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[ { "author": "Johan the Soldier", "message": "*Johan brought his axe head squarely onto Jester's Dog's neck, his grip tightening as his weapon glowed a crimson hue.*\n\n ```Strong Grip: Grip Strength Increased by 40kg - Freecast; -2.5 Mana, 47.5/50 Mana Remaining```" }, { "author": "retro109", "message": "*Juna's arrows would now hit easily, breaking through the heavy fur and into the Dog's exposed flank, causing it to thrash wildly once more, now with a tinge of desperation as it felt the shooting pain in its extremities. Jester's push would only make this worse, the arrows now piercing it's interior, a muddy red pool forming beside its legs. Johan would deliver the final blow, the head cleanly rolling off under the force of his strike.\n\nThe second Dog had little time to react as the remaining wolves continued their assault, now emboldened by their overwhelming numbers in comparison. Jace would easily tackle the Dog - now pinned under three beasts. It thrashed and bit at its quarry, rolling and flailing along with them as it attempted to break free.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace would growl at the dog, his lips drawing back to reveal his sharp teeth before he would attempt to bite down on the dog's throat to try to finish it off.*\n\n*The Canifor lowered her bow, seeing as there was only one Korvac remaining. Her attention turned towards the den, more focused on the wolf she had heard earlier from it.*" }, { "author": "Jester Kane", "message": "*Jester sighs, trying to calm himself down. He gets to his feet and looks at the Dog the wolves and the Jackal. Looks past at and looks it and sees the injured wolf. He needed to make sure this Dog died so he could make sure it's ok. He frowns and keeps his eyes on Jace. He remembered his talk with Juna remembered how worried she was about him getting hurt. Something to do with her feer of owlbears. He stood ready to grab him if anything went wrong*" } ]

[ { "author": "retro109", "message": "*Eventually, the final Dog's expression turned to despair as it felt Jace's teeth sink into its neck, the light of life fading from its eyes. It soon fell limp, the remaining wolves tugging at its limbs to check it was well and truly dead.\n\nThe malnourished wolf watched the group with fear, unsure of what they were here for. While it was glad they had slaughtered its captors, what they would do to a small creature like him was yet to be seen.*" }, { "author": "Johan the Soldier", "message": "*Johan let out an exhausted sigh, glancing to the pair and grinning weakly.*\n\"Well... That went well...\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna exhaled in relief as the final dog finally dropped under the attacks of her own canines. As the wolves checked to make sure the Korvac was actually dead she would eventually force them to vanish, leaving the Jackal to detach from his victim. Juna walked over to the two of them before turning to gaze at the malnourished wolf. Jace paced around his owner, following her gaze towards the other creature in the den and slowly advancing towards him as if to protect the Canifor from the creature while he stood defensively between them. Juna called back her Jackal, knowing very well the damage that a cornered animal could do. She looked back at her two other companions, more so to Johan as she eventually asked:*\n\n\"What should we do about the wolf...? He doesn't look like he's doing too well...\"*Juna wasn't sure if their task called for going after the wolf as well, seeing as he didn't seem to be part of the mutated group of dogs. She only hoped that they wouldn't be forced to harm him anymore than he seemed to have already been.*" }, { "author": "Jester Kane", "message": "*Without a word, Jester walked up to the wolf putting only about two and a half feet of space between them. He got down on his knees and exhaled as his extra set of arms faded away. He held out his hand, inviting the wolf to come inspect it. He stayed very still and slowed his breathing so he did not alarm the wolf any more*\n\n```2.5 Mana Regen. 100/120 mana remaining```" } ]

[ { "author": "retro109", "message": "*The wolf did not become aggressive - that instinct had lain dormant for far too long under its current conditions. It lurched back, attempting to shrink into itself even more, fearing that this was the end. Little by little, with each moment it regarded Jester, the wolf would begin to relax, its confidence restoring slightly as it slowly reached a paw out and placed it in Jester's palm, eyes watching carefully.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna held her hand out, commanding Jace to stay where he was before going to walk over to Jester and crouching down beside him in front of the wolf, her tail flicking one way then the other. She placed a hand on his shoulder to get his attention as she whispered:*\n\n\"We should get something for him to eat... I'm sure there are some easy prey around here...\"" }, { "author": "Jester Kane", "message": "*Jester didn't take his eyes off the wolf as he held it's paw in his hand* \"Could you go out and get something for me?........I dont want to leave it...\" *As Jester held the paw in one hand, he reached out his other and held his hand uo to its head, asking permission to pet it. He examined the wolf's body to see what specific injuries it had.*\n\n```2.5 Mana Regen. 102.5/120 mana remaining```" }, { "author": "Johan the Soldier", "message": "\"I'll help out, but be quick - we have to dispose of these bodies, or at least burn up the flesh. I don't want bigger beasts moving in.\"\n*Johan replied with an impatient tightening of his lips as he wiped off the blood from his poleaxe-head, glancing around with a twinge of anxiety.*" }, { "author": "retro109", "message": "*The wolf slowly pushed its head into his palm, tentatively growling as it did so. It had calmed down considerably, beginning to whine for food as a pup would. How many years had it been here?*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna dipped her head, once to Jester, then to Johan as she stood up. She called to Jace to follow her before she would leave the den, grabbing for an arrow as she headed out towards the forest beyond.*" }, { "author": "Jester Kane", "message": "*Jester pets the wolf gently. He heard the wolf whine and scratched under its ear* \"I know, I know, She'll be back with food soon I promise\" *He finally looked around him at Johan, then the bodies* \"I really need to invest in learning some fire magic\" *He looked around the cave then back at the wolf. He pat his head once more* \"I'll be back\" *Jester stands and makes his way to the exit of the den* \"Do me a favor and get those bodies in a pile please\" *He walks out of the den*\n\n```2.5 Mana Regen. 105/120 mana remaining```" }, { "author": "retro109", "message": "*The wolf whined quietly as he left, but visibly collected itself - closing its eyes and breathing in sharply - then sitting straight and growing calm, far more reminiscent of the noble creature than its current dishevelled form.*" }, { "author": "Johan the Soldier", "message": "*Johan nodded and slung the polearm on his back, hoisting a bloodied body onto his shoulder and throwing it onto another, dragging over the third one.*" }, { "author": "Jester Kane", "message": "*Jester returns with an armful of chopped up wood. His dagger he had thrown was sticking slightly out of his boot. He dumped them on the floor next to the wolf. He noticed its changed posture smiles. He pats it on its head* \"You're a tough one aren't you?\" *He sits down next to it and puts together the wood into an organized pile. He picks a stick from the pile and starts to twist it between his hands. He smiled, remembering when Juna taught him this. He stopped to blow on it then continued twisting. He repeated this process. His tail circled around the wolf protectively*\n\n```2.5 Mana Regen. 107.5/120 mana remaining```" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*There was sound of footsteps in the distance, gradually growing louder as the Canifor made her way back to the den. In one hand, she carried a limp squirrel by the scruff of its neck, however, its body didn't look to be pierced by an arrow. Most likely this creature had been unlucky when encountering the duo, more specifically her Jackal, who's eyes hadn't left the dead creature.*\n\n\"It was the first thing I could find...\"*She whispered to him, coming to sit down beside Jester and placing the squirrel off to the side so that it would still be within the wolf's reach. Juna found herself having to place a hand up to hold her Jackal back as he daringly drew his head close to the placed down squirrel, soon coming to realize disappointedly that he wouldn't be allowed to eat his catch. The Jackal lowered himself to the ground in a frustrated whine as he stared at the squirrel, though Juna averted her attention to Jester as he worked at the campfire.*\"I see you remembered the way to start a fire.\"*She said with a light smile, watching him reuse the method she showed him.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Johan the Soldier", "message": "*Johan would settle himself beside Jester, producing a large piece of string and offer it to him, explaining in a far calmer voice than usual.*\n\"Here, loop this around the stick once, then hold the two ends of the string and pull side-to-side.\"" }, { "author": "retro109", "message": "*The wolf nuzzled his hand, barking softly in pleasure, pawing his tail playfully. It had now entirely calmed down, seeming to grow attached to Jester - seeing how much he resembled an adult of his species, or at least close enough to one. The wolf would grab at the squirrel carcass, gnawing at the sparse flesh and growling happily.*" }, { "author": "Jester Kane", "message": "*Jester smiles, continuing the fire* \"I had a feeling it would come in handy sooner or later. I'm also very happy you got to see me punch something other than a tree.\" *He looks up a Johan and accepts the string, doing as he says. It does make the process a lot easier* \"Thank you. Not just for this, but for everything. I know you were really only supposed to observe but you helped us out a lot.\" *Jester smiles at the wolf. He gets a spark and smiles as the sicks start to burn*\n\n```2.5 Mana Regen. 110/120 mana remaining```" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna watched as the fire began to kindle with life before eventually leaning back and letting her arms support her as she gazed up at the roof of the den before looking back at Jester.*\"It's nice to know you have a wide expanse of things you can punch.\"*She says jokingly before looking towards her Jackal. Jace watched as the wolf ate up the squirrel. His ears lowered dishearteningly before he slowly rested his head on his paws. The Canifor ran her hand along his back to give some reassurance to the Jackal.*\"It'll be okay Jace, we'll get something for you later...\"*She was met with a quiet huff from the canine as he turned to his side so that he could be petted along his flank.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Johan the Soldier", "message": "*Johan gave a light chuckle, rubbing the back of his head and shaking it slowly.*\n\"Hey, I'm a Salvainian soldier - I'm not gonna stand around when there's danger. Sure, the guild says to keep watch, but they don't need to know I helped out so much, eh?\"\n*He gave another chuckle, shrugging as he took a stick, doused the end with some oil he had on hand, then held it to the young flame - the end flashing to life with fire. He then quickly moved it to the bodies, throwing oil on the top and alighting them too.*\n\"Using oil for a long fire wouldn't be wise - it burns far too quickly, and isn't very good at transferring it. This is just to start it up before we pile on some wood to make this really burn.\"" }, { "author": "retro109", "message": "*The wolf, now feeling a little better after eating something substantial, stalked over to Jace, lowering it's head in a sort of thanks, locking eyes with the Jackal.*" }, { "author": "Jester Kane", "message": "*Jester scrunched up his nose at the foul scent of burnt corpses. He stands up and stamps out the flame he made. He takes the unburnt peices of wood and throws them into the flame. For the hotter ones, he kicks them. He watches the dogs burn away slowly. He smiles feeling accomplished, this was his first actual life threatening encounter and he thought he carried himself surprisingly well.*\n\n```2.5 Mana Regen. 112.5/120 mana remaining```" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna turned her head as the scent of burning dogs reached her nose, watching as the corpse slowly roasted away before her and leaving a pained feeling within her as she turned to look away while continuing to pat her Jackal along his flank. Jace stared up at the wolf from where he laid on the ground, giving a bark of warning at him. It didn't seem to be a threat, more so a showing of annoyance from having to watch the wolf eat his catch while the Jackal simply turned away from him. Jace remained laying in his side, belly exposed as he seemed to think the wolf wasn't an animal worth worrying about. Juna's ears swiveled to the side as she listened to the soldier's advice before getting up to help add wood to the flames.*\n\"This won't risk lighting the forest on fire... Will it...?\"*She asked him cautiously, remembering back to when she was hunting in the burned down forest some time ago. She didn't know what caused such destruction then and she didn't want to be the reason for it now.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Johan the Soldier", "message": "\"Not in this cave, it won't. We've done this before with Korvacs, just not mutated ones... The region around their den is barren, so there's nothing to catch alight.\"\n*Johan explained as he joined in with Jester, before sighing and unslinging his polearm from his back - turning to the pair and standing straight, giving a stern imperial salute.*\n\"Well, sir and madam, I thank you for your assistance. You can stay or leave, but I'll have to finish this up. Head to the guild sometime tomorrow for your reward, I'll be down in the evenin'.\"\n*He congratulated them with a grin, nodding to them approvingly.*" }, { "author": "Jester Kane", "message": "*Jester smiled* \"I think I'm gonna head out. I gotta figure what I want to buy\" *Jester started walking towards to edge of the den past the flames. He stoped at the end looked back* \"It was great seeing you in action Juna. I hope I see you soon, which i may, seeing that you love to follow me around so much\" *He said jokingly* \"Ill catch you later Jace. Make sure she gets you somethin good to eat today. Johan, thank you for your help today and make sure you get back safe alright?. And you...\" *He looks at the wolf and crouches down. He immediately decides on a name* \"Jasper. Do you wanna come with me? I can at least get you fixed up.\" *He holds out his hand, waiting to see if the wolf would chose to go with him*\n\n```2.5 Mana Regen. 115/120 mana remaining```" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gave a roll of her eyes at Jester's comment, shaking her head lightly in exasperated amusement. Reassured with the soldier's comment about the fire not spreading, she rose to her feet which was a signal to her Jackal that it was near time to go.*\n\n\"Thanks.\"*She said to the soldier with a dip of her head before turning towards Jester as he spoke to the wolf. 'Already giving it a name...?' Juna thought to herself as she heard him refer to the wolf as Jasper. She figured that he must of already grown attached to the tortured animal and with a name already given, it would most likely be hard to separate from that. Jace stood up, pressing his nose into his owner's side for attention which quickly snapped Juna away from the scene before her. She turned away from them, heading towards the entrance to the den before she glanced back at Jester and said:*\n\n\"It was great getting to see you again too Jester...\"*Her tail gently swayed one way then the other.*\"Maybe we'll see each other again someday soon.\"*The Canifor didn't wait for a response as she walked off from the two new companions. Her Jackal quickly followed at her heels, body filled with renewed energy as the both of them left the den.