand.*\n\n*Dozens of skeletons litter the ground, rusted pitchforks and dead torches lying near them. However, none of them wore Hakaze's armor nor had his sword. After searching the mountain of bones, Yakaiyo hangs her head.*\n\n\"It's... Not here. His other sword should be further inside.\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*In a theatrical turn of her body she followed directly behind Yahaiyo. Her silver hair flying eveywhere, nearly touching Horace's face. As she spun her arsenal of daggers could be seen behind her belt from the back.*\n\n*Hearing the sorrow in Yakaiyo's voice, the way she placed her hand on the stone entrance. She decided not to mention that thiefs can not trust each other. Truth was, she was as prepared to fight Horace as much as any looter.*\n\n*Celeana was careful to not step on the bones of the fallen, Yakaiyo's family deserved to rest in peace.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*Horace glances at Aka curiously, as she mentions cursed gold of some kind. As a thief, he couldn't help but show some interest in the word gold. Though he damns himself quickly, forsaking the thought as the depression in Aka's tone seeps in. Jerking his head for a moment to shake off any temptations as he looks to the disembarking Yakaiyo. His vision of her is cut short briefly as miss-colored hair brushes the elves sensations slowly. A smell entering his lungs as it does, the familiar scent of a thief laced to her. Maybe he should be warry of this new person, even with Aka's blessing. She walks around, toting herself rather provocatively. A liability in Horace's look, amateurish swagger with no brawn to back it up.*\n\n*Despite his first impressions however, he respected Yakaiyo to much to say anything himself. Taking a final look up at the building ahead of them, then down at the bones on the floor.*\n\"Not a valuable in sight... Makes me curious as to where it all went. The black market is rather expansive...\"\n\n*Horace ponders aloud for a moment, stepping through the bone filed floor. Ordinarily, Horace hadn't much respect for corpses. The dead were dead, through fault of their own in one way or another. If he didn't know them, there wasn't much a reason to care now was there? Though in truth, Horace wasn't a grave robber, merely taking advantage of slain enemies to procure wears.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*As the two make their way through the skeletons, Yakaiyo notices Celeana being careful not to step on them. The treton picks up a skull and throws it against the stone, shattering it.*\n\n\"These are the bones of elves. Hakaze's would have been larger, with more stab marks and blunt impact damage than anything. It's unlikely the elves had blades that could get through his armor through cuts. Disrespect these all you want, I insist; no, I *Request* That you do. These rats ruined my family. They do not deserve rest.\"\n\n*The walls are bare, with nothing of worth. Seeing nothing, Yakaiyo decides to head up a cracked marble staircase, the railing stripped of its luster. If the two followed, they would see what seems like a sword shrine, smashed to pieces, black lacquer splintered apart to reveal the wood. No sword in sight is seen.*\n\n\"As expected. There should be one under the floor though.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo knocks on the floor, and a section moves ever so slightly. Dexterously, she removes the section, only to find a blank space.*\n\n\"What??!!\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Until that moment, Celeana's footsteps made absolutely no noise. She could easily have been an assassin with how silently she moved. She didn't really care for Yakaiyo's demands, it wasn't like she knew what to look for when it came to bones. She was worried on stepping on the few that Yakaiyo cared about.*\n\n\"I'm not well versed on remains, or your family.\"\n\n*She said as she intentionally stomped on a skull which a loud crunch. It was more to appease Yakaiyo than for her own enjoyment. She trailed behind thr vampire as they accended the stairs, again regaining her silent footsteps. She broke away from the group once they reached the top, focusing on clearing their surroundings. She didn't even check the first hallway before grabbing twin daggers from behind her back.*\n\n*She spun around to see Yakaiyo kneeling over a hole in the floor. She really expected an ambush or some threat. Hell, even the big guy attacking, anything attacking.*\n\n\"Can we not scare me to death?\"" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*Horace tilts his head slightly as Yakaiyo seems to recognize the bones themselves. He couldn't tell the difference between them, reaching down as he picks another skull off the ground. Rotating it and squinting his eyes at the details, eventually sighing as he tosses it carelessly behind him.*\n\n\"A morbid skill...\"\n\n*Continuing on with the two, Horace strolls around the castle abit more casually. Hands in his pockets, investigating his surroundings briefly, surely not as thorough as Celeana. Stepping up the ruined stares, running his finger across the decrepit wood. He wondered how long this place had been abandoned... How long Yakaiyo had really been alone. He'd known Aka for the better part of a year now, but who knows how long she'd been out here... The fleshless bones at the front didn't inspire confidence to say the least.*\n\n*Horace stays closer to Aka, carful not to get in her way if possible. He watches idly as she shrugs off the destroyed stand, instead going for the floor. Though to her surprise, a sword there is not lying under the hidden plate.*\n\n\"Guess someone got to it first... Someone who knew the castle quite well apparently.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*Horace stand in the cross space between the two rooms. His eyes drifting over the burnt and aged rooms. Nothing was left untouched by the flame oh so long ago. What could they hope to find here? Not much he guessed. But it seemed that small amount was enough for Yakaiyo, cradling her possession gently.*\n\n*The mere sight... The elf couldn't help but bar his teeth as he kept himself quiet. A mother, a wife, a person... This country, these people had taken all of that away, hadn't they? Doubtless, something had to be done to prevent a tragedy like this from happening. As to what, Horace couldn't quite say...*\n\n*A quick thought would pop into the elves mind however. Asake probably would of had the pendant on in her last moments. So where was Asake? A distinct lack of bodies would then catch Horace's attention. The same could be said of Hakaze, no left overs at all. They could be up somewhere else, deeper into the castle's depths...*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton moves into another room, structured similarly. This time though, there's nearly nothing, besides a burnt futon, a couple diagrams of the human body, and what seemed like a practice dummy made of a soft material.*\n\n\"Ah, Nodako. He was... A bit weird, I admit. He wanted to be a doctor, a surgeon, though I think he was a bit more sadistic than that if you ask me. Studious, just like his sister, but with a more hands on approach.\"\n\n*Despite saying that they should keep moving, Yakaiyo couldn't help but reminisce, ending up being distracted by her past. There was a memoir to find, but Yakaiyo couldn't stop remembering the past.*\n\n\"And one time, we found him cutting open a pig's liver. We were horrified at first, seeing him covered in blood. The reaction on his face was priceless!\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*She gracefully followed suit behind Yakaiyo, again finding herself cutting Horace as she walked past. She wasn't actively trying to be in the middle, if she had her choice she'd be in front.*\n\n*Celeana didn't care for this room one bit. It was unsettling to see so many drawings of the human body. Nodako was a little sadistic? They had people like that at the mines where she came from. She'd push the thought out of her and imagined Nodako to be a gentle soul.*\n\n*She began looking around for something not charred to ashes for the Vampiress. Stepping into the room for a better look entirely.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Hm? Horace, are you ok?\"\n\n*Rushing to him, she looks at his finger, and the small amount of blood. For a brief moment, her eyes glow red as she sees the crimson liquid, but holds herself back.*\n\n\"It should be fine. What poked you?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo flips over the futon, revealing a small tanto knife, letting out a sigh.*\n\n\"Really? In his bed?\"\n\n*Yakaiyo shakes her head, taking the blade and tucking it into her sash.*\n\n\"That's two out of three. We should be able to find one more... Downstairs again, in the gym area.\"" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana caught a glimpse at the subtle change in eye colour. She was unsure if it was anything to be concerned, maybe it was just some light reflecting from her eyes that gave it that illusion. Either way they had another item and it was time to move on from the room.*\n\n*She left first this time, at least navigating to the staircase wouldn't be difficult. She would've loved to see this castle before it was destroyed. Even in it's ruins it was beautiful and awe-inspiring in it's size alone.*\n\n*A hand hovered over the railing as she decended the steps, imagining how it must have felt to do this every morning. She couldn't help but feel like slaves would've been used here, a question she'd have to ask Yakaiyo later about.*\n\n*The rogue stopped on the ground floor, waiting for Yakaiyo to take the lead once more. She couldn't recall seeing a gym, nor did she feel like getting lost trying to find it.*" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "\"Yeah, I'm fine, just a little nick...\"\n\n*Horace responded absent mindedly, watching as Yakaiyo came to him. He smiles briefly, warmed by her concern over what occured. Though, the flicker in her eyes reminded him of what she's capable of...*\n\n*Maybe it isn't the best idea to flaunt your blood before a vampire, even if you are friends. Horace would clean up the cut, wiping it across his pant leg as Yakaiyo lifts the bed.*\n\n*Seeing the knife brings Horace a slight amount of joy. At least he'd done something of use, he was starting to feel useless. Letting Yakaiyo collect her things, the thief stands. Choosing to follow behind Yakaiyo unlike Celeana.*\n\n\"A gym huh... This place is massive... I'm almost surprised it didn't collapse in on itself since then...\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"It's a vast downstairs. We haven't even covered half of the place yet. Hakaze loved using it. Every morning, without a single day in between, he would go here. I remember watching him as he worked out.\"\n\n*The treton smiled as she opened an obscure sliding door, revealing a small entrance barely large enough for one person, turning towards the two.*\n\n\"The memories of this place... I've loved them. But maybe it's time I moved on from them.\"\n\n*The treton turns into the dark gym, and suddenly, a massive blade sprouts from her back, impaling the treton.*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana rushed forward, nearly knocking Horace off balance as she shoved past. Reaching behind her back for a dagger as she approached Yakaiyo. She tackled the person down to the ground before sending one blade through his hand and into the floor below. A moment later and another hand would be skewered into the gym floor.*\n\n*She stood up and took a few steps back, she wanted to be sure that it only took one hit to render the person unconscious. She needed the momentium to compensate for being a girl mostly. With a running start, she sent her boot to the side of the person's head with all her might. Even if they weren't unconscious, they should be dazed enough to buy time.*\n\n*She wasted no time running to Yakaiyo, a third dagger now in her hand. She turned the edge onto herself as she swiped at her wrist. With feline grace, she brought her bloody wrist to Yakaiyo's mouth while positioning herself at her back. Her left hand stowed the dagger away and wrapped around Yakaiyo's stomach*\n\n\"Horace, I think blood helps vampires heal. I think so at least. I'll try and keep her feeding from me but this sword needs to be removed. I'll keep an eye on the person behind you.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Asake Kiriyami", "message": "*A pair of blazing bolts fires out from the dark, narrowly missing Horace. But he wasn't the target.*\n\n*Despite being thrown into the room behind them, the bolts make their mark, searing into...*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "*Pain. The vampire screamed out in pain as the flaming bolt struck her in the stomach, leaving a nasty burn. The second bolt strikes the wooden frame, catching it on fire.*" }, { "author": "Hakaze Kiriyami", "message": "*Distracted by the blade, the armored man ends up getting hit by Horace's hook straight on the head. He recoils a bit, picks up his blade, and stands tall. His eyes suddenly glow a ferocious red, and he angrily swings, chopping through the wooden beams, though Horace would have plenty of time to dodge.*" }, { "author": "Nodako Kiriyami", "message": "*Horace wound find himself having more trouble than not. A pair of darts whiz by him, one almost catching Celeana, but barely missing. A dark haired Treton this time strolls out from behind the staircase, wielding a Wakizashi and tanto dagger.*\n\n\"We have her contained. There's nowhere to go.\"" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*These odds weren't looking in their favor, not in the slightest. Aka was already out of the fight, a three on two. These guys seemed like professionals however, and he had no clue how well Celeana could handle herself...*\n\n*Still, Horace was here. They stood a chance, even if slim. Satisfied with the blow landed on Hakaze, he finds his rage easier to manage. It looked like... A mage, a rogue, and a fighter of some kind. Big guy must be the distraction here...*\n\n*Horace is significantly faster the the lumbering Trenton, easily dodging the powerful blow. This guy was deadly though, better not get hit... The elves main concern was the mage. She could deal some serious damage unchecked.\n\n*The elf having dodged Hakaze's attack proceeds to book it towards the red sigel in the back. He wasn't completely tunnel visioned however, as a step of his carries some extra heft, pushing creeping vines of the decayed Castle to move and trap Nodako, letting Horace move mostly unhindered.*" }, { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana leaned forward to offer a hand to Yakaiyo and almost found herself leaning into the projectile's pathing. Instead she yanked herself away from Yakaiyo, turning to see who else happened to be here with them. A hand moved behind her back as she withdrew another pair of daggers. Pulling her arms towards her chest before flicking them outwards as she returned the favor, launching two daggers at the dark-haired individual.* \n\n*She positioned herself in the middle of Yakaiyo and Nodako, The Vampiress needed time to recover from whatever magic had found her stomach. At last she drew out a small hand scythe with a thick black chain attached to the end. Normally she would spin the chained section around but there wasn't enough space currently to maneuver her weapon fully. While keeping between Nodako she slowly approached, wary of any other throwing weapons he might have.* \n\n\"How are you holding up?\"\n\n*She asked loudly, she hoped both Horace and Yakaiyo answered. Needed to know if Horace is still able to fight and if Yakaiyo will be able to move in the near future. Until then she only stood and watched the opponent.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Asake Kiriyami", "message": "*The red sigil fades after the spellcasting, and as Horace closes the distance into the dark gym, he sees a young girl, not even 18, holding what looks like a spellbook. Her eyes open wide as she sees the elf hurtle towards her, and the book falls to the floor as she seems to accept her fate.*" }, { "author": "Hakaze Kiriyami", "message": "*The armored, raging man turns, wondering where the elf has gone. Suddenly, he sees a fist hurtle towards his daughter. Brandishing his blade, he aims to try and chop Horace in half.*\n\n\"ASAKE!!!\"" }, { "author": "Nodako Kiriyami", "message": "*As the roots entangled him, Nodako was forced to use his weapons rather than dodging out of the way of the knives in order to avoid getting hit. It seems that he was stuck for now.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"I'm... Fine.\"\n\n*Yakaiyo groans, getting up, the wound clearly visible. Quickly getting to her feet, the treton looks almost like a wild animal in her frightened state, which quickly turned to resolve.*\n\n*She glares at Nodako, and the dual wielder visibly shudders.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Celeana Ashwood", "message": "*Celeana nodded at the confirmation, thought she didn't entirely buy the words she spoke. Anyone with a wound like that would need medical attention rather quickly. The roots was all she needed to see to convince her to rush forward towards the boy. Judging from the yell from the other room, Horace seemed to be handling the other two well enough. Celeana held the sickle'd end off to the side before slashing upwards at Nodako's torso. The sooner that they gained the number's advantage, the more likely they all had at survival. Celeana wrapped the chained side around Nodako's ankle to ensure their combat remained within arms distance from one another.*" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*Horace would seem to hesitate as he finds his new opponent. A young girl, seeming barely more than a teen. This might actually hurt him more than it hurt her... The worst part was her acceptance of it, as she trails off and let's his face glide to her face.*\n\n*Fortunately for Asake, the Elf's unease coupled with Hakaze's attack causes Horace to miss his punch. The thief barely recovering in time as he dodges out of the way of the Trenton's blade.*\n\n\"What the hell is a kid doing here...?\"\n*He asks himself, glaring at the red haired girl in the back. Horace shakes his head, quickly pushing himself into a guarded stance. Practicing his fleet footwork and punching the air with deadly blows, working his blood flow up.*\n\n\"I'm not gonna feel nearly as good at decking a little kid in the face as I am you big guy. Get her out, before she gets hurt in a way you'll both regret.\"" }, { "author": "Asake Kiriyami", "message": "*The girl's legs began to shake as she was paralyzed by fear. Who was this man? Why was he with her? Was he a killer as well? The girl quickly moves away after being prompted to do so, too frightened to cast another spell.*" }, { "author": "Hakaze Kiriyami", "message": "\"You get away from my daughter first.\"\n\n*The armored man raises his sword high. He had been careless. Asake could have ended up hurt, or even killed.*" }, { "author": "Nodako Kiriyami", "message": "*Nodako leans back to avoid the sickle, trying to bring his weapons up as a safeguard. However, the roots obscure his movement, causing the scythe to rake across his chest. Yelling out in pain, the treton struggles to hold onto his tanto.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"NODAKO!\"\n\n*Dashing after Celeana, Yakaiyo puts herself in between Nodako and the steppe elf. Tears stream from her face, her expression of confusion, fear, pain.*\n\n\"Please, don't hurt him!\"" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "\"Daughter...? Who brings their kid to-...\"\n\n*Horace seems to cut himself off, quickly looking to the door he came from. A scream? It sounded like Yakaiyo... Don't tell me Cereana was already down?!*\n\n\"Sure thing big guy... I'll be going-\"\n\n*Horace says as he quickly charges into Hakaze. Instead of an attack however, the elf slips past the warrior using some tempo and Right behind you. Continuing on his way as he runs back to the place he'd heard a scream from.*\n\n\"Are you guys alright?!\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Celaena Ashwood", "message": "\"Yakaiyo got hit but I'm doing well.. I'm not entirely sure what's happening though!\" \n\n*Celaena lowered her sickle down to her side as Yakaiyo got between them both. She had the urge to disregard what the vampire said because it was entirely not logical to not hurt someone who was actively trying to hurt them. But she listened anyways, though she was poised to strike on a moment's notice. Did the vampire know this person? What did she say his name was? 'Nodako? This was her son?!* \n\n\"Horace! I think we're being attacked by Yakaiyo's not so dead family!\" \n\n*She could feel herself hesitating between what she should or shouldn't do.*" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Please, don't hurt them!\"\n\n*Confusion shot through her as Yakaiyo fell to her knees, Nodako quickly turning and running. How were they alive? She saw them, shot and left for dead. Why were they back? And why were they attacking her? They should be searching for her, trying to reunite...*" }, { "author": "Hakaze Kiriyami", "message": "*The armored man barges out the door, seeing the trio of intruders. And he saw her. No words come from him as he locks eyes on her, in anger, not joy. The sword is bared, pointed directly at the vampire.*\n\n\"You two should stay out of the way as my children have. Unless you want to die!\"" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*Dead family...? That was idiotic, a statement that seemed like the biggest lie a person could tell. And yet it was true, wasn't it... At least, the big Trenton matched what he knew of Aka's husband...*\n\n*Said husband cokes breaking through the door however, pointing his sword at Aka already... The thief of course backs up to Celeana and the Trenton, pushing Aka behind the pair of elves.*\n\n\"Just leave this to us... I don't get what's happening in the slightest, but what I do know is he's our enemy now. You, girl, make yourself useful and gimmie a hand with this lug alright?\"" }, { "author": "Celaena Ashwood", "message": "\"I think it's foolish to assume the other two won't be back when we're busy. Are you sure you can't handle him alone while I watch our backs?\"\n\n*Celaena inquired to the other rogue. She was more cornered about the mage than the one called Nodako. She never fought against a mage before so she had no idea what to expect. She focused herself on her surroundings. Once she deemed everything was as good as it'd get for a while she took a step towards Yakaiyo.* \n\n\"What would you rather us do then? They don't seem exactly friendly and you're tying our hands if you're asking us to spare them when they're this aggressive.\" \n\n*She took this moment to pull out a piece of cloth to bandage her arm up from when she fed Yakaiyo, It felt like a silly thing to do but she didn't know about the other two when she did it. She made sure the wrapping was tight and the subtle bleeding staunched before turning her attention to the Vampire*" } ]