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Within the towering oaks of pines of the wild, a young Canifor wandered along an invisible trail. It was one she grew to know very well as it always lead her back to camp with whatever hints it gave to her that she was going in the right direction. Within her arms, nestled a rather large egg. It was an Airstrider egg, though of course having seen nothing like it, Juna wasn't quite sure what to make of the object she was recently rewarded. It had been some time since she had last left the guild she was staying the night at and with the light of a new sun high overhead, she was able to easily navigate back to the forest she had decided to consider home to herself.\n\nJust in front of her was a Jackal. Jace was his name and of course being the one to be overprotective, the adolescent canine found himself darting on and off the path. Either he was out in search of some small creature to claim meal of or he was in search of a bigger threat, but either way Juna wasn't too concerned by his natural instinct to keep watch of things. For now her main focus was on the egg she was holding and what exactly she was meant to do with it. Of course there was always the option of eating it, but if the whole job of taking out a few goblins was to only be paid back with a meal that she could have gotten herself then perhaps she was cut short in the end.\n\nJuna's ears remained raised in listening as she wandered closer to her camp, not to hear if something else was close by but for the sound of the babbling brook that signified her camp's location. Even though she didn't seem too concerned about anyone else being out here, her Jackal wasn't taking any chances as he sniffed along the ground to follow any scents that may catch his attention.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*Draupnir being the occasional drunkard that he is managed to get himself lost within the forest after his very long and quite overdue hiatus. He decided to take a long break after meeting a lovely gal not too long ago, something around the name blue dove or something but her precious smile that would only surface about as much as Oni does in the mainland; very very rarely. \n\nHaving sobered up a bit and shaking the hangover off, he cuts his he bindings he set to his own feet to keep him in place as he slept out on a tree. He could most certainly afford the luxury of sleeping at a warm, soft bed, but something about sleeping out in the wild, clutching weapons and bag while leaning on a not so comfortable tree was far more relaxing than any room he had ever experienced. The years he had spent honing his skills in the wilderness made him enjoy the most trivial of things such as the night breeze with the stars above his head.\n\nDraupnir removes his chest armor to loosen some weight since he can somehow make do with a few moments without armor while out in the wild, followed by his bad with a thud and a louder thud as he himself drops down, cracking joints and looking for his beef jerky pouch as alcohol completely flushed out of his system every minute passing by*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace's ears rose up at the sound Draupnir made upon dropping down from the tree. His lips drew back in a snarl, changing course in the direction of the noise with a loud enough growl to alert his owner in warning of something. Juna looked over to where her Jackal had gone, her hold on the egg tightening as she found herself growing tense by her Jackal's sudden aggression which was evident enough that they were not alone.\n\nOf course there were always the animals of the wilderness, however, Jace has only ever shown to growl at those who he found threatening and whether that was another predatory animal or someone else passing through, Juna didn't want to take her chances. Having to hold the egg would make it difficult for the Canifor to wield the bow she kept strung across her torso, leaving Juna with no choice but to reach for her dagger at her waist side. Her hand tightened around the hilt of it securely, however, she didn't draw it out yet, thinking back to the times she had lashed out at those who had meant no harm out of pure fear of what they'd do.*\n\n\"Who's there-\"*She said in a rather hushed tone. It was clear she was trying to have a sense of sternness in her voice, but with how quiet it usually was, it would take much more effort for her to sound the least bit authoritative while at ground level.*\"Show yourself-\"" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*Draupnir disregarded the snarls and little voice that he has heard purely cos of two reasons. One being the fact that he's still busy searching for his beef jerky pouch and the second reason would be him assuming that the voice was talking to the snarls and according to his memory, the snarls and growls couldn't possibly be something that can maul him at a moment's notice.*\n\n*He chuckles and literally pats himself on the back when he finally managed to find the pouch and popped a strip inside his mouth and savored it a bit before looking around just to realize that for some reason he had dropped his bag, armor and self but left out his main weapon up at the trunk where he slept in, fortunately for him it's near the ledge so a few serious tree shaking and the thing should just fall off.*\n\n*He does have his broadsword strapped to his bag and his daggers at his hips, it really was unbecoming of him of all people to leave behind his weapon* \"I really need to stop drinking as much\" *He says to himself as he wore his gauntlets and hit the tree with all of his weight behind it causing a small dent in the tree but the axe was still up there. He was preparing for another strike when a separate issue came to his half hungover head.* \"Where the fuck did i leave Ben and the rest of my stuff?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna had paced slightly forward, following after her Jackal until she had eventually come to a stop. Her ears rose, flitting in the direction that Draupnir was in as she heard him talking to himself which made her wonder if there was someone else nearby with him.*\"Ben?\"*She thought aloud. Her grip loosened on her dagger for a moment as she strained her ears to listen out for a potential conversation.\n\nMeanwhile Jace didn't hesitate. The Jackal charged forward as he eventually caught sight of the man, letting out a series of barks at him to try to ward him off. It didn't seem like Jace was too concerned of the weapons the man carried nor the strength he ensued from denting the tree nearby so long as the Jackal could do his job of trying to get rid of him.*\n\n\"Jace!\"*She yelled after the Jackal as she saw him run off, quickly having to move to follow him with the burden of carrying the egg without dropping it. Draupnir eventually came into view for her as she caught sight of her Jackal racing up to him in his blur of brown fur which she could only find herself repeatedly calling after him to get him to come back.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"No wait, it isn't Ben... Was it Ban?....Bon???....\" *He continued thinking out loud before putting his weight behind another strike and that shook the tree enough to drop his axe but then the dog came rushing towards him baring it's fangs and all that shazam but that wasn't what he was concerned about, it was the fact that it had an owner and it's obviously not a hunting dog, so the axe dropping down to it would put a blow on his conscience if he injured a companion animal*\n\n*He stretched out his hand with his palms facing them, hopefully getting the owner to see he's not much of a threat and recall it's dog but at the rate the dog was rushing and the axe was dropping, he had no choice but to brace for impact with his arm while catching the axe midair, something he's done before... But as a wind up for another attack, hopefully he could pull it off*\n\n*With the dog merely inches away from him, Draupnir guarded with his arm and let the beast sink it's fangs into his gauntlet, wounding him, yes but not enough to be detrimental for hunting so he doesn't mind. With a big upward motion, he catches the axe and swings it backwards, the blade sinking into the ground as he drops down and holds the jackal's neck as it tries it's best to maul his face* \"Yea hi, i didn't really see clearly what you looked like so i honestly don't know if i should call you girl, miss, or ma'am, but it would be nice to recall your dog right about now, he's really trying his best to maul my face\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Sorry, sorry!\"*Juna yelled to him quickly as she watched her Jackal attack the man. She abandoned the egg for the time being, quickly placing it on the ground as carefully as she could before she would rush over to Draupnir while he held her Jackal back.*\"Jace! Release!\"*The Canifor demanded to him. At first the Jackal didn't seem to be listening, instead nipping at the man's arm until his efforts had eventually slowed and he had calmed down.\n\nA low growl remained in his throat with him being held by his neck. However, with his owner sternly commanding him to stop, he didn't try to lash out.*\"I'm so sorry...\"*Juna repeated as she reached over to take her Jackal away from him.*\"He can just get...*Excited*...Sometimes...\"*It wasn't the best word for it, but Juna felt no better term was needed seeing as he got Jace's personality first hand.\n\nShe dipped her head apologetically. This wasn't the first time this has happened, far from it actually and though she's had to constantly get her Jackal to stop, things didn't seem to be getting much better with his aggression. He was trained yes, but even that seemed to be pushed to the back of his mind when going after someone, sometimes leaving it to be too late for the Canifor to reach him.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"Lovely\" *He said as he lied down and removed his gauntlet both to avoid getting the inside of his gauntlet sticky with blood and to let the wound bleed out properly just in case the jackal ate something nasty that could infect the wound. After a while he sat up straight, wiped the blood off and wrapped it nice and tight using a bandage that he has in his trusty bag*\n\n*While wearing his armor, he decided to keep a hand outstretched towards them with both the sword and the axe out of his reach, seeing as the two of them look pretty peaceful and by peaceful he means not harboring any malicious intent towards him. After donning his armor, Draupnir got himself low, to seem even less of a threat, for as much as he knows he can veery much look like a hunter, something a beast and a Canifor don't trust as much*\n\n\"Or maybe it's just a lil hungry\" *He said as he tossed a piece of beef jerky a few inches away from it and held another piece in his hand while looking at the jackal straight to it's eyes, a technique he used to tame wolves for a while so he could snuggle them... Not the safest... Or the smartest thing he has done in the list of stupid things he's done, but the fluff was irresistible*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace's gaze shifted over to the Jerky he tossed away, his nose twitching to pick up the scent of it. The Jackal would turn away from the two, padding over to the fresh bit of meat to claim his prize with a gulp of satisfaction. Juna watched him walk off, her ears lowering in disappointment. Of course he would turn tail for a treat. She was starting to think that maybe it was best that he wasn't always rewarded with food each time he tried to maul someone.\n\nHer thoughts where interrupted as a light scent caught her nose, something metallic yet it was still strong enough to catch her attention. Juna turned over to Draupnir, seeing that he had wrapped up his arm from where Jace had bitten him.*\n\n\"Did he draw blood?\"*Juna asked in a concerned tone. Though it seemed like the man was fine with the state his arm was in, Juna couldn't help but feel guilty that she had allowed Jace to go so far.*\"I... I can heal it if you would like...\"*She said quietly, looking away from him as she so often did people that she spoke to.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*He sighed softly seeing as to how kind she is to a total and complete stranger that could look like someone who would hunt them down to sell their pelts or something. \"It's really nothing but i feel that you're not the type to accept no for an answer.\" *He tossed away his bag since his sword is there, his axe as behind him, still buried in the ground blade first, and for courtesy sake he decided to pull out his daggers and stuck them to the ground while sheathed, the axe can handle the dirt, but he'd rather not dull his daggers.*\n\n\"I suggest you come closer and not the other way around. The jackal might decide that I'm a threat and start lunging again, tho i don't mind at all and i promise not to harm him, i'd reckon that'll take a toll on your conscience no?\" *He said as he removed his gauntlets and later the wraps, fresh blood seeping through as the pressure from the wraps got released*\n\n\"It's not much really, a minor inconvenience at most\" *He sat down and offered his now bleeding arm for her to heal.* \"Speaking of which, what brings you two in this forest? I'm pretty sure we're far away from beastmen tribes and kingdoms, either that or my internal compass is yet again fucked\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears flicked back with each weapon he took out and tossed to the side. He really was over prepared wasn't he? She couldn't blame him, especially not now after getting attacked by her companion. With him sitting on the ground, Juna walked closer to him before going down onto her knees and holding out her hands to carefully wrap themselves around his arm. A faint green glow began to appear beneath them as she healed away at it.*\n\n\"Sorry... It's just... He gets himself into so much trouble and... I'm afraid I'll be too late to stop him before something really bad happens...\"*She murmurs to herself, not taking her eyes away from her hands. Jace had slowly wandered back to them, his tongue hanging out lazily now that his job was completed. The Jackal would lay down on his stomach, looking up at the two as he awaited for something, anything that may catch his attention.\n\nWhen Draupnir has asked what she was doing in the forest with it being far from the tribes and other kingdoms, she says:*\"I actually haven't been to the tribes before... This forest is... Kind of like home to me... At least this is where Jace and I usually decide to set up camp... And... We've gotten used to living out here...\"" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*Draupnir whistled in content as he sees the wound close up before wiping blood off his arm and taking back his daggers from the ground and strapping them to his belt. He tossed another piece of jerky towards the jackal and took a piece for himself before offering the pouch for her to take some for herself*\n\n\"Well, i'd guess you're barely of age after all if my knowledge hadn't failed me yet mature Canifors grow more than that, i mean my father was on the smaller side which was a convenience considering his past profession but still. And with that info at hand, are you sure you're safe around these parts?\" *He paused to tie up his long hair into a slightly messy bun since he never really had the patience to fix it properly before wearing his bag and slinging the axe over his shoulder before looking at her*\n\n\"I mean the kingdom of Kadrush, my homeland is pretty welcoming for beastmen you know? Safer for young ones like you\" *He says calmly and softly, keeping his voice low, kinda like talking to a kid, he has to cod he really doesn't know when the jackal would just consider him a threat and pounce at him*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace snapped at the air to catch the piece of Jerky, swallowing it down rather quickly while Juna simply took the pouch gratefully. At least it would give her something to allow Jace to treat on for a while.*\"Well I guess I can't get much safer than having a Jackal bound to attacking every person in sight...\"*She says, trying to allow a quiet yet nervous chuckle. It wasn't the best defense, but at least she knew Jace could give some a run for their lives with his random attacks.\n\nShe moved her hands way from his arm, placing one atop the head of her Jackal and the other along the string of her bow.\"I'm usually fine out here... On my own anyways... And it provides a lot of places to climb to safety-\"*She explained before glancing to the side to look at the egg she had left abandoned on the ground.\n\nJuna quickly stood up to walk over to it and pick it up, cradling the egg in the crook of one arm.*\"At least for the most part...\"*She finished, turning back to him.*\"Plus... I know this place pretty well by now... Just not always the people who travel through it...\"" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"Considering the Canifor's are usually nimble on their feet, i guess this is a pretty safe place since most requests i get related to this place are either gathering , hunting small beasts or subjugation of packs or groups of monsters that could pose a danger for beginner adventurer around the area\" *He slowly approaches the dog slowly and manages to snag some pets while the Canifor went to pick up the egg*\n\n*He examines the egg and went to look for his journal in his bag to check if he has notes of it since he can't figure out what it is at the top of his head. After flipping through a plethora of egg descriptions, he finds one that matches it tho there's nothing much in terms of extra notes* \n\n\"It's an airstrider egg, lucky to have one of those, i heard they're faster than horses and could use spells or some sort, don't really know for myself since i haven't encountered one yet, just heard rumors of it in taverns and guild halls.\" *He says as he writes up some extra details on his book regarding the Airstrider since he plans on getting one either buying it if he could or tracking one and procuring himself an egg just like how she has*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace lowered his head to the ground under the pets, relaxing a bit with the aftermath of his previous skirmish. He licked at his paws rather calmly as he rested for a bit. Juna's ears flitted back towards him as he explained the safety of the area. What he said seemed mostly true save for those that came out simply to train. They wouldn't be a problem much if she only didn't have to worry about Jace constantly running out to chase them off or even worst, get himself stabbed in the process. She'd have to take the time to train him to keep away, though some moments seem harder than others.\n\nJuna walked back over to Draupnir, coming to sit down just across from him. Her ears flitted towards him when he explained what the egg was, though when she looked up at him, her face was masked in confusion.*\"An Airstrider?\"*It was true she had never heard of these animals before, but his description of it made her think back to the farmer that had given her the egg and the steed he rode.*\"Like the large... Bird?\"\n\n*She looked down at the Egg, placing it down on her lap. It would explain why it was bigger than a normal egg, but to think it hatched into one of the loud birds not to mention one that could even cast spells, Juna wasn't sure to be happy or partially concerned. Could she hatch the egg? Could she even take care of an Airstider...? She found herself looking down at the journal he held while she sat crosslegged, placing the egg down securely between her legs.*\"What... Else does it say about Airstriders...?\"" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"Nothing much more than that really, don't even know what the things look like, just heard consistent rumors here and there, some exaggerated but i only wrote down the persistent and believable parts of it.\" *He decided to smudge up his previous rough sketch of the airtstrider egg that was mostly based on rumors and stories and replaced it with a much more detailed version of the egg above the grey smudge that was his earlier sketch* \n\n*He closed his journal containing juvenile, newborn and eggs of monsters but left out the journal containing sketches and details about adult monsters he has encountered before one way or the other.* \"Speaking of which, are you guys perhaps going back to camp? If yes then i'd appreciate it if i could tag along, i'll cook the meal as compensation, and if lady luck dances by us today then a wild boar or something like it would wander our way\" *He said with a big smile before kneeling down, closing his eyes and focusing for a moment*\n\n*While knelt down, Draupnir focused on his hearing, feeling his mana circulate all throughout his body, normally something like this wouldn't be possible even by the people with skills akin to his, but years of hunting and the sheer brutality of his training regime of both his fathers did wonders to his body. With his veins now glowing a faint red, more prominent and focused around his ears, he uses **Predatorial instincts** To scour the location for any animal that sounds like a boar or any animal that could be hunted*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears drooped in slight disappointment. She gazed down at the egg, running a hand atop it. Maybe she could try hatching it. It could give her a nice mount to ride on, but even then, could she even learn how to ride it properly, could she even take care of both the bird and her Jackal? She felt partially conflicted, but it wasn't something for her to worry of right now, not like the egg was going to suddenly hatch right then and there.\n\nShe looked over at Draupnir as he closed the journal and asked if they were going back to their camp. At first, she hesitated while one ear angled in the direction of the of the stream of water she always followed back to her campsite.*\"Yes, it's not too far from here actually...\"*She admitted, standing up fully. Seeing her rise, her Jackal hastily hopped up onto his paws with his tail wagging excitedly as if they were about to go off on some sort of adventure.\n\nMaybe they can at least get a good meal after this, she wouldn't mind that much company with hunting at least. She watched him, noticing the red glow that coursed through his veins up and around his ears. It seemed like he was prominent in magic, but even Juna has witnessed this sort of ability before as she had often used it herself.*\"As long as we keep quiet, we shouldn't scare off too many of the prey...\"*She said, inclining her head to the side in the direction she was going to head in before walking off that way, expecting the Macen to follow. Jace had run off ahead, excitement growing as he realized there were heading back to camp.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*He shut off his predatorial instincts after hearing some prey linger around, sadly the closest was a family of wild boars. One thing his dads taught him as an apprentice hunter was to never hunt families no matter how dire the situation might be. Draupnir stood up and followed the two new companions of his, getting familiar with where they were heading as it would be convenient for him if they managed to stay as friends in the future since he's gonna have a temporary resting area that hopefully does not involving tying himself to a tree*\n\n*As they walked, Draupnir's eyes continues to scan the area, looking for tracks of beasts or any of the sort without burning mana for no reason at all.* \"It's kinda late for this but my name is Draupnir, Draupnir Mol'ag\" *He says as he follows closely, giving up on scouting the are for a while to try and memorize the path to the encampment*\n\n*Draupnir remembered something important if they're gonna be cooking so he rummages through his bag and silently hopes that his bag of spices is inside his bag and not with his missing steed, but knowing himself and his steed, no matter where he would've left the steed it would've eventually followed nearby since it has a sharp nose and tends to follow his scent if left alone long enough. An impressive thing he's picked up would be the ability to sense if he was drunk or not and to his experience, his steed Bon or Ban or Ben or whatever it is, he can't really remember right now, would follow more closely if it senses that he's drunk*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna continued onwards as she listened out for the growing noise of the brook she was heading towards. Some of the trees began to clear out on the invisible path as they drew closer to the small clearing her camp was in. Upon hearing Draupnir introducing himself, Juna quietly responded:*\"I'm Juna... Juna Carse...\"*Saying the last part of her name felt foreign on her tongue with her rarely saying it, but despite it she was fine with the introduction.\"And my companion... Is Jace...\"*Even though she had already yelled out the Jackal's name before, she figured it would best to give him a more proper introduction.*\n\n*The Jackal's head would pop out of a random clump of bushes at the side of the path as he heard his name called, looking over towards them expectantly before he would turn and dart off trail once more. Juna glanced down at the egg, wondering if she'll have to give the animal inside a name one day. She wasn't sure how to take care of an Airstrider, but maybe if it lived long enough, she could grow attached and give it a name. The Canifor didn't want to get her hopes up too high, knowing very well that an Airstrider was more capable of handling the egg, but still, it was a fun thought to think about.\n\nShe turned off the trail, heading further into the wilderness as the rushing sounds of water grew louder in her ears before the camp eventually came into view for her. To any passing glance, the place would have been easy to miss, but Juna could recognize it off the bat. The small burned out campfire, the artificial placement of logs to sit down on, the stick tent piled at the base of a tree to provide the smallest bit of shelter for them. It wasn't a large camping area, far from it with most of it being made from things in nature. Juna walked into the clearing, Jace suddenly appearing from somewhere behind them. He ran around the area excitedly, realizing they were back home.*\"We're here-\"" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*Draupnjr looked around and quickly got reminded of the younger years he had when his fathers would literally chuck him into a forest for \"Trainings sake\" He shivered lightly at the flashbacks before shaking it off and dropping his bag to the ground and buried the base of his axe to the ground. He looks around the camp then the surroundings to see if he could find improvements to make and gather materials to make said improvements.*\n\n*He removes his chest armor and pauldrons for the time being and hanged them on his standing long axe but keeping his gauntlets and bracers on since he could use it to defend himself from attacks coming from small beasts and if something bigger than a regular wolf comes by, he slung his sword on his back and prepared to venture out for wood pieces and leaves*\n\n\"If i'm gonna stay here for a while, might as well help liven up the place a little bit no?\" *He says before going off with a small cloth sack in tow that came from inside his bag. He came back with a really flat stone on one hand, a pile of twigs and sticks on his shoulder while his other hand held his sack with some dried leaves, this was about enough to make some minor improvements for the place*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Sorry it's not much...\"*She said, walking over to the stick tent and going down on her knees so that she could carefully nestle the egg beneath it. It seemed to fit easily, though Juna silently hoped that would be good enough for the egg to survive. Jace had ran all throughout the campsite, coming to grab an old stick from campfire that had burned out some time ago. As Draupnir returned, Jace greeted him by pacing over with the stick in his mouth. He looked up towards the Macen, curious to see what he was carrying to see if it was as good as the stick he had.\n\nJuna stood up, and removed her bow from around her. She looked over towards Jace, shaking her head in exasperation.\"If you want I can try hunting while you get a fire going...\"*She said, grabbing an arrow from her quiver and pointing it towards the pile of sticks, leaves, and rocks that Jace had recently stolen from. Juna didn't mind if he preferred vice versa, but seeing as he already let her borrow the jerky, she figured it was best if she went off to get some food for the both of them.\n\nHer ears rose atop her head as she tried to listen out to the animals within the forest. She had no need to use her abilities with her senses good enough to hear around the general vicinity of the area. Juna turned her gaze away from Draupnir and out to the forest beyond upon hearing the scuttling of wild life. It shouldn't be too hard to catch a couple small animals or so.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*Draupnir simply smiled as he started to work on making some minor improvements to the small camp, starting off with making himself a decent makeshift shovel put of the flatstone he brought, some twine he has in his bag and a sturdy stick. Using the shovel, he dug out a hole where the campsite was and put the dirt around the hole, making it a rim to place sticks if ever they are to roast something, thankfully not all spices are on his trusty steed's bag.*\n\n*He spent some time playing with the jackal a bit before going to dump his leaves on the place where the other leaves were before going to make a hole underneath two big trees. He decided to steer clear from messing with their current stick tent since it already has been home to them and he'd rather not destroy that. He camped out for quite some time once so he knows how the little things such as stick tents may hold some semblance of sentimental value* \n\n*After finishing the holes and putting the dirt on the sides, making a little burrow, he decided to go out for a while to fetch some branches that still had leaves with them and came back hastily to fix up two little bushcraft shelters made with the branches, twigs and some leaves as cover. After being content with that, he started up the fire in the pit with some flint and steel before decorating the pit a bit by placing rocks around the rim and as well as around the two shelters just to prevent the thing from sliding and collapsing*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Seeing him get to work, Juna decided to take it as a yes. She notched an arrow in her bow before turning to Jace and commanding him to stay here. The Canifor would soon after leave the camp to them while Draupnir worked on building up the campfire. Jace, meanwhile, walked around the pile Draupnir was making, sniffing at the leaves that he added the to pile before he soon abandoned his stick to it and searched around for something else to claim for his own. Eventually he settled on the stick tent, coming to stand guard of it.\n\nIt wasn't long before Juna had returned, carrying a pair of rabbits in one hand with a rather satisfied expression. Seeing that Draupnir had extended out the campfire, Juna walked over to it and looked it over with mild interest before turning towards him.*\n\n\"Looks nice-\"*She complimented before showing her catch.*\"I was lucky enough to catch a couple of rabbits, it's not a deer, but is should do hopefully.\"*Jace's tongue lolled out at the sight of the animals, clearly interested in the thought of getting to eat soon even after his bits of jerky he had been given.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"A deer would've been too much for us to handle if it's just the three of us anyways, i doubt we would be able to finish it and it can only attract other predators due to it's scent, rabbits on the other hand are quite filling and easy to prepare too\" *He said reassuringly before snapping some twigs and tossing em in the fire pit, the sun was not setting yet but it was close seeing as to how there's a golden radiance coming from the sun, meaning the sun is surely about to set.*\n\n*Draupnir took his armor and other stuff inside his little shelter, marking it as his by planting his axe near it. He pulled out one of his daggers and his salt, pepper and chili power out, silently cursing that his other spices are with Bon... He's pretty much sure his steed's name is Bon.*\n\n*He showed his slices to Juna with a bright smile as food is always the best part of his days, except if he's hunting cos nothing beats a good hunt* \"I have these stuff that make dinner a bit more fulfilling, would you rather cook and i'll help or do you want it to be the other way around\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna sat down crosslegged at the edge of the campfire and reached over towards the dagger at her waist, pulling it out before she would use to begin skinning the rabbit while Draupnir went to grab the spices. As he showed it off to her and asked if she'd like him to help, she decided to say:*\"Sure, I can prepare the rabbits and you can help me cook and season them.\"*She said. Juna didn't want to pass up the chance of adding flavor to the food as it was rare that she'd ever add anything more to the animal. She had to admit, it always made it taste much better than what she could cook up.