[ { "author": "Hakaze Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton clenched his jaw before letting out a yell and stabbing his sword into the floor halfway, breathing hard.*\n\n\"I don't know if those bastards lied to me or not, but I'm not fighting the two of you at once, nor am I talking when there's people outside this complex. I will leave, and I will come back.\"" }, { "author": "Yakaiyo Kiriyami", "message": "\"Salvania! Hakaze, we can talk in Salvania! Meet us there and we can talk peacefully! Please!\"\n\n*An emotional wreck, Yakaiyo was in no state of reason. No filter could hold back her words for someone she loved, nor could the attitudes of her new friends.*" }, { "author": "Hakaze Kiriyami", "message": "*The treton nods and turns away, pulling his sword out of the ground and walking away. The trio can see him raise an arm up to his face, to wipe the tears coming from his eyes until he disappeared into the dark.*" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro \"Manwhore \"", "message": "*Horace's ears perks. People outside the complex? Shit, we're they surrounded?! Fucking bitch, how'd they know??*\n\n*Horace screamed internally, turning his back as the Trenton leaves.*\n\"We need to go, **Now.** Entrance is bound to have been swarmed by now. Your family might of told them about any secret paths too...\"\n\n*As much as Horace would love to bash in some skulls right about now, they were in no condition. Yakaiyo was already injured thanks to her fucked family, and Celeana was... Well, he couldn't say he exactly truster her.*\n\n*As good as Horace himself was, he couldn't take on an army at once by himself.*\n\"Fuck everything's gone to shit so quickly... I do have one idea, but you might not like it. Just trust me on this.\"\n\n*Horace says, looking around for any nearby open windows.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*The fertile green valley of Nien extended as far as the eyes can see. Beyond small hills and the alluvial plains in the distance, the two rivers of Dirqal and Nien can be witnessed, joining into one large body. Its endpoint flows into the sea on an estuary near Ulnoor, the capital city of Silnaria. A tale is passed amongst the adventurer and sojourner alike. Even as one walks to the south, further into the Macen and Lora territories, they will still be able to feel it. The salty breeze which originated from the Northern Gate. It seemed to be true. Or at least, that was what the lone figure who is currently striding amongst the valley of Thornleader thought.*\n \n\"So that's the forests beneath Tossau.. So large. I wonder if it has a name?\"\n \n*The figure muttered, putting their hand above their eyes in the motion similar to salute. The purpose is none other than to block the sunlight and help them see clearer. Although, it's maybe an unwarranted thing to do. After all, the northern sun radiates a colder and dimmer light than the Macen countries in the middle to south. Their golden strands of hairs and blue scholar cape swayed along the wind. The breeze itself flows forwards, because their back is facing the Northern sea. They are looking at the forests which blanketed the southeastern border of the Prasian mountains. It extends as far to the northern border of Middle Mentia. After a few seconds of admiring the scenery in front of them, they turned their face towards their back. The sun crowned the delicate and feminime feature of Akasha Isolet. Her eyes trailed the horizon, before stopping on the visage of the city of Cesinor in the Northeast.*\n \n\"It's as they said hm.\"\n\n_ _\n*Her remarks are directed towards the heavy stone wall and fortifications, which protected the west side of Cesinor. Looking at it from this distance, the contrast is so apparent than the lighter defence built on the eastern border. It seems that the books and tales are correct. The predecessor of the people who lived in that city feared the invasion from Silnaria, far more than of its neighbouring enclave of Lymian Empire. There is no blaming them. After all, it was a hard earned independence. Which, unfortunately– or fortunately, depending on one's stance, retaken once more. She shook her head, also slightly displacing the blue beret on top of it, before returning her attention to the direction of the forest.*\n \n*\"Looking closer at its density, it might be possible that the source of 'it' originated from those woods.\" She thought, as her feet continued to walk.*\n \n*\"Well, it's still just a rumour. The disappearance could be caused by wild beasts or monsters. It wouldn't be strange if they already hired a sellsword to deal with it, though. Oh, Lord Zünfïnte. I do pray that it's all simply exaggerated gossip from a mischievous villager.\"*\n \n*Not long after, numbers of wooden and hay roofs can be seen in the distance. A mill is also constructed, which she suppose, is used by the carpenter of the settlement. The hamlet is built on the northern edge of the forest, where it meets the currents of the river Nien. It is a nice little settlement. The citizens being sheep and cow herders who produce wheels of cheese. Some are also avid hunters, as games are plenty on these parts of Thonleader. In particular, it's because of the existence of that forest. There is a reason why Akasha decided to travel to a seemingly ordinary and peaceful place like this. It is because of a hearsay which entered her ears on her stay in Cesinor.*\n\n_ _\n*A few days ago, returning to the inn from one of the universities there, something caught her attention. Her interest perked up at a talk of a few hunters who have just returned to the city. The content of their conversation are about the cases of disappearance recently. It involves cattle, guard dogs, and even people around the very region which she is currently heading towards. Some dismissed it as the work of a beast or monster, who might have gone down from the mountains because of the lack of prey. However, a certain mention has caught her attention. Someone heard a testament from a witness. He said that behind the fog of the night, they can sometimes see a set of glowing eyes and smell putrid scents in the air. They also felt like they were being watched by something that 'is not a living creature'. All of those, being the discernable traits of undeads.*\n \n\"....\"\n \n*Akasha stopped in her tracks. The simple, short stone fence used to deter small predators stood in front of her, alongside the entrance of the gateless hamlet. If the case truly has a relation to the vile use of necromancy arts, then, it's her duty as a Priestess of the House of Wisdom to banish the root of evil. One of her hands is used to hold her casting staff on the side. Her appearance would tell anyone on the first glance that she is a mage. To be exact, a faith mage. A few people can be seen nearby, either tiling their land or just doing their own business. She pondered silently, in regard to the next step she should take.*" }, { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "Twelve. That was the number of carcasses littered around the field grass of the humble stable in the small hamlet. Behind Artúr were once the fences surrounding the wooden stable, now torn through and broken. In addition, there were dozens of cattle, sheep, and cows too numerous to count in the fields surrounding the barn. All of whom were presumed to have escaped last night during the incident that Artúr was investigating. \n\nIt was the sixth time this week. He had been investigating a string of incidents similar to this around the Nien for the past week. Barns, broken through and livestock would be killed. If it wasn't the livestock, it would be strays and cats. Horses and guard dogs, or even people. The case of disappearances and bodies found have abnormally risen lately, and it was starting to show its wear on the local residents.\n\nArtúr had caught wind of the odd situation in Cesinor, the city to the northeast that was on the border between Silnaria and Lymia. Lathian hunters spoke of the strange occurrences in the region but largely dismissed it as an 'increase of beasts and monsters. But what the Ombuian found in his days of investigating was far different and more sinister. \n\nHaving ranged for two years at this point, Artúr was familiar with much of the bestiary of Slinaria and the lands surrounding it. The hamlet sat just on the northern edge of the great forests to the south, like the other villages and hamlets. So whatever was the root cause of the anomalies must have originated from the woods, which narrowed down the search. But something wasn't right.\n\nCarnivorous beasts who dwelled within the trees always hunt their prey. The carcasses of their victim always showed signs of struggle or stress. Whether it be at their legs, the hind or the horn. And importantly, carnivorous beasts always ate their prey—Animal or man. So why was it that all of the dead carcasses and bodies Artúr found in the area . . . Mostly clean?\n\nThe cattle carcasses laid before him; they were all dead. But every single one had singular wounds against their napes or back and nothing much else. There were no signs of teeth or marks on their flesh that could indicate a predator killed them for food. The tracks left behind whatever was it that killed the livestock were also very numerous, but the patterns showed a bipedal creature rather than a quadrupedal. \n\nArtúr thought that it must have been the work of men, but something was off. The hamlet residents have told him nothing of anyone who came there the night before, and no possessions of value were lost. Moreover, no signs of violence or crime happened in the past week, and even if there were men who came here to steal cattle, why didn't they take it? And the stench.\n\nThe smell was putrid and rotting. It filled the air like sour fruit directly against Artúr's nose. But, it wasn't just the stench of the carcasses; it was something else. And paired with consistent reports of locals around Nien spotting 'red eyes' in the woods and odd groups of men wandering on the outskirts of settlements, Artúr knew it could've been only one thing.\n\n*\"Praise to Dyarin. Do you know who possibly could have done this? We were lucky they didn't kill the rest of the cattle... This will last us only through the spring and summer,\"* One of the hamlet's elders spoke to Artúr, approaching the ranger.\n\nArtúr stood in silence, pondering his thoughts before turning to the elder.\n\n*\"Nothing too dangerous,\"* Assured Artúr to the elder.\n\n*\"Thank goodness... I hope the problem is solved soon enough. Too many have gone missing this past month...\"*\n\nThe Ombuian simply nodded and walked past the elder, heading back to the hamlet entrance. Artúr could have told him that it was a necromancy threat at hand and, if untreated, could possibly mean the destruction of the small settlement and many others. But part of the job meant keeping the locale safe and unaware. Having worried people would also get in the way of Artúr's very tedious job, so he decided to keep that word of mouth shut.\n\nThen, Artúr noticed someone in the distance. They approached the hamlet but didn't seem like the other Lathian Silnari who inhabited the settlement. Upon closer inspection, the unknown person appeared to be a Macen girl. Artúr wondered why she was here." }, { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*Her eyes trailed around the settlement, as she continued her advance. It was remarkably unremarkable, not beyond one's expectation about a place like this. Thin fogs lay about, which originated from the forest in the south. Simple houses and shops here and there. But, she can feel.. Something unusual in the atmosphere. Seemingly out of place from the serene environment, it is an uncanny gut feeling. Though, it seems that the gloomy air doesn't only affect herself.*\n \n*A certain layer of clouds embedded itself in the eyes of the people here. Few in numbers, walking wearily on the road, or sitting on the porch of their own houses. Most of them don't even regard the newcomer, with ones who do only nod and give a passing smile. The winds, little critters, sounds of nature over this place are a little too.. Quiet. Notwithstanding, the recent incidents that frequently happened is the most probable cause of this.*\n \n\"How terrible...\"\n \n*She stopped in front of the stable, looking through the broken fences. Beyond that, painted a horrendous scenery of various livestock carcasses. It looks like new cases had been happening even as she travelled here. She lifted her gaze beyond the hamlet. There, it met the dense and heavy woodlands that made up much of that part of the lands, until far south. Because of how close the leaves and branches are in the proximity of each other, even sunlight on the brightest day shied away from the forest ground. Feeling a dark sense of uneasiness that radiates from its deepest reach, she tightened the grip on her staff.*\n\n_ _\n\"Hello, hello there. Is there something I can help you with, young lady?\" *A coarse voice suddenly said from next to her. When Akasha turned her head to face it, she found an elderly man standing near her.*\n \n\"Ah, good afternoon!\" *She replied. A warm smile is plastered on her face.*\n \n*Afterwards, the elderly man introduced himself as one of this hamlet's elders. He told her that he noticed that a traveller had entered the settlement a moment ago. An apology is given for the lack of the warm welcome from the people there.*\n \n\"No no, sir. I understand. It seems that something terrible must have happened recently.\" *Her eyes glanced at the animal carcassess for a moment.*\n \n\"I'm but a simple wandering priestess. I stumbled upon this place coincidentally on my travels. Sir, if you don't mind, what happened to the animals here?\" *She asked, concealing her motive for coming here, for now.*\n \n\"Aah, a priestess. Splendid, splendid. Sigh... About that...\"\n \n*The elder rubbed his forehead, exhaling deeply. He began to tell the story of the disappearance of the animals and people here, in much more detail than the one which she had heard in the city. When he spoke regarding the more... 'sinister', nature about the incident, he lowered his voice. The description matched; glowing eyes, foul stench, odd wandering figures.*\n\n_ _\n\"Hoho, but there is nothing to fear. Sir ranger had assured us that it is not related to anything grim. As our ancestors who have settled in this hardy place, we will endure.\" *The elder smiled and rubbed his white beard. The mention in his words, however, sparked Akasha's interest.*\n \n\"Sir ranger, sir?\"\n \n\"Yes, yes... Ahh, he hadn't left yet, it seems. He is just over there.\" *He spoke, pointing to a direction.*\n \n*Akasha's eyes followed the old man's finger. Not far from there, near the entrance of the hamlet, she saw a figure. He is a tall and lean man, certainly looking like a ranger with his gears. A mask is concealing his face. After looking at him for a few moments, Akasha turned her attention back to the elder and thanked him.*\n \n\"Stay safe, young lady. May Dyarin protect us all.\"\n \n*The old man nodded, then walked away. She turned her focus once again to this 'sir ranger'. From the look of it, and based on what the old man had said earlier, this person has done an attempt to investigate the oddity that happened in this place. Pondering for a few moments, it might be good to try and talk to him. A ranger certainly would know much more about the surrounding area than herself. He might also have an inkling about the true nature of this phenomena. However, the village elder said that the ranger don't view this case as something dangerous. Could it be that he underestimated the gravity of the situation... Or is it a way to not instil a panic in the mind of these simple folks?*\n\n_ _\n*That, she would need to confirm for herself. She approached the said ranger.*\n \n\"I suppose that you are this 'sir ranger' who the village elder was talking about?\" *She said, as she stopped next to him.* \n \n*Her eyes are fixed to the hole of his mask, and a smile is still visible on her lips. One of her hands is holding her staff, while the other is touching her chest. She began to introduce herself afterwards.*\n \n\"May the gods give their grace on thee. Good afternoon. My name is Akasha Isolet, a priestess. I came here in regards to the... Unpleasant occurrences, which had happened recently.\" *She said in Silnarian, in a volume which would make it just barely to the level of audible and 'intelligible'. However, her pronunciation is refined, and her voice is pleasant to the ear.*" }, { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "Artúr turned to look at the Mycan girl, nodding in response. She was indeed here for the same reasons as he was, investigating the oddities that surrounded the region. \n\nThe ranger then turned to fully face Akasha. From her glance, Artúr would've been an imposing feature. Fully clad in equipment, Artúr wore a leather gambeson; over it would be partial-plating of steel and robes. The sheathes of two thin blades were by his sides, and on his back were a bow and a long axe. A short green cloak draped over Artúr's shoulder, with a hood shrouded his face. But the face was concealed by a full-faced mask, which seemed to act as both protection and concealment of his identity.\n\n*\"Greetings. You can call me... Artúr for now,\"* Artúr responded, speaking fluent Silnarian. His voice was humble and mellow, no louder than it has to be, *\"I am here for the same reasons. But I didn't expect a Macen priestess to be venturing through these parts.\"*" }, { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "I didn't expect a Macen priestess to be venturing through these parts.\n \n\"Yes, I received that frequently.\" *She said.*\n \n*His appearance is certainly imposing, and slightly towering above her. However, Akasha can tell that he isn't someone with intentions lathered in malice. Even from the way he talks, it's clear that he has a honed temper. She does wonder why he hides his face. But such things are privy, personal reasons and circumstances that shouldn't be pried into. Her eyes wandered to the view of the clear currents of the Nien river, then she began to talk.*\n \n\"I heard from the village elder about your opinion on this. I can tell that you should also have known that these cases are not one to be dismissed easily. You told him that to ease the burden of his mind, yes?\" *She returned her attention towards Artúr, as she finished her sentences.*\n \n\"I haven't observed the remains closely. You know that I'm a priestess now, so I'd take it that you should also be able to deduce why I come all the way to this remote part. Now, tell me, based on your judgement...\"\n \n*She furrowed her eyebrows, a grim expression on her face. Her grips on her staff are tightened again.*\n \n\"Is the cause really what I feared?\"" }, { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "*\"You'd be right,\"* Artúr would confirm, sighing, *\"Making the people fearful will only get in the way of what I need to do. Now, I can't ascertain how many of the undead there are, or who is exactly behind the necromancy, but... I may know where they might attack next.\"*" }, { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*It looks like the worst possible situation is really the case here. She puts her hand on her chin in the gesture of thinking, as he confirmed her suspicion. The appearance of undeads certainly is not a natural phenomenon. She was reminded of a similar incident that once happened in Salvainia, which she was also involved directly in. A certain necromancer sent a few undeads in disguise to do his own dirty job. They collect humans, living or dead, for the purpose of making another puppet and nefarious experiments of their master. Though, she doesn't quite see what is the purpose of attacking and leaving the carcasses of animals behind in the case of attacks in Thonladear. Do they do this only to terrorize the innocent people?*\n \n\"You know?\"\n \n*Her face changed to that of curiosity, mixed with a glimmer of hope when he said that he knows where the next attack might take place. It looks like asking the ranger about it was really a good call. She turned to face Artúr again, her cape fluttered behind. If they can expect where the next attack would take place, they might also be able to apprehend the necromancer. After all, the immutable Law of Vocation stated that there is a limit of distance from the summoner to their familiar. It is important to maintain the link of the mana flow, lest it will be severed if they are too far apart. Whoever they are, they must be in proximity.*\n \n\"Do the appearance of these undeads have a set pattern on time and locations which you can read?\"" }, { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "*\"It has to do with the behaviour pattern, yes. I've been investigating this for the past week, and I visited all the affected settlements from the oldest known incident to the most recent, which is here,\"* Artúr explained, *\"And that is where the pattern can be found. The oldest known incident began with a town to the south, and since then, villages along the forests have been attacked every two to three days. And every recent incident has been going north...*\n\n*\"Whoever the necromancer is, they intentionally move northward through the forest. I'm not sure why, but I have reason to think the necromancer is heading to Cesinor as an end goal. Because, from the information each affected settlement gave me, they didn't just leave the carcasses and corpses there.*\n\n*Every village reported that the following night after an incident, a few of the corpses or carcasses from the incident would go missing. The cause for most of these is unknown. What if the necromancer is collecting more undead soldiers with each settlement they attack? It would explain why they leave the carcasses behind undisturbed. This could mean that they use up their mana each night they attack, so they don't bring back the dead with them until the night after. Would use up too much energy, I suppose.\"*" }, { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*Akasha pondered about his words. She turned her gaze towards the northeast, where the city of Cesinor stood beyond those hills and valleys. If that place was really the necromancer objective, to what end do they see their undead soldiers gathering activities? She highly doubts that it was to attack Cesinor. There is simply no benefit gained from creating a ruckus in a major fortified city. Especially, where numbers of adventurers from two countries' borders often pass. They would only make enemies of them and would be annihilated.*\n \n\"Based on what you said, then it's most likely that they are collecting bodies for the purpose of fulfilling the Grand Arbitrage.\" *She explained to the ranger, who might not have an in-depth knowledge about the subject.*\n \n\"By offering a recently deceased body, they can assume a contract that would last permanently. Though, something doesn't add up. A permanent summon ritual in necromancy would reduce the amount of mana needed to sustain the undeads to practically zero. Which means that they wouldn't need to retrieve the carcasses until the next night. Unless...\"\n \n*Akasha paused. She covered her mouth with one of her hands. A worried expression found its way to her face, where she cast her eyes towards the ground. The possibility which she just thought of would escalate the direness of the situation, if it were true.*\n\n_ _\n\"**Bloodtrolls**. They don't gather the corpses to make singular undeads. Instead, they intend to craft them into larger abominations. Thus they have only collected them at the moment. Such things would require a preparation in the form of grand scale rituals... Which means that whoever is behind this could be a lich, or that there could be more than one of them. That would indicate the presence of a necromancer cult.\"\n \n*From her words, the threat that they are facing could be well beyond the scope of their capabilities. Especially if their enemies are a lich. The individuals who have obtained the secret of eternal life through the use of necromancy. She shook her head at the thoughts, and looked at Artúr again.*\n \n\"It could also simply be a rogue necromancer who collected the bodies as experiments subjects, though. I hope that it would be the case, lest we might need to bring the attention of the nearby city. Either way, if your guess is correct, then they would return tonight.\" *Her eyes trailed towards the direction of the stable.*\n \n\"It could be dangerous, but I will stay for the night here and investigate the root of it for myself. I do not mean to make you take a risk, but, would you be willing to accompany me? I'm afraid that I wouldn't be able to deal with them alone. And if the necromancer truly resides beyond these woods, then your tracking knowledge as a ranger would be very needed.\"" }, { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "Artúr contemplated the situation at hand. He knew they weren't probably going for Cesinor this early into the necromancer's plan, but all of the dots lead to a northernmost expanse. So their next target would probably be a settlement close to this hamlet at the other end of the forest. Artúr pondered if he should go there next, on the off-hand that the undead might attack tonight, so he would be able to prevent a raid.\n\nBut Artúr knew that they didn't make their next move until after collecting the bodies of their previous attacks. At night, staying in the town to await the undead would prove far more effective and efficient. Akasha was also clearly a valuable partner, considering her deep knowledge of the arts and necromancy.\n\n*\"I do not mind,\"* Artúr replied, a lighter tone in his voice, *\"I am sure their next target will be the village just ahead of this one in two nights' time, however... If we can intercept the undead tonight and at the very least damage their numbers, we will be able to halt their movement.\"*" } ]

[ { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*Hearing the ranger agreed to stay, she puts on a beaming smile towards him, pleased. Though, first, they should make a preparation to intercept the undeads. And more importantly, to ensure that they can catch the necromancer who is controlling them red-handed. As stated before, when the undead returns, the necromancer should be hiding in proximity. The first place which comes to mind when she thinks of a perfect spot to conceal one's presence would be beyond the fences of this hamlet. The woods.*\n\n\"Umu, splendid! Then, we should prepare for it. The undead's objective would be to collect the carcass. Hmm..\" *She began to pace forwards, to look better at the direction of the stable.*\n\n\"We could collect the carcasses in one place, that way, it would be easier to deal with them with a large scale spell when the undead gathered. What do you think?\" *She turned to Artúr.*\n\n\"The most important thing is, we should also try and confront the necromancer before he gets away. I have the ability to detect traces of magical energy flow. Humm... But it's troubling, the forest at night would be very dark. Even with torch, I don't think that I would be able to see far. Furthermore, it could also alert the necromancer.\"" }, { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "*\"That won't be a problem for me\"*, Artúr would say, *\" I can sense heat, meaning I can see creatures and any objects with heat across vast distances, even in the dark. I will be able to trace the undead; though they don't emit much heat considering they're corpses, they will still emit it.\"*\n\nArtúr paused for a few seconds to think about the plan.\n\n*\"If it were under other circumstances, I would have proposed that I track the necromancer myself while you intercept the undead, or rather vice versa. But considering you won't be able to see well in the dark, we should stick together at night.*\n\n*\"Hmm, I might have an idea. Though, I assume there isn't any telepathic spell for us to communicate remotely, so it could be tricky. Like your suggestion, we move the carcasses into one area. Preferably, somewhere in the fields behind the barn, the wheat blades will be tall enough to hide any crouched movement, making it perfect cover for us to move through without the necromancer seeing us. We could assume the necromancer will take refuge in the abandoned barn to remain close to their puppets since the livestock is being moved elsewhere...* \n\n*\"One of us could be in the fields and closely monitor the undead, while the other will remain close to the barn to see if the necromancer will go there. They need to be in close proximity, after all, as the undead will have to follow the carcasses placed past the barn. Alternatively, we could remain together in one spot, though I think splitting up is the best action. If the necromancer is alerted, they might escape while we are busy with the undead.*\n\n*\"It is your choice, though. I am unsure of your ability to defend yourself, so sticking together might be a safer bet.\"*" }, { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "\"That sounds like a good plan.\" *She nodded.*\n \n\"You should be the one who is on the lookout for the necromancer. Remember, that he would most likely enter the hamlet from the direction of the woods. I doubt that I would be able to spot them, and even if I did, I wouldn't be able to follow them if they fled. Even more, usually the night in these parts would be very foggy. Horde of undead would be easier to detect. I would be fine facing them alone.\" \n \n*She confidently claimed. At least, she is quite certain that the undead would be less troubling than confronting the one who is controlling them directly. Akasha would be the one hiding near the field, while Artúr can take a vantage point to spot the necromancer. She turned her attention to the humble houses of the hamlet. The residents there don't know about the predicament that befallen their homeland. It might be a good thing to take a precaution, warning the people to not go outside of their houses tonight.*\n\n_ _\n\"You might want to warn the elder so he can tell the people to stay inside tonight, Artúr. It would be more convincing, if the words came from you. You can say that a dangerous animal would likely enter the village at that time, or something along those lines.\"\n \n*She stretched a little after saying that. There is still some time before the sun sets. They need to start their preparation now.*\n \n\"Hnnn, huff. Then, shall we start, ugh... Moving the carcasses now? We might also want to set up some traps near the barn like bear traps or rope.\"\n \n*Judging from her expression, it looks like Akasha wouldn't enjoy the workout that they will do after this. She doesn't really have a problem with looking at or touching the dead. But still, she would prefer to not do it at all if it can be helped. She took a few steps forwards, then paused to wait for Artúr.*\n \n\"After that, we should take as much rest as we can. Ah, I can also cook us some food, if you're hungry. Tonight will be a chore, empty stomach is no go.\" *She said, smiling sweetly.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "**PLOUGH** *And plough. That was what Artúr had been doing, nearly done with the fourth pitfall trap. For the past several hours, Artúr had been in the fields moving the carcasses next to the tree past the barn and setting up the traps for the undead to walk through. Four pitfall traps were four yards deep around the tree, with the remaining space covered by snare traps that would catch the target and immediately fling them. This time, Artúr had increased the size of the rope and the structural instability of the snare traps to maximise the damage and the number of undead warriors each trap could attack. The pitfalls were set up with spikes along the ground, and the walls were smooth wooden, wet with liquid to make it impossible to climb out of*.\n\n*The labour seemed almost wasteful because there was a good chance the undead wouldn't be affected by the traps, and Akasha would be there anyways to fight them. Nevertheless, Artúr wanted to ensure that they could deal as much damage as possible in the beginning to make the hunting easier. And most undead has relatively light and empty bodies anyways, so even if they were to survive, they would still be harmed and easily restrained by the traps. So it was a foolproof set of traps that would probably help the two in the long run*.\n\n*But as Artúr contemplated it, he was finally done walling the last pitfall trap and setting up the wooden spikes. Artúr was fatigued and exhausted, if he was honest, but he offered to move all of the carcasses and handle the traps himself. Which he did, so it was nothing to complain about. But Akasha had been cooking their meal while Artúr was out in the fields, and they were probably done*.\n-\n\n*Leaping, Artúr latched onto the edge of the pitfall trap, attached with a rope. Although he had made sure it was difficult to climb from the inside, Artúr prepared a rope for him to get out. Dirtied by the soil, his equipment and armour were rusted with dirt, pieces of bark and greens and other products of nature. It was quite hot from the inside, but nothing the Silnari could not handle. He had been doing this for years now, so the feeling was familiar*.\n\n*Artúr started ambling through the fields and back to the hamlet. As he walked through the endless blades of wheat brushing against his armour, the sun beating down on his skin, and the crunching dirt under his feet, Artúr thought about the priestess girl. More particularly, how this would be the first time the masked ranger would be working with someone on the job. He had been working alone for years until now. It was almost nerve-racking about the nearly limitless possibilities of failure and things going wrong. How the mission could go badly, and Akasha could possibly get hurt, and it would be Artúr's fault*.\n\n*If there was one thing he feared the most right now, it was whether or not teaming up with the priestess girl was the right choice. Artúr had agreed to pursue the necromancer and the undead with Akasha since she was investigating the same anomalies and had similar interests. But this was outside of his comfort, acting on a plan that could easily tumble if only one of them did something wrong. And Artúr had only met her this evening, perplexing the thoughts further*.\n-\n\n*However, regardless of what Artúr however, he would have to go through with the mission with Akasha. He couldn't tell her that he couldn't do it anymore or that he should do it alone. Artúr knew that the priestess girl was as adamant about solving the problem as him, so it was not something he could refuse. They would be in it together, which was almost as daunting as it was uplifting*.\n\n*The sight of the barn came into view, but no one was there. Artúr figured Akasha was elsewhere in the hamlet and continued walking, eventually returning to the main locale of the settlement. There, Artúr saw a quaint house at the edge of the countless other buildings. The windows were open, and he saw a few figures inside. It was Akasha and an old woman*.\n\n*Approaching the house, Artúr walked up the porch and knocked gently on the door*.\n\n*\"Excuse me, is a girl named Akasha here?\"* Artúr asked clearly from outside the entrance." }, { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*Some time has passed since her conversation with the old lady ended. Akasha, although she had insisted on doing it herself, was setting up the table for the meal together with her. The furniture and the tableware on the house was quite humble, mostly carved out of wood. However, they are clean and are kept well. She placed the spoon, forks, and plates in a skillful manner on the table. This is just natural, and almost daily occurrences for her in the past, whereas she and her mother would prepare the family dinner. As she thinks of that, her mind wanders, wondering how they are doing. Is her mother doing okay in the temple? Is her father eating properly on the frontline? Is her brother...*\n \n*Her mind darted back towards the present when the old lady nudged her. She pointed at the stew, and Akasha realised that it would be ready by now. Setting the lid aside from the pot, she stirred the lightly coloured soup. Wafts of appetite-inducing aroma filled the house, which flowed out towards the window. She looked outside. \"Is Artúr still working, I wonder?\" She thoughts. A feeling of guilt clenches on her heart. Maybe she should have kept offered her help to do the labour as well, earlier.*\n \n*Truthfully, clouds of worry had covered her heart since a few moments ago. She knows well that the ranger is an experienced man who had spent years in these regions. Still, while she trusts his ability, she doubts that making him deal alone with a necromancer is a good idea. Akasha has experiences of fighting such apparitions in the past, but what about Artúr? What if her trust in him would result in him being hurt? She had only known him for a short while, but as much as how she felt towards other people, it would be hard to forgive herself if were to get hurt because of her mistake.*\n\n_ _\n\"Something is on your mind, dear?\" *The old lady said, noticing the expression on the young priestess' face.*\n \n\"No, no, ma'am. It's nothing.\"\n \n\"Oh, there is something. Anyone would think of that, looking at your face.\" *The lady sat on one of the chairs, then sighed.*\n \n\"Akasha dear. You are still very young, younger than my grandchildren. Listen well.. That feelings on your face, anxiety, worry, they are often pretends to be necessary, but serve no useful purpose. The more you overthink about 'what ifs', the less you will understand about things in front of you. My child, be happy, put on your sweet smile. Because, the future will be what it will be, and fretting about it will only make your fears more likely to come true.\"\n \n\"....I understand. Thank you.\"\n \n*Akasha smiled, after pondering about her advice. The woman has a sharp intuition. Maybe this is one of the 'wisdom of age' that frequently accompanies people as they get older. That's indeed true. Instead of worrying, she needs to put her best efforts into what she can do at the moment.*\n \n*She quickly picked up her pace again, putting a few pieces of bread on the table. She took three wooden bowls and walked near the pot, pouring steaming hot servings of mushroom stews. Then, she also placed the bowls on the square table, each on its side, mirroring the position of each wooden chair. A few moments earlier, Akasha also had made an assortment of fresh vegetable salad as sides, which was placed in the middle. Giving the set up a last look, she puts both of her hands on her hips, feeling slightly proud of her handiwork this time.*\n\n***Knock knock***\n \n\"Excuse me, is a girl named Akasha here?\" \n \n\"!!\" \n \n*She perked up at both the mention of her name and the voice. It's the ranger. The old woman just gives her a short look. She quickly grasped about who is currently knocking on her doorstep and nodded. Akasha strided across the house, towards the door, and opened it. As she does so, Artúr would be able to smell the appetising scent flowing out. She smiled warmly, like a family who is welcoming home another family member.*\n \n\"Artúr, it's you! Oh, I was just about to go outside to tell you that the food is ready, but it looks like you found me first.\" *She said.*\n \n\"Come in. This house is where Granny Oris lives. You know, the wife of the village elder.\"\n \n*As she guided him through the humble abode, it took no time for them to arrive on the dining table. The old lady gives a smile to Artúr when she sees her. The place is small, but it's comfortable nonetheless. The food is served neatly on the table. And if he wants another fill, he can take it anytime on the steaming pot placed near the fireplace.*\n\n\"I'm so sorry that I didn't go to help you today. You must be very tired. Sit down and eat, this is the recipe that I used to make in my hometown. Feel free to tell me if you want a refill or two.\" *The priestess said, quickly pulling the chair and for the last time, wiping the table sections where Artúr's bowl is placed with a clean cloth.*" }, { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "*\"Artúr, it's you! Oh, I was just about to go outside to tell you that the food is ready, but it looks like you found me first, \"* She said.\n\n*\"Come in. This house is where Granny Oris lives. You know, the wife of the village elder.\"*\n \nArtúr did, in fact, not know that the elder had a wife. He nodded, greeting Akasha at the door, but Artúr perked a brow at her mention of the old woman as he followed her inside. But the pleasant and deep smell of mushroom stew and the wholesome scent of fresh bread interrupted the ranger's thoughts. After all, it had been a while since he last ate a meal.\n \nThe old lady gives a smile to Artúr when she sees her.\n \n*\"You must be Lady Oris? Thank you for having me. I apologise for coming in so abruptly, \"* Artúr said to the old lady. An almost apologetic tone followed his monotonous words.\n \n*\"Oh, no need to fret about it, Sir Ranger! Make yourself at home, and you don't have to use such formal names for me. I'm but a humble maiden, \"* Oris warmly replied.\n \n*\"O—Okay.\"*\n \nAs the three walked to the dinner table, Artúr observed the surroundings. It was a two-story humble cottage, and the interior was small but comfortable. Everything about the house was made from wood and stone, it seemed. Stairs in the corner that led to the second story. There was a brick chimney on the side. A large table with chairs was in the middle, and a window adjacent to them gave a view of the fields outside. A hallway led to the other section of the house to the other corner. On the other sat a cabinet that held plates and utensils, oil lamps, and other items.\n \nArtúr sat at the far end, and the food was already set at the table. In the middle was a pot of stew. Next to it plates of bread and other sides to pair the soup with. In front of him were a bowl and utensils, and the candlelight near the centre dimly illuminated the room. The house did not have many light sources and often relied on the sunlight or the modest flame of candles. \n-\n\nThen, Akasha and the old lady Oris took their seats at the table. The priestess girl had also wiped the table quickly and where Artúr's section was. He did not mind it but felt it was unnecessary to do it for him. But Artúr appreciated the generosity and effort Akasha put into preparing the table.\n \n*\"I'm so sorry that I didn't go to help you today. You must be very tired. Sit down and eat; this is the recipe that I used to make in my hometown. Feel free to tell me if you want a refill or two, \"* The priestess said.\n \n*\"It is fine. I did not mind doing the work. Thank you for preparing this meal,\"* Artúr reassured the priestess girl.\n \nHe then grabbed the ladle and floated it inside the pot of stew. Artúr sank the ladle into the liquid before pulling it up, a generous amount of soup cradled on the spoon. Then, before sitting back down, he poured it into his bowl, grabbed half a piece of bread, and placed back the ladle. \n \nArtúr looked at the stew. It took on a creamy white colour, and the liquid seemed to be thick but smooth as he ran his spoon through the bowl. The floating assortment of toppings and ingredients appeared to be all vegetables, most being leeks, carrots and mushrooms. The stew smelt pungent and sweet, almost fishy and earthy, probably from the large amounts of mushroom stock. But it also had the grassy undertone of the carrots and leeks, balancing out the overwhelming fungi scent.\n \nThe seated ranger stuck a spoon into the stew and brought it towards his face. Realising he still had his mask on, Artúr grabbed it with his other hand and lifted it slightly, revealing his jaw and mouth. His skin was a gold olive, and his lips were luscious red. Around the cheeks were subtle scarring, long whiteish dashes that went down to Artúr's neck and shoulders.\n -\n\nAs he ate the spoonful of stew, the strong umami of the sweetness and meatiness of the mushroom almost shocked Artúr's taste buds. Like his mouth was suddenly stunned by the powerful flavour of the stew. The soup was certainly delicious, and the more Artúr tasted it, the less overpowering it became, so he enjoyed the individual flavour profiles more as time progressed.\n \n*\"This is good,\"* Artúr bluntly commented.\n \n*\"Is it now? I have to try it for myself, then!\"* Lady Oris exclaimed as she began serving herself some.\n \nArtúr noticed the old lady and remembered Akasha's comment about her being the elder's wife. Putting down his spoon and setting back his mask, he looked at Oris.\n \n*\"Akasha had told me that you are the elder's wife?\"* Artúr asked, curious.\n \n*\"Indeed, I am his wife. Cillian and I are actually third-generation villagers of this settlement. A century and a half ago, roughly, our forebears took refuge in the aftermath of the Burghers Wars and settled in this region. They established many villages and hamlets in the Nien you know today. My grandfather fought in those wars too, y'know!\"* Oris told Artúr, excited to be talking about her familial past and the village's history.\n \n*\"Is that so? Interesting...\"*\n \n*\"Oh, it is. But to be truthful, hard times in the past were. My father was a wee child back then, but he remembered the strife after the rebellions. But we eventually made it through, and here we are. Sure, nightly beasts might be coming through tonight, but we survived worse. And we have you two to take care of us, so this dinner is the least I can do for you.\"*\n-\n\nArtúr nodded and stopped talking at the mention of the night. He had almost forgotten that soon after this dinner, he and Akasha would be heading out to meet the undead and bring down the necromancer—None of which Oris or any of the other villagers knew about. He felt like confessing to Oris about the true gravity of the situation. Still, He realised it would only make it worse. Alerting the whole village would bring about many other problems and hurt them in the long run.\n \nThere is barely any youth in the hamlet anymore. The allure of the big cities and adventure attracted many to leave their humble abode. Unfortunately, the settlement was vulnerable to predators and beasts, and the mention of a necromancer attack would probably drive out the rest of the populace. However, maybe that would be for the best. After this, Artúr was sure to alert the local lord about the region's strife, at least to increase security against raids and animals." } ]

[ { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*Akasha went to sit down at the long bench mirroring Oris position as she began to talk with Artúr. When the old lady referred to herself as a 'maiden', she can't quite place what kind of reaction she should give to that. She nodded gratefully when the ranger reassured her.*\n \n*She looked at her bowl which was already filled, then in turn towards Artúr who was about to eat. It is slight, but her eyes are filled with anticipation to either people, wondering whether or not they would enjoy her cooking. Because of that, she easily caught a glimpse of a part of his facial feature when he lifted his mask ever so slightly. Before she turned her eyes away as she felt that staring would be impolite, she noticed the scar that runs across his cheek, all the way down to his shoulder. She cannot help but wonder if that was the cause of why he wore a mask.*\n \n\"This is good,\"\n \n*Hearing that, she beamed, feeling slightly proud of herself. It was one of Mentian home cuisine, so she was worried at first if the strong flavour would suit the taste buds of Silnarian people. Though, now it seems that it was unwarranted. As Artúr and Oris chatted once again regarding the village history, Akasha took out something from her pocket. It was a locket, displaying an intricate carving of her patron deity symbol when opened. She held it with both of her hands and whispered a prayer to it.*\n\n_ _\n*\"Through thy grace and generosity, bless us, and the food and drink for your servant, O Lord.\"*\n \n*Putting back the locket inside of her pocket, she picked up the spoon and brought the stew to her face. She swept the golden strands of hair away from her face towards one side of her ears. Then, she blows the still hot soup carefully, before bringing it to her mouth. She returned her attention to the conversation, and heard the words of 'rebellion'. It looks like the granny is still telling him the story about her past. She already told them to Akasha earlier, which of course, also a well known history in Mentia. After all, the Menti majority kingdom such as Salvainia and Mentia also played a critical role in that war, as the rebel army supporter.*\n \n*The priestess also stopped moving her spoon momentarily when she heard the mention of the night. Though, as she knows just how sharp Oris can be, she quickly regained her composure and turned her head at the old lady.*\n\n\"Mhm, don't worry. We have sir ranger— Artúr here who is really good at dealing with wild animals. And I will make sure to tend to his wound if there were to be some small scuffle. Though, we need you to stay inside until it's finished. Just to be safe, as wandering predators can be dangerous.\"\n \n*She said, reassuring her that everything will be alright. In a way, this also serves to reassure herself as well. The old lady nodded, and they continued their meal.*\n \n```And so, the sun has retired for the day.```\n\n_ _\n*The obscuring ghost of white veil rolled down from the mountain and the forest. It formed a blanket over Thonladear, reducing the vision distance. Akasha stood outside with Artúr, in the place where they talked at noon. In her hand is an oil lamp, which was borrowed from Oris to give some semblance of comfort from the abyss around them. She pulled her cape close to her, protecting her bones from the chilly wind of the season. A moment earlier, as had planned before, they have gone to the village elder so that he can warn the people to not go outside. Artúr had also come door by door to convince the more stubborn old timers about the danger.*\n \n\"Huff... Cold, isn't it?\"\n \n*Akasha said. A small smile is planted on her lips. Her eyes are not looking at the ranger's direction, rather, it is scanning the fog carefully. Her hand gripped on her staff tightly. The young girl is quite anxious, from what it seems. After this, they would need to go out there, towards the barn bordering the forest. Carrying the lamp is no go, as it would most likely alert the necromancer of their presence. She tightens her hand on her staff.*\n \n\"Are you prepared?\"" }, { "author": "Artur O'Mordha", "message": "**DUSK** *Had crept in, and so started the wait for the nightly undead. Artúr watched through the windows from the humble barn's attic on the hamlet's outskirts. He was still and quiet, like a body of water not yet touched, but like water, he was prepared to spring into action at any moment. The Silnari's eyes laid upon the wheat fields, barely visible in the darkness. But Artúr was almost a nocturnal creature at this point. His vision could discern the heat of objects and people, so it posed no problem. But it wasn't the blades of grass that were his concern: It was the monsters and the priestess girl.* \n\n*Not long before, Artúr and Akasha had set out to take their positions across the area in anticipation of the walking dead and the necromancer that commanded them. The plan was simple: Lure the undead to the carcasses laid next to a tree, and have them fall to the trapping pits and be attacked by the snare traps that would restrain them. Then, Akasha would put down the remaining enemies.*\n\n*Artúr would remain in the barn, though still mindful of joining in the fray if the battle proved too difficult for Akasha. In the barn, Artúr would seek to conceal himself and wait for the necromancer to seek refuge in the fuilding. Then, the masked ranger would ambush the necromancer and bring the mage down to permanently end the terror that plagued the Nien for weeks.*\n-\n\n*Although many variables could change the plan, some good, others for the worse, it was the best the two adventurers could rely on, given their abilities and limited resources. But it was not the integrity of the mission that stressed Artúr's mind; it was who would be part of it. This was the first time Artúr would be collaborating with another person in a mission, so he was cautious, maybe nervous about what could happen to them. He wasn't concerned with himself, whether it was because he trusted in his skills or simply did not care, but when there were other lives at stake, it was a feeling that itched the young Silnari.* \n\n*Akasha had told Artúr that she could protect herself and put down the monsters, and he had good faith that that was the case. However, they had only met that evening. He was not completely sure of the priestess girl's abilities nor knew if she only had said that to allay Artúr's concern. Regardless, Artúr knew that the moment something went wrong, he would ensure Akasha's safety, even at the cost of the necromancer. He had been working by himself for the past two years; He was not about to let a partner down.*\n\n*Artúr keenly observed the fields. His attention mainly focused on the tree and the blurb of yellow in the middle of the vast nightly blue that shrouded Artúr's vision. The yellow represented the heat of Akasha's body, and she was too waiting in the field. Although the undead could emit body heat themselves, it would be easy to differentiate Akasha from the others as she is alive. As the plan, she was to engage the monsters the moment they came to the tree and until the traps did enough damage themselves. If needed, Artúr also would help the priestess girl with his bow and arrow, supported by the ranger's advantageous position in the barn's attic.*\n-\n\n*His right palm tightly wrapped around the bow's handle, the other gripped against the arrow and string, ready to loose at any moment. The hardness of the wood was softened by the gloves Artúr wore, reducing the wear onto his skin, and the kneeling position Artúr found himself in was starting to get uncomfortable. But over the two years he had gotten used to cramped places by now, at times having to remain in the same spot for hours on end. It was also less troublesome this time as the mushroom stew Akasha had prepared replenished his energy.*\n\n*Artur could only think about what was on Akasha's mind at that moment, and when the monsters would eventually show.*" }, { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*Meanwhile, Akasha is crouching amongst the tall wheatgrass growing densely on that field. Her petite body and blue cape is concealed well amongst the darkness of the night. Her breaths are slow and steady, maintaining her heartbeats in a stable pattern and sharpening her senses.*\n \n*While her vision is greatly reduced because of the darkness and the fog, her eyes are still fixed on the tree which stood seven or so metres ahead. Their plan would take off the moment the undead fell into their trap. She needed to be aware as swiftly as possible and begin to act when that happens.*\n \n*The piled up carcasses nearby filled the air with a strong, rotten stench. It caused her eyes to slightly water, but there is no other thing which she can do other than to preserve. Her staff is laying next to her, against the dry soil. It would give her an edge in the upcoming conflict if she were to prepare a few spells beforehand. However, she is unable to do so as the light produced by such action would undoubtedly act as a beacon. Various watching eyes could be present. Some, which might not belong to friendly creatures.*\n \n*\"The best option for now is to anticipate and cast them on the moment notice, as soon as the skirmishes begin.\" She thought.*\n\n_ _\n*She wondered if the ranger is able to keep a clear watch on the proximity, especially without any source of illumination. Her gaze turned towards the barn for a moment. She hoped that Artúr would succeed in taking down the necromancer once and for all. If she were to be a burden by relying on his aid when fighting the undead, his attention could be diverted. Their mission could fail miserably as the worst possibility. As it stood, if they let this chance slip, the necromancer is certain to be far more cautious for his next attack.*\n \n*\"I would be fine facing them alone.\" Her words echoed inside her mind. The claim which she had voiced a few hours ago to the ranger. Truth to be told, as an adventurer who has travelled on the road for some time in her own right, Akasha understands. Facing multiple enemies alone is a deathtrap in many combat cases. Unseen factors and various possibilities can emerge without a moment's notice. Yet, as much as she can, she would prefer if Artúr can put all of his attention to hunt the necromancer. Even if it meant that he would disregard her position.*\n \n*Clenching hard against her staff, she steadied herself. A short prayer to her deity is whispered, as she resolved her heart. As much as she is the daughter of a priestess, she is also raised by a soldier. Before she had studied the mythical arts, she had lifted a sword. \"The weight of your sword is the weight of your pride.\" She recalled her father's words. It is quite simple. If they come towards her at a distance, she shall burn them with holy miracle. If they come towards her at proximity, she shall subdue them with her staff.*\n \n*Akasha thought about what Artúr might think at this moment, and pondered, in what form will the enemies appear?*" } ]

[ { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Akiron was sitting at a random place, reading through a random book. There was a horse right net to him, which was he was blindly feeding an apple. Akiron was mindlessly taking an apple out of his bucket and raising it up, and so the horse ate it. Later, Akiron had ran out of apples and he didn't notice it. The horse bit his hand, and Akiron slowly looked up at his horse.* ***``\"WAIT, WAIT! JOERGEN, NOT LIKE THAT!\"``***" }, { "author": "failtastica", "message": "Lucy had come to town mostly to do some general shopping for food and such general provisions and also get stock for her towns guards. The caravan wouldn't leave for another couple hours at least and so she had time. Her armor was quite expensive for a simple town guard as was her gear. A spear on her back and a rapier at her side. Blond hair, bronze skin and icy blue eyes gave her a impression of a woman of position but quite the opposite indeed. As beautiful and skilled as she was she was a simple guard for a simple town. Still thinking of the news she got that her family Held a title of knighthood and she was the sole inheritor made her uneasy she walked by not quite thinking before she looked at the horse and smiled \"Oh you silly thing. Here\" She would walk up and pet the horse giving it an apple from her bag instead of the hand \"Don't worry he didn't mean anything by it... He like most creatures his size don't always know how to hold back... Isn't that right?\" Her elven nature always did make it easy to get along with animals... She looked into it's eyes and said \"No more biting. A lick gets people's attention quite as easily just so you know\" She looked at the man and introduced herself \"Lucillia... Though Lucy just feels better what's your name sir\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Akiron then looked at Lucy with awe, though he seemed to have... Also moderately long ears. Was he an elf too? Ofcourse he was. He was a High Elf atleast. Joergen then let go of his hand, eating the apple. Joergen seemed to be satisfied as for now, looking at Lucy with a thankful look. \"That's what he gets for feeding me a rotten one.\" Akiron understood Joergen, sighing.* ***``\"I know, I know... Didn't know it was Rotten, sorry.\"``*** *He himself had the ability to communicate with Animals. Akiron was quite tall for an elf, standing at 6'4. He had a red and black Jacket, brown hair and yellow eyes. The sunlight hitting his face made his Brown hair glow gorgeously. He looked at Lucy with a blank face, before smiling. It was the combination of Honesty and a Calm, smooth mode, which made the perfect handsome smile.* ***``\"Well, hello there Lucy. My name is Akiron. This is Joergen.\"``***" }, { "author": "failtastica", "message": "\"Pleasure to meet you both.\" She bowed as was expected of her class and also out of habit. Never knew when one was dealing with one born of higher standing so she treated everyone as such. It caused her to come off as submissive but she was far from it and her eyes said as much. \"Still joergen... It seems like rather then taking it out on your friend here that letting him know that you got a bad deal would be much more helpful.\" She chuckled as she continued \"Though I do agree with you either way.\" She winks playfully and shrugs \" So what brings you two here hmm? You two arnt locals I can tell you that much. Unless you moved in since the most recent caravan showed up\" That WAS always a possibility. People come and go and death is always around the corner even for the older lived races" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "***``\"Well, my ancestors were banished from Silnaria. So we moved to the wilds. And so, I started travellng through countries with Joergen. I work in Salvainia, though as a Part-Time bartender.\"``*** *Akron then stretched, looking at Lucy. He then laid his back against a wall, looking into her eyes. Joergen then approached Akiron. \"I guess it's a habit. We hurt eachother but we're friends in the end. I lived with him ever since I was a child, afterall.\" Akiron then began patting Joergen.* ***``\"Basically, we're here to visit the shop. For strawberries specifically. I have this great Formula where I mix Strawberry with Alcohol, giving it a better taste. And people like it, too! It's been gathering people all around the Empire! Usually Adventurers come to celebrate with their allies or they come to drink away their allies' death.\"``***" }, { "author": "failtastica", "message": "\"I see... I guess that makes you more family then simple friends. You have to respect and stick by family\" I guess that's one of the reasons I'm so... Troubled. I don't mean to bother you two but can I ask your advice?\" She looks honestly worried about the subject and her hands cluctching her chest does not make her look any less cute. However few people carry weapons and not know how to use them \"I have been pondering on something for a whole week and I am not sure what to do...\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Akiron nodded.* ***``\"I'm good at therapy, as I speak with my customers quite a lot. You can rely on me, or if you don't trust me, just believe my response.\"``*** *He stood up, listening to what she has to say.*" }, { "author": "failtastica", "message": "\"So I have received news that our family has a minor total of knighthood.. Turns out I have recently inherited it when father passed away. Being the sole child. Normaly it would go to the male heir but... I guess that's how the dice are rolled some times... I am honestly conflicted. Do I answer the call live up to my ancestors name when the town is so small as it is? The stepes are dangerous and we need every able fighter. I was fortunate it seems and was able to learn both the skills needed to feed and help defend my town. They rely on me if I go a large portion of defence will be gone as I'm also one of the few so talented in magic. But this is my chance! To see what there is out there beyond just fields and the occasional wolf or bandit attack! I just... Have no clue what to do\" She slumps down her walls having completely given away as a tear is shead the conflict and turmoil that had built up showing itself in this girl who all of a sudden needed to weigh what was all she knew versus all that could be. A choice not many peasants have aget a chance to do... Or depending on. How you look ever HAVE to do." }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Akiron then placed his hands in his pocket. He looked down, sighing.* ***``\"It's not your fault, it's the lack of Knights in this city. And since it's so small, if even one knight goes away, the Town might lose a portion of it's defense. I realized one thing when my Ancestors were banished... You don't have to live up to a name at all. Sure, Law is enforced, but simply doing it for Honor of your family is ridiculous. Your ancestor will be proud of you no matter what you do... That's the code of Family. Now you want to fight more than just these regular attacks to see what's your limit, right? Then become an Adventurer. You'll have fun AND Protect the Town at the same time. Hell, you'll even be able to go out at certain missions to fight alongside allies. I did it right. I became a Part-Time Bartender, but I also do quests. I balanace my time and put a daily routine for my life. An Adventurer does the work of the Knight and even more. So why not Join me? I'll help you along the way.\"``*** *He placed his hands on his waist, feeling that his speech was quite long, though it was necessary.*" }, { "author": "failtastica", "message": "\". That's a sudden and... Suspiciously kind offer. What's in it for you?\" She was suddenly vary warry as she quickly stood up and stepped back... Elves were always wanted on the slave market. And by God she wasn't going to end up a slave... She slowly reached for her rapier as it was what she could go for most subtly. Her hands moving closer as she put crossed her hands just so. Her eyes cold as ice almost as if she wasn't even close to the same kind young elf as before \"I have heard rumors of men who took advantage of ingnorant peasent women before... What do I have as proof this isn't a rouse\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Akiron then shuffled through his hair, showing his long ears. He unsheathed his sword, tossing it away. He then got on his knees, his head touching the floor. It was the highest level of respect/bowing. Joergen then looked at Akiron. \"Uhh, there is no need-\" Akiron then spoke.* ***``\"I have no way to convince you. But if you consider me a threat, dispose of me immediately. I'm not going to scare away a fellow elf and get away with it.\"``***\n\n***```>PTK Given.<```***" }, { "author": "failtastica", "message": "She blushed hard before looking around at the stares \"Oh dear lord stand you fool of a man! The same applies to myself. Being an adventurer you likely attracted all sorts of enemies so to present your neck so readily... By the gods such a fool. Come if I am to take your offer either way we must head back to the village in the stepes to talk to the elder and let him know. Then I can go with you. I will be back in just a moment\" She left in a hustle still blushing as she heads to pick up her now from the caravan and let them know she has a means back to her village and that they along with her quiver and arrows apon return she seems to have calmed down though still blushing slightly \"Do you always present your neck in such a manner? What if I were to take it there. Consider your family's feelings and who you might be leaving and the actual severity. I am not a fool and I can handle myself. I may have to proove it to you as the stepes are dangerous. There have been more frequent attacks on my village and we have held out. But... She sighs things have been dire. That's why I was here to pick up stock while things were calm\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Akiron got up, sighing.* ***``\"Nooot necessairly, but I do present it to people I trust. Anyway, we're gonna slaughter a bunch of Monsters or what?\"``*** *He asked, seeming a bit more basic as for now. He thought she probably wouldn't have cut it, and that it would really cause a connection. He just needed her trust, I guess. He smiled, laughing at his own behaviour, as it was very laughable. Comedic in a weird way. Akiron picked up his sword and holstered it back, though his hands were still on it.* ***``\"I mean, you do seem quite strong. I'm not saying 'Let me protect you,' I'm asking you if you wanna become an Adventurer.\"``***" }, { "author": "failtastica", "message": "\"Again I need to discuss it with the elder of town. As for mosnters... Sometimes yes. Although I hope not. Let's go\" I have been gone too long from the village and it worries me how long the caravan takes. Especially lately. \" She sighs as she looks at joergon and smiled \"You up to carrying two?\" She asked \"And please make haste if you can. I would be greatfull to you both if you did.\"" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Joergen nodded. Joergen was a Rounceyt, being quite suitable for this mission. Akiron got up the horse. Joergen simply responded with a 'Yes.' Akiron then spoke:* ***``\"Where are we going, Mrs. Lucy?\"``***\n\n*Akiron then shouted:* ***``\"Ippe-Da-Ya-Hee! Wahoo! Let's do it, Joergen!\"``*** *Joergen began jogging all the way to the forest. He had tons of energy from the Apples he had eaten.*" } ]

[ { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Elnarwen was resting at one of the capital's numerous inns. It was quite calm for a populated place like this in Ulnoor. She wanted to relax and have a break. Helping those commoners in the countryside with their duty was a laborous task, but a contract is a contract.*\n*The lady was sharpening her loyal sword, periodically stopping to have a small sip of an ordinary wine she previously ordered. She was keeping a discreet eye on the new faces entering the inn. But was still very meticulous about her work.*\n*Troublemakers weren't very frequent here. It was the same routine as ever: working, getting paid, and chilling before the next job.*\n`\"That wine lacks something... I will change next time.\"` *Sighed the elf.*\n*She didn't seem very enthusiastic about her passage in the capital.*" }, { "author": "hauntingpenguin", "message": "**Alexander, a bounty hunter and trauma healer would be walking along the sidewalk, wearing his usual Plague Doctor outfit and mask. Since he is a bounty hunter he needs weapons, and those are his katana on his left side, a crossbow and quivers, and about 10 throwing knives. As he walked along the sidewalk, he would walk, he noticed an inn and decide to take a look, once he went inside, he would adjust his mask and look around, scanning the area inside his inn.**" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*The inn's doorbell rang again and an unfamiliar silhouette entered. Elnarwen raised an eyebrow to observe the newcomer.*\n`\"Now that's a visitor with particular tastes.\"` *She quietly mocked.*\n*She took another sip of wine and wiped her greyish lips clean before coming back at her sword. However, she lost her focus as she gave a sidelong look to the plague customer and missed the edge of her weapon, causing the whetstone to fall on the wooden floor.*\n*The high elf penibly bent down to reach its tool in an audible grunt.*" }, { "author": "hauntingpenguin", "message": "**As Alexander scanned the inn, he noticed a few people including noticing Elnarwen. As he looked around he then looked forward to the counter, seemingly wanting to get the room, as he heard something fell on the floor, he turned his head to tee direction of the sound as saw someone picking up her whetstone that dropped, he just shrugged it off and looked forward.**" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Elnarwen finished her glass and sheathed her freshly honed longsword on her sword belt.\nShe moved to the bar owner next to that strange masked stranger and handed her empty glass.*\n`\"Please, another one. But filled with something more subtle. Something fruity and balanced.\"`\nWhile the bartender was busy with other customers, the elf studied Alexander closer and noticed all the weaponry he was carrying. Her curiousity drove her to start a conversation with this unknown person.\n`\"Bounty hunter, uh? This is a nice blade you are carrying on, but it doesn't seem to be a glaive or a traditionnal weapon that we commonly use in Silnaria. Where are you from, if I may ask?\"`\n*The lady was standing tall next to him with one elbow casually resting on the counter. Her voice wasn't particularly sounding mean, nor was it friendly, but it had that light aftertaste of disdain that high elves often have when speaking to strangers.*" }, { "author": "hauntingpenguin", "message": "**As Alexander was waiting at the counter, he would hear would turn his head as he noticed an elf talking to him. You can't tell the expression behind his mask but it does sound calmly.**\n\n\"Oh, um. Yeah, a katana. My father used a katana and taught me how to use it. I am also from Salvainia, Vuni.\"\n\n**Alexander would say, wondering why she is so curious about his weapons. Are they that impressive?**" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "`\"Oh, yes, Salvainia... I could tell now that I'm hearing your foreign accent.\"` *She replied with a smug smile.* `\"What is a Salvainian doing here in Ulnoor?\"`\n*The lady would've listened to an eventual answer while the bartender fulfilled her order and pushed a full glass on the counter.*\n*Elnarwen reached for a small purse she had on her belt and layed down 1 Silver as a payment for the wine. She would've taken a first sip while listening to Alexander.*" }, { "author": "hauntingpenguin", "message": "**Honestly, Alexander normally went place to place as he haven't really settle down yet. He went place to place incase if anyone has a bounty on them for him to kill or capture. He would adjust his plague mask and would calmly reply.**\n\n\"Oh, I tend to go place to place. Its my first time being here in Ulnoor to be honest\"" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Elnarwen was playing with her glass, making it spin in a small circle.*\n`\"I see... I hope you enjoy your stay in the most glorious city in all Ramul Ta then, masked sir.\"` *She confidently replied with a spark of pride shining in her sapphire eyes while she mentioning her hometown.*\n*The elf thanked the bartender as he pulled back the Silver coin as the level of wine was lowering faster than the first glass.*\n*She seemed to be quite thirsty, or maybe she didn't find many interest in the stranger and wanted to end the conversation sooner than initially intended.*" }, { "author": "hauntingpenguin", "message": "**Alexander would nod, atleast he had a nice welcoming here. He would look around once more, seeing the architecture of the inn. After a short while he looked at the elf and simply replied.**\n\n\"Thanks, much appreciated,\"\n\n**He would then face forward, waiting to get himself a room where he can rest for the day, depending how long he will be here.**" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Elnarwen took a final sip. Judging by her face, that wine was indeed better than the previous one, but ordering a third glass would've been too much for her, after all, ladies don't get drunk.*\n*She quickly verified her belt if anything was missing, then stood up.*\n`\"Alright, time to go back to business.\"` *She mumbled to herself as she passed through the doorframe.*\n*The doorbell rang once more as her tall and slender silhouette exited the inn.*" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "*Josephine, a very short Macen walks into the tavern, the room packed with people—mostly elves—enjoying their drinks. Josephine's outfit consists of what appears to be several layers of clothing—or one layer is just very thick—with a white and red overcoat atop it all. She has a mace on her side and a shield on her waist, the mace appearing to be pure silver, though it's likely only a thin coat overtop. Anyone with the ability to detect magic would notice the mace is decently enchanted, though none of the rest of her equipment is. She walks over to one of the empty tables, taking a seat.*" }, { "author": "mzery.", "message": "*Xeno had just finished a bounty and is ready for a beer or two. As he walks through the door, his black hood on he asks the bartender for a drink and pays him 2 silver. He looks around for an empty seat and finds a macen with nothing to drink. Xeno asks for another drink and heads over to the table taking a seat.* \"Hey, little macen. Can I offer you a drink? *He holds out the drink.*" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*Elnarwen let an audible sigh escape from her greyish lips. Today was an unproductive day. She met a strange masked guy searching for a room and... That's pretty all. She didn't find any quest yet, and it was already too late to find one for today.*\n*So here she was, sitting on the same stool as this afternoon, in the same inn. She crossed her legs and rested her head between her elbows, probably thinking about what she would have ordered this time.*\n*But she sensed something unusual. Some kind of magic. She looked over, and after several seconds, she identified the origin. A shiny, blessed mace, following the hips of an unusually small figure. A Macen? Again? It wasn't the first for today in Ulnoor.*\n*For now she was observing that young woman, who quickly attracted another stranger...*" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "*As the stranger offers her a drink, she shakes her head waving her hands politely.* \"Oh- No, sorry, I don't drink alcohol. But thank you for offering! It was kind anyway!\" *Her voice is high-pitched, but gentle, and her face reflects a look of naivety, a gentle smile resting upon her face. She decides to introduce herself,* \"My name's Josephine, but that's a mouthful, so my friends usually just called me Josie. What brings you here?\" *She doesn't notice Elnarwen eyeing her from across the room, her attention instead focused on the stranger before her.*" }, { "author": "mzery.", "message": "*Xeno takes off his hood and introduces himself.* My name is Kenpachi but you can call me by my last name, Xeno. It's shorter. *He grins, knowing that he's drinking more beer.* \"Bottom's up!\" *Gulping down both drinks at once.* \"That hit the spot.\"" }, { "author": "xelvedra", "message": "*The elf opened wide eyes when she saw this hooded man swallowing whole his two wooden mugs. She frowned, but she rapidly calmed herself. Drunk people was something she didn't like, but he's just having a good time, she hoped.*\n*Still, she had to talk to that little Macen. Her weapon would maybe hide some interesting secrets...*\n*She rose with all her height, and took a closer sit on another stood. She called out to the enthusiastic young woman.*\n`\"I'm sorry to interrupt your conversation, little lady. But, I am curious... About your weapon. There is something special about it, right?\"` *She undiscreetly asked. Her voice was soothe but firm, and her gaze was obviously judging the two strangers about the reason of their presence here.*" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "*She replies,* \"Nice to meet you, Xeno!\" *Before another stranger confronted her. She turns toward the elf calling out to her, a curious look in her eye.* \"Um, yes! My mace has a number of enchantments on it—mostly to make it easier to use, but also to make it more effective against the undead! I figured adventures are sure to have lots of undead, and it's better to be prepared!\" *She smiles, removing her mace from her belt loop.* \"Would you like to look at it?\"" }, { "author": "Kenpachi Xeno", "message": "*Xeno does not feel the slightest bit drunk and looks at the elf beside the table curiously.* \"Hey, elf. What's your name? You look like one of those high elves.\" *Xeno asks as he takes off his cloak and lays it down on the table.*" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "*She smiles, returning her mace to her side.* \"Well, I wouldn't say I'm any grand warrior, just someone with a few connections in my hometown. I'm a healer, you see, and giving away healing for free in a small town is *Sure* To get me more than a few favors from various people! That's why when the blacksmith heard I was going on an adventure, he just couldn't let me leave without a proper weapon!\" *She grins broadly, an innocent glint in her eye, reminiscent to a child hearing a bedtime story.*" }, { "author": "Kenpachi Xeno", "message": "*Xeno scoffs.* \"You're like the rest of them, all high and haughty. I guess I'll introduce myself, Im Kenpachi Xeno.\" *He tones his voice down.* \"Promise me you wont freak out and run but I'm not a macen. I'm a Red Oni.\" *Grins with his shark-like teeth.* \"Im currently in human form. I just happen to pass by and wanted to get a few drinks until I head out and look for another bounty. Yes, I am a bounty hunter.*Giving her a grin, while staring at her with his red eyes.* \"Guess we have one thing in common.\"" }, { "author": "Elnarwen Helchithil", "message": "*Xeno got her right on the spot. She was going to reply immediately and cut him short before she heared about his true nature. She became speechless for a moment and let him finish his story. Her face changed and her face softened.\n`\"A... Red Oni? I only heard stories about your kind... Aren't you supposed to be demons?\"`\n*Her voice betrayed her emotions. She was actually surprised and probably wary about him now that he revealed himself. But the elf got a grip on herself a few seconds later and recovered her natural pride and seriousness.*\n`\"Hmfh. As long as you don't cause any trouble, like this young and subtle Macen here, all high elves will tolerate your presence. Even your kind should be superior than those Beastkin barbarians...\"`\n*Elnarwen then sniggered in anticipation to her next mocking.*\n`\"How much golds would I earn by capturing you, Sir Oni?\"`" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "*She didn't seem to have any reaction to Xeno revelaing his true nature. Either she didn't care, or she didn't know what it meant. She did, however, react to Elnarwen's speak of 'beastkin barbarians'.* \"I've never met any beastkin 'barbarians', but I've met a couple of beastkin before! Like my friend Braun! He's nice! I found him punching trees once!\" *She seems to have no awareness of the tension between elves and beastkin.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Kenpachi Xeno", "message": "*Xeno Chuckles.* \"I guess you aren't a complete fool after all. I am a demon.\" *He looks impressed, but he mocks her.* \"You don't look so scared. How brave.\" *Xeno says in a childish voice.* \"I'll ignore the your last comment. It's not like I will harm this innocent little macen. She's a good hearted lad with a great goal. I'm not most demons, I'm actually nice once you get to know me.\" *As he says, looking directly at the macen and rests his head on his elbows.*" }, { "author": "mzery.", "message": "But thats your choice" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "\"I'm stronger than I look!\" *She responds, a look of confidence on her face.* \"Even if you are over a foot taller than me! What I lack in stature I more than make up for in my magical abilities!\" *She stands up out of her chair, about to make a heroic speech.* \"I'm going to be the greatest hero ever known! They'll know me far and wide as 'Josephine the Heroic'! Or... Something like that! I don't have all the details planned out, but I'm getting there!\" *She sits back down, now content with her speech.*" }, { "author": "Elnarwen Helchithil", "message": "*The high elf rolled her eyes as Josie spoke about her Beastkin friend.*\n`\"That is exactly what I meant by 'barbarian'. Why would you punch a tree if you pretend to be an educated living being? There are other, better manners to train. He may be your friend but this civilization only knows about violence, that's all.\"` *She explained with a pronounced disdain.*\n*Elnarwen then returned to the Oni. She was absolutely playing his game.*\n`\"High elves aren't afraid of anyone. But the problem with demons, you see, is that nobody will ever know what you may have in head. A demon stays a demon. However...\"` *She was interupted by the Macen who made her heroic speech.* `\"Judging by how much ambition dwells inside this little body and how much power her mace seems to hold, I think you actually wouldn't stand a chance even against her!\"`\n*She was very smug about her last tease. But one couldn't know if she was trusting her own words. How could a little human like her become the greatest hero? Magic doesn't solve everything...*\n`\"Anyway. Let's put it aside... Xeno, is it? And I appreciate your ambition, little lady. Who knows? Maybe one day, you'll become great!...\"`\n*She raised a hand and called out with a moderate voice. Shouting and knocking on the counter in an inn wasn't an appropriate behavior for a lady.*\n`\"Bartender? Please, give that Oni-boy another mug! He already finished the two first in one shot. I'll pay for it.\"`\n*The tall huntress seemed less wary and relaxed about the two strangers' presence now. One could've seen that behind a very proud nature and her natural smugness, she was hiding a friendlier and charming nature.*\n`\"What do you drink, little hero?\"` *She gently asked to Josie with a voice as soft as silk.*" }, { "author": "Kenpachi Xeno", "message": "*He laughs.* \"You actually think a puny little macen with a shiny mace is enough to kill a demon. You're pathethic, elf.\" *He takes the mug of beer and chugs it all down. Judging by the expression on his face, he enjoyed it and grinned.* \"You're not completely useless after all, you bought me a free drink.\" *He starts putting on his cloak. He looks around as everyone is whispering about him. He looks at Elnarwen, dissapointed.* \"Now look what you've done. Everyone's going to be talking about how an Oni came to Ulnoor.\" *He crouches down to the macen's level.* Keep up the good work little macen, I'm sure you'll become the best healer of all time. As for both of you, I hope we cross paths again. Good talking to you elf, goodbye macen.\" *He waves, while walking towards the door.*" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "*She smiles confidently,* \"There's no maybe about me becoming a hero! I *Will* Become a hero! I just uh, have yet to find anything very *Heroic* To do... But once I find it, the forces of evil will stand no chance against me!\" *And to the offer of a drink, she replies,* \"Oh, uh, just a water please.\" *She takes a small sip of the water as it arrives, responding to the Oni's comment of her becoming the best healer with,* \"If I wanted to be the best *Healer* I'd not have left my hometown!\" She then watches as the Oni stands up, heading toward the door. She waves goodbye, calling out,* \"Farewell! Safe travels!\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Elnarwen Helchithil", "message": "*Elnarwen tossed one silver on the counter as a payment for the drinks. While the demon was rapidly siphonning his new beer, she gave a gentle smile to Josie.*\n`\"Water? I thought you would order something more... Festive. Anyway, that is the spirit! Keep up improving, and one day, you'll become what you dream to be! It's just too bad that you're a Macen though... Your body limits your potentia-\"` *She abrutly stopped as the Oni insulted her once again.*\n*The high elf's smile gone in a flash, she leaped from her seat and caught up with him in long strides -although without losing her elegance- before he reached the door.* `\"Now hold on just a second.\"`\n*She grabbed his right arm by surprise with a swift movement of her left hand, which forced him to turn and face her.*\n*Her sapphire gaze was fiercely shining as she was looking down on him, and the softness of her voice gave up to a more menacing and cold tone.*\n`\"Didn't your uncivilized people teach you about how you talk to a lady?\"`\n*She would have then proceeded to remind him of his manners by slapping him on his left cheek with her right hand, which would have left a red mark upon successful hit.*" }, { "author": "Kenpachi Xeno", "message": "**He let's her hit him. Then he laughs.** \"What kind of lady would grab a man's arm and slap him? I guess it was my fault but I didn't know a lady of your status would do that, being a high elf and all. I suppose I'll make amends. **He sighs, then looks at her in the eyes.** \"Sorry for being an ~~ass~~ and thanks for talking and giving me a mug of beer. I appreciate it. **He turns towards the door and walks.** \"See you around!\" **As he yells and exits the tavern.**" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "*Josie disregards the remark about her being a Macen, though she looks astonished as the elf simply walks over and slaps the Oni across the face!* \"W-Woah, there's no need to resort to violence over something as petty as an insult!\" *She stands up from her seat as well, standing at a tall and imposing 140 cm tall. She looks at the elf with a surprisingly stern look.* \"You should apologize. It's not nice to hit someone, even if they called you a mean name.\" *Her voice is surprisingly commanding, as though she has experience lecturing people.*" }, { "author": "Elnarwen Helchithil", "message": "*The elf calmed down and let his arm go when she heard Xeno apologize.*\n`\"But it isn't violence, this is what he deserved...\"` *She pleaded her cause.*\n*But soon she felt the pressure coming from the people in the inn looking in their direction and little Josie's reprimands. She became confused as to what to do, looking around her. She could have lost her pride by admitting her own error.*\n*But she chose to lower her gaze, avoiding the glance of the demon and instead turning to the young brunette.*\n`\"I... Maybe overreacted. Just a bit... I am sorry. My behavior was as bad as you, demon.\"` *She spoke with a faint voice. She probably didn't want the other high elves in the inn to hear about this incident.*\n*As Xeno passed the doorframe, she discreetly waved as a goodbye, then returned to the little macen.*\n`\"It was nice to meet you though, water-drinking lady. I may call upon your healing skills one day. Be sure to pursue your ideals.\"`\n*She waved again and left, making the doorbell ring once more.*" }, { "author": "Josephine McPherson", "message": "*She nods, content with Elnarwen's apology. Her stern look changes to her usual cheerful demeanor.* \"Well, that's a good start, but generally apologies don't end with insults. I can't fault you for trying though!\" *She pushes in her chair, making her way to the exit as well, going wherever her adventure will take her.*" }, { "author": "alex4392", "message": "```\nEnd scene but for real this time.\n```" } ]

[ { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The night was silent as a towering figure stalked the streets, imposing horns piercing the night sky. The desolate cobblestones would appear to be bare, but if one looked near the entrance, they could see the trickling blood fill the crevices in the stones, soaking into the dirt below.*\n\n*Oshikuru had recently been looking for more potential punching bags, to test out a brand new mutation he had received during his training. His potential was limitless; and his power would only increase to match it.*\n\n*Soon, however, he would spot several guards of Silnari begin to rush towards a certain alleyway. His dark sight allowed him to see what looked like a cross between some kind of Qua and Canifor, with massive blades on his forearms and a dark carapace surrounding his body, though the outline of a canid head was clearly visible. A liquid would seem to drip from the serrated blades, and one could only assume that it would be blood, since there would be the dead body of a high elf laying on the floor. Arrogant bastards. Probably deserves it. Though, he doesn't know what, or who, this creature is.*\n\n*A patrol guard would end up blocking the alleyway, 8 of them wielding halberds and clad in almain rivet, shining silver in the white moon. The deadly points would be aimed at whatever was inside, threatening it. If they had intended to save the elf however, they would already be too late.*\n\n*Not that it would matter much anyway.*\n\n*A massive spike would soon burst from a guard's face, the origin of the weapon from the back of the helmet, _piercing_ the metal and going straight through the elf's head. He doesn't even have time to scream as his functions cease.*\n\n*As the guards looked behind them, they would end up seeing terrifying figure, with blood red armor, a horned skull adorning its head. From its fist, a massive spike, which was impaling the helmet of one of their comrades. A spiritual hand shoves it off, and the Oni brandishes his spikes, as the Silnari back.*" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "The elven guards may have expected the cornered beast to lunge at them any moment as they closed in, but they could have never expected one of their comrades' head to be crushed like a melon by another towering figure on their flank. \n\nOnce more, that moment of hesitation as they had to process the unexpected occurred, causing the guards to falter, spreading between having to deal with the ravenous beastkin and an imposing demon. A moment Ashnard would make the most of as an ominous most of.\n\nA ominous miasma danced alongside his feet, moving like a shadow under the pale moonlight. His blades hungered for more, and would find their next meal as he aimed for a precise cut against the leftmost guard's neck. Seething in crimson as they feasted, the aberrant weapons upon his arms would never seem to have enough. \n\nMeanwhile, the scorpion-like tail upon the beast's rear was a theatening weapon of its own, ready to deflect any potential halbers on his right as he arched his body left, or jab at another neck if the guards took one moment too late to recover from the initial shock. After all, there only seemed to be one way out of the current situation. \nThe fun one." }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*Oshikuru would observe the strange creature as the obsidian black blades spilled blood, the elves's aesthetically pleasing armor doing little to protect their vulnerable throats. Such fools.*\n\n*5 guards left now, as another guard finds the chimeric tail in his trachea, blood spurting out of his vital pathway.*\n\n*Now 4, as the elves take time to recover from their shock, another helmet is now crumpled, and a head caved in with a furious hammer fist. A halberd was swung against his shoulder, but the demon didn't feel anything from the pathetic blow.*" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "Seemed like elves wee not as high and haughty as they thought when they fought against actually competent foes. The fear and hesitation was clear in their eyes, in every movement they made. What had begun as cornering a single beast had turned into getting themselves cornered instead, in a place where their eloquent armor and posture offered no sanction. \n\n A halberd sluggishly swung over the dark beast's neck, though unfortunately for the guard, it was not fast *Enough*. Ashnard's free arm parried the blow, quickly pivoting past the weapon's pole to jab his blade right into his foe's right eye with enough force to pierce all the way through.\n\nWhat little guards remained would break their formation and attempted a desperate retreat, even if there was nowhere the could run. Needless to say however, there would be no witnesses left to tell the tale." }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*Before all the guards can run, two of them are tripped by phantom legs. Both are grabbed by the neck high into the air, and are forced to face the massive Oni as they are suspended against their will. One of them is them thrown to the ground, and his face is smashed repeatedly into the ground and rough cobblestones, with enough force to dent the helmet and crack the paved roads. When he's done, the elf's face can't even be recognized, a bloody mess encased in a deformed helm.*\n\n*The other elf would face a far worse fate, however. A massive hand wraps around his face, with a crimson outline seeming to phase through it. The hand contracts, and the guard can feel his helmet being crushed, his own protection now becoming his prison. He screams as the metal slowly crumples around him like a tin can, feeling the immense pressure pressing around his skull as his bones begin to fracture. His screams last only for about half a minute, as the temporal bone gives in to the crushing might of the demon, and his head is crushed like an apple.*\n\n*Oshikuru would then look back towards the strange dog, to see how he would fight.*" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "With the towering Oni making easy work of two guards, only a single one remained that would attempt a desperate escape from the scene. As desperate as it was pointless, really. Weighed down by an opulent armor, he would be no match for an apex predator beastkin in a chase that lasted less than a second. \n\nThe elf would soon figure it was easy to run with ruptures tendons when Ashnard lunged at him with bloodthirsty fervor, blades aiming for the forearm, between the crevices of the guard's armor. The jagged edges seethed with blackened flames as they slashed away, the wounds they inflicted charred and deep. Already, the guard's fate had been sealed- he would bleed out before covering any meaningful distance, more so the more he struggled.\n\nBut the beast was far from done. As the elf staggered and screamed in pain, Ashnard grappled him from the small of his back, slamming his face into a nearby brick wall. That was certain to silence any more screams, as he turned the elf over to see his once flawless features now distorted in by dirt and blood. *\"Not so high and haughty now, are we?\"* The demonic jackal mocked, a murderous grin flickering on his muzzle. \n\n*\"Go to hell, mutt,\"* The guard coughed up blood back at him in defiance, aware there was no getting out of this alive. But Ashnard's grin only widened at the retort. *\"Oh, I shall join you there alright... Once I've burned all you stood for to the ground. Be glad you won't be alive to see your lords, your comrades and your loved ones bloodied and broken beneath my feet.\" A sadistic chuckle resonated from the beast's maw as his metal jaw unhinged, saw-like fangs converging with razor-sharp canines around the guard's defenseless neck. Tearing into flesh, they ripped out his carotid before spitting it out in disgust, his muzzle oozing with fresh blood by the time he let the ravaged carcass down. \"Just so whatever devils lurk beyond know who sent you.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The beastkin seemed to possess talent of his own, eldritch flames bursting from claws. Not quite the exact image of a skilled fighter, but he could certainly fight well. His style was savage, pure animalistic ferocity. As was to be expected from a Itchsu.*\n\n*The demon would simply enjoy the show as the elf is mutilated before his eyes, the dark flames scorching deep into already horrible wounds caused by serrated edges, and would nod in approval as the Silnari's throat was ripped out. Fighting wasn't all about grace. Grace couldn't stand to brutish force applied properly.*\n\n*As the creature finished his conversation with the elf and ends his life, the Oni would clap in applause.*\n\n\"Now *That* Was a good fight. If you can even call it that. For you, more like a hunt. Good speech. Really brings out the darkness.\"\n\n*He would stop clapping, and cross his arms in a relaxed fashion.*\n\n\"So, what's up with you?\"" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "The aberrant beast did not seem to turn right away, instead surveying the pile of corpses around him, sniffing deep of the spilled blood and scorcher flesh that permeated the air around him. He looked nothing short of unhinged as he burst into a deep chuckle, blood still dripping off his drenched muzzle. \n\n\"A feast for carrion, right in the heart of the Silnari empire. That should give them a good message...\" The beast murmured, finally retracting the twisted arm blades and wiping the blood off his muzzle. \"Funny, is it not? How quickly their haughty pride melts away to expose the cowardice beneath.\"\n\nFinally, he turned to face the Oni that assisted him, yet unsure on whether he was friend or foe. Not that it mattered- as long as they fought a common enemy, it was good enough. Up-close, the beast's twisted form flickered with a sinister glare under the pale moonlight. \n\nBetween crude horns, a malformed carapace of blood and steel that covered him from head to ankles and spikes of no distinct pattern sprouting from all over his body, he barely resembled anything close to a canifor. Yet, a flash of recognition shimmered in his single functional eye, serpentine slit narrowing at the sight of the demon. \"You... I remember you. Suppose I should be grateful for your assistance, yet you did not seem to savour killing them any less than I did, hm?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Indeed. They act as if they could rule the world. They can't even throw a proper punch, using weapons.\"\n\n*The demon walked over to one of the fallen elves, and crushed his head under his foot, blood splattering all over the floor.*\n\n\"Inside, they're no different than sacks of meat. Magical sacks of meat.\"\n\n*Oshikuru would sniff the air, taking in the metallic smell of spilled blood, and the charred smell of burning flesh.*\n\n\"Mmm, midnight blood. And why does searing elven flesh smell like steak?\"\n\n*Now that he could get a closer look, he could study the Beastkin. He seemed like an entire mix of things, a Chimera: Oni horns, the steel carapace that looked like it belonged to a Qua, massive blades all over his body, and a single eye that looked like a reptilian... Wait, massive claws, edgy, sort of furry and black...*\n\n\"...I believe I do as well. Punching bags are always good to have, even if they only last for one punch. That's why we have several.\"\n\n*He would gesture to the strewn bodies in the street.*\n\n\"So what exactly *Are* You?\"" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "\"Pompous fools like these are unworthy of a warrior's death. I would make sure they suffer until they *Begged* For death, if I could spare the time to do so.\"\n\nHe spat a pint of lingering blood in his maw, wiping it away from his feet on the dirt beneath. Though his own visage was arguably as gruesome as they pile of corpses beneath, his steps were light and calculated, like a predator's. \"Nobody's more than a miserable pile of meat and bones to be eventually severed. Some embrace that fate sooner. Others do the severing.\"\n\nThe beast showed no hints of fear at the imposing armored Oni before him, even after watching him effortlessly crush all his foes with his bare hands. A risky move perhaps, as his blades would not carve into the demon as easily as they did to nameless fodder. Then again, he possessed the reflexes if he found himself on the receiving end of aggression, and relied on that if the demon's bloodlust had not been sated for now.\n\n\"I believe you already know the answer to what I am. A monster, no different from yourself or anyone in this world. I merely happen to *Look* The part... And embrace it. The elves thought they could control me when they trifled with sorcery they did not yet comprehend. A mistake every last one of them will pay with their lives before I'm done here.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The demon nodded, and spread his arms to gesture to the carnage around the two.*\n\n\"This is only an appetizer. Feasts are still yet to come. Unless you actually want to eat these guys. The burned parts do smell like steak.\"\n\n\"Monster. That's an interesting take. Magic can certainly alter bodies.\"\n\n*He would extend his knuckle spike briefly.*\n\n\"So you have beef with the elves. Personal reasons.\"" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "\"For how refined they make themselves to be, Silnari flesh doesn't even taste that good. And I have a *Very* Tolerant sense of taste.\"\n\nThe dark beast retorted before crouching down between the corpses, pilfering the pocket of their armors one by one. With a few attempts, he finally came across his prize; a set of keys alongside a parchment, wrapped and sealed with the Silnarian crest. \n\n\"Finders keepers,\" He mumbled with a shrug, cutting the wax seal with a swipe of his index claw. His gaze widened as he unwrapped the parchment, carefully regarding its contents before placing it under his cloak with a low smirk on his lips.\n\n\"I was never fond of pretentious elves. Though a poor strike against them had cost me my freedom and turned me into... This, I suppose I should still be grateful in part. They made me into the monster I always was. And now it is more satisfying than ever to watch bleed and suffer as they feed my blades. They deserve no less.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Really? Must be all that magic in their blood. Mages.\"\n\n*Oshikuru would have spat onto one of the bodies, but his helmet prevented it from doing so.*\n\n\"What's that? A letter?\"\n\n*Normally, he would have simply left to go look for other elves to beat up, but this chimera intrigued him. Seeing him fight was certainly entertaining, as one watches a wolves hunt deer.*\n\n\"Ah, yes. I remember my first interactions with the high elves. They shot me. Though probably nothing compared to that. Least it looks intimidating.\"" }, { "author": "valethros", "message": "\"More prisoners have been sent to Mistmoore, according to this letter. These power-hungry fools intend to use more of my kin as lab rats for their magic experiments.\"\n\nThe dark beast growled, gritting his teeth in disdain over this new information. He could not allow any more beastkin to suffer through the fate he did, much less allow the elves to get away with it any longer. No- Mistmoore keep, if not the entirety of Silnaria deserved to *Burn* For this.\n\nBlackened flames danced on his wrists, clenching alongside his fists as the twisted jackal grinned with renewed fervor. \"What doesn't kill you... Only makes you stronger. Soon, the Revenant of their past mistakes will come back to haunt them.\"\n\nHis gaze fixed entirely on the Oni now, the piercing scarlet of his left eye flickering with murderous intent. \"This is only the beginning. Tell me, warrior. Why break mere skulls when you can break and *Empire?\"*" } ]