\n\nSeeing Juna sit down, Jace would slowly pad over towards her, looking to see if he could sneak a rabbit only to get shoed away with a wave of Juna's hand. He sat down a short distance away from the Canifor, giving a low huff at his disappointment in finding himself having to wait until the food was done. The Jackal would lay down on his stomach, resting his head on his paws while he watched the two of them.*\n\n\"When you were talking to... Yourself earlier in the forest...\"*She began as she continued to skin one rabbit.*\"You mentioned a Ben...? Is that your companion...?\"*Juna glanced over towards him, her head tilted a bit to the side in curiosity.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*Draupnir chuckles softly and shakes his head a bit as he looks for and finds a s spare pouch, normally used to collect quest proofs like goblin ears or fangs, wolf fangs, boar tusks, it varies really depending on client, and to prevent contamination inside his bag due to the residue from the monster parts, he made it a hobby to always clean the thing*\n\n*Mixing in salt pepper and his chili powder then giving it a light shake, a dark red smoke emanating from the pouch as some of the spice gets shaken off.* \"I think it was Bon, i was pretty much hangover when you two found me so i had to organize my thoughts, didn't even realize i was thinking out loud\" *He said with a hearty laugh before going near to give her the pouch of spices* \"I hope you don't mind some spice since it usually goes well with just about anything... That doesn't really apply to people with low spice tolerance though\"\n\n*Draupnir went to play with the jackal, petting it, rubbing its back and belly and even letting it play bite his hands, this much was a given when playing with beasts when it comes to him, specially if it's a companion animal since he can manage to do this to wild jackals and wolves, so far so good since he still has all his fingers intact* \"Bon is kinda like Jace over here, a really close companion of mine, problem is he's a steed and i trained him to stay at a place when i tell him to so he didn't follow me here, but knowing his stubbornness i can guess he's close enough. He's a big steed tho, he can very much handle himself\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna turned her dagger over as she finished skinning the two, tearing into the rabbits so that she could begin taking the insides out while Draupnir mixed the spices.*\"I guess it can happen to anyone...\"*She says in response to him speaking of the hangover he had while he tried to recall the name of the horse. Juna couldn't relate as she was always content with sticking with water, but she could understand it enough from what she witnessed. It wasn't the same, but still she knew what it could to do someone.\n\nAs he handed the spices to her, she took the pouch gratefully, only putting it down next to her as she worked to finish with the rabbits in her lap.*\"It's okay, I can handle some spice-\"*When he spoke about the horse he had as a companion, she found herself leaning back in thought.*\"It's cool you can teach your steed that...\"*She says quietly.*\"I don't really know much about horses... Just that... They can be incredibly loud sometimes...\"*Her ears flicked back as she said that. She never really had much experience with horses nor had she really rode on one and yet she's seen others do it all the time as a way of life. It made her curious, but she had never found herself relying on anything other than her own two feet to get her from place to place.\n\nJace seemed rather content with using Draupnir's hand to play with. He rolled over onto his back, nipping at it before he would bite down on his hand, wrestling with it until he would eventually let go and begin licking at it. Juna meanwhile moved the cut out rabbits to one hand before she would stand up and look towards where the brook was. She'd still have to wash them off, but afterwards they'd soon be able to cook it all together.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"Drinking is honestly poison, both for the body and the mind. The catch is that you usually don't feel like it. Once someone get's over the taste and bitterness of it, the bliss, the haven that being drunk gives to a person, it's feeling of liberty can be quite addicting\" *He says as he sits down near the fire, letting his hair loose and tying up the hair tie on his wrist for future uses*\n\n*He warms up his hands on the fire, enjoying the breeze and the ambient noises of the forest life around him. Something that he misses every now and then despite being on the wilderness during hunts. Difference now and the hunts would be the relaxation and the luxury of being at ease, something he'd rather not indulge in when in quests, specially time constrained ones*\n\n\"I think i should go look for my horse real quick, although i trust him, i reckon he can use some company since the big fella's kinda emotional and will throw tantrums if i leave him long enough\" *He said gently before going to pick up his chest armor and sword from his tent. He had a feeling that Bon wouldn't be that far away from the forest considering he was drunk when he left the steed. If he isn't there, he's gonna go stable checking nearby the next day\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Your horse sounds pretty intelligent.\"*She says admirably as Draupnir stood up, claiming that he would go search for his horse. Juna would stand up as well, holding the skinned rabbits and organs she had cut out while preparing them.*\"At least... Since he knows where to look for you...\"*Jace rolled over onto his stomach, looking up at them with a wagging tail. It appeared like he was excited at the idea of going back out to the forests again, however Juna had no such plan.*\n\n\"I have to go clean these off...\"*She says.* \"It shouldn't take me long so the rabbits should be cooking by the time you get back...\"*She turned her head in the direction of the brook, hearing it more quickly with how close they were.*\"The brook is not too far from here...\"*Juna would say as she turned to head off towards it.*\n\n*Jace hopped up onto his paws, hustling after the Canifor only for him to be told to stay. He sat down with a huff, the tail wag soon fading with his excitement as he waited at the edge of the camp for Juna to return.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "*Draupnir returned a little more than 20 minutes later on top a big steed, huffing and flicking its head in protest and as some form of tantrum. It's been doing this ever since they left and a ruffled hair with grass blades here and there as well as dirt on his armor meant he got pushed down by the horse and knocked off when he tried to mount it.*\n\n\"Sorry for taking longer than expected, he was feisty at first and went through an anger tantrum for being left alone for quite some time\" *He said with a hearty laugh before jumping off and soothing Bon's head to calm him down along with some neck rubs which he seems to love.*\n\n*He proceeded to strip Bon of his armor and placed them inside his little shelter, grinning wide as he found his other spices and condiments to be added to the rabbit. After finding his trusty mortar and pestle, he added homemade chili oil, garlic, pepper, sugar and a tiny dash of his precious soy sauce, silently lamenting over the fact that his stock is running low but never regretting using it since what else would it's purpose be if not to be used*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*As Juna had returned from washing off the rabbits, he would find her waiting for him as he soon returned with his horse at his side. Her eyes widened at the sight of him before her gaze would fall on the large steed he brought with him.*\"Do horses usually do that to their riders?\"*She asks in a surprised tone. It wouldn't be hard for her to believe that a companion would attack another out of sheer annoyance, but seeing as he looked like he had just gotten out a skirmish left her wondering what a steed as large as a horse was capable of.\n\nJace let out a huff as he saw the horse enter their clearing, walking up to the tall creature as he sniffed around it to pick up its scent. The Jackal didn't seem very aggressive towards the horse, more so trying to get to know this new animal the man had returned with.*\n\n\"The rabbits are ready to be cooked.\"*She said as she began cutting the animal into thin strips of meat in front of the fire. Draupnir was right. With two decently sized rabbits it would be enough to fill the both of them and maybe even provide a treat to her Jackal. As the thought occurred to her, she would take one of the strips and toss it over to the Jackal. Jace turned his head immediately, running over to claim his prize before carrying it off to their little tent where he can eat it by himself.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"Well, for starters, almost all horses have this wild spirit inside them that never really goes away unless you train them that way, which they do inside the military or for the commoners to use, which is why they're used to using bits, wearing harnesses, and not flipping off their riders. Some of the lucky ones retain their individuality and emotions when trained to be a mount, others just lose it. My not so cute not so little Bon over here never really went through training, so he's as wild as can be, as open as can be too\" *He said proudly as Bon nudges him softly at first, but as he talks and ignores Bon, it became a loud hit with passion behind it. *\n\n\n*Draupnir sighed and went on to find Bon's wooden stake which he uses to mark where Bon can and can't go, kinda like setting his territory for the night , Bon must've been pretty tired or just wanted to rest for the time being . After sticking the stake on the ground the steed happily trods towards it and settles down on the ground slowly since he's a big guy and can't lie down easily.*\n\n\"Oh, we have this sauce that i just made, figured you'd might like it, and we can also use it as some glaze if you don't want to dip it; just cover it in these after they've been cooked then back to the fire for a few minutes then we're all set* \"Draupnir said as he handed out the wooden mortar before going to the sticks with his dagger and sharpening the good straight ones he found into skewers for the rabbit, he had no idea if there prepared ones already, he just didn't want to idle as someone else prepared food*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears flitted back thoughtfully at his explanation. She would continue to cut the rabbit into small strips of meat, recalling a time when she had rode on a horse before. It was pretty relaxing for the most part, though with those that carry a more wild personality, she could only imagine how it would have ended up if it were only her riding. As Juna finished cutting up the rabbit, she would hold out the strips of meat to Draupnir for him to skew and season as he would please, keeping a few to herself so that she could share with her Jackal.\n\nJace finished up his small treat, watching the horse walking over to lay down with a hint of laziness in his gaze. The Jackal would lay down as well, rather content with his meal of jerky and rabbit, especially after a long day of running around. Juna would look over to him, giving a chuckle before her gaze would shift over to the egg nestling not too far away from the Jackal.*\n\n\"Is it hard to learn how to ride a horse?\"*She asked out of the blue as she kept her gaze on the egg for a long while. Whether she was asking because she planned to try or was just curious, it was probably hard to tell. She didn't seem to follow it up with anything, simply letting the silence ensue as she waited for a response.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would flick back in surprise as he mentioned all the things he had mounted before. She wasn't even sure if half the things he listed were meant to be mounts, but still, it seemed he was willing to take risks with them. Maybe the least she could do was give the Airstrider a chance even if her only encounter with one was watching a man fight his own bird to try to get it to go where he wanted. It wasn't the best display of bondage, but not all bonds were the strongest. \n\n\nOf course, there would be a lot for her to learn as he explained his thoughts of bareback versus with a saddle. She didn't even know where to begin with what she thought was better. At least it would be some time before she'd have to consider it and maybe she wouldn't even have to ride the Airstrider, maybe she could just learn to bond with it and not have to worry about training to ride atop the back of a very, very large bird. The thought seemed to allow her to relax more, her shoulders lowering from earlier tension while she grabbed another piece of cooked meat to eat at.\n\nShe listened to him explain how Canifors tended to have a unique bond with other animals. Maybe it had to do something with their link to nature or the wilderness. Juna didn't know herself, finding her time in the woods to last much longer now that she long since left home. It was nice to her and she had become accustomed to it alongside her Jackal. Maybe if she could raise him, the bird wouldn't be so bad. She pictured the bird for a moment growing up to act similar to Jace which only caused her to shudder at the thought. Maybe that wasn't such a good thought after all. She let out a deep sigh before laying back on the grass and looking up towards the darkened sky.*\n\n\"Your father must have known a lot about Canifors...\"*She said in a quiet tone as she rested her hands on her stomach to relax more comfortably.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"Well, that's because he is one, a canifor banished from his own tribe due to his tendencies, even his workplace which dealt with death and blood and all kinds of underhanded tactics couldn't handle my fathers mind and ways in his prime\" *He said chuckling to himself as he remembers the quite literally spine chilling stares he would get from him whenever he did something slightly disrespectful. He has been stripped of his honor and pride, so his father held on to the concept of honesty and respect quite religiously* \n\n\"Oh and to clear things up before you ask if i'm a half breed, no, i don't think so...\" *He pulls back his sleeves revealing the rocky elbows he has, a characteristic of almost all earth macen, as well as the hardened knuckles of his* \"At least i don't look mixed, what i am however is an orphan with a really confusing family\" He said with a laugh before taking another bite from his strip*\n\n\"I'm an adopted son of a Mogash warrior and a Canifor assassin, both incredible monsters in their prime but now have grown to be more tame and has this air of wisdom around them, something you won't see much on Mogash men, specially with my father's build... And yes they're both men. Found me during a mission one day and decided to mold me into Draupnir Mol'ag, the man i an today\" *He says before lying down on the grass , gazing at the stars, silently questioning if his friends are there, looking back, guiding him*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna fell silent at his explanation as he spoke about being adopted by the Canifor and Mogash. A feeling of surprise surged through her, not because of the strange family, but by the fact that he had been raised by a Canifor and Mogash while she had been raised by a Macen couple. Seems like she wasn't the only one with an interesting family dynamic, however, while Draupnir's story spoke of the warrior and assassin he had been raised by, hers only carried a family of hunters that lived quite the distance from the Capitol.*\n\n\"Do you ever wonder who your real parents are?\"*She asked, staring up at the sky. The question had reoccurred from time to time, but now that she was on her own it hadn't really came to mind as much. However, now, the single question led to others. Did Draupnir know of his parents, did she know of her parents, does Jace know of his parents, will the Airstrider wonder of their parents? \n\nMaybe she was thinking too deeply about it, but times like these she does wonder if she'd turn out differently had she been raised by Canifors. That's what her true parents were surely. At least that's what she figured or maybe she was some kind of mix between two species. She did lack the extra fur that most Canifors have, only having the ears and tails of one. Or maybe she wasn't a Canifor at all. She let out a quiet laugh at the ridiculous thoughts, almost inaudible to hear.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"The thought never really came to mind, specially with my childhood. People say i don't have a childhood because it was robbed from me by my fathers since they were strict and all, but i don't share the same thoughts with them, i believe that me being raised by the fathers that took me in is the best possible scenario, i mean purely because of them i am who i am, it is their experiences, their words, their actions that molded me into who i am, without my fathers i am nothing, i'd rather not spend time and energy on people who i don't know, people who abandoned me\"\n\n*He stood up and went inside his little shelter for a bit to take out his books from his bag, he currently has 5 books, thick books with leather covers, each having a unique item attached to the front cover. On the first book a big paw print; book of monsters, the second book, an egg ; book of young monsters, on the third book, a leaf ; book of flora and herbs, on the fourth book, an insignia of his old mercenary group; book of tactics and weapon styles, and i the last book, a knife and a fork; book of recipes.*\n\n\" One of the things my fathers have indoctrinated within me aside from the stuff they drilled into me, was the will to learn more, to achieve more, but my memory isn't always the best and i admit i drink every now and then which doesn't really help with memories, so i wrote everything i can't memorize into these books, these books that stand as my guide, my proof of being a hunter, my legacy that will be passed onto my apprentices or children if i'm lucky\" *He said with a wide grin before sitting down beside her again*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Abandoned...\"*Juna repeated in a whisper. She took a deep quiet breath as she closed her eyes and considered the thought. Of course they were abandoned, the idea wasn't really new, but saying it aloud did manage to touch a nerve. Her ears would turn to the side as Draupnir stood up to grab his books and only when he began to explain them did she finally open her eyes again and look over to them.\n\nIt seemed he had quite the collection going with the five he had. Juna herself never really read much, only the occasional book once every blue moon. With her times of hunting, playing with Jace, and occasionally going off in some quest to help somebody, her days had mostly became routine to which reading wasn't part of it. Still though, she could enjoy a good book especially with their unique covers to entice her into reading its contents. Currently her gaze was on the book with the egg on it, her interest leading her there. Why that book in particular? Well she could probably make a guess.\n\nShe listened to him speak on about his legacy and passing it on to future followers to which she gazed at him with a tilt of her head.*\"Your legacy?\"*She has never really thought much of her own, not that she had really accomplished much as it was. Juna usually just went about her day as any other, never really seeing a reason to record and save the few events she partook in. It was nice to listen to someone so excited at the idea of it even if she couldn't share the feeling.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"Mmhm, my legacy, i hate the fact that one day, my body that me, my fathers and everyone else who helped me develop and temper my body into what it is now will someday breakdown and crumble just because of time, and there's nothing we can do about it for life and time are the two most powerful forces in the world, forces almost none of us can go against... So instead of lamenting over the fact that one day, my body will succumb to time and get swallowed by the earth over time, i'd rather not get forgotten\"\n\n*He tied up his hair again to clear up his face as he talked, some people find it annoying how he constantly ties and unties his hair, but he actually does it unconsciously. He opened up the books, showing his signature on each of the leather covers, showing all of the things he had seen, hunted, captured, tasted, fought. Within the books were notes, details, sketches, some were missing a few details since he only heard rumors about them, some were just purely details since he hasn't seen the monster or object the page was talking about, and all the while explaining while showing the pages, a big smile was plastered on his face*\n\n\"This is my legacy, i plan to raise a group of mercenaries one day, not those who hunt for blood of the innocent, more like those who hunt for the name of hunting, helping for the sake of helping, unfiltered by corruption by money and fear... One day i'll do that... When i get over them, then i will, in honor of their names, my first companions...\" *As he said this, he opens up the very last pages of the five books, showing different insignias, different from the one he has in the cover of the book of tactics and weapon styles, and along with the insignias were rough sketches of five young people, his first companions who got slaughtered years ago, something that continued to torment him till this day*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"I've... Never thought about that...\"*She said as he spoke of the passage of time. Juna never really liked to think of the idea that one day she'd leave this Earth, Jace as well. The Canifor tried her best to live in the moment, but she couldn't deny the passing of time. One day it was bound to happen, but she tried her best to ignore the thought. \n\nShe decided to sit up while Draupnir was opening the different books before eventually showing her all of the things inside them. Juna stared at the pages in curiosity, the feeling growing with each sheet of paper he turned to show yet another thing he had discovered that she had yet to. Soon enough he had turned the pages to the companions he had. Five of them.\n\nShe slowly lifted a hand up to place a finger along the sketches, running it down the lines that made up the image of the companions he used to have.*\"...What... Happened to them...?\"*She dared to ask as she studied each of them. They seemed young enough, but what could have possibly happened to have caused all five of them to perish?*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"Informant for the mission was wrong... They said it was a small bandit camp, it wasn't... It was a full fledged encampment filled to the damn brim with savage bandits\" *He said as he looked up to the sky, closing his eyes and letting his memories rush back in so he can explain as much and as clear as he can*\n\n\"I'm not sure as to why or how we got caught, it seems to be of human nature to suppress traumatic memories, but it's very much still there, the important parts that is. But we got caught... I was supposed to help them, to guide them since i was the best hunter in our village back then, i was supposed to take all the tortures since they were just a mix of macen and rogue elves for some reason, none of their torture methods could ever beat the bullshit a sadistic Canifor and a battle crazed Mogash inflicted unto me in training for situations like that one... I was supposed to tank all the tortures so we could wait it out\" *As his memories flush back in, so did the sensations, the anger, the resentment, the feeling of dread, and with that, his senses unconsciously spiked up, making his veins glow red, activating his predatorial instincts, focusing around his ears as he scouts the place for danger unconsciously*\n\n\"What i didn't calculate and put into consideration was their entertainment. I should've screamed, i should've shown pain, instead i held a poker face like my fathers taught me so they got bored and went on to my companions... Torturing, mutilating, violating them one by one, and when they saw that the unflinching me was burning with anger as my companions got tortured, they made me watch as one by one they passed away... I'd rather not speak about what i did to those bandits and what remained of every single one of them, but no matter what i do, the burden of their lives lost lies on my shoulder, and with it their dreams. Their dreams are mine to accomplish now\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would lower her hand away from the sketches as he began explaining what had happened to them, starting from when they were first misinformed of the mission they went on. As the story continued, it shifted to them getting kidnapped to the tortures they faced. Seeing him glow red from the use of predatorial senses, she could pick up the amount of stress growing from him at telling the story. Juna inched backwards from him, creating more distance away in case he suddenly lashed out at the question. Her hand went to the string of her bow, not to attack but to merely run her fingers along it to calm herself. \n\nHer fur prickled, ears raising alertly as she continued to listen to him explaining how he had failed the others. She listened as he described what they had done to his companions. She listened as he described the hatred he felt to have such lives resting on his shoulders now that they were gone. She listened until finally he had finished and with it her ears had lowered on her head.*\n\n\"I'm... Sorry I asked...\"*She said dropping her gaze away from him and pulling her legs close to her as she wrapped her arms around them. Juna rested her head on her knees, allowing some time to pass before she would finally speak again.*\"It... Must have been terrible...\"*She herself had no experience with losing a companion. In fact she couldn't imagine ever losing one, Jace in particular. She didn't want to think of that no matter how high of a chance there was to it happening, she refused to let it cloud her thoughts.*" }, { "author": "Draupnir Mol'ag", "message": "\"It's fine, i said that my memory tries it's best to suppress the traumatic memory but i personally do not, it's something that's molded and built me into who i am so i am not ashamed of it, tired of it, and i am willing to tell the tale to anyone i find worthy.\" *He said reassuringly before going to fetch one last book, this one was a shade different than the others, instead of brown like the others, this one is pale leather, and instead of an item or an insignia, this one's cover contained an emblem of mages branded into it's cover.*\n\n\"This one contains skills, stuff like this\" *He concentrates for a bit and then later his left arm's veins started to glow a blue hue, enjoying a faint smoke from it, focusing on his fists before conjuring up a spear out of thin air* \"My old companion once said that i had affinity with magic, this something that usually would take some time is easily done by me, so i've decided to write down descriptions of skills and how to cast them in this book\"\n \n*He sighs as he skims through the pages, flipping through every skill ranging from aoe support skills used on him or by his enemies, attack skills towards his enemies or directed at him, to self inflicted skills by shamans and monks* \"Problem is, no one could teach me and i doubt my patience could last long in a year course academy that uses money indefinitely... So most of these are just pages to me, aside from knowing what they do and how to counter them along with the affinity for magic, i can't really use it properly since no one teaches me\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Her head tilted to the side as the spear formed in his hand. She hasn't seen magic like that before. Though she has had her own magical capabilities, hers only focused mostly on the skill set she had. Archery and ranged it was, and her spells helped keep enemies at bay when neither her arrows nor Jace could. It was helpful in a way, but their uses were short lasting.\n\n\"I don't know much about magic...\"*She admitted. Juna never considered getting a book of it or learning more than the pool she had currently. It's helped her so far granted a few exceptions and she always figured it was best that way. Everyday she finds herself discovering something new with magic whether in combat or meeting someone on their travels who had happened to know something more advance than she herself would have considered possible.*\n\n\"I usually just use my bow... And cast spells whenever an enemy gets too close...\"*She explained, holding out a hand to show a white sphere before she would close it to put it out.*\"My parents taught me the ones that summon more companions to my side... And the ones that increase the efficiency of my accuracy to keep enemies at bay... It's not very many, but it has helped me whenever I'm in combat...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "*Lucrum being Lucrum; would have himself yet again on a walk to clear his mind. Howerever he knew subconsciously knew he would come across another person doing the same. After the encounters in Ombu, he wonder who May he find amongst the wilds of the Salvainian territory.*\n\n*The Elven raised Air Macen would find himself leading along his equine friend only a few dozen meters away from the group. Jace would likely smell the equine and Macen approaching as well as the Canifor being able to hear them. The rustled of the bushes. He can be heard whistling before breaking the bush line and spotting the pair. He freezes up and smiles*\n\n\"Hello there...? How are you—?\"\n*Lucrum waves at the Canifor and companion before awaiting their response. As usual he was wearing his classy attire with his crown and his Sabre. His body language was rather surprised at them, he hadn't expected someone to be out here but was actually delighted by the fact he met someone, it was the second occurrence of this happening in the woods.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace was the first to catch a whiff of the Macen's scent through the tempting smell of jerky that was in front of him. His tongue returned to his mouth, the smile gone in an instant as it was replaced by a low growl. Juna'a ears swiveled to the side to the sound of rustling bushes a second after Jace had noticed Lucrum's presence.\n\nShe turned her head to see the Macen standing there, her heart dropping in an instant. Jace sprung up to his paws, teeth bared at Lucrum as the Jackal ran towards him and the Equine without second thought. A series of barks escaped him, the playfulness lost in an instant.*\n\n\"Jace, heel!\"*Juna yelled desperately. Of course the Jackal didn't listen, too caught up in chasing away the Macen to Juna's disappointment. Looks like it didn't take treats to get the Jackal to chase after something.*\"Jace-!\"" }, { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "*Lucrum likely not wanting his horse to be endangered let's it's reigns go for it to flee, the horse however having a high temperament stands it's ground for the time being. But it's face is full of angst, as it watches its owner be threatened. . . It stamps in place as the dog approached.*\n\n*Lucrum seeing his horse not flee, yet. Gives him the stupid influx of confidence to calm the Jackal who is charging him. Lucrum lowers his posture and places his hands out to the dog while backing away slowly. . . \n\nThis is all he can think off at the moment, as he is already anticipated he will be getting bitten soon, he voice tries to relay a calming tone to the jackal but is twinged will dread and anxiety. Seeing it still charging him, he was playing a stupid game, and was in for a stupid prize. As he looks to the canifor seeing if she was going to stop him from being mauled*\n\n\"Shhh...—! It's alright boy...!— It's alright—! Everything is fine— I'm not going to hurt you guys—! . . \"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*With Lucrum stooping down to his level, Jace saw new opportunity. His chest flared with adrenaline between the horse cantering in place and this new trespasser. He went for the hand as it laid outstretched for him to bite down on.*\n\n*Juna's eyes widened, her gaze meeting Lucrum's for the brief moment he had looked over to her. She would let out a small clicking noise with her tongue, a more petite noise in attempt to get the Jackal's attention in his moment of haste. The Jackal's ears swiveled back where he stood with his mouth firmly clamped shut on the Macen's hand. He hadn't bitten down fully yet, however the stiffness of the Jackal and low growl that came from him suggested he was thinking otherwise.\n\nJuna would shake the pouch of jerky, something she hadn't tried before, but she'd accept a distraction of all things from it. The Canifor would take a piece of Jerky from it, tossing it off somewhere into the bushes.