[ { "author": "Amos", "message": "Healing had taken a bit longer than Amos had hoped. The bruising had faded up from his jaw, and had finally vanished from his side, but it had been cumbersome to say the least trying to fight while injured. That and people always went for the weak spots when they noticed them, though at least you could flip that on folks in the pit. To that end he was now above ground (*Thank the gods*) after a rather long and arduous day down there and was walking quickly through the streets. He was honestly tempted to head back out to the woods where the Druids were, where it was much quieter, calmer, and where he'd found at least a kind soul to talk to.\n\nDeciding that was an awful idea prone to losing himself a friend sooner rather than later however, he headed into the nearest Tavern, ignoring how his stomach lurched at the assault of noise and lack of space. Hell, maybe he could take his drink outside. The shoddily dressed, mostly rags *Probably* Oni had to get a drink before he headed back outside though so he stepped up to the bar and ordered. Well, he ordered after the bartender made sure his coin was good enough; Not that he could blame them.\n\nTurning as he waits, he takes in the people around himself and faces hoping not to spot any similarities and rather thankful for the dramatic change in his own appearance. It helped, more often than not, to realize he had a separation between his former and current life. It made it so much easier to just... Walk away from it all; Ties cut and no regrets about it." }, { "author": "Pecia Kane", "message": "*Pecia had been sitting in the tavern for... How long again? She couldn't remember. That was one of the less favoursome side effects of having five ales in a row. She sat, half awake, on one of the tavern's worn-out wooden stools, using most of her energy to keep her from falling off. Pecia couldn't risk a scene like that, she might have to gravely injure a few people. While this did give her some shred of comfort, she didn't want to bloody her record more, her past was crimson enough.*\n\n*Pecia had come to Silnaria on a business trip, oddly enough. Just to pick up a few texts from around the area, help out some of the local scholars with their work. It was something Pecia couldn't resist, a trip to Silnaria could greatly advance her work. She had already spent a few weeks here, studying, translating, doing scholary things, and she was ready for a night off. So she came here, to this damp, dimly lit tavern to drown her sorrows in alcohol.*\n\n*Pecia noticed a large, seemingly Oni, walk up to the bar and ask for a drink. She frowned. Maybe it was because she was a bit drunk, maybe it was just the shadows, but something seemed off about this particular Oni. Pecia sat up to properly examine the creature who stood not 2 metres away from where she sat. As he turned, she averted her eyes, not wanting to draw any unwanted attention to herself, especially from this Oni.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "Acquiring his drink, Amos took a long sip and resisted a grimace. He hadn't actually had one since long before being put away, and now it felt like it was going to take a bit of time to adjust to it again. Or maybe this stuff was just more likely to knock you out. Well he'd find out before long, now wouldn't he? The second drink was easier and the third more than that. Maybe it was just burning the nerves in his throat away. Ah well.\n\nHonestly, he was a... Well 'tall' Oni, and didn't carry the same weight you might expect for his size. He looked more compact with a more slender frame. But he did have horns... But his arms also looked oddly red and discolored. So did his legs. Yet a majority of him was pale. Maybe he was some weird mixed breed something or other? Maybe he had weak genes. Maybe- Oh shit he looked over.\n\nSort of anyway. He thought he noticed the Oni glancing his way but maybe not. He paused before moving to find a seat, nearby the blue Oni but not too close. He was consistently curious about how others saw him upon running into the Druid who was at least bold enough to blandly ask what he was. He figured 'Oni' was close enough really and left it at that, but he often wondered... So why not test and see what the other Oni might do? He sipped his drink, looking at the door and ignoring his uneasiness as he waited to see what might happen." } ]

[ { "author": "Pecia Kane", "message": "*The blue Oni's bright green eyes locked onto the other Oni man, no longer giving much thought to the consequences of her staring. If something were to happen as a result of Pecia's careless, she was sure she could defend herself, at the very least. However, she didn't think this man was going to attack her. Why would he? Unless... No, she couldn't be well-known enough to make enemies already. She shook off any doubts she had, and went back to her ale, taking occasional sips but keeping her eyes dead-focused ont he Oni man.* \n\n*Pecia considered herself fairly tall- at 1.93 metres she was just under average height for a blue Oni. This didn't worry her much, if her height didn't intimidate someone, her features would. She had a wild mane of off-white hair, which she gave no attempt at taming each morning, giving it a slight bedhead look. Her skin was not the regular deep blue typical of a blue Oni, but more of a light turquoise. Pecia's eyes were her most prominent feature. They were a light green, but not a warm green. More of a toxic green, a cold, unforgiving colour. Pecia liked it. It gave her an aura of uncertainty, which she thought was the kind of aura she enjoyed. She'd been enjoying it for just under two centuries, after all.*\n\n*The blue demon saw his quick glance back at her, and watched him as he moved closer. She closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and stood up, leaving her half-empty glass at the table as she sat down at the same table as the other Oni man. She eventually looked right at him, her head tilted slightly, and spoke in a voice that sounded like wet gravel.* \"You... Are an Oni, correct?\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "When the blue Oni grew bold enough to stare, he stared right back. He wasn't one to feel awkward about social mores or taboos anymore. Besides she was starting it. Sipping his own brew, and feeling much less burn now than before, Amos only occasionally looked away to pay mind to others within the establishment. Really the odd staring contest was helping take his mind off his surroundings and he welcomed the distraction.\n\nHe paused as she moved, abandoning her glass, to sit beside him and took it rather in stride. Honestly he treated it just like they were old friends catching up. \"Some folks may consider abandoning such a drink alcohol abuse, you know,\" He quipped, taking another pull from his drink and pausing. Really? Another one? Well here we go again.\n\n\"Well, I imagine so. I've the horns for it,\" Ahe says though his words neither confirm nor deny his heritage. Regardless he continues. \"Blue Oni? I would assume at least. Correct me if I'm wrong.\"" }, { "author": "Pecia Kane", "message": "*Pecia raised a thin eyebrow. She sat silent for a few seconds, then let show a small smile, and a quiet laugh. The joke was... Well, it made her smile. Not a lot made Pecia smile. She let the smile fall away, and then spoke.* \"I've already had five, and I don't want to get drunk twice in a day.\" *She quietly laughed again, her usually cold eyes glimmering with some kindness.*\n\n*The blue Oni became... Confused.* \"You don't know?\" *Pecia knew a few people who didn't know their own race- alchemists and scientists doing experiments on regular people to make them something different were rare, but not unheard of. It was a possibility that this Oni could be... Not an Oni.*\n\n\"You're correct.\" *Pecia said with a short glance down at her pale blue skin. She still felt uneasy that this man did not know what he was... Or maybe he did, and he wished not to tell. Whichever the reason, the fact is it was none of her business to be nosing into someone's secrets. Still, she couldn't get it out of her head...*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "Prone to sassing people had it's ups and downs, though this was an up. He'd never much imagined himself one for jokes, but he supposed it wasn't *Overly* Different from harassing folks. You were still poking fun, one was just good natured. Sipping his drink he paused to think her response over, then nodded, \"Fair. Gods knows whatever this is has to have burned the nerves out of my throat.\" Without judgement in his voice. He didn't have a reason to turn sharp on her, so he let that be.\n\n\"I suppose I *Know* What I am, but it doesn't really matter anymore. No more kinship there, so, if I look it, then it's fine to me,\" He says with a shrug, resting his arms lightly on the table and, thoughtlessly, running his fingers across his nails. \n\n\"Ah, I thought as much but admittedly, I haven't had much chance to people watch over the past few years. A lot seems to have changed,\" He says, almost cheerfully as he takes another sip of ale. Or is this gut rot? Oh well." } ]

[ { "author": "Lucien D'arcy", "message": "Two stallions maneuvered the carriage forth, its wheels jangling against the cobblestone. The driver at the front pulled on the leads after squinting her eyes and noticing an obstacle ahead. A cloaked visage of a man, shadow embracing his very person, maintained a bitter grip of a hanging body. She turned and summoned the rest of the guards. As per Hynes's assumption, the soldiers were around ten - as was the standard routine. Three of them headed their approach. A violet calamity ignited near the body's neck, alarming the guards to not dispatch their actions. One of the trio raised a hand, palm open, to inform the rest to stand their ground. Him and the other two slowly sauntered towards the man. Their leader gasped upon recognizing the body's apparel, shocked even more by her muffled cries of desperation." }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "The carriage stopped, eleven armed men in total were presented. Two carriage drivers, three as front guard and four sat on the back split between two benches. At the helm the two sentinels simultaneously drew crossbows. Having caught Lucien five guardsmen surrounded his front blocking the alleyway. Whilst four reserve guards remained behind them; with longer spears they had further reach and would use their allies as leverage. The two carriage drivers steadily readied a bolt each and aimed toward Lucien. These elves were capital guards, not elite but not amateurs. Professional fighters either conscripted or enlisted in the masses to safeguard the capital and its atrocities. She didn't have any particular retribution herself, however it didn't matter who meets their end from the sharpened tip of her spear; people dead powerful or weak are both equally useless." }, { "author": "Lucien D'arcy", "message": "*\"I have decided to return this hostage to you, in exchange that I won't be pursued after.\"*\nThe enigma of a man spoke. \"If you can promise me that, you can have her back. If not, I'll slit her throat right here and then I'll compose a bonfire from her carcass.\"\nTwo of the crossbowmen behind spread, preparing to flank the intruder. ***\"Don't play with my patience!\"*** His roar pierced the silence about. The main guardsman jerked his head and exclaimed. \"Do as the man says! Retreat near to the carriage.\" Once his orders were followed through, he gulped silently and faced the danger. \"I assure you, sir. No such thing is needed. You must know how important the captive is to us. Hand her over, and you can leave with your life.\"\nThe three all visibly wore chainmail. Long spears remained suspended, not threatening the vicious figure.\n*\"Good. Now all three of you come forth... Slowly. I'll get closer, pass the body, and be on my way. If you are men of your words, you'll proceed as promised.\"*\nThey followed his command, pacing towards him carefully. The short lapses of silence between the rings of steel boots developed eerie suspense. The soldiers had tightened their jaws, anxious of what would follow next. Finally, they met him two meters away. \"Now, nice and slow...\" The head guard muttered, slowly reaching his hand out.\n\nHynes must have had enough time, by now, to ready herself accordingly. Lucien had hoped to drag more away, yet worked with what he got. His sword's aura cooled once he reeled it back and behind the body. The woman only hanged by the elf's hand, which stretched forth lightly. The soldier smiled, as everything went by plan. That joy was short-lived. The bound lady was promptly slouched over the shoulder of the one who captured her. The men began stumbling back and preparing to fight, but it was too late." }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "**First Blood**. The sudden tension was broken when the leading carriage drivers were found both impaled with a single pilum, the metal shaft passing between their unprotected necks, skewing both bodies together as the crossbow fell to the ground. A tremendous flood of vile red began secreting, forcing the horses to jump up, tamed only by training. No screams, no torment, no suffering. A fast and painless death yet equally as grotesque and barbaric as any form of torture. The guards barely rendered a response in disbelief as another found its mark. Through the course of it Hynes gave no emotion, simply timing, precision and calculation.\n\n*One*\n\n*It's a trap!*. A panic Arose when yet another pilum was thrown to the soldiers, this time landing itself to the right flank of Lucien where a similar death occurred. The tight, neat and coordinated tactics of the elves saw the pilum's head penetrating through the first neck, then to have it come out and puncture the other right beside it. The sound of their spears clattering on the ground came first before a thud heralded their congruent collapse. As weapons piums were ferocious for being able to penetrate through the user through his shield; thus was prevalent for your companions beside you. The lifeless bodies slouched over together and fell like a pair of trees. Four trained and well armed guardsmen were downed immediately before anyone could react. Fast, quaint and stylish the soldiers briefly paused in shock as a handful of them overturned their stomach. Having launched her final pilum she had her one dark spear in hand, retaining the sword she had borrowed from her other. The guards were slower to react than she had anticipated, unresponsive and sloppy; almost amatuer. Yet she didn't blame either of them, it's not every day a pilum pierces a man's neck only to embed itself to another.\n\nHer vectors receded, having them would be rather overkill for a situation as this.\n \n*Two*\n\nWith two spear men and two crossbowmen already dead the remaining three return their attention to pursue Lucien. The four reserve spearmen turned their attention around to the direction of the projectiles. The guards were clearly rushed, as only the four spearmen had plated armor. The men facing Lucien only brandished light padding and mail. Nevertheless a third spear found its mark. As if a black shadow were thrown it bypassed the open steel helmet of one of the spearmen, coming out the other end to stake the body onto the carriage. The spearman beside him watched in horror as he had no way of defending himself from her projectiles, making up the silhouette of a faint figure which casted a shadow to the sun he had his spear raised. The other two spearmen on the other side watched in terror as the pilum penetrated the necks of the comrades in front of them, the bodies dispelling blood and gore onto the pavement as both turned their spear to the direction it had been launched.\n\n*Three* \n\nFrom above their heads Hynes leaped like a soaring black vulture. Landing onto one knee with a curved sword that she had seized in her left hand. To her side of the carriage was the one remaining spearman who drew his pike to her, and on the other side the two remaining spearmen pursuing her split up to corner her from both directions of the carriage. One of them sprinted to blockade her exit on the left, whilst the other hurried to backup the spearman on her right who had already drawn to her. Slowly standing up she smirked..." }, { "author": "Lucien D'arcy", "message": "***\"HUUUUAGHH!\"***\n\nA ghoulish scream belonging to a demon echoed down the road. From the side, a blade as long as a tall man shot towards them. It clamored in torment, storming the enemy to quench its thirst. The sword's tip held a jet-black mace head, covered with bloodied violet spikes. Sparks charged the weapon's might, flame following after it. With a twist of his whole body, the weapon crushed the knee of the first it came in range of. Boof! A deafening impact concurred. The knight was swept off of his feet, screaming in agony. The direction of the blow launched his steel boots right into the ribs of the leader, which caused him in turn to fly towards the third - both collapsing to the ground with grunts. The moonlight revealed a bit of the hooded man's face. It was grey and plate-like, with two horned curves around its forehead. The swordsman looked more like a reincarnated monster, fueled by grisly breaths. The body he carried rolled off, yet was caught and locked to the other shoulder. The demon lunged forth with no pause, landing on top of the first victim. Breaking his knee was not enough - he was instructed to leave no victims. In a blink of an eye his sword had already impaled the grounded's neck, his daunting war cry having confirmed that. The odachi broke out in infernal force, incinerating the insides of the guard's throat. He turned to bat his eye to a looming shadow rising underneath the moon, before quickly churning his head back into the fray.\n\n***\"HAAAAAAARRGHH!\"***\n\nThe creature screamed again, handle gripped intensely. He yanked the blade out, performing an upwards swing with supernatural vigor. The cleave crafted an afterimage behind it, until a curve of hellfire as long as a swing floated midair. The two soldiers alive had just recovered from the blunt impact of the fall. While they began to stand up, a crazed thunderclap rocketed the conjuration forth. It demolished the helmets the two wore, sending both rolling with disturbing lacerations pierced through their light mail. Lucien turned towards the carriage, ready to continue - just to see his newly gained ally taking care of it with a terrifying ease. He scowled and turned towards the two he was yet to finish off pursuing exactly that goal." }, { "author": "Hynes", "message": "**\"Ha ha ha ha ha! You wish to defeat me? Impossible.\"**\n\nThe naive cackle of an overconfident longspearman heralded his quick and fast thrust aimed for her head. Hynes grew ever annoyed as she parried it with her curver blade. Using both the handle and her own hand against the blade as a leverage point the spear rested point up beside her helmet. Unbeknown to him no matter how hard he was willing to push the blade into her arm her steel prosthetic hand would only resist it without hesitation.Curving the blade down this forced him to overshoot his mark, moving forwards whilst her blade was freed. Growing a tenacious smile the cocky elf knew to quickly hold back in a single action, relieving himself from arms distance as to not be slashed. Suddenly his callous grind transformed to cold winding gasp for a spear had pierced his back. Behind him the blinding rushing elf rounded the horses with his spear ready to attack, only to be thrusted against his frantically reversing ally. Screaming out Hynes turned around to find the other elf ready.\n\n**\"You will pay for murd-\"**\n\nHis spear collapsed with himself grappling onto a curved sword thrown between his eyes. He couldn't even react before becoming a soulless husk and collapsing before her. With her arm extended out from the throw Hynes quickly turned back to the last spearman as the body of his companion collapsed before him. Distraught with absolute horror the rambling incoherent spearman grew mad with rage, senselessly charging her with a high spear attack aimed right for her head. Hynes seemed caught by the moment, un-moving and unresponsive as if he had managed to catch her off guard. Frantically rushing towards her head the spearhead found itself narrowly missing to her left as she did not even have to move. Her left arm then bracing the spear shaft towards the carriage beside her as the mad spearman just kept rushing towards her.\n\nNot even knowing he lost his spear he opened his eyes to find that he had run directly into her gauntlet, feeling his neck being squeezed by the force of a dozen men as he was lifted from the ground. The elf latched onto her gauntlet, but her unwavering grip kept crushing his jugular as his feet flailed around back and forth.\n\n*\"No Please!- Argh- I don't want to -Ugh, die- I have a - A dau- ghter- Ple..\"*" } ]

[ { "author": "strn.", "message": "*As the wind passed through the pathway, so did Yvette, who was striding along the road, fixing her hat which grew loose and threatened to fall off her head. Her eyes scanned the smaller details of the buildings, as well as other things; the past couple of jobs went well, but she just needed one more before heading off to the tavern to rest.*" }, { "author": "sleepinyx", "message": "As the macen traveled down the path, she may notice an armored figure which stayed crouched behind a bush a few meters ahead and a bit off the path by a foot or two. The figure seemed to be attempting to hide. Their armor along with the fact that the bush was tiny made their appearance obvious though. It could normally be assumed that it was waiting for someone else but as Yvette got closer, they would suddenly look towards her. Their helmet following her as she presumably kept walking down the trail.\n\nTheir face was unable to be seen behind the helmet. Their figure alluded to the possiblity of this being an adult. They were very slim but the armor was seemingly made with my masculine features. One of which including the sick ass white cape that covered their armored back. Was this a knight or a traveler? The armor was average quality though the addition of the cape just gave them a sort of royal look to them." }, { "author": "strn.", "message": "*In the corner of her eye, the air macen noticed a glint of silver hiding behind a patch of bushes. A quick narrow of her eyes and Yvette could see someone clad in a full set of armor, combined with a badass cape that, somehow instinctively, made her ponder on what kind of person they are. To the \"Knight\", Yvette looked like a swordswoman, minus the strange hat on her head.*\n\n*But curiosity has gotten the best of her senses, so Yvette gingerly went closer to the bush, but made sure to stay away by a couple of meters as a form of precaution. She then knelt down, presumably to meet the figure at a similar height (and eye level). A sentence came out, low enough to where only the \"Knight\" Could hear and herself, that being,* \n\n\"You're doing a rather horrid job of hiding.\"" }, { "author": "sleepinyx", "message": "Internally, the \"Knight\" Realised that she was approaching him. Despite this though, he stayed put. This was what he wanted. Yes...\n\nAs the swordswoman spoke to him directly though, this suddenly hadn't become what he wanted. Think fast. \n\n\"I've yet to be noticed by all but you. You must have amazing eyesight, m'lady\"\n\nIf Yvette payed attention, those who walked the path avoided him the best they could as they noticed him. Seems she was the only one to approach him. His voice was light for a male perhaps he was just young though. It was still moderatly deep and muffled from his helmet thought. The pitch aswell as the somewhat heavy Irish-esque accent put his gender up for question. On face value though, its was moreso the voice of a male.\n\nHe stood up hastily. Being only 5'5/1.6 meters though, Yvette would be somewhat taller than him it she did the same." } ]