*\"Go get it Jace-\"*She said, trying to give a quick wag of her tail. \n\nThe Jackal stood still for a moment, as if debating if he'd rather eat the treat or Lucrum's hand. Both seem to be a rather good option to him, but eventually he would let go of him, most likely not leaving much more then a few punctured marks as the Jackal would turn away and run to the bushes for his prize. Juna let out a deep sigh of relief, brushing back her head fur as she could feel it standing on end from her Jackal's aggression.*\n\n\"I'm... Sorry...\"*She said quietly, slowly walking over to the Macen before she'd reach her hand down to him, not to help him up but to simply offer him the pouch of jerky she had.*\"He's...\"*Part of her wanted to say he wasn't always like that, but somewhere in that statement was sure to be a lie.*\"...Jace.\"*She concluded, a rather odd explanation of simply giving his name.*" }, { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "*Lucrums is about half tempted to outburst in pain at the jackals greetings... It was in that moment Lucrum had a change of heart in dogs... Maybe felines weren't so bad... Until otherwise stated he'd start to favor cats.*\n\n *In the mean time as he is bitten. Lucrum yelps before finding himself folding under the pressure of the Jackal's bite. Lucrum's lowered posture, soon forces him onto his knees as his glasses slide off his face hitting the dirt below. He feels defeated and made of a fool of for putting himself in this predicament. Lucrum holding his forearm with his opposite hand adjacent to the jackal's jagged mouth. Waiting for it to decide whether or not to commit to the maulage. Tears form in his eyes as the dog eventually lets go. He swears quietly in elven tongue before looking to the damage done with a welted leaking hand and watery eyes*\n\n*Lucrum isn't hesitant to place his hand over the bite wound and attempt to heal the pain quicker. But removed it, As he reminds himself of his natural healing prowess, he should give it a couples minute to heal on its own. . . He'll be alright— hopefully. With this first time being bite by a Dog and all.*\n\n**\"Why—did...—\"**\n*The defeated young macen looks onwards from his hands, to meet the gaze of the Canifor. His frown his visible and his tears are true to the pain he is in. . . Lucrum is filled with unrest, half tempted to lash at her— But he takes a moment to recollect himself, as he sees the Canifor's face... Taking judgement.*\n**\"You...—\"**\n\n*Soon realizing he cannot muster the hate in himself to enact a pawn it albeit out of frustration. . . He faces the Canifor, simply nodding in defeat. He says dryly with a clear response he musters*\n**\"I accept— your apology...\"**\n\n*He raises his hand out to take the pouch, albeit surprised when he checks that it's a pouch of jerky.*\n\n\"Give me—a moment...— This will— heal in— a minute or two...— Quite a memorable greeting—? If I do say so...\"\n*He stiffly laughs, making light of the situation*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna flinched at his tone, dropping her gaze as she handed him the pouch upon him accepting her apology. She was growing too use to having to give the same apology every time. Why couldn't the Jackal just listen to her sometimes? It was probably her own fault. The words of the Kitsune carrying with how she held herself. How Jace should know how the behave with her stance alone. She wasn't exactly sure what she was meant to do, but at times like this with a potentially new addition to their duo, she wished she did.*\n\n*The Canifor eventually dared to look at the Macen again, her ears dropping at the tear stained face in combination with his forced laugh. Out of all the times Jace has went after a person, this one was probably the saddest. To think he was trying to calm the Jackal only to get a harsh bite to the hand. The scent of blood caught her nose. She wasn't sure how bad it was, especially with him quickly covering it with the other to heal it, but she simply hoped he didn't break bone.*\"Y... Yeah...\"*She said, glancing away as she would idly rub at her left arm with her hand. \n\nThe bushes continued to rustle as the Jackal went on his small venture for the Jerky. At least she had bought them some time for now before he would eventually return. She would slowly go down onto her knees to get closer to his level, holding out a hand as it began to glow a light green shade.*\"You're... A healer to...?\"*She asked with a tilt of her head as she looked him with curiosity.*\n\n*He was rather odd in her eyes, most people dealing with Jace either ready for a fight or trying to pull a weapon out on him, but Lucrum, he just took it. Out of idiocy in thinking that an aggressive Jackal would stop its attack because of him telling that it was alright, but still, it was a rather interesting attempt of befriending him. Maybe he was well acquainted with canines and such. Well at least he 'was' anyways, before of course he was bitten by the Jackal and started muttering curses that Juna could hear all too well with her sensitive hearing even if she couldn't understand the Eleven language.*" }, { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "*Lucrum steadies his breathing, clearly upset he was bleeding and In __so-so-so__ much pain. But is conscious enough to know not to blame the Canifor for the animals actions, As he had seen her ears drop in display of guilt or remorse— It was enough of a sorry to him. An animals; is going to animal at the end of the day. Lucrum was forgiving enough to look past it. But* **__goddamn__** *His hand was in pain. Thankfully he used his least dominant, which was his left.* \n\n*He is actually more embarrassed, by the presence of the Canifor seeing him crying... Rather not at the fact he had been foolish enough to be bitten by the Jackal, but the fact the lady could __visibly__ see him in a vulnerable state, rather than his usual facade? It damaged his pride a lot more than his hand.*\n\n*He dreadfully looks at the Canifor as she offers a hand to him. . . Hesitant—and... Embarrassed, he return his mauled hand to her. Allowing her to finish healing it. Lucrum glances up to her as she asked about his medical abilities, he stammers for a second as he wipes his eyes trying to hide them before responding.*\n\"Y—Yeah...—ima—uh... H-healer. . . Why?— Is it cause you haven't— seen one— be so careless?—?\"\n\n*He chuckled— as he still was in shock by both the pain and his damaged ego. . . Finding humor as best way to alleviate the stress. He decides it was probably best to introduce himself as the Canifor would have a name to call him by.*\n \n\"I'm... Lucrum T... Khameh—Eh, Just call me Lucrum...\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna took his hand carefully, covering it with one glowing hand while holding it with the other. She stared at the wound, silently watching it fade away with the assistance of each other's healing capabilities. Juna couldn't bring herself to stare at the Macen directly, always finding it hard to look someone in the eyes for long. However, even with her gaze more focused to that of his hand, she still listened through slightly raised ears.*\n\n\"I haven't seen anyone be so careless...\"*She said in a absent yet matter of fact tone as Lucrum asked her the question. Juna turned his hand over, running a finger along his palm while she made sure both sides were well healed up with the scent of blood becoming a faint memory.*\"Most people are usually careful when around an aggressive Jackal...\"\n\n*She eventually let go of his hand, staring back at him for the few moments she could hold the look. Even through a tear-stained face he was trying to laugh it off, albeit the sensation of stress coming off of him was overbearing to the humor he tried to cover it with.*\"But you didn't...\"*She said finally.\n\nHer gaze had eventually dropped away from him, finding herself staring down at the pair of glasses that had fallen off of him into the dirt. She reached down to pick it up and soon held it out to him.*\"You... Trusted him to... Not attack you...?\"\n\n*Her gaze carried a look of confusion to it, making it sound more like a question than a statement as her brows furrowed in thought. With all she'd seen, she would have thought it hard to trust anyone or anything she's randomly encountered in the forest.\n\nAs Lucrum half introduced himself to her, she would repeat the first part of his name in a hushed whisper as if trying to remember it.\"Lucrum...\"*\"I'm... Juna...\"*She said eventually.*\"And I... I guess you've already met Jace...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "*Lucrum just sat there In awe, he had never been healed by another person. . . Felt odd, as he was usually reliant on himself let alone was usually competent enough to avoid being injured as he knew the importance of keeping the healer safe. He didn't complain, he was thankful for her kindness. He smiles with his eyes.*\n\n\"Thank you.\"\n\n*He was really receptive of the Canifor idle gestures, as he pushes his glasses back from the bridge of his nose. With such as the twitch of her ears or the wag of her tail. Lucrum was quick to notice, these little niche things helped form a sorta of idea of what Juna was as person. He was able to infer she was more introverted just by the fact she had been traveling alone prior, and her reserved nature. Preferring to roll with the conversation. He guessed she was very observant similar to him. . . \n\nShe remains him of a old close friend, A feline to be exact. But scrunches his face at the thought. Best not to associate someone new to someone old, as it was a recipe for a mental disaster. He returns eye contact at the question before responding, he raises an eyebrow as he finds it odd she isn't aware of her traditional methods.*\n\n\"You don't know about the traditional methods—? For a canifor that's quite a surprise.\"\n*He chuckles*\n\n\"Then again I've had three mothers in my life...— an Orc, an Elf and my real one— I...\"\n*His face is quickly saddened at the thought, but is quick to shake it. As he's gone a tad too far off topic. He resumes.*\n\n\"Well, anyways. . . You need to become the alpha of the pack and make sure that Jace knows. . . That you aren't playing around, reward him for his good behavior and punish his bad behavior.\"\n\n*Lucrum scrunches his face at the idea of Juna being stern with Jace. What was the likely hood of the canifor doing that? He felt bad wondering how Juna if she'd be up to the idea. As she seems to fond and caring of the Jackal, and knowing his nature he may lash out at Juna for not getting his way.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"You're welcome...\"*She responded quietly to the Macen's gratitude. Her tail would flick to the side in warm acknowledgment as she began to relax more. She listened to him state how odd it was that she didn't know the traditional methods despite being a Canifor to which she flicked her ears in confusion. Did he mean the Canifor traditional methods? Of course, the one thing she wouldn't know of. Actually there could have been multiple, but at this point she could feel a sharp feeling of embarrassment pass through her.*\n\n\"I... Haven't really met many... Canifors...\"*She said in response. It was true statement, even growing up she's never met any other Canifor and her travels through Drase was no different. One Canifor she had met was in combat, not getting a chance to talk in the heat of fighting him, another not too long ago, both encounters warranting a sense of aggression from one or the other now that she thought about it. Were they usually like that? No, that was surely biased. She just, hasn't met a friendly one yet, that must be it.\n\nAs Lucrum began to explain the dynamic of a pack, her mind began to drift off slightly. She's seen wolf packs before and had a general idea of how they worked, but last time she checked, two didn't really make a pack. Maybe three? But she doubted a newborn bird would understand the pack dynamic or a full grown bird for that matter. Maybe she should just focus on Jace for now, but becoming Alpha? She wasn't sure if she really had what it took.*\n\n*When he mentioned her having to punish Jace for his bad behavior, her ears lowered slightly.*\"You want me to... Punish him...?\"*She asked in a tone that suggested she regretted the words the moment it came out her mouth. Maybe she was afraid of Jace hearing. Actually there was a high chance he did, whether or not he understood what that meant was the tricky part.\n\nThere was a bark that came from their side as the Jackal trudged his way through the bushes, his pelt covered in a mixture of leaves and dirt. Did he even get the treat or had he gotten distracted on the way? His tongue hung out playfully until his gaze eventually fell on Lucrum, allowing him to remember what he was previously doing. The Jackal seemed calmer at least though he still gave a bark of warning as he paced over towards them.*" }, { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "\"Well, I'd assume that you haven't. . . But it's in your blood just as being Macen is in mine. . .\"\n*He rubs the nape of his neck*\n\n\"Maybe it is for the best, as it seems you've found much more being civilized than most of your species.\"\n\n*Lucrum is highly aware of what he had just said, he hoped she doesn't take offense to it as to him. But it seemed rather true.*\n\n\"Unfortunately. . . As long as he gets his way— he'll see no reason to change. It's like pampering a child too much, they become spoiled. But this time the child a jack—\"\n\n*Lucrum jumps at the bark of Jace, his eyebrow raised. As he watches Jackal strut his merry way back. He turns his view back to Juna with look of concern. As he tries to keep the conversation going without upsetting the dog.*\n\n\"Anyways. . . Y'know, you gotta be ready for the worst. . . As you don't want to uh. . . Be too harsh. . .\"\n*Lucrums looks to his equine friend, they seem to have calm down. They seemed to grazing but kept the Jackal in its view*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace paced his way around the clearing, sniffing at the grazing creature before making his way over to the Macen and walking around them to sniff at him. The Jackal eventually let out a dissatisfied huff of air until he soon nosed his way to the bag of Jerky Lucrum had, staring at it with newfound interest.\n\nJuna had to admit, it was in her blood to be... Well a Canifor. Even if she didn't know what that meant in that context. However, it did make her wonder how different she'd have been if she were raised by Canifors. Lucrum considered her 'more civilized', whether she was meant to take that as an insult toward her species or a compliment towards the way she was raised, she wasn't sure. What if she had been raised by Canifors? Would she simply be less civilized? More aggressive? Intolerable? Her ears gave that normal irritable twitch they did at the thought, but maybe it was simply the way Canifors were.\n\nShe wouldn't know and frankly if she wasn't raised by the Macens, she'd most likely be dead by now. Was that because the Canifors didn't want her? No, of course it couldn't be that simple. She decided to block out the thought to listen to the Macen, her gaze drawing onto to Jace as he paced around to give her something else to look at.\n\nHe was right about one thing, she probably was spoiling Jace. Perhaps he simply listened to her out of convenience rather than respect, but to punish him, what was she meant to do?*\n\n\"I don't... Want to be too harsh with him...\"*She said admittedly.*\"He keeps me company... And... He's always protected me... Sometimes too well I guess...\"*Juna internally wondered if some of the times they got caught in a bad situation had engraved itself in the Jackal's memory. That is, if the jackal could remember much at all. Between the hybrid bears and the many people they came across, he always seemed more protective. Though it seemed to only be getting worst.*\n\n\"He doesn't mean any... Harm... He's just... Overprotective...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "\"I get it Juna, Jace is your best friend. . . It's hard to call out on a best friend's behavior. You don't gotta tell me—. . . That horse over there has kicked plenty of people including me for approaching it the wrong way. But I now? He just watches his back when he's grazing. . . So he moves, stamps, or makes a noise when he feels threatened when someone approaches and gives them a chance before he bucks them. . . \"\n*He shakes his head, Thinking to himself as some sort of animal whisperer. . . Heh*\n\n\"But as I was saying, you should try to find a way to keep him calm when meeting other people or teach him a verbal queues when to attack and when to not. . . Cause healing is going to take a toll of your abilities, in the event that you'll need to heal someone for him getting a little too hungry.