[ { "author": "strn.", "message": "*To the left of her, she noticed a bit of people passing by staying away from the figure in armor to the best of her ability- unusual, and her eyes darted back and forth between the evaders, and the mysterious \"Knight\" In front of her. So she too got up on her feet, standing just a bit taller, being just 5.8 meters.* \n\n\"Thanks! Guess I *Must* Be the only one here with amazing eyesight; oh yes, I can surely see the mountains that lie beyond this town, and maybe... Just maybe, the face that's behind your helmet.\"\n\n*Yvette took one slight step backwards. Even admist the underlying tones of her words, the swordswoman couldn't help but feel the tense bands of suspicion wrap around her figure. She assumed the person to be young, but there was so many questions to him... Or her. Or anything. Trap energy.*\n\n\"Now, if you don't mind me asking,\" *She began, gesturing her head over to a random direction; but it looked to be in the direction of the road, where the he/she originally faced.* \"...Who are you hiding from?\"" }, { "author": "sleepinyx", "message": "As Yvette made the suggestion that she might be able to see under the helmet, the knight tensed up. He attempted to divert the attention on that possibility for the moment, letting out a chuckle.\n\n\"My beauty must be concealed beneath this helmet. The fact that your eyes remain unscathed proves you cannot see that far.\"\n\nAs he was asked about the bush, he answered rather quickly. Glad that they'd be changing the subject from his face hopefully. \n\n\"The bush seemed nice so I sat there. Then I saw you.\"\n\nHe answered simply. Seemingly not having much ulterior motive besides that." }, { "author": "strn.", "message": "*The swordswoman's face twisted and shifted to that of mere suspicion. The knight at this point, might've noticed Yvette's face now increasing in intensity when it comes down to skepticism. Her eyes glanced over to the path again, though much more longer now than before. Then back to the knight; he/she can practically feel the intense glare.*\n\n*But despite this, Yvette lightened up her expression for a moment and said,* \"Well, the bush that you found is a very nice one, I must say. Look at it; the branches, the little grooves here and there, its a fine one. A little 'long in the tooth' and all, but still a fine one at that.\" \n\n\"But that aside, it's indeed a pleasure to meet you, knight with a 'beautiful face'. Even though I would love to see what's hidden underneath the helmet, we'll just have to wait for the day that happens. My name is Yvette 'Aster' Glenne, what's yours?\" \n\n*Unbeknownst to Rexford however, the woman still kept the veil of skepticism over her face. There was a lot that she wanted to ask; especially when it felt as if the figure in knight armor was hiding something.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Swinging his leg over the side of his horse, the Elf came to land on the ground with a quiet thud. He reached out his hand to grab at the rope that sat tied around the horse's snout as a way of guiding it and began to make his way through the streets of the city. Occasionally, Terrel would glance around to meet the gaze of other passerbys with the blank pig stare of his own.\n\nHe didn't know much about this city, but to anyone's knowledge, it would be best not to stare at any one person, lest attention wanted to be drawn to oneself. Terrel didn't like the thought, but that didn't stop him from silently observing the potential allies and enemies that flitted past without a moment's notice. \n\nEventually, Terrel's gaze falls on Amos as he caught sight of the tall figure glancing towards his horse before walking on. From beneath the mask, an eyebrow raised in question not from the quick look he gave him, but rather how much he stood out despite wearing the clothing in an attempt to fit in. Terrel slowly pat the snout of his horse as he kept an eye on Amos for the time being. He kept at a distance as he followed, the quiet clopping of hooves sounding behind him.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "He paused near a market stall and paused to examine some winter vegetables (I think it's Winter? I dunno), buying a few and then straightens up. He did notice the sensation of being watched; Had grown familiar with it over time. Too much paranoia about slavers and city guard considering his work and escape. He begins to walk after thanking the merchant, moving away from the stalls with his bag, one hand on the back of his neck.\n\nHis horns made him easy to follow though, as did the discoloring of redness on his hands. \n\nMoving towards the less populated areas of the market, the horse made it a bit more obvious who it may be but... He shifted, looking for a quieter area, or somewhere where it would be more *Obvious* Who it was." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel began to slow his pace as the crowd started to thin out. He watched Amos stop by the market, his gaze slowly turning to follow him once he continued on his way. It wasn't hard for Terrel to keep the man in view, but he knew that the more he followed him out into the open, the more he would stick out, especially with the pig mask singling him out from most people around him.\n\nTerrel wondered if the man was at all aware of the elf following him. He took another step forward then another, moving more lightly so as to quiet his progression only for it to be interrupted by a disgruntled snort from his horse. Terrel ignored his horse's disapproval, instead simply giving him a small pat on his snout to calm him as Terrel continued to follow.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Amos", "message": "Now he was beginning to have a bit of fun. He paused. He doubled back, once, then made a seemingly random turn that potentially made Terrel quite certain he *Knew* He was being followed... Until he met up with an elderly looking Macen and chatted for damn near fifteen minutes before buying a relatively small bit of drink and continuing onward. \n\nSometimes it was populated. Sometimes skirting around the outside of a very popular shop. *One* Area was almost devoid of folk. Really Amos just wanted to see how far Terrel, in his obvious pig mask and with his disgruntled horse, would keep up his attempts. \n\nHe sips the drink he's bought and smirks into the bottle. You didn't really *Need* To talk to screw with people." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel gave a small grin. A game was it? So be it. The Elf would move into the crowd, his horse being pulled along with him into the sea of people. The Elf didn't take his eye off the man as he moved with the rest of the people around, the only space provided being the one around those who didn't want to be trampled by the large horse following him. When Amos had stopped to talk with the Macen, Terrel began to move in an arc around the two which allowed him time to at the very least catch up with him so that he moved more at his side. It seemed to be a movement of tactics, each time Amos diverted from his normal course, Terrel was forced to move and adjust to the new route he was taking. Stalking, like a predator would prey. Then again, Terrel held the face of a pig atop his own so that analogy brought more irony to it.*\n\n*He made another turn as Amos headed away from the Macen, attempting to move with the crowd before it thinned out once more to a place that seemed to lack as many people. As he drew closer to earshot, he slowed his pace before eventually coming to a stop. He lifted his head up as he watch Amos continue on, the hinted sign of a smug expression becoming visible.*\n\n\"You really make it be known not to follow.\" *He said in his low voice.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "He was having an amount of fun making his way 'round and 'round the Market like some aimlessly prattling old folk or a child with a short attention span. Games had to come to an end though and when Terrel finally spoke up, albeit softly, to make his presence known Amos took a moment to think whilst finishing his drink. Mostly because with some folks still about, he saw no point in ending his *Game* So quickly.\n\nEspecially when the man was still trying to remain quiet, as if perhaps he didn't want too much attention on himself. \n\nPutting the cork back in the bottle he drops it into his bag and shoulders it before walking to Terrel with a wide grin and *Hugging* Him like they were somehow old friends, saying loudly enough to draw attention, \"There you are! I'd been looking for you!\" He smirks, ever aware of the shopkeep's about as he says much quieter, \"Well you brought it on yourself.\" Letting go after a natural amount of time. \"Well come now, let's sit and talk. How have you been?\"\n\nToday Amos, apparently, woke up to be an asshole." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel rose an eyebrow from beneath his mask at Amos feigned recognition of him as if they had been buddies all along. Whether or not Amos had thought so, Terrel wasn't sure, but he wasn't about to let this little gimmick pass up with getting a chance to mess around as well. As Amos let go from the hug and asked him the question, he gave a smug look and says:*\n\n\"Pretty good man, just decided to look around the capitol a bit. How about yourself?\" *The horse gave an exasperated snort at the both of them, but followed along with it either way as the two had begun to head off in conversation. Out of all of them, the horse can now be officially considered the only normal one here.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "And the game was still going, if only because the two refused to give to the other. Amos smirked. Alright then, let's see how far this game goes. He sits down, removing the bottle again and setting it down for easy reach as he sighs. \"Doing well enough. Avoiding my Mother completely. The harpy seems hell bent on making sure her children provide her with an adequate lifestyle, but refuses to do anything to see through to it herself.\" He mixed lies and truth easily enough, as really he wasn't lying *At all* Depending on how you looked at things. \n\n\"Luckily she stays in her 'Ivory Tower' as it were so I don't need to worry about seeing her anytime soon. Or my siblings really. How is your family doing though? It's been some time since I've seen any of them,\" He says easily enough, running with his sham and lies like it's truth.\n\nThat poor long suffering horse though..." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "'A harpy, huh?' Terrel wondered to himself after hearing Amos' story about his supposed mother. 'I can go along with that...' *He figured before taking a seat near Amos. His horse seemed to hesitate before eventually giving in and laying down on the ground at least grateful to finally have some rest from walking. Time for the ruse to continue.*\n\n\"Must have been tough, I can only imagine what that would be like if I was stuck having to deal with that constantly... Not that my father is much better.\" *He said simply, playing off a story in his head as he spoke the words.* \"Haven't seen my family for some time with all this traveling, last I spoke was with my sister some weeks ago. Told me about how the old man got into a scuffle at a tavern with some Canifor. Not sure what it was about, knowing him it was probably over some slab of meat. Something not worth it, but the old hoot most likely wouldn't let it go.\" \n\n*Terrel leans his head back as if he were showing a mixture between exhaustion and exasperation.* \"Thank god I finally left that household.\"\n\n*Terrel wanted to laugh at the ridiculousness of his exaggerated story, but instead he suppressed it and decided to ask:*\n\n\"So what have you been up to lately? Besides avoiding your family that is.\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "Picking up the bottle he takes a drink as he listens. It's easy, and even funny, to hear how the other was mixing his story together. He suppresses a smirk and instead nods with sympathy. \"Well, he always did have a tendency to be a bit pigheaded about it- Ah, sorry,\" Chuckling given the pig covering Terrel has. \"Well good you got out of there though. I can't imagine dealing with that for too long. Did the same when my brother started picking up Mother's habits. Best decision I ever made.\"\n\nHe taps a nail against the bottle, sounding more like a coin clinking on glass.\n\n\"Can't say I've done much better than your father though. I had, ironically, a Canifor come by and decide to pick a fight with me for some reason, gods know why. Mostly he came over to blow smoke and act like a bigshot,\" Tone dismissive as he sighs, rubbing the back of his neck. \"Otherwise fine. Still working but I don't think city life is much for me. Busy. Loud. Irritating. But what about you? I've missed you.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*The pig ears connected to his mask seemed to fall to the side at Amos' pun. As he made a brief apology, Terrel quickly waved it off and said:*\n\n\"Don't worry about it, I wouldn't be wearing it if I wasn't expecting a joke to be cracked every now and then.\" *That much was true as even he could find amusement in a man with a pig for a face doing anything. At the very least if he were to fight someone they could they were being attacked by a pig. That nearly made him snort in amusement beneath the mask.\n\nHe spent the next moments, listening to Amos' story about getting into a fight with a Canifor as well to which Terrel gave an exaggerated roll of his eyes.*\n\n\"It's always Canifors getting caught up in stuff ain't it?\" *Terrel didn't have much against them nor was he fond of the species, but the comment alone added enough truth with their two stories. As he listened to him talk about him taking a disliking to the city, he ran a hand through his pink hair, scratching at it slightly. Terrel hasn't really lived in the city much before just now arriving, though he would have to take Amos' word for it if he were going to play it off that way.*\n\n\"Yeah, it's not for everyone. Some get used to it and can't imagine life outside the city walls.\" *He said in response. With Amos' question, he decided to put some truth into his next story:*\n\n\"Been traveling around for the most part, carrying out tasks, and seeing if I'm any better at stabbing things.\" *He said with a chuckle as he dismissed Amos' comment.* \"Being a Mercenary has its perks I suppose.\"" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "He couldn't help but smirk seeing the ears seeming to fall, sitting back. He was judging just how far he ought to take the joke before the other man gave up or left; He had a few ideas and some were more amusing than others. \"Well at least you're prepared for it,\" He says lightly, lifting a hand a moment before pausing.\n\n\"Well, so far it seems just one for me, but some are certainly ah, like dogs with bones,\" He said though he had met more good than bad Canifors. Before his mind could shift to such memories, he pauses to think, glancing at the pink hair. If it was natural, that made it easier to pin down his race. But this *Is* Ulnoor.\n\n\"Well I suppose the convienience does get to them. I can't sleep with all the noise,\" He said with a scoffing sound. That was half true. Really it was just the walls that did that. \n\n\"Ha! Mercenary work? I started doing fighting for a bit of coin, but nothing like that yet,\" He says, laughing. \"Can't say I'm any better at stabbing though. It's been a while since I had to pick up a weapon to use.\"\n\nHe reaches over, quite casual, and puts his hand over Terrel's. Now he was just screwing with him. \"It's funny. I remember when you used to be taller than me.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel stared back at Amos as he mentioned fighting for money.~~Imagine needing to be paid to do that~~. His hidden eyebrows rose in interest at the thought. So this guy was a fighter? Or so he claimed to be. Looking at him outwardly, Terrel wouldn't have doubt it.*\n\n\"You should give it a try again,\" *He said in response to Amos not having used a weapon for a while.* \"Never know when one might come in handy... Besides they're a lot more versatile nowadays.\"\n\n*As Amos reached over to place his hand over Terrel's, Terrel found himself balling his own hand into a fist in reaction. He watched him with a gaze as neutral as the pig mask made him give off though as Amos mentioned him once being taller than him, he quickly drew his hand away dramatically as if mocked by the comment.*\n\n\"Looked all over for me just to remind me of that, huh?\" *He said with a tone of annoyance. Terrel's voice was naturally monotone so whether it was a sarcastic statement or true annoyance it would have been hard to tell through this whole scene they were playing out. Terrel didn't really care much for his height, he was far from being short though there would always be those that seemed to have the high ground over him, height-wise so to speak.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "He weighed and measured Terrel's responses as he continued with his song and dance. \"I might but really, looking into more defensive actions. I can only do so much with a weapon if my sides are split open on themselves,\" He says, shrugging. \"Though I may just need to begin carrying healing potions on me.\"\n\nThe fist balling beneath his hand was an interesting response given he'd *Hugged* The elf and he hadn't shown such a negative, non-response. He smirked with a briefly visible look of smugness, though he did at least respect the distance when he dramatically withdraws. \"Of course I did,\" He said with a chuckle, folding his arms.\n\n\"You're reactions are cute, so why not tease you a bit?\" He asked, tone good natured compared to the annoyance Terrel's held. At least he didn't touch Terrel again now that he'd gotten a response he felt might be more genuine, though maybe because he felt he was *Winning* This odd game now." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Gotten beat up one too many times?\" *Terrel asked in a joking tone at Amos stating he was thinking about staying on the defensive. It was always said that a good offense was a good defense. That was most likely what those without a good offense said. After all, you could only take so many hits without getting one in yourself.\n\nAt Amos' comment of Terrel's reaction, Terrel had rolled his eyes from beneath his mask.*\n\n\"If I wanted to do all this traveling just to be teased I could have made my way back home to my sisters by now.\" *He says sarcastically before letting out a tired sigh at the whole gimmick. Terrel moved one hand to stroke at the mane of his horse, more so out of habit than anything. Seeing the smug look on Amos' face, Terrel could tell he was taking a lot of enjoyment at the back and forth lies they gave one another.*\n\n\"You remind me so much of them sometimes that I question if you guys meet up just for moments like this.\" *He ventured.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "\"Well, once had this whole double knock out with some woman but she was wearing full plate aside from her chest for some... Reason or another, so not sure if that counts. Also put up an enormous fuss about using weapons when she was. Wasn't fair or something like that,\" He says before pausing. \"Then got a few bones broken by another fellow, but he was a good sport about it all so not holding it against him. Honestly would go for a drink with him, seemed nice.\"\n\nAnd none of that was a lie, but he suspected Terrel wasn't the sort to go to underground pit fights. \n\n\"Oh come now, I'm just making you feel more at home,\" He says with a smirk. \"If I didn't, then you would just get it worse when you returned home. Have to build up your immunity to it somehow. As for meeting them behind your back, well, I can neither confirm, nor deny.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Nothing speaks friendly like breaking someone's bones.\" *Terrel commented at Amos' mention of some good fellow beating him up. The Elf leaned back a bit, seemingly more lax at the casualness of their discussion. He hardly knew the man and yet here they were joking about as if they were old friends. Terrel didn't know much of this town or the people that inhabited it, but if this is what he should expect, he figured it wouldn't be so bad.\n\nHe snapped back to attention as Amos stated that he was only try to building his immunity to his own family, to which he rebutted with:*\n\n\"I'd rather suffer the extremities of my family's pestering than have to deal with you acting like them as well. I might as well be acting like your mother to help you 'build an immunity' to her.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Amos", "message": "\"Well they could have been an ass about it, but at least they didn't step on my neck or something equally humiliating,\" He says, shrugging as if the simple courtesy of *Not* Neck stomping was worthwhile, or friendly enough. Really seems like an odd way of measuring common courtesy but whatever really. Amos could perhaps, given he was pretending to know a complete stranger in a pig mask, be called an odd person. At least a little.\n\nHearing the rebuttal he smirked, \"If you hate it so much you're free to get up and leave, but since you're still *Here* I can only assume you like it. And I would enjoy seeing you try, but really, you're not nearly shrill enough for it and I doubt you could deal with the end results of it.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Could have spared you the humiliation if he ended up breaking your neck instead.\" *Terrel responded to Amos' statement towards their neck not being stomped on being a sign of courtesy. It was an odd statement, but Terrel found a sense of humor in the ridiculousness of it.*\n\n*He studied Amos for a while, listening to his comeback about Terrel being free to simply get up and leave the conversation. Beside him his horse let out a snort as if it was the best idea he had heard all day. With a single glance towards the horse, Terrel looked back at Amos and gave a small chuckle, his feigned annoyance fading with the act.*\n\n\"I guess you got me there.\" *The Elf reached over to grab at the lead around his horse's snout before rising to stand up on his own feet.*" }, { "author": "Amos", "message": "\"Well yes, then he would have spared me a *Lifetime* Of humiliation, but really there isn't much of it left to go, so why not stick it out?\" He says with a shrug, looking at the poor horse enduring all of this nonsense. As Terrel rises he nods, pushing himself up to stand as well. \n\n\"I do occasionally have good ideas,\" He said, nodding as he shoulders his bag. Well, the situation was quite a bit *Better* To end things this way than being trailed and watched throughout the market. \"Well I'll see you again then. Until then take care, alright?\"\n\nHad no idea who he was, but seemed an appropriate parting given the ruse that was going." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*As the horse noticed the two standing up, he would stand up beside Terrel who was readying himself to climb back up on the horse's back. As he hauled himself up to a comfortable position in the saddle, he would look back towards Amos. 'Occasionally have good ideas'. Terrel repeated that part in his head as he regarded the stories the man had told him. At the end of the day, he wasn't sure whether or not they were true or were as made up as his own, but seeing that Amos was continuing the act to the end, he figured he might as well meet him there one more time.*\n\n\"Sure, I'll try my best not to be beaten up by random maiden's I come across.\" *He said smugly before tugging at the reigns to get his horse to turn back to the rest of the Capitol.* \"Next time don't pull me along on a wild goose chase just to talk to ya. The Capitol is big enough as it is.\"\n\n*His horse flicked his tail in whisked annoyance and, with a light kick to the side, he began trotting off.*" } ]

[ { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "*A female reptilian rode intO the city, dismounting at the gate and leading the horse through the crowd* \"Jeez, this place is busy\" *She says to her adversary*" }, { "author": "Abigail_Cyril(Canifor)", "message": "*After arriving at the city by walking there it took her awhile and hopes on finding some company as she slowly enters the kingdom*" }, { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "*The reptilian, not looking where she was going, accidentally bumps into her* \"Oh my apologies, I didn't see you there\" *She's relatively short for a reptilian, but she's quite attractive with deep, blue eyes that strangely contrast with her green scales perfectly*" }, { "author": "Abigail_Cyril(Canifor)", "message": "*Bumps with the reptilian lady as she was still like a kid firat timw in a city*\n\nOof umm hello there?" }, { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "\"Yeah, hi. You new as well? You definitely have that look about you.\" *She says, looking Abigail up and down* \"Names Jezanne\"" }, { "author": "Abigail_Cyril(Canifor)", "message": "Abigail here yeah im new to the cities ive lived most of my life in yhe woods and towns but never in a city it took me awhile to hike here" } ]

[ { "author": "Cecilia Wrestcleaf", "message": "\"Abi! Hiii!~\"\n*Cecilia called to the new canifor excitedly, recognising her immediately and rushing over, giggling incessantly.*\n\"How've you been??\"" }, { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "\"Oh, so you two know each other, huh?\" *She asked, looking to Cecilia* \"Small world huh?\"" }, { "author": "Abigail_Cyril(Canifor)", "message": "Hi cecilia its been since we met. Yeah i met her and she helped me with hunting shes a good support" }, { "author": "Cecilia Wrestcleaf", "message": "\"Yeah, that was fun!~ What brings you here?\"\n*She asked, leaning forward and holding her hands to her chest, beaming all the while.*" }, { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "*Jezanne just stands there, looking at the two, letting them catch up*" }, { "author": "Abigail_Cyril(Canifor)", "message": "I thought of visiting another country and hike here and its my first time in a city I met Jezanne her shes a cute reptalian here *Pats the reptalian*" }, { "author": "Cecilia Wrestcleaf", "message": "\"Ah, ok~ Kinda the same as us, then!\"\n*Cecilia glanced to Jezanne, smiling at her - eyebrows furrowing as Abigail patted her.*" }, { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "*Jezanne looks at her a little confused* \"Uh... What are you doing?\" *She says, looking down at her*" }, { "author": "Abigail_Cyril(Canifor)", "message": "Im just patting your head dont worry you wont be harmed you know" }, { "author": "Cecilia Wrestcleaf", "message": "\"Abi, don't do that... Personal space n' all...\"\n*She cooed, her lips tightening slightly at the exchange*" }, { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "*Jezanne looks a little uncomfortable* \"Yeah... I don't do well with... Touching...\"" }, { "author": "Abigail_Cyril(Canifor)", "message": "*She eventually stopped petting* Oh sorry there *She then coughs up* I think i have a fever walking this far is tiring" }, { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "\"I... Ok... Do you guys wanna go to a tavern or something? Rest up?\"" }, { "author": "Cecilia Wrestcleaf", "message": "\"Yeah, sounds good~ we've been travelling a while anyway.\"\n*She nodded in agreement, whistling for her horse and leading it along the path, waving to the pair.*" }, { "author": "d0cahkiin", "message": "*Jezanne follows, pulling her horse along*" }, { "author": "Cecilia Wrestcleaf", "message": "\"With who?\"\n*She asked, cocking her head confusedly*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*Amidst hushed whispers and pointing from passing High Elves, derisive stares at the Macen that held herself in such a casual manner, the young knight sat upon the grass in the centre of the city, a peaceful gardens in the midst of the din. Her armour glittered dimly in the noon light, her ashen hair stark against the deep greens underfoot. She sighed, pulling at her ponytail and relaxing a moment - her eyes blazing auburn as she scanned around.*\n\"For all the stories told of this place... You would think they would be used to tourists...\"\n*Her voice was gentle and refined, yet weathered and low by her wandering years and upbringing. She plucked an orchid that lay by her thigh, studying it a while.*" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "*Happening to be passing through the center of the city at that moment as well, the pale ori had chosen to appear as a high elf to avoid the exact situation that Elias had found herself in. For the most part, the disguise let him blend into the crowd, aside from the occasional sideways glance at his armored appearance. \n\nHe wasn't exactly sure what he was doing in this garden - if he was being completely honest - other than the pretty flowers that had caught his attention on the way here. A short break wouldn't hurt, he figured, and the merchant had been stooping down to literally smell the roses when a stray voice caught his attention - leading him to poke his head around the corner to see the odd Macen sitting alone with a orchid by her side.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*Noticing the lone non-threatening Silnari in the crowd - her magical senses far too lacking to notice the facade - she prodded him verbally, eyes narrowing at him.*\n\"What is it with your kin? You act as if this place is sacred...\"\n*She asked, the venom in her voice masked by her soft Northern contralto.*" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "*It was pretty rare to see a Macen around here. Well, fellow merchants and other workers were somewhat common, but it was the first time he had seen someone who resembled some kind of knight in the city, all by herself.* \n\"You'll have to excuse them - it's a part of their culture, unfortunately.\" *Her tone definitely made him uncomfortable, but he would just have to take it as a confirmation that his disguise was working.*\n\"I take it that this is your first time in Ulnoor?\" \n*The oni approached her while attempting to appear reasonably friendly, a pair of orange eyes meeting her worn with a slight frown in his expression.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*Her demeanour softened as the Silnari proved amicable, sitting up as he approached and waving her hand dismissively.*\n\"Yes, it is indeed. I expected more glamour, but it is clearly the *Jewel* Of this great empire...\"\n*She replied, her words dripping with sarcasm as she shifted, her armour clinking against her mail.*" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "\"It's still a pretty city - well, certainly prettier than where I came from.\" *The sarcasm in her tone prompted a chuckle in response from him, followed by internal relief at the fact that she didn't seem to hold any bitter resentment towards his appearance.\n\nThinking back - when he had seen the city for the first time alongside his brother, he remembered that it had caused his jaw to drop in awe. Yet this Macen seemed rather unfazed by one of the most prosperous cities on the continent. Where was she from, he wondered?*\n\n\"My name's Niko Sunderer - an adventurer on his travels. Yours?\"" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "\"Elias Alicia Bluedove. I suppose I'm a mercenary now, though mostly just wandering...\"\n*Her voice was hollow, almost sullen - as if her name felt incomplete as she said it. In truth, the knight yearned for her titles, and the glory of fighting under a noble banner. Alas, she was far from reclaiming this, and saw no path to it as of now. Elias looked Niko up and down, nodding as she identified the various blades and tools on his person.*\n\"Have you been adventuring long? You look a little green.\"" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "*It seemed there was some kind of story behind her situation, but he wasn't sure if it would be appropriate to ask. Instead, he tried to appear as positive as possible in an attempt to lift her spirits - if even a little bit.*\n\n\"Well-\" *He froze, wondering for a moment if she had caught onto some part of his disguise that was off. The moment passed, however, soon as he realized what she had meant by looking a little 'green'.* \n\"-you got me,\" *He admitted with an embarrassed smile,* \"I haven't gotten to use these tools for a proper adventure yet, but that should change soon!\"" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "\"Word of advice: Forget the stories your father told you. Adventuring is just mercenary work with an idealist spin. Those who delude themselves into believing otherwise find their lives are cut far shorter than most.\"\n*She dispensed with her cynical advice, her gauntleted hand tapping the pommel of her longsword as she stared off into the distance; her eyes like melted caramels as they glazed over.*" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "*Wow. Very suddenly, the mood had veered off of a cliff - and Niko would not stand for it. His father would certainly have some things to say if he had been told that to his face, being the renowned explorer that he was.*\n\"Maybe you're right and I'm just deluding myself by trying to become an adventurer like the rest. But if my father taught me anything, it's that good men can accomplish great things when they aren't motivated by greed.\"\n*Stooping down, Niko picked up the orchid that had been left behind on the ground.* \n\"I don't mind if my life gets cut short if that means I can work for the greater good.\"" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*She gave him a passive sideye, considering his words for a moment - the light returning to her eyes. She pursed her lips, realising she may have been too harsh on the boy - a combination of her hard past and the animosity from the elven public, perhaps. She shifted her weight once more, pulling her legs under her rear and resting on them, turning to him with a gentle smile.*\n\"Perhaps... All I caution you is to not throw your life away. Even heroes retire, so you certainly should endeavour to one day.\"" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "*Soon as he saw that the light had returned to her eyes - and her tone had noticeably eased, the young adventurer's expression beamed with elation.*\n\"I may be green, but I still know the limits of what I am capable of.\" *He paused, idly bouncing the orchid from hand to hand.* \n\"I guess retirement will come someday, but considering my old folks are still up to things, that *Probably* Won't happen for a while.\" *He shrugged.*\n\n\"Hey, you don't even look that much older than me.\" *He probably could have phrased that better... Too late now,* \"-when are you planning to stop doing mercenary work?\"" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*Considering she had commented on his age, she was only offended for a moment - chuckling softly as she leaned back a little, her chest rising and dropping slowly as she relaxed.*\n\"When I reclaim my title and my lands.\"\n*Her eyes focused on the palace that lay at the top of the city's incline, as if she thought it familiar.*" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "*Everything Elias was saying was just raising more unanswered questions in his mind, but there was a definite story that was emerging.*\n\"If you don't mind me prying a bit, I'm guessing you're wandering and a mercenary for hire because you lost your title and land?\"\n*He figured it was on to something! Hopefully, the question had been asked at the right time and wouldn't completely backfire by making her cold towards him again.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*Her smile widened, her expression turning bittersweet - invoking the image of both a melancholy princess and a battle-scarred knight. She patted the grass beside her with a clink of her gauntlets, offering him a seat beside her as she responded.*\n\n\"Quite the investigator, hm? My title I have lost, yes - once 'Ser Elias Alicia Bluedove, First Princess of House Bluedove'.\"\n\n*She recounted her title with a sarcastic pomp to her voice, yet clearly still held a reverence for it from her mild grimace afterwards.*\n\n\"I was never to inherit land, unless I were to prove myself to my liege - of whom I have never met, and I am fairly certain does not wage war often anymore...\"\n\n*Her tone was as light as it was forlorn, as if she was recalling an old story instead of her own history. Detaching herself like this had helped stymie the resentment, but it wouldn't last.*\n\n\"And yourself, Niko? Have you any secret ties to royalty?\"\n*She asked, lightening the mood with a subtle jab, her bittersweet smile sweetening very slightly.*" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "*Niko graciously accepted her offer to sit besides her, taking care to sling the scabbard off of his back before he landed in the grass with a heavy thunk.*\n \"I like hearing what stories people have to tell,\" *He sheepishly replied, before shutting his mouth to listen.*\n\n\"So - you are - er, *Were* A princess?\" *From the incredulous look on his face, it was probably obvious that he did not have any ties to royalty whatsoever.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "\"So do I...\"\n*She chuckled, sighing softly as he glanced to him - finding his conduct highly bizarre for a High Elf resident of the capital.*\n\"I was the third daughter of a Marquis, so technically yes... And, yes. *Was.\"*" }, { "author": "Niko", "message": "*The transition from being a princess to wandering the countryside must have been rough. The story certainly explained why her mannerisms and attitude had been so harsh earlier, and Niko held a gloved hand to his chin in thought.*\n\"Well, whatever it takes to reclaim your title, I hope you can achieve it. \nI wish I could say more, but you can probably tell I don't know a thing about royalty...\"\n*After nervously chuckling, he continued. She had told him her story, so it was probably time to return the favor.*\n\"My family just consists of merchant-adventurers from Salvainia. There isn't much to say, really, except that I'm trying to follow in their footsteps; thats why I'm here in Ulnoor after finishing a shipment.\"" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "\"Thank you, dear... We'll see what it takes, I suppose.\"\n*She sighed, laughing softly as her mood improved slowly - conversing with such a sprightly young man giving her at least some energy.*\n\"Ah, merchants? What do you sell?\"\n*She asked, tilting her head slightly as a wave of fatigue hit her - clearly she had lounged in the sun too long.*" } ]

[ { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*The sun was at its equinox over the city of Ulnoor, it's commercial streets busy and it's people cheerfully going about their day. Light peeked in through the murky glass windows of the Charleen Forgery, a well organised shop within one of the more moderately populated streets. It's name had come from the tale of one Charleen Ebexi, a beastkin warrior who had once wielded a sword made with the clan inscription of Horr - a tale very, very old, for it outdated the mother of the establishment's owner. M'ralind Varangr sat behind the counter, one built considerably lower than most others due to its user's short stature, items packed in each of its drawers. In one hand was a book, her eyes trained upon it as the other hand held an ink pen, writing down on a piece of parchment. She was preparing for her next order of stock for metal, straight from her beautiful nation of Prasia.* \"Mnaah, no matter 'ow many years I spend doing this, I don't think I'll ever want to drop dead less.\" *Her face had a smile upon it despite her dreary comment as she closed up the book with a snap, placing it in a drawer and folding up the parchment into a letter.* \"'S about t' be lunch time, I should get t' closin' up shop soon.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would gradually make his way down the streets of Ulnoor, a sense of relief after the long detour in trying to take a short cut here. In one hand was a lead left tied around it to secure the horse attached at the other end of it.*\"See? This is why you follow me. I actually know where I'm going.\"*He'd say to the horse only to receive a snort in response. Terrel would make his way through the crowds of people, occasionally getting glanced at every now and then as should be expected for a person wearing a pig face for a mask. The Elf didn't seem to mind it much, barely paying much attention to it as he seemed set on finding a place to renew his armory after the fight he had to endure earlier. Glancing over, he'd catch sight of one shop that seemed stand out to him, gradually making his way over to it before coming to a stop at the door and peering inside.*\"Reckon this place is still open?\"*He'd ask his horse, narrowing his eyes as if to squint through dark windows of the shop.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*Usually, at this time, people would be going out to get their lunches. Most shopkeepers tended to have their food inside their workplaces so as to avoid missing any business, but M'ra always enjoyed taking the trip to the tavern where she could share some fun tales that she had come across. Just as she had said to herself before, she had began to pack away her notes, shuffling them into their respective drawers and donning a coat over her work uniform. She came to the door, opening it with a ring of the store's bell and closing it behind her. Immediately upon turning to the street, she saw a monstrously tall man gazing into the window of her shop, through which could be seen an array of weapons and a board with some words carved into it, offering service for older weapons. Her eyebrows were raised as she looked at the man, but seeing the horse he had and his general attire, she knew he was likely a customer.* \n\"Oi, the lad over there,\" *She called out, putting one hand to her waist as she bowed her head slightly to him,* \"Are yous interested in a look at th' shop? I was 'bout t' close up fer lunch, but I can make ye an exception. Bring yer horse 'round back, we have a few cells t' hold 'em.\" *Her voice boomed out far louder than one would expect from such a short frame, but it was by no means oppressive. In fact, her cheerful tone and the smile on her face pushed out a light air, one that immediately made the dark windows adopt a rustic feel rather than an old one belonging to a dingy old shop keep.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Scanning the inside of it, Terrel found himself making out some of the weaponry that seemed to fill the shop. This place should do nicely. Suddenly hearing the voice of the woman, Terrel would look away from the shop at first unsure of who it was that was speaking to him until he had eventually glanced down to notice the Dwarf standing before him. From the sounds of it, it seemed like she was the one running the shop around here, well either that or he was getting yelled at randomly from a midget for staring into the shop for too long.*\n\n\"You know I can hear you just fine from up here, right?\"*He jested. At least she seemed relatively cheerful about it for what it was worth and a bit formal too for that matter. His horse would tug at his lead to get his rider's attention, causing Terrel to gaze at him before looking back to the woman at her suggestion of bringing the horse around back.*\"Alright, alright.\"*He'd say in exaggerated compliance, pulling his horse along.*\"Lead the way.\"*At least he'd be able to get his sword looked at while he could take the chance to check out the rest of the store to see what it had to offer. It was by no means old, but definitely had it's fair share of fights, especially after the trip to the monastery.*" } ]

[ { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "\"Bahaha, I know that, I know that!\" *She laughed at his little jest, waving a hand dismissively as she turned to lead Terrel to the back. There were a few cubicles where the horses could be held, though all of them were empty right now. Taking the lead from Terrel's hands and tying it up to one of the posts, she patted its foreleg and pointed to the small pile of hay that was prepared there.* \"Ooh, I should add hay to that re-supply order. Come in, come in! What services will I be providin' ye t'day, mister?\" *She almost bellowed out her question, though it was at least quiet enough that it was reasonable within a macen city. The lady certainly did seem to have some dwarven lung capacity at the very least. Taking a key out from her pocket, she unlocked the back door to the shop and made her way in, expecting Terrel to follow behind.*\n\n*The warm air wafted into the pig-headed Silnari's face, a smell of parchment and iron drifting gently into his nose. To his left, he could see the open door into what looked like a forge room, the flames currently extinguished and the tools hung up on the wall. Going on forwards, the two arrived at the shop's main portion. To the left again there was the counter, a surprisingly low built one, though looking at the woman in front of him it was obvious why. On the pair's right was a bookshelf, packed tightly with different scriptures, titles from many authors; a small section in the corner was listed under a homemade sign, \"M'ralind Varangr\".*\n\n*With a warm smile, the white haired Lora made her place behind the counter and nodded to Terrel.* \"Welcome t' th' Charleen Forge. What can I do for ye?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would follow after the woman with his horse in tow, heading around to the back of the building. As she would take the lead from him, his horse would timidly follow after her, soon finding himself being tied down while he'd sniff around at the hay that was left there. In the meantime, Terrel found himself looking around the back and noticing the empty stalls, part of him wondering how often she found herself needing to prepare for riders with the need to constantly restock the hay. Of course he had some extra food for Carl, though he hoped whatever Hay tempted his horse wouldn't become part of the costs later.\n\nHe'd follow her into the shop, feeling the warm sensation of the air coming from inside as he made his way in. Had he not grown so used to wearing the mask on his face, he wouldn't have mind removing it for the nice atmosphere of this place. However, he doubted his visit would be long, simply needing to fix up his weapons before leaving Silnaria once more. He gazed around the shop, looking at the different tools and books. Was this a library as well? It seemed like an odd combination to him, but maybe it was for the owner's own self entertainment. \n\nWalking over to the counter, he'd found himself standing rather awkwardly over it. At least he was glad to not have to worry about hitting his head on the way in, but it was clear this place was made to help better suit the woman with whatever tasks she did here. At the question, he would say:*\"Just some resharpening for my sword mostly.\"*The Elf would slowly place his hand around the hilt of it, drawing the blade out and holding it on its flat side.*\"It's definitely seen better days.\"*The sword itself seemed to be slightly darkened, mostly from the blood the Elf had yet to wash off of it. At the very least it seemed to have mostly dried by now, only leaving dark brown stains as any sign of past quarrels.*\n\n*He didn't seem bothered by it, most likely whatever had blunted it having happened more so recently with a line of long past battles to back it up.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*As Terrel presented his weapon to M'ra, she immediately shook her head and crossed her arms.* \"Guuuh, why is it that so many of yous adventurers ne'er learn 'ow t' maintain ye weapons?\" *She said with an exasperated sigh, reaching her hands up to take the blade into her own, definitely more capable hands.* \"I ain't got a problem with treatin' yer weapon, but I ain't gonna scam ye and tell ye t' come t' a forge every time ye need sharpening.\" *The dwarf turned with a little spin of the heels, heading back to the forge.* \"Ye can look at the library while ye wait, it shouldn't take long. But I'm not gonna provide any more services after, I'm hungry.\"\n\n*And so she went into the forge room. The door was left open, so it wasn't as if she was trying to hide any technique. As she had said, maintenance of one's weapons should be something every adventurer should do, and it was a travesty to her that so many didn't do it. At most, services like that being sought from blacksmiths should only ever be sought if the sword was in an exceptionally terrible form or if it had simply been worn down so much that it needed reforging.*\n\n*Aside from books and weapons, the shop still seemed to have more to offer. Equipment like rope, bags, a few pieces of armour, though these were a bit more sparse. Most notable of all was a section lined with ornate looking daggers. They were made of iron and bronze, a collection of them, with the iron ones being listed as \"Himó\", the bronze ones under \"Polje\". Right beside the assortment of daggers was a rack with several vials of \"Artificial\" Blood. Perhaps Terrel had heard of the commodity, one used by vampires that lived in the city. After all, having to drink entire animals dry wasn't exactly a very manageable expense.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'm mostly learning as I go.\"*He'd say in response as M'ra took the sword from him, seemingly distraught from not finding ways to keep it maintained himself. It wasn't like Elves were known to wield weaponry such as that, more prominent for their uses of magic. However, that was more of an excuse than a good reason. He could have always read up on it after his trip to Mentia had he not gotten distracted along the way. At least it would have been better than to have waited this long, but seeing as he was in the Capitol already, it was probably best to get it done now before traveling away once more.\n\nTerrel would watch the woman head off into the forge room, for a short while watching her at work before considering taking her suggestion of checking out the library. Walking around, he had found most of his attention being caught on the different equipment set around the shop, things like rope and extra weaponry that he would have been glad to have on his last mercenary mission. Part of him considered purchasing some, but seeing as M'ra was readying to leave soon after, it was probably best to not spend much longer in here. Besides, he didn't have enough currency to begin going on a spending spree anyways, so he simply decided to avoid the temptation for the time being.\n\nHe'd walk over to the small section of books he had remembered seeing where he walked in, staring at each of the different pieces of writing before his gaze would eventually fall down towards the section that had sat in the corner with a sign above it. He squinted at it, reading along the name that sat written on the sign.*\"What are the books under M'ra... Lind... For...?\"*He'd say, having to sound out the name carefully to make sure he had read it right.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*In the forge room, scraping away at the sword with a sharpening stone after having ran it over with a towel to wipe the blood that should have already been removed off, the Lora's ears perked up, the corners of her lips turning up as she adopted a gentle expression, though Terrel could not see it. What he could do, though, was hear the softer, warm tone that her voice had taken.* \"Ahh, M'ralind's th' name of th' author. She's a novelist, so most of 'em're stories. Some passed to her by her mother, others made by her own imagination. You'll find one of 'em's about a certain Charleen.\" *Her words were cut off with the metallic ring of the stone doing a long, drawn out drag across the blade, a sound that to many was horrible, but to any forgesmith it was terribly satisfying. She kept stroking the blade with a smile as she went on speaking.*\n\n\"All joking aside, that's little old me's writin'. I'm not so shameless as to ask you to buy them, but it does always bring a warmth to my heart, hehe.\" *Within the forge room, she giggled to herself. Oh, what bother was it to tell an adventurer to buy a book? Let alone a novel of the fantastic, when they already experienced all those exciting things for themselves. Except maybe romance, but it wasn't as if she experienced that much either. It was a surprise to her that they even managed to sell as much as her other books.* \"The one called 'A Traveller's Maintenance Tips' would do good for ye though. It's an entertaining little guide t' keep in' yer weapons in good shape. Well, more than just weapons. I put my heart into it!\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*So she was M'ralind? He couldn't help but snort in suppressed laughter at her description of who made the book. There was a chance of some of it being true, but he was unsure of how much he should believe the words someone gave towards their own book. He'd pick up the book she had suggested to him, opening it up slightly as he'd dare sneak a peek into it with the thought of possibly catching a few tips before he'd leave.*\"So how much are you selling them for?\"*He'd ask. Maybe he could possibly take it with him on his journey. It could at least be something to keep him busy with all the traveling he had to do.\n\nWith the amount of noise coming from the forge, it was a wonder how the woman could hear him at all. Maybe she had grown used to it with years of experience, because if not for how loud she spoke normally, he'd find it near impossible to hear her.*\"And what other stuff does it talk about...\"*He'd ask in distraction for the time being. Closing the book, he'd look down at the other novels, some of which simply being stories for self-entertainment. He had to admit, it had been quite a while since he sat down to simply read. About as far as back as before he had started traveling on his combative journey.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*Certainly, her voice was loud enough to easily make it past the sounds of metal screeching. It was a natural talent, one could say.* \"I wish I could say they were cheap, but as with all books, the price isn't very gentle. For someone who adventures... I'd recommend buying two at most, at a time. They're 50 silver a piece.\" *Her words expressed a level of regret at the price, but it was necessary in order to cover the costs of making them. At the very least she was still making profit from them, despite them being relatively cheap compared to most other books.* \n\n\"Oh, the Traveller's Tips? Haha, I wouldn't be so sadistic as to fill a book with technical jargon all over. I drew a little bit for each piece of gear, and I added a few stories here and there about how I learned how to fix them up! Some fictional stuff as well, all in the name of fun, obviously!\" *It was evident how much passion leaked from her voice as she spoke about the book, and even from the short glimpse that Terrel had taken into it, it was obvious that it was written in a much more leisurely and easy to understand way than a lot of books tended to be. For example, magic books. Then again, people tended to have others help them in the undertaking of magic through oral passing down of methods, or as often is the case, simply had an innate talent." }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "'Two at a time?' *Terrel wondered to himself. This woman was surely trying to swindle him out of money. Then again her tone sent a few mixed messages. Someone this passionate about it, one would think they'd have their books put in an actual library, but maybe their own shop was good enough for them. With a deep sigh, Terrel would gaze at the other books on the shelf, unsure of anything else really catching his attention for the time being. Eventually giving up, Terrel would simply grab one of the fictional books from the shelf at random, flipping through it quickly before closing it as he had the other book and putting it next to the other before grabbing them both and heading back over to the forge.\n\nHe'd stand there watching her in silence for a while, pondering over whether or not the books would actually be worth taking with him to at least fill the boredom and lack of knowledge he had remaining around swordsmanship. Maybe he could part with some of the silver for the temporary entertainment, but at the end of the day there were no returns for it.*\"How's the sword looking?\"*He'd eventually ask, to break what would have been silence outside of all the noise coming from the forge.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*Stepping into the room, Terrel would be met with the sight of the dwarven woman running a smooth stone over the blade. By that point, it already looked like it had most of the dents in it smoothed out and the edge was far from dull. Over the moments that he watched her, she had set the stone down upon the table she was at, picking up a polishing towel and wiping it across the blade. By the time the man asked her, she turned around with a look of surprise,* \"Ah, sorry, hadn't heard you coming in. It's almost done. Oh, and if you'll be buying those books, I'll throw in the service for this for free. It's a pain to deal with all the odd amounts of coins.\" *At the very least she was honest about her thoughts.*\n\n*It didn't take more than a few seconds for her task to be finished. She took the blade in her hand, holding the handle and slicing at the very tip of her pink finger. It cut as though through butter.* \"Perfect~\" *She hopped off the stool she'd been on, lifting her chin to Terrel as she headed back to the counter.* \n\n*The blade was on the counter, her hand drifting to a small piece of parchment. For transactions of books, she always liked to keep note of who had bought each copy.* \"May I ask yer name, mister?\" *Subconsciously, she had already drawn up the register with her other hand, waiting for payment for the books.* \"It'll be 100 silver for the both of 'em. Oh, and in case you were worried about it, the hay's free too. You have no idea how many complaints the bastards that make merchants pay for hay get; the only reason they even keep doing it is cause they're influential enough.\" *She seemed to be going off on a tangent, but she quickly corrected herself and put on a warm smile.* \"It's a fine horse, your boy. You better treat 'im well, gotcha?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would flit his gaze over towards her. With her eventually taking notice of his presence, he found himself smirking.*\"Well that's a surprise.\"*He'd say sarcastically in response to her apology. At the mention of the service being free in expense for the books, Terrel couldn't help but feel partially relieved. At least he won't have to concern over being milked dry of his coin from the things he ends up leaving with.\n\nAs she'd finish working on the blade, he'd step a bit to the side to allow her the space to pridefully walk back to the counter before slowly following after her and placing the books down upon the counter top as he neared.\n\nReaching into his pockets, he'd pull out a hundred silver and place it upon the counter while he watched her grab a piece of paper to begin writing on. At her question of his name, he'd reply simply with:*\"Terrel Bales...\"*He wasn't completely sure what she needed it for, but he didn't care much to share his name either, especially with the Dwarf already having given hers. As she brought up the amount of complaints people gave about having it pay for hay, he'd stand back up to his full height and would gaze back to the door they originally came in from the back.*\"I can see why.\"*He'd say.*\"I'm vaguely sure Carl out there is a stress eater.\"*The Elf chuckled quietly at the thought, turning back to M'ra with her stating that he best treat his horse well.*\"Trust me, he's spoiled. And I don't think he realizes.\"*He'd say the last part in a partial whisper, leaning down as if the horse could actually hear him which was debatably so.*" } ]

[ { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*The dwarf took Terrel's words for what they were - a joke. There wasn't any doubt in her mind that she'd be praying for forgiveness from Kejomuj for weeks if someone were to run around committing crimes, as simple as they were, after she had deemed them trustworthy enough to provide her services. It really was a short walk, their little excursion, only taking them across the street and one turn to the left to reach the shade covered little café. It looked to be a little crowded now, though the place being small and in the shade did mean that it was mostly regulars. Regulars like M'ra, who was immediately recognised by one of the serving girls, a smile and a wave being sent her way as the pair entered and she sat herself with her back to the wall at a table, a homegrown plant beside her and the window to her other side.* \n\n\"Oh I can most certainly agree that that sword hasn't seen any day better than today. She looks like she's in a lotta relief now I've given her a makeover.\" *Giving a playful chuckle, M'ralind turned to the waitress as she arrived.* \n\n**\"Hello miss, you've brought a friend?\"**\n\"No, no, just a customer. It's my lunch break so I thought I might as well.\"\n**\"Keep telling yourself that, M'ra, and I'll keep givin' ya that roast beef sandwich like we've always done.\"**\n\n*Snorting with a slight tinge of embarrassment leaking through to her face, M'ralind scratched her head as she turned to Terrel.* \"What're you gonna get? Like Shalah said, the roast beef is great here, and you'll never get tired of it! There's also duck with rice, migas, and the special of the day. Which seems to be pig chunks with... Clams? How'd you get your hands on those again??\"\n**\"We ordered them a month ago since a certain someone kept drunkenly complaining that she hadn't eaten them in years, which absolutely isn't true. That, and a few other customers also wanted to have it again. It'll be the special for a whole week, though.\"**\n\"Huh. Well, what'll you be orderin', Terrel?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He'd follow the dwarf the short distance to the tavern, watching as M'ra would be greeted by the other servers working there. Perhaps she came here often, though he could imagine so with it being relatively close to her working place. He'd offer a light wave to them, allowing M'ra to take the lead while he spent some time tying his horse up outside.\n\nGiving Carl a light pat on the snout he'd turn away from him and follow M'ra inside the tavern. As she found a place to sit down at, he'd eventually follow suit in sitting across from her, taking in the tavern for a short while. Listening to M'ra speak about his sword, he would chuckle, more so from her giving his weapon more personality than he would have ever would have. A 'she' nonetheless.*\"We'll see how long that'll last for her then.\"*He'd say back in implication of finding a chance to put the fixed up sword to use. \n\nAs the Waitress would approach, he'd eventually look up, finding himself lightly leaning back in his seat while the two of them spoke with a sense of familiarity, not even noticing M'ra's visible embarrassment from the small jabs the waitress was giving her while he tried to listen to what she was going on about. Ah yes, they spoke a lot about roast beef and other meats of the sorts. If he'd had known any better he'd have temporarily thought he was in a beastkin tribe.\n\nIt seemed like M'ra was simply sticking to her usual and with her asking what Terrel would order, he'd think on it a moment before saying:*\"Can I get the rice with some potatoes to go with it? No need to add the duck with it, I'll be fine without.\"*He'd say, avoiding the meat options altogether with little interest in them.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*No meat? She found herself raising an eyebrow, but it wasn't for her to judge anyways. The waitress nodded.* **\"One sandwich and one dish with rice and potatoes.\"** *The waitress seemed to have a much more knowing look, shaking her head at M'ra for being so airheaded as to recommend meat to an elf. Sure there might be some who like it, but that just wasn't the case most often. As she went off to the kitchen, M'ra turned her eyes back at Terrel.* \n\n\"They usually prepare most of the ingredients before hand, and some meals are almost finished by the time peeps get here. I dunno how they'll make the duck rice without the duck, though, the flavouring in it is amazing.\" *Looking to the side, her mouth gaped just slightly as she drooled at the thought of that wonderful and warm smell. Shaking her head and wiping her lips with her sleeve, she smiled as she spoke up again.* \"Well, Terrel, if you don't mind me askin', where'd you come from? I've never seen a mask like that, it's really interesting!\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel didn't seem bothered by M'ra's look of question, already having gotten used to peoples' confusion about his eating habits. Terrel would give a nod as if confirmation to the waitress before she headed off, at least seemingly more understanding of it. With them gone, he'd eventually glance back to M'ra as she spoke to him.*\n\n\"Quite simple, don't put the duck on the rice.\"*He'd answer as a joke, knowing full well he didn't know anything about kitchen procedures at a tavern.*\"Maybe someone can order the duck by itself to fulfill two orders in one.\"*He'd think aloud. As she'd ask him where he was from.*\"The steppes generally. A small town far off from here. Never been much of a city person.\"*He'd explain casually to her.*\"Made a mask like this when I was younger and ended up reusing and fixing it up over the years until it looked like what you see now.\"" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "\"Huh... It looks really good for a mask that old. I'm impressed.\" *M'ralind gave a nod of satisfaction as she looked to the kitchen with a look of longing. After Terrel had mentioned ordering the duck separately, she found herself regretting not just having Terrel order the normal duck rice with potatoes and then nabbing the duck for herself.* \"The rice is made with the duck, the flavours mix with each other. But since y'ain't havin' the duck, they'll be working some of their magic to give it some more flavour than just plain rice.\"\n\n*She leaned back on her chair, similarly to Terrel, looking over at the window. From this shaded little tavern, there wasn't much of a view, just what you'd expect - a rustic little outside path, the light of the blue sky peeking over the buildings on the other side of the street. But it was relaxing to her. Her shoulders began to hang looser as put a palm to her cheek.* \"I should visit the steppes someday. There must be a ton of stories to tell about them, right?\" *An eyebrow rose at Terrel, her playful tone suggesting he tell her a little bit more.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"True.\"*Terrel would respond, imagining how the rice would taste still having the duck flavor in it before giving a light shake of his head at the thought. It was probably better that they cooked it completely separately.*\"You seem to know a lot about how they do things here. I'm guessing you come by often?\"*He'd ask. While they were waiting for their food, he'd sit in silence for a while, most of his attention on other people as they'd pass by before shifting his focus to something else, easily distracted by the things going on within the tavern. \n\nAs M'ra began to speak again about visiting the steppes, he'd raise a hidden eyebrow in confusion. Not everyday you find someone wanting to go out there with it being far from most civilization.*\"Well if you're the kind that like to hear farmer stories or town gossip I suppose there's always something to listen to when you're wandering around. Most people know each other from where I was from, but I just decided to go off and travel.\"*He'd explain, oblivious to M'ra's playfulness as he'd eventually fall silent again. It wasn't often he spoke of home, though in being asked he never had much to really say about the rural location. Most interesting happened in the city anyways, not that he really preferred one over the other.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*The dwarf pouted a little at the accusation that she'd listen to just anything, though that was definitely true.* \"I eat here almost every day when I'm managing the shop, so the staff known me. And I know them, of course!\" *As she was about to keep speaking, though, the waitress finally returned, two plates in hand. Despite the simple order of Terrel's, the steaming rice had the smell of some beautifully made seasonings, a savoury smell enveloping the air. In short bursts, the salty scent of M'ra's sandwich pushed through, sauce leaking from its corner as she salivated.*\n\n*Her eyes opened wide like those of a kid and she took the sandwich in her hands, biting down.* \"MMMMNN!! Kejomuj bless you, Shalah, you're divine at these!\" *Her cheerful squeals continued as she bit down, the white and brown sauce leaking from the corner of her lips. The waitress bowed with a graceful smile, turning back.* **\"Always, miss. I hope your friend enjoys his meal too, we made a little improvised masterpiece~\"**" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel chuckled at M'ra as she dug into the food, finding amusement in her obsession to it despite most likely eating it all the time with the context of her coming everyday and eating roast beef. He'd eventually look away from her so that he could enjoy his food without having to watch her completely decimate the sandwich.*\"No need to worry M'ra, I don't think the sandwich is going anywhere anytime soon.\"*He'd say.\n\nTaking in his own food, he had to admit it smelled relatively nice. He usually found himself taking a liking to most tavern cooking over his own, at least those that know how to spice it up just right where Terrel can't seem to get it. He'd grab a spoon, taking in a mouthful of the rice and though he didn't have as big of a reaction as M'ra, he still found himself giving a light smirk. Food done right.*" } ]

[ { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*There were a few moments of the tavern's simple sounds of chatter being interrupted by loins chewing and a few occasional squeals of joy. For a food she ate almost every day, her reaction was a liiiiittle bit strong! After she finished munching on her sandwich, she licked up the remaining sauce off of her fingers, and with a satisfied grin crossed her arms.* \"I think you were wrong, mister Terrel, it seems to have gone missing!\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I think we both know exactly where that went. You aren't hiding anything.\"*He'd comment with a grin, taking more time to enjoy his food before he'd eventually finish some time after M'ra. His reaction wasn't as over the top, but even Terrel could enjoy some good Silnarian cooking whenever he returned to the place, even if it was temporary until he inevitably set out again. Maybe he could return some time once he was done laying low for a bit.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*The dwarf gave a playful wave in the air, shaking her head as she crossed her arms.* \"Sir, I have no idea what you alude to! It would be the peak of disrespect and defamation for thou to say I am lying, a stain upon my reputation.\" *She jokingly huffed, playing the part of a sleazy businessman. A short while later, the waitress came back, and almost as if out of nowhere, M'ra had already taken out the coin for her sandwich. \n**\"That'll be [some small amount of money that I don't know cause I don't know the currency lol].\"**" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"I'd say that by evidence you were the last one seen before that sandwich vanished.\"*He'd joke along with her. As the waitress came back, he'd hand over the amount for his food, glancing outside to notice the sun slowly passing its peak. He had better set out before it started coming close to evening unless he wanted to be stuck within the Capitol's land by sundown. The smile would fade a bit as he'd wait for the waitress to leave before eventually standing up.*\"I should probably get ready to set off soon, but thanks for having me for lunch. This place has some good chefs.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would wander around the shopping district of Ulnoor, taking a look at what weaponry they had before shying away from it in not finding what she was looking for. She supposed she could actually look for a longbow as well like she told Manon she would. Lying never seemed to end well for her anyways. Jace would watch her go to and fro from each vendor, scanning as briefly as she could before returning back. Maybe it would have been better to have Manon help her. She seemed to know this place much better after all. The Elf said she was going to sell plants or some kind of herbs, right? Juna would turn tail, trying to scope out the way to the Elf based on remembering the direction she had last headed towards.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon entered a shop that was labeled with a red cross on it's door. The doctor within was the only one who seemed to remember Manon by name from their many encounters. Thankfully this doctor liked her too much to care about the fangs and the eyes, thankfully. She placed the basket onto the counter after explaining all the plants she had collected for him. He always commented on how good a she was at finding these plants and apologized for the inconveniences. Manon always told him that it was nothing, and her pleasure to help those in need. Once she asked for a job here as a doctor, but he said being a vampire would be pretty bad for business. Once she said her farewells and received a couple coin for her effort, she left the building. She had a smile on her face from speaking with someone she considered a friend. Manon never really looked at the vendors for armors vendors that much. Remembering where they were exactly would have to take some time. She headed in the direction when she saw the Canifor from earlier. She didn't say anything to her when she passed by.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would make her way through the light crowds, scanning the area until she found a building with a red cross. Surely it was a hospital of sorts. She'd head over towards it, soon coming to a stop as she spotted the Elf heading in her direction only for her to pass by without a word. Was this something she does often? Juna began to wonder that ever since their first encounter in the forest.*\"Manon-\"*Juna would call after her, turning around to follow the Elf as she walked off. Jace would follow close to her heels, eyeing the other people as they'd pass by.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon stopped and turned around. Her hand lifting in a small wave towards Juna. She took a couple of steps back towards the direction she was heading when she heard Juna's footsteps directly behind her. Stopping once more to turn around, finally collecting the dots. She should've figured if the Canifor didn't know how to get to the market district, she wouldn't know how to navigate it either.* \"My apologies, I should've known you were lost again.\" *Failing to realize that her statement painted Juna as someone always lost or confused. It had more honest intent than that.* \"What can I help you with, Juna?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would come to a slow halt as she neared her, tilting her head to the side as she'd say:*\"No no... It's okay really... I guess I'm... Just having trouble finding what I'm looking for...\"*The Canifor would glance around the marketplace, picking out the different stores before asking:*\"Do you know where I can find a... Place that...\"*Juna paused for a moment to think.*\"Can help with fixing up a weapon better suited for me...?\"*She'd say, deciding to word it in suggestion of finding a personally crafted weapon for herself rather than any other bow she may struggle with wielding.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I don't know exactly where things are weapon wise, I've only needed my staff. I do need armor, we can look together.\" *Turning her back to Juna as she walked towards the weapons. Manon had assumed that she asked the vendors for help so she didn't bother. Everyone knows to ask for directions in the cities, it had to be the same for everywhere else. They found an armor booth first and Manon stopped to examine the pieces of armors hanging on wooden poles. Everything here was metal and she wouldn't be able to move as well as she'd like. Bowing her head to the vendor for explaining the type of materials before heading further up the road.* \" Does Ulnoor offer something other cities don't?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give an understanding nod, figuring she shouldn't have expected a healer to know the whereabouts of weaponry and such. She would follow after her, coming to glance at the different stalls as they would occasionally stop by before passing on once more. Being asked if there was something Ulnoor offered that the other cities didn't, Juna would pause for a moment. What did the land of Elves offer that nothing else did? The answer seemed simple in her eyes as she'd speak in a quiet tone.*\"Magic...\"*Its been ages since she's lost her own abilities, leaving her to have to adapt and overcome without ways to protect herself like she used to. If she could find a magical weapon to help her anywhere, it would be here.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*It was as the two took their suave exploration of the city's markets that it caught the corners of their eyes. The most rustically decorated shop in all of Ulnoor - or so did it's owner pride herself on such a fact. The dark wood of its sign contrasted beautifully as the bright sun shone down upon it, illuminating the engraved letters that read out its name: Charleen Forge. It's windows were lined with gear: lamp oil, ropes, bombs, you want it, it's yours my friend. More interesting, though, was a smaller detail that one might likely miss were they not knowledgable of blacksmith makes, the traces of Lora works upon the displayed armour and few short swords that were at the window.\n\nOn the inside of the shop, invisible to the pair that were wandering the city, a little lady with hair tied up in a bun was ecstatically pressing a large case down with her whole body weight, shoving herself down against it to try and get the clips to finally close. After her lunch with an elven customer the other day, she'd had the fire of exploration lit up once more in her heart. Stay in her shop holed up like the majority of the last decade? Hell no! She was going to find more stories, more adventures to publish! No wonder her creativity was running low recently, she hadn't even been seeing any new sights and her memory of her mother's stories was running out!* \"Now, I just gotta get the shop moved downstairs t' where it's safe and I'm all ready t' go!\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Maybe this place might have something?\" *At this point They had checked nearly every vendor, every store, for someone who could make custom weapons for the Canifor. This was probably the reason why Juna had to move cities, what she was looking didn't exist. Manon was sure of it, nobody anywhere knew how to handcraft some bow for a girl who might very well lose it, just like she got lost twice already. This feeling only amplified as they checked and checked. Manon opened the door to the shop named Charleen Forge. Once inside she held the door open for Juna, though her expression while she looked at the girl's head was of minor annoyance.* \"So we need to find you a hand crafted, custom, bow. Which is also magically enchanted?\" *She really didn't travel with that much coin did she? Anything could've happened in the forest, she was asking for it almost.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would flick thoughtfully as they finally came up to a new shop after passing by all the other vendors. With Manon holding the door open for her, she'd gradually make herself inside, taking notice of the Dwarf working at getting a case closed. Was she packing up for something? The Canifor wasn't sure. Hopefully this place wasn't closed already after all this time searching.*\"...Maybe.\"*Juna would silently agree, eyeing the store before turning to the lady.*\"...Excuse me... Are... Are you still open...?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*The two heard a soft little ring above their heads as the store's bell was sent into a little jiggle from the door having been opened. M'ralind turned her head up to Juna, then Manon. Business at these hours? She was surprised, right about now was when people were usually going out - it was when she was getting ready to go out. After a few seconds of blank staring, her eyes seemed to come alive, like a doll suddenly given life, energy filled movements coming over her short frame.* \"*Cough cough*, yeah! I'm still open! Sorry fer the confusion!\" \n\n*Within a moment, she left the case that she had been pressing down, the thing springing open and leaving her with an irritated expression for a moment as she rushed to stand before the two.* \"Welcome to Charleen Forge, ye made it just in time fer business! I'm preparin' for a trip!\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon waited near the door. Some how she went from selling her plants to the doctors of the city to personal escort for this young Canifor. She folded her arms while a finger impatiently tapped at her elbow. At least it was getting darker, not brighter outside. If it was early morning Manon would have to hope it was a cloudy day. She had time to waste, she'd just have to do her shopping some other time if this store didn't have leather armor for a mage.* \"Do you have anything for mages here or..\" *She wanted to add \"Am I wasting my time again.\" But managed to control herself.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give a slight dip of her head in response to the Dwarf, looking between her and Manon.*\"Would you perhaps... Sell enchanted weapons here...?\"*She'd decide to ask the Dwarf, hoping there was a way to look through a selection to hopefully find the right staff or rather bow for her. Jace would slowly walk in after them, sniffing around the place as he'd wander further inside without much needed invitation.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "\"Hm? Fer mages? Well, I ain't an expert on that, but I can fix ya up somethin'. As fer the young lady over there, I do indeed! Ye don't need doubt kejomujian knowhow, especially when ye give it t' someone who don't need sleep!\" *Proudly pudding out her chest, M'ralind took the time to walk around to an area right near the book corner. After all, putting the most enticing equipment next to the stuff she wanted to sell the most was probably the best way to go, right?* \n\n\"I ain't sure what ye want, Miss mage, but for the missus 'ere, I've got most of any kinda gear. You a ranger, lass?\" *Inquisitively crossing her arms at Juna, M'ra gave off a short puff from her nostrils. Though she didn't know what Juna was searching for, the Canifor most certainly did spot exactly what she had come in for. One of the racks with weapons had a selection of three staffs, and another held an array of many bows at different elevations. Shortbows, longbows, the lot.* \"Some o' these got enchantments on 'em, but if yer lookin' for a specific thing, I'd need some time to work on it. And given how I'm leavin' soon...\" \n\n*Bingo! Just what M'ralind needed! All of a sudden, her eyes burned with a playful light, their red irises shifting to meet Manon's slits.* \"I wouldn't mind goin' with ye t' do the job.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*She let out a sigh of relief that the search is over, or almost over. Leaving her position at the back to stand beside Juna.* \"It doesn't need to be made for mages, I'd like something to prevent me from getting scratched or cut by thorns and branches. If it can stop a dagger, I'm not going to complain.\" *Manon started paying closer attention to the shopkeeper, She didn't really look at any of the other stores because it was mostly hunting stuff. Hopefully they both could find what they looked for.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's eyes would light up at the sight of the two sets of weapons before eventually shifting her gaze back to M'ra as she had asked her a question. Was she a ranger? Right, she was, something she mustn't forget despite going through with using a new weapon.*\"Indeed I am...\"*She'd say quietly.*\"I was hoping to be able to switch between ranged and melee when it comes down to it...\"*The Canifor would glance over to the staffs. She wasn't very familiar with most of their kind, but she could at least recognize a quarterstaff with its repeated demonstration to her.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "*The short lady gave an equally short nod to Juna's response.* \"Merely a matter of choosin' ye weapons. If yer good with a bow, yer good with holdin a stick well enough, aintcha?\" \n\n\"Seein' how yer eyein' them bows... How about ye get a good feel fer the string tension on 'em?\" *Picking up one of the bows from the racks, the vampire presented it to Juna, her eyes flicking up at Manon as she jogged off to another corner of the shop, going to retrieve a few sets of light armour.* \"This should be good fer what yer sayin'. Any more and ye might be payin' too much fer what ye need.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Thank you.\" *She said while holding up a soft leather top. She didn't know much about quality or anything else when it comes to armor or weapons. She supposed she needed a knife as well.* \"This feels very well done.. I think\" *Trying to compliment the merchant with her laughable knowledge on the subject. \"I guess I'm looking for a knife as well, something for... Cooking?\" *She didn't want to make herself sound like she had a hobby of slaying animals, cooking was the best she could come up with.*" }, { "author": "M'ralind Varangr", "message": "\"For cookin'..? I've got multipurpose knives, if that's what ye need?\" *Making a gentle nod, she went off to yet another corner of the shop - did this shop have infinite corners or was it just shaped like some strange polygon?! Within a minute, she brought back a selection of knives, some looking more dangerous than others, while others certainly fit the cooking bill well.*\n\n\"Where are y'all goin', with all this preparation?\" *She asked out of curiosity, looking to Manon once again. Something about the woman seemed strange, yet familiar to her. Perhaps it was something in her smell that felt nostalgic.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would take the bow that M'ra had presented to her, tugging at the string before drawing it back fully as she would her own bow.*\"May I try a longbow?*She'd ask, relaxing the string back again. With M'ra asking where they were going with all this prep, Juna would simply say:*\"Home...\"*The place she meant was technically not much of a home, but she could only hope to be able to protect it for when she brought her hatchling there. It was such a nice environment and yet, there was always someone trying to take it away, even more so leaving Juna at the indecision of actually taking a life again. She shook her head to rid herself of the thoughts. It wasn't something to worry about now. She had things to look forward to and hopefully with greater weaponry, she'd be able to protect her home better.*\"You wouldn't... Happen to be able to enchant this Gambeson as well... Would you...?\"*She'd ask more timidly as she patted at the linen armor she wore, hoping she didn't sound like she was asking for too much.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Just need something sharp, something that cuts quickly as well.\" *She didn't want the poor forest animals to suffer when she executed them for her own selfish needs. She looked down to inspect the knives that the shopkeeper brought out. Finally she picked up a long rather thick knife. Hopefully this would cut through bones as easily as it looked.* \"How much for this?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Castelle finds himself in the main street. With an umbrella to give him shade when the sun is at the top, it is not a pleasant feeling. He was used to it, as people often come to him to make it worth it. Sometimes they would want him to look at a wounded person and sometimes people just wanted to find out who has a crush on who. Those were the services he could offer. He leaned on to his desk, where he usually watches people go by. He wanted some fun under the sun, as it was the thing which kept his mind off from thinking of taking some leisurely sips from a well of deep crimson.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would shift his way through the crowds, the high rise of the sun notifying him of how much the day had already gone by. Usually he wasn't one to let a day pass so quickly with little progress, but it seemed it was just out of his control this time. The man appeared like most other Elves with his cloak, pointed ears, and colorful hair. However, upon his face sat a mask with resemblance to a pig. Why he wore it was always questionable, but he didn't seem to care of the side glances he typically got. He'd make his way down the main road with his horse following just behind with the lead he was attached to. Occasionally Terrel's gaze would pass by the different stalls lining the streets. One never knows what they might find in the Capitol of Silnaria. At one point he'd find his eyes setting on Castelle, whether he was staring out of curiosity or a mild passing glance was still up for debate however.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Castelle's gaze would clash with a certain figure. One who would easily recognize as 'huge' when it comes to physique, with an apparently personalized and unique visage many would consider to be unnatural. Castelle turns his eyes, for a fraction of a second, to the card he just drew. He then redirects his gaze to the man he was seeing, as he was so very fond of those with a huge physique. He was so... Unelven, which piqued his interest which was probable, but would it be possible that he saw the man as a rich source of crimson? No, his so called unending thirst was just a playful exaggeration. One he makes in order to provoke reactions, mostly from those who he would call friends. Either way, he had to meet this person. He stands up and takes a step, and calls out to the man.* \"You, mon brave. You seem like a man of fortune. Say, would you like to have it read by moi?\" *In an elegant manner of speech.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would come to a slow stop as Castelle would call out to him, at first not sure what he was going on about.*\"He's speaking to me, right?\"*He'd question in a low voice to his horse, only to get a huff in response from the steed. It seemed this man was speaking something about fortune, which the Elf would think it random for him to be consider a man of one. If anything, it was quite the opposite with his luck. There would be a short pause for a moment as he'd question if this person was worth heading over to, but seeing as he had nothing better to do in the shopping district, he figured he'd might as well check it out. The Elf would head over, albeit skeptical to what this Elf's business was. Reading a fortune? This he had to see.*\"Not much to read that you don't already see.\"*He'd say, coming to stand just a few feet away from Castelle.*\"What's there to get out of with reading fortunes anyways?\"*His tone seemed a bit dubious, most likely not believing in whatever magic people think fortune telling comes with. Perhaps it would be the least bit entertaining to hear however.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Castelle would smirk, he loves the type of man he was talking to. Skeptical, perhaps. Yet it was all the more fun when a fellow adventurer like him (or so he assumes) was in the other side of this fateful conversation.* \"Everyone has a fortune, mon ami. A few of us are blessed with one which is good, perhaps. And if it was the case, would it make it less worth to lend our gaze?\" *He would say looking directly to the eyes of this colossus of a man, shuffling his cards as he does so. After a brief delay, he prepares to draw and say* \"I see a lot of things, yet vision means nothing without guidance. Ask me, mon brave, and an answer ye shall receive.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel thought about his question for a moment, eventually giving out a sigh. He really was looking to a fortune teller at this point wasn't he? With the man claiming to see much, but mean nothing without a question to guide it, it seemed. So he was supposed to ask him something about his fortune? The Elf thought about it. What did he want to know about his fortune anyways? His horse would trot up next to him, causing the Elf to give him a light pat on the snout in his moment of thought.*\"Alright, how about this then. Will I ever be able to escape the path that others had set for me?\"*He'd decide to question in a hint cryptic sarcasm. It seemed more of a test than an actual question. Though he asked it nonetheless.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Castelle smiles for he was in his playful phase after all. Drawing his card without breaking eye contact except for a brief moment of turning his eyes to see the card, he finally sees the answer. The card was a card which fits well to this question, the infamous Wheel of Fortune. A symbol of inevitability, but in upside down. Suggests a lack of control, or the desperate clinging to the concept. Or simply bad luck, which seemed to be the case with this man. He shows it to the man, and then speaks.* \"Not by a long shot as it seems, I am afraid.\" *He says, quite bluntly for someone so dramatical until then.* \"Not everyone is able to choose what their conflicts are in life, but how we react to it defines us in the end.\" *He would say as he reshuffles.* \"Sometimes, life chooses our struggles in our place. In the end, it is how we react to it is what defines us.\" *He adds to the answer, preparing for another stuffle. He seems to be enjoying this, regardless of what outcome his cards say.* \"So, what brings a colossal and rather original figure like you to this pompous place?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Why am I not surprised?\"*Terrel half questioned to himself. He supposed after having a bunch of magic literally beaten into him, he should have had his answer. It seems he had quite a while to go to escape the Elven Heritage. A start would have been the Capitol at least, but of course he had to get himself lost within the lands of Silnaris and caught into a job of fighting them. Being asked what brought him here, the Elf would eventually refocus his gaze on Castelle.*\"Work mostly.\"*He'd say.*\"Typically look around for jobs where the best amount of money can be offered for them which I guess I've been fortunate enough in that at least.\"*There was a pause for a moment, his gaze shifting down the streets of Ulnoor before he'd eventually question him.*\"I assume you call over every other Elf that passes by just to give them a random fortune?\"*Terrel wasn't quite sure what business there was in that, but the man seemed to oddly enjoyed it either way.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "\"Not at all.\" *Castelle chuckles to himself. Maybe there was some truth to it, but how dare he assume that he would ask everyone? But then again, he just did fortune telling as a hobby. He draws another card, for this time for his own question. It seems to be the Fool, this time facing right up.* \"I am actually doing this as a hobby. I am something of an adventure myself, just like you. But my specialty is on more... Vital affairs. You know...\" *He would say with a pause in which he shows him the Fool.* \"You have quite an adventurous spirit yourself. You are in for a new beginning, a new purpose, I might add. Maybe this beginning is the 'how' to your question.\" *Castelle would say with his usual smile, maybe happy because his unfortunate divination was not that doomed after all.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*He would look at him skeptically for a while at the mention of vital affairs, just cryptic enough to make it sound more serious than it most likely was. It seemed he was an adventurer as well, though a traveling Fortune Teller sounded new unless it was a scam maybe. Being told he was in for a new beginning, Terrel would wonder if the whole point of fortune tellers were just tell him what he already knows. Yes, he was an adventurer, yes he'd assume he would be in for a new beginning, albeit years ago at this point. He'd shake off the thoughts.*\"If adventuring is how I'm supposed to escape that, then I feel you should check your cards again.\"*The Elf would say more dismissively at the thought. He's been doing such for ages now, but if the cards say he's no closer to it, they only seem to contradict one another.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "\"Oh, I didn't say that.\" *Castelle would answer the man with a rather calm chuckle.* \"If adventuring was how you were supposed to escape that, you would have escaped long ago.\" *He would add while shuffling and then drawing yet another card. Maybe they would be able to give a more accurate answer. Apparently, the card drawn is the Hierophant facing up. Castelle then shows him the card and speaks* \"You are having a phase of rebellion. This card is ruled by the constellation associated with love, so it must be because of something you love.\" *He then draws another card, which is the Chariot.* \"Oh, the card I have defined you with has graced us with its presence, the Chariot.\" *He would say as he shows him. This time, he decides to be a little more blunt so he goes* \"You have opposing forces inside you, and if you do not learn to accept it I doubt you will ever find success in escaping this formidable enemy of yours. You must maintain focus, confidence, and determination through a process that will be full of winding turns and detours. There is no point in adding yourself to your list of enemies you will face, at least that is what the cards say.\" *He would say, shuffling the cards and putting them in the pocket attached to his belt.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*His words seem to finally draw the full attention of the Elf, more so in finding himself surprised in the accuracy of it.*\"Impressive. Got it at least half right this time around.\"*He'd say, his more serious look fading into a slight grin. Maybe even with cards alone, some things were bound to be right about him though he'd rather believe it was just a matter of chance. Either way, it was worth congratulating that much of truth. Though he wasn't quite sure how he'd possibly become his own enemy, well outside his decision making in starting this journey anyways.*\"What's your name then ol' master of cards?\"*The Elf would ask him jokingly.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "*Castelle would bend his knees slightly, giving a just as slight yet dramaraical bow as he answers* \"Castelle, is people call me. I have a long way to go with the astral, and a slightly less way to go with the art of restoration.\" *Which he hopes was enough to give a more accurate description of what he did. His main job was always healing after all, fortune telling was just something he picked up like a hobby. He had a lot of matters when it comes to pleasure after all. He rises up and asks the same question with his own words* \"Glad to make your acquaintance, and may you be kind enough to share me with yours?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Terrel Bales.\"*The Elf would answer back, not so inclined in bowing as the fancy demeanor was never a trait of his albeit unless he saw real reason for it.*\"One of the few nonmagical elves you'll find around here.\"*It felt funny giving himself the title, but with the reputation most Elves had of being mages, he figured it was a more rare thing to see. After all, this man was a healer and, thinking on it, the realization had finally occurred to him. Another healer. Part of Terrel wondered what 'quirk' this one would have as so many healers he's met often had one, most not in the good way. He never really had the best of luck with meeting sane healers in the road.*" }, { "author": "Deleted User", "message": "\"That explains a lot. A non-magical elf would be a blasphemo- I mean, it would be quite an unusual sight to see.\" *He would say while animating some images out of fire. The images seem to be reflect some images relevant to what he is telling.* \"For an elf, magic is of the essence of our culture so I can't blame them for thinking that way, but apparently you have a different opinion and I am one of the elves who respects it.\" *He says, as the fiery image of a spellcasting elf vanishes slowly.* \"Who knows, maybe you are not the only one who did something people would see as wrong in order to pursue the matters of heart.\" *He would continue playfully.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"If anyone asks, I'm simply a pig.\"*The Elf would say in an almost sincere tone if not for his history of sarcasm. He'd tap at the side of his hog mask, almost in added evidence of it.*\"Ironically it's much easier to explain than an Elf that refuses to use magic.\"*Of course there was more to the story than that, however Terrel preferred simplifying things whenever it was more convenient. He'd watch the images as Castelle would create them from the fire with a slight look of interest. The wonderment of magic had never truly left him, though over the years they shown to create more harm than good whenever he was around. He had come to prefer something more dependable, at least in combat. With the flames vanishing, Terrel would finally shift his focus back to the Lathian.*\"I've come to love swordsmanship more, hopefully something to master in time, eh?" }, { "author": "Castelle", "message": "\"I am sure you can master it in no time, if you haven't mastered already.\" Castelle would answer. He could certainly say he was passionate about being a sword wielder. More importantly, he didn't care about the social norms either. He only became a healer in his pursuit of immortality, not because people approved his decision. It was his decision to take, and so he did. Maybe that is why he failed to see anything wrong with the concept of a sword wielding elf. \"I only became a healer because it was what I wanted, not because people would approve it. If they don't I think it would be their own problem, is it not?\" He would ask with some form of concern. \"See, everyone has their little secrets somewhere.\" He would continue, reaching his hand a little closer to the sunlight but ends up pulling it back. \"You know, the usual stuff.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel's gaze would narrow slightly, not out of suspicion but in thought as he'd watch the man draw his hand away from the light. He supposed the need for an umbrella made just as much sense now. A vampire he was. So that's what the 'quirk' was? Terrel decided to shrug it off, he had seen his fair share of them in his time. Most times, not really drawing out any personal opinion on them.*\"Yeah... The usual...\"*He'd say in thought.*\"Elves seem to have a knack of making things their problems. You know, what with the standards and all. Needless to say, not liked by many.\"*He'd speak all so casually on it, gesturing off to the city around them. It was practically the main land for them after all. At least this one knows to do things out out of his own preference. Perhaps he'll master the art of healing as well.*" }, { "author": "Castelle", "message": "*Castelle smirks at what the man has been saying.* \"That is the boring part of this place, I guess. That is why I aim to master my magic through experience.\" *He would say.* \"Pleasure trips in the world are the best. In here, there is not so many opportunities to take leisurely sips and I am practically starving myself here.\" *Castelle would add, certainly not content with the boring life around here. Sure, luxury and stuff was something to behold but he was not a standard elf anymore. He was something... Immortal. And he knew he had to remove those weaknesses some way or another.* \"I will reach the pinnacle of magic and here is not the place I will get to that level, apparently.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Then why hang around here?\"*He question.*\"Bound to have a lot more fun roaming the forests for all it matters. Sip all you want out there, no one to stop you.\"*The Elf would tug on his horse's lead, catching his steed's attention as he'd trot back closer to him upon wandering a bit at the extension of the lead.*\"Besides, you never know who you'll meet out there. Trust me, you meet some very strange people on travels.\"*The Elf wished he was lying, but none of the stuff he's seen in the Capitol would come close to the amount of crazy outside it.*" }, { "author": "Castelle", "message": "\"You are right.\" *He would say, but he was also wrong in a way.* \"A sip without a trill will not do much for me, I am afraid.\" *He would also add. It was indeed not ideal to drink when there is no thrill of it, for hot blood had way more appeal than the cold one. Such was the taste of blood, to him.* \"I will quote you on that, and I hope we meet again.\" *He would say, before turning his back and heading to the forest.* \"I will take your advice and take a stroll.\" *He continues, with a pleasant smile on his face.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Plenty of thrill in hunting I've heard.\"*The Elf would say after him as the man would walk off towards the forest.*\"Wish you luck.\"*Eventually he'd give a light wave, soon turning away as he'd tug on his horse's lead to make his way further into town. A fortune he was given, whether he believed it or not, it was at least something to hold onto. An enemy of himself? Foreboding almost, like a warning of sorts or was it perhaps foreshadowing? Nevertheless, the Elf could look back at it at some point perhaps when the two were destined to meet again.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*Akasha took the card and examined its engraving. 'Friend' is quite an unusual surname, although she can't deny that it has a nice ring to it for an obvious reason. The reason as to why Yughotta has an eloquent way with words is now apparent to her. She smiled, almost chuckled even, hearing what presumably to be the motto of the uzhi's law office. Not because it is ridiculous, but rendered by its wholesomeness. Putting the card inside her pocket, lifted her gaze towards the lora again. Indeed, she also wants to know what would be waiting for her there.*\n\n\"Nothing that'd break your back. The lass here is enough to do that.\"\n\n\"Then, in advance, can you please put that jewel away from the counter?\"\n\n\"Why?\" *The lora grumbled.*\n\n*She doesn't say anything, but her eyes is serious, staring dagger at him.*\n\n_ _\n*He eyed Akasha for a few moments. Then, he wrapped the gemstone with the cloth and tucked it inside his table. As if stating that he refuses to heed to them any further, his eyes darted away. He took and read what seems to be a few pieces of invoices while puffing the smoke from his pipe, ignoring their presence completely. The girl exhaled slightly, giving the paper one look again. Although she has never been to that district before, she is quite sure that the place is a populated area. At least, it looks like she doesn't need to worry about whatever this 'errand' is being something sinister. Akasha folded the paper and turned her head at Yughotta's direction.*\n\n\"Mhm, pleasure to meet you as well. Please, just call me Akasha, Mr Friend.\" *She said, before putting her fingers on her chin in a gesture of thinking.*\n\n\"I'm sorry. I can't possibly trouble you any further. It's a very short introduction and conversation, but I need to go and finish this matter right away. Once again, thank you so much. Don't worry, I'll keep your law office as the priority if I ever need the service!\" \n\n*Her blue cape fluttered as she turned to walk away. She waved at Yughotta.*\n\n\"Farewell.\"" }, { "author": "Uku Spurfie (Yughotta Friend)", "message": "\"If you want me to call you Akasha, then you call call me Yughotta.\"\n*He smiles and looks to her heading off. He did seem to be using a lot of his time here and just hoping she would need him eventually but a little bit of his heart jumped when thinking of this girl going into a part of town alone from the directions of a shady Lora.*\n\"Hey, you *Sure* You can do this alone? I mean between you and me...\"\n*He leans in to whisper.*\n\"It's very possible you could be getting set up right now.\"\n*He leans back. It makes sense, he honestly would have done the same thing years ago. State a ridiculous price for a necklace just to see how much they had then promise them to give it over after doing something for him. Then they'd just happen to meet some unfortunate people along the way. Free money, and leave before anyone's caught. He seems excited by that idea but shakes it out of his head as he's trying to be better now.*\n\"But I can see you're a lady who likes to get things done so, if you want to do it yourself, go ahead, just be careful.\"" }, { "author": "Akasha Isolet", "message": "*She halted her steps and looked back. Honestly, she also has an inkling that it could possibly be an elaborate sham. While there might be an unknown and less-pleasant thing waiting for her, though, she doubts that it could be too outrageous. Especially since that district is not a deserted area. Nevertheless, Yoghotta's words do act as a second logical voice of reason for her. She might be able to do it alone, but...*\n\n\"Okay then, Yughotta.\" *Akasha said.*\n \n\"Can I ask you to come along, then? If you're not too busy.\"\n \n*Indeed, the existence of another person to accompany her could be helpful. And considering the expertise that the uzhi had shown in the field of speechcraft and situation analysis, it wouldn't hurt to bring him along. If the situation there turned out to be anything that lies beyond the boundary of safety, she could always ask him to leave.*\n \n\"I don't want to impose, and of course, I would compensate you. After all, when there's a friend in need...\" *A smile is planted on her lips, expecting him to continue the sentence.*" }, { "author": "Uku Spurfie (Yughotta Friend)", "message": "\"Hey! You're getting the hang of it. It's no trouble at all. I was probably going to make my way around there anyway.\"\n*He immediately seems excited that there is infact a money reward coming... He will finally be able to eat good tonight. Plus this was a good bit different from his normal clients who were already criminals so he was having fun.*\n\"Don't worry, Yughotta Friend here. I'll accompany you, for sure.\"\n*He puts his elbow forward jokingly, like those nobles people do where they link their arms to walk all fancy.*\n\"Shall we be off, Madame Akasha?\"\n*He would say in a faux nobility accent.*" } ]