\"\n\n *Lucrum in the meantime would be trying to make amends with the jackal. Albeit wasn't his fault that he decided he had a taste for Macen today. Lucrum sees the opportunity to show Juna what he meant by discipline. Risking possibly more than his hand. As he takes one piece out and hands Juna the pouch back, he keeps the piece of jerky in hand balled in a fist. With his balled fist, He tries to get Jace to circle around Lucrum baiting the Jackal to follow, While they talked. . . He was indeed playing with fire*\n\n\"I understand, it's hard trying to be a role model for someone who already has their own way of doing things. . . Try to ease into to it, since Jace seems to be a feisty character. Don't wanna hurt yourself. . .\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace stared at the Macen's fist, sniffing at it while he followed its movements. Though instead of walking in a circle, the Jackal merely sat down, staring at Lucrum.\n\nJuna would grab the pouch as Lucrum handed it to her, tucking it away before facing Lucrum once more. As he had explained about how his horse used to be, she couldn't help but let out a quiet laugh at the thought. Then again, she knew she shouldn't be laughing. Next thing she knows, that could be her in the exact same situation. Except, in this case, an Airstrider maybe. Do they kick like horses do? She wasn't sure, but the thought made her quickly quiet herself.*\n\n\"Yeah... It is pretty draining...\"*She said with a tired sigh as she considered that only the day before she had to heal someone else from her Jackal's attack and now once more today. It wasn't a skill she was meant to use day to day, but at this rate it was starting to seem that way.*\n\n\"Jace knows some of the commands... He's just... Stubborn at times...\"*She explained, thinking back to the bar fight that nearly occurred over her Jackal claiming the area beneath the table and warding off those that came under.*\"Very stubborn...\"*Juna wondered if that could have played out better had Jace been on the good behavior she only really sees when it's just the two of them. It was a high chance, but getting Jace to the point of being comfortable and tolerant of other people seemed impossible. \n\nJace would never hurt her, at least not intentionally, but others are better off steering clear of him. Juna watched Lucrum holding the Jerky in a fist in an attempt to get Jace to circle around him, her gaze shifting towards Jace as the Jackal merely sat down staring at him.\n\nHe was never really one to go to someone for a treat, always just waiting for it to be handed to him instead by simply sitting and waiting. Maybe it was a good thing, but when impatience struck, disaster always soon followed. After all, Jace may just see it as a taunt.*" }, { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "\"Well then? Tell me some commands does he know.\"\n\n*Lucrum unable to get the Jackal to follow, would shake his hand and try to urge him to move for the treat on the opposite side of him. . .*\n\"Cmon Jace... Pspsp!...\"\n\n*The Macen smiles at the dog trying to see if he was in a playful mood*\n\n\"I'd be drained too if I had to heal someone everytime my companion had a mishap.\"\n\n*Lucrum at the moment didn't feel like risking his hands, but it was for the better. As Lucrum whistled and pspsp'd Jace, Lucrums looked to Juna for aid. He was not one to go playing with fire after he had just got burned. But he had to prove a point one way or another.*\n\n\"Add some more. . . I got an idea\"\n*A smirk appears on his face. As he awaits the aid of Juna. To enact on his plan*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna watched Lucrum try to get the Jackal's attention, her ears flicking every time he made the noise.*\n\n\"Well... He knows how to sit and... And stay... Usually...\"*She began as she turned her gaze to her Jackal. At Lucrum's request, she would take another piece of Jerky from her pouch and hand it over to him.*\"He can go find things and... He knows to return to me... At least... When he's not trying to attack someone...\" \n\n*Jace watched the exchange, looking from Juna to Lucrum, back to Juna again as if debating who to go to. His tongue hung out lazily until eventually he had decided to switch his gaze back to Lucrum. Jace's leg muscles would bunch underneath him as if he were looking to lunge at the Macen. His ears shot straight up at the sound, soon responding to it with a series of barks which, for a Jackal, sounded more high pitched than anything.\n\nHe would spring up into the Macen's lap, planting his frontal paws atop his shoulders as he aimed to get to the fistful of treats. Seems like the Jackal was aiming to take the quick route rather than walking all the way around him. Stubborn dog indeed.*" }, { "author": "Lucrum T. Khamiel", "message": "*Lucrum mentally and physically preparing for the worst watches as the hound that was sitting prior looks ready to pounce, paying attention to his ears can assume Jace isn't likely to hurt him. He lets his opposing arm not block the way of Jace.\n\n\"Mhm...?\"\n\n*Lucrum keeps his view set on Juna as she explains everything needed to know about Jace. . . It is then when Lucrum starts to think of even better idea to get the Jackal to become more passive.*\n\n\"You know...? What would probably be a better way to teach him?\"\n*Lucrum exclaims with a raised eyebrow*\n\n*As he awaits for the Jace to finally jump onto him. He is prepared prepared enough to not become panicky but is still weary of the Jackal's aggression, as Jace barks at him he stares the Jackal down. Before speaking firmly*\n**\"Caaalm~ Dooown~.\"**\n\n*Lucrum not wanting to test his patience gives him a treat for now, before raising his prize above Jace's head and dropping only one to calm his aggression down, before closing his hand into a fist. With that? Lucrum seizes the opportunity with the jackal now on his lap his isn't hesitant in picking him up. As he begins to stand up right, holding the doggo with one arm seeing how it pans out with the jackal. Lucrum begins to spitball ideas with the jackal sitting on his arm*\n\n\"Another Jackal, or another timid dog. . . If you reward that dog for being calm maybe he might realize that he should act that way to? Kinda liked seeing someone do good and seeing them get rewarded, makes you want to be good too. Ontop of that!— You'll have two dogs that'll protect you!\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna tilted her head, wondering where Lucrum was going with this as he asked if she knew of a better way of teaching him. She wasn't quite sure what he meant by that, so she simply shook her head in response only to have the question answered as Lucrum would turn to her Jackal and tell him to calm down.\n\nJace paused for a moment as Lucrum spoke to him, staring back at the Macen with that one expression most dogs have as if they were trying to process something. The barking stopped at least though after a moment's wait, Jace would nip at the Macen's nose. It was less out of aggression, more so defiance. As he was handed the treat, the Jackal would eat at it while Lucrum decided to pick him, not really caring so much about it.\n\nJuna couldn't help but stifle a laugh at Lucrum's way of going about taking care of a dog. Was that how they taught dogs how to protect the livestock? Simply telling them not to? Juna was sure Jace's comprehension of things only went so far, but his nature usually spoke otherwise.\n\nAs Lucrum suggested that she get another Jackal, she took the time to ponder over the idea. Should she get another Jackal? Her eyes would look over to Jace before slowly turning towards the egg nestled in the stick tent, debating to herself. On one hand, a companion for Jace would be nice. On another, how would she be able to take care of three animals? \n\nShe turned to look back at Lucrum before asking:*\"Would an... Airstrider work...?\"*Juna wasn't sure how much a large bird could teach a dog especially with Jace's previous reaction to the animal, but perhaps the reward system worked all the same.*" } ]

[ { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Recently, there's been an increase in reports of assassin vines; sneaky organisms keen on preying on unsuspecting people walking in their jungle. You three, Horace, Elias, and Providance, have been told to gather at the entrance to the forest, where a sign has now been put up: \"Assassin Vines, Beware.\"*\n\n*The weather is hot and humid, the jungle trees spacious for now, but further in, it's obvious that the place is extremely dense, with the vegetation packed extremely close together.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "~~note it's not davy it's providance, i am not going with the pyromaniac in a jungle, atleast not for the first quest~~\n\n*Providance would've entered the jungle first, somehow managing to not get stuck on every somewhat strong vines he came across, he had heard that some mindless pest picked up activity was starting to attack helpless adventurers, which of course he couldn't just let slide, still he would've of course waited for both horace and elias to come closer, going into the forest alone without anyone in hearing range was a stupid idea, especially if you are the size of a titan making you more likely to get stuck.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "\"By the Gods, its hot here... I miss the steppes...\"\n*The knight grumbled as she pushed aside the swathes of ferns and tree branches that led into the clearing, her cuirass catching thin plants and twisting them off uncomfortably. Elias would have come in on horseback, but there was a limit to the roughness of terrain that her horse could put up with - she drew the line here. Once she had escaped the thick brush, she slipped off her hair tie and tying a tighter ponytail, flicking the sweat from the back of her neck and sighing.\n\nShe quickly felt her frustration melt away, replaced by an overwhelming awe. The titan, despite being a few dozen metres away, could be seen easily, Elias blinking a few times to clear her eyes of the humid air.*\n\"Now... I've seen wonders... Here is another.\"\n*She mumbled, approaching Providance slowly, waving to him with baited breath.*" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro", "message": "\"You get used to the heat, besides, at least there's shade here.\"\n\n*Horace says while hanging from a tree branch like a monkey. Said branch was liable to break and fall under the elf's weight, but he didn't care much. He was too interested in the silver haired beauty before him. Plus the towering tighten not too far from them.*\n\n\"You're from the steppe's as well?\"\n*He questions, eventually releasing himself and falling to the floor. A perfect landing would follow, Horace then walking up to Elias.*\n\"Im Horace, Horace Caranaro. Nice to meet you.\"\n\n*He offer's a friendly handshake, looking to Providance.*\n\"You too big guy! Let's enjoy this quest to it's fullest.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "Providance doesn't have anything good to say or do so you can go ahead and skip me" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*The knight glanced to their titan companion, nodding slowly as her eyes glanced about nervously - she was not used to the very foliage being hostile, at least not to this extent. She adjusted her plate mail, the heat beginning to take it's toll as sweat began to trickle down her arms and legs. Nonetheless, she would don her helm, dropping her gaze to the ethereal beast and giving it a pet, giggling softly.*\n\"If we're all prepared, I imagine we should head off soon. These vines won't cut themselves down.\"" }, { "author": "com.co", "message": "Think this is where zed posts if we all ready" } ]

[ { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*As you go deeper into the forest, the smell gets more metallic. Blood. It stained the air, and there was a lot.*\n\n*Several corpses lay on the ground, some picked to mere bones, the others not even worth trying to identify. On a few were what seemed to be assassin vines, wrapped around the chests and faces of their victims, pulsating. They don't notice you yet, and it looks like they're sucking up blood. Not usual behavior.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance, seeing that the assassin vines where acting in a strange way decided to take more precaution as he, without a word, signaled to the other to stand back as he had more range and was bigger thus was less likely to get swarmed and sucked dry.*\n\n*After signaling to the other, he would, with both hand on his ikakalaka, stab down on these pesky plants, due to the weird crescent shape that the tip of the ikakalaka have, he was able ,after having struck the plants, to pivot the blade in a similar fashion to a lever to make sure that they where indeed cut in half.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*The sight of assassin vines drinking from corpses was enough to ignite Elias' religious zeal, her eyes flaring through her frog-mouth helm, her lips spitting venom*\n\"Daemon-spawn, or close to it... Feasting on human blood, like some vampiric thing...\"\n*With a flourish of her sword, she took a step back as Providance requested, still eyeing the closest vine.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Horace Caranaro", "message": "*Horace nods lightly at the large titan's signal. He seemed to be undisturbed by the corpses however. More interested in the loot they'd provide more than anything.*\n\n*Though with them sucked dry like that, he wouldn't get much. Hearing Elias' words cause him to chuckle lightly.*\n\"Just be glad they don't kill for sport... Everything has predators and prey, a need to eat... It's what we eat that sets us apart.\"" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*As Providance presumably gets closer to stab down on one of the plants, they all suddenly move. The one he's aiming for isn't able to get out of the way and dies, blood from its feeding session spilling everywhere. However, the other two scramble away, and almost __look__ at the three of you. They're obviously not normal; instead of being simply tendrils with a core, these assassin vines had almost a __form__, as if they were sentient creatures. One particular tendril ends with a mouth similar to a leech of lamprey, circular and full of sharp teeth. The two make a clicking sound using their teeth, then screech.*\n\n*Horace can see a single assassin vine falling directly on top of him from the tree tops, while the others can hear scurrying from the other predatory plants.*" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro", "message": "*Horace had to admit, that was creepy. He'd seen many things in hos short life, but these linds of strange vines... He didn't remember them like this at all.*\n\n*No time to think though, as Horace gets the overwhelming feeling he's about to be attacked. His stance becomes rigid and he glances around frantically, spotting the vine falling towards him. He quickly steps back, allowing the vine to fall to the floor.*\n\n*Without another moment to have it react however, the elf reaches forward at a lightning speed. He attempts to take the tip of the vine as a grapple. If successful, he soon finds a blade in his hand, attempting to slice the thick vine clean in two.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*The heart-rending sound made the knight shiver from the horror, flourishing her blade once more to regain her confidence - starting at the assassin vine falling on Horace with a yelp. She pointed her arming sword toward one of the screeching pair, glowering as she stepped forward into a one-handed overhead strike.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would scoff at the screech they did before using his strength to lift his large sword off the ground, all the while he would say.*\n\n\"A weak intimidation attempt,do not worry as they aren't of any threat as long as you keep them at bay\"\n\n*After his sword was finally lifted of the ground enough for him to do a powerful downward strike on the second leech vine while the other two where occupied dealing with the one who fell on horace, if the leech vine he attacks tries to dodge by going to the sides, providance would with a move of wrist turn the ikakalaka so that the crescent of the sword would squish part of the vines so that it would be immobilized.*" } ]

[ { "author": "com.co", "message": "They do be plate boots tho" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro", "message": "*The elf quickly glances down at the liquid pouring out of the plant's carcass. It was sizzling...? Some kind of acid? Maybe to help digestion or something... A few quick guesses, made in the span of a second or two.*\n\n*Sadly, Horace wouldn't have much more time to investigate as he's attacked once more. God there are too many of these things! As the first flies to his face, he attempts to grip it tightly before severing the tip with his dagger. Catching the flying orb moving towards Procidance, but not paying it any mind. His hands were busy as is, writing anything else off.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*Elias would stumble back as the assassin vines launched themselves at her, attempting to bat one away with her gauntlet, raising the guard of her sword to slam it into the second.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Due to providance's ikakalaka already being up in the air, it would've been easy to send it swinging down onto the two vines that thought it would be possible to reach him and his face, this would give him ample time to look around for any other vines that wasn't already being attacked, allowing him to spot the flying object coming for his head, if they where far away he would prepare to strike them with his ikakalaka, if they where too close he would just grab them, throw them to the ground and then stomp them out.*" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Horace quickly dispatches of the first assassin vine,, the body falling to the floor. The second would attempt to latch onto Horace's face, using its spiked tendrils. The elf can also see something horrifying inside; what looks like a circular mouth, outfitted with dozens of razor sharp teeth. It's best that he get this off his face as soon as he can.*\n\n*Elias dazes the first one with her gauntlet, though it weakly tries to hang on. The second is slammed into the dirt, bouncing away due to the force.*\n\n*Providance cleaves the first one in two, but because the second jumps an interval after, he is unable to strike both at the same time. However, due to his height, the assassin vine can only grasp the clothing near his stomach, before attempting to climb.*\n\n*Providance would also be moving, but the projectile turned out to be massive. It was a jackfruit; a massive, spiked fruit weighing 80 pounds, striking the Titan in the side of the head, dazing him and causing him to stumble slightly. Said jackfruit breaks apart.*\n\n*Due to the assassin vine blocking his view, Horace doesn't see another jackfruit flying towards him; but Elias does.*\n\nFacehugger assassin vines" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance after having recovered from the dazing would look down instinctively, sensing that something was moving near his stomach, at which point it would see a vine trying to climb him and ..Big chunks of fruits laying around, at which point he will say with a hint of confusion.* \n\"A giant fruit..?\"\n*All the while grabbing the vine climbing him and squeezing it to the point of it being squished.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "*The knight would quickly pull the latched on assassin vine close, drawing her blade across its length in a deep slice and flinging it away.*\n\"By the Pantheon, they're throwing fruit now? God, that stinks...\"\n*She commented with a cough, wafting the smell away before gripping her sword with both hands once more, knowing the first vine would attempt to lunge at her again.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Horace Caranaro", "message": "*Horace grimaces intensely at the sight before him. Disgusting and gruesome as hell...*\n\n*Thankfully, it could be removed easily. The elf reaches up with both hands, sandwiching the plant inbetween before crushing it whole with his hands.*\n\n*With the plant out of the way, Horace would then catch a glimpse of the jackfruit flying at him. (Unless its right behind him, he'd see it with FoV.) He quickly gets into a stance, aiming to punch and annihilate the fruit with his plate gloved hand.*" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Providence's thick glove prevents him from being burned by the acid, but it certainly messes up the material on the outside.*\n\n*Elias successfully dispatched her assassin vine. However, the one she hit earlier instead attempts to wrap around her leg.*\n\n*Horace crushing the vine in between his hands might have worked with any other creature, but not this one. The acid bursts out, some of it getting into Horace's mask, blinding his left eye and leaving a large burn mark. Ouch.*\n\n*Presumably due to the pain, he is unable to see the massive jackfruit. As any man in pain would do though, he moves his head, enough so the jackfruit doesn't instantly kill him. The spikes leave welts on the right side of his head, and he probably has some fractures on the side of his skull.*\n\n*A large rumbling can be heard, and what appears to be a \"Small\" Tree scuttles towards Elias and Providance. Standing 4 meters tall with 2 meter legs, the tree is 8 legged with irregular roots branching out as legs. The top half is vaguely humanoid, with a distinct head and arms. In its hands is a massive wooden club wrapped in spiked vines, and it takes a slow, heavy swing at all 3.*" }, { "author": "Ser Elias Bluedove", "message": "\"Damn, clingy little bastard...\"\n*She cursed, stabbing into the vine as it wrapped around her leg, flinching from the biting pain and attempting to kick it away. The tree would have been difficult to ignore, the knight making a move to retreat away from the swing.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've taken back his ikakalaka with both of his hands before hearing the rumble of that tree spirits, it was to be expected that in a thick jungle with all these weird occurring, that a tree spirit was there.*\n\n*Providance would've swung down on the slow moving bat,spiking it down to the ground with one of the tip of his ikakalaka, as a way to stop it from advancing and potentially disarm the creature, as from what he heard horace took a big hit which he assume could've just knocked him out which would mean he wouldn't be able to dodge*\n\n\"You should probably check if horace is knocked out and drag him out of the parasite's range\"" } ]

[ { "author": "com.co", "message": "Just skip me at this point 🤦‍♂️\n\nMf has a skull fracture, he shouldn't even be conscious" }, { "author": "Horace Caranaro", "message": "*Skull fracture. Unconscious.*" }, { "author": "com.co", "message": "Im going to bed bow" } ]

[ { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Horace falls to the ground unconscious, a large burn mark on half of his face. Fortunately, his falling prevents him from getting smacked with the club.*\n\n*Providance's strike is able to chop the club in two. However, by targeting the weak point, the massive head of the club is sent flying straight into Elias. The heavy log slams into her face and torso, sending her flying into a tree. This one isn't a spirit though.*\n\n*The tree spirit can now be observed more closely now that its main threat is gone. A small cluster of spiked fruits are on its back, though these ones are smaller than the jackfruits from earlier. About 4 vines extend from its back, tipped and lined with spikes. Though unarmed, its arms seem to grow bulkier and harden, eventually becoming maces.*\n\n*A small fruit is launch by one of the vines at Providance, and the spirit charges in, performing a right long hook while its left hand guards its face.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've been able to notice almost instantly what was the spirit about to do,making him be able to easily cut the fruit mid air by doing a timed upward slash, he would however keep his ikakalaka up in the air as he knew the spirit was approaching, they would've quickly made their way near each-other and when the spirit was finally about to be in his range, he would've swiftly started a downward strike, chopping off it's right arm.*\n\n\"Slow and over confident of it's strength,a major weakness, this will be it's downfall.\"\n\n*After saying this, providance's hands would start to glow red as he readied his next attack.*\n\nProvidance's mana 97.5/100```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*As the fruit is struck, it explodes into hundreds of tiny fragments, occasionally leaving small welts where they hit. Nothing serious.*\n\n*However, as Providance expects to cleave the tree spirit's arm in two, it instead knocks the arm backwards. He's safe, but the weapon is still intact completely, with only a small mark where the steel hit. 2 vines attempt to grab Providance's forearm, while the tree spirit throws a left hook this time.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've backed away a bit, making sure the vines couldn't catch him and he would've ducked to dodge the left hook,he would've taken the small amount of time ducked to cast fleet foot, making him even faster, after that he would quickly take advantage of the spirits over confidence by striking, and spiking it's face as it wasn't protected anymore by it's arms, a careless decision as this particular strike made by providance was a lot more deadly due to it being empowered.*\n\n\"Careless,Return to dirt parasite.\"\n\nMana 85/100```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*The vines are dodged, and the upward swing cleaves the spirit's face in two. It stumbles back, holding its hands in front of its damaged face. However, instead of dying, it retaliates with a lunging left hook, moving to its own left/Providance's right. The titan can see that the wood is rapidly reforming.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*As the spirit tried to walk away providance would've just walked at a slightly faster pace so it couldn't walk away, meanwhile his hands would glow red once again as he swung down on the left arm that was trying to hook him once again,making it plummet straight to the ground if it wasn't cut, this fight was but a fight of endurance as since the spirit had no vital organ, it relied on mana, and the more providance forced it to spend mana, the faster it'll die, and providance's own mana regenerated fast enough for him to constantly empower his strike.*\n\n```providance casted emp. Strike and immediately used it\nMana 85/100```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*As its hand is struck down, it retracts as soon as possible, covering the face once more. The right hand of the tree spirit launches out with a right straight punch.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've put his ikakalaka facing in the way the of the spirit's hand, his hands would then glow once again as he did a \"Stab\" At the punching hand, knocking it back or even possibly splitting it in half, after that, he would carefully look at the spirit's arm, looking for any sort of possible weak point he could use to force it's regeneration.*\n\n\"Futile attempts,even if it would land a hit and where to do damage, it would be only a minor setback, and yet the longer this fight goes on the less likely it is to stay a 1v1\"\n\n```emp strike again\nFleet foot 4/6\nMana 85/100```" } ]

[ { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*The tree spirit shifts to its right in reaction to the upward strike, preparing to take it on the armored area of the left elbow. However, once it sees the sword switch directions, it only takes a repositioning of the arm upwards to take it on the massive left fist, not doing much except causing some blunt trauma. The boxing tree spirit responds by turning the left hand and moving the edge of the blade onto the elbow, shoving it to the side and throwing a right straight punch as a counter, bringing the left hand back to its face.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've of coursed notice that part of his plan hadn't worked but at-least it was back on the attack as he side stepped to the right and ducked a bit as to make sure the punch missed, he would've also moved his ikakalaka closer, casted emp strike to then \"Hook\" The inside of it's elbow, which was a thing he could still technically do even if the arm was pulled back due to the particular shape of the ikakalaka.*\n```casted emp strike\nFleet foot 1/6\n87.5/100```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Providance's unique attack forces the spirit to flare out its elbow, causing the blade to only inflict a small mark in the wood. However, this means it doesn't have as much protection in the body.*\n\n*A vine grabs another small fruit, throwing it at the titan in an attempt to obscure his vision. The spirit then launches a one two of strange punches, following with a left hook and right uppercut.*" } ]

[ { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "\"A Challenge!\"\n\n*After saying that, providance would crouch down a bit to then use the flat side of the sword to wack the fruit, sending some of the debris back onto the spirit,he would shortly after let himself fall back onto the ground where none of the punches could hit him, but where he could still try to attack due to his absurd range, which is what he would do, he would re-cast emp strike to then time a hook on the right arm to land right after it did it's uppercut and he would've then pulled,perhaps hitting the weak spot but at-least scraping of a lot of the protection it had, the pulling would've also helped him get back up without much time.*\n```casted emp strike\n87.5/100```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*As soon as it sees the Titan fall onto the floor, the tree spirit stops attacking with punches, which wouldn't allow Chair to hook its arm. It would instead use its two vines and grab his legs, trying to pull him closer. Two of the spear-like legs stab towards his gut.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've taken a wide swing at everything that was more or less toward his lower body while retracing his legs back toward his torso and making his upper body go up, making it so that only his feet and ass are touching the ground, which would've allowed him to spring back up into a standing position, having avoided the flurry of hit that the spirit would've unleashed upon him.*\n\n```90/100 mana```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Providance finds himself impaled by the twin spears, embedded in his unarmored gut. His sword is able to cut through them, but he's now injured badly.*\n\n*The spirit reels back, allowing Providance to slowly get up.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've of course gotten up while removing the spear from his guts, after getting up he would've taken a few step back to then start healing that wound, the tree spirit had barely no mana regeneration so taking this time to heal wasn't much of a set back, after that if he had the time, he would throw the spear onto the last fruit and take back his ikakalaka with both hands.*\n```providance casted touch of restoration\n82.5/100 mana```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*The fruit explodes upon contact, though the spirit is unfazed. It rushes Providance, forcing him to take up his sword quickly, trying to fight him before his wound can heal.*\n\n*Also, bold of you to assume the spirit isn't a mutant.*\n\n*The tree spirit throws a left jab, only meant as a set up. It throws a right overhand, which would move downwards, rendering ducking far less effective.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've taken his ikakalaka with both hands seeing the rushing spirit, he would've put his ikakalaka on the flat side putting it in front of the left jab,blocking it, he would of course have noticed it was just a set up as he saw that the spirit was planing to do, knowing that providance would've taken a risk as he did an upward strike at the inside of the elbow of the right hand, casting emp strike before hitting of course.*\n```emp strike\n82.5/100 mana```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*Providance's block is successful, and so is his cut. It ends up penetrating deep into the elbow, and the 'spike' of the blade nearly severs the forearm from the upper arm.*\n\n*However, this isn't before the strike lands. The powerful overhand smacks Providance straight on the top of the head, striking with the power of a strong mace, disorienting him. He should back up if he doesn't want to be punished even more.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance after having finally taking out a arm, would've backed up so he could clear his mind a bit, he took a big hit to the head but that won't take out this big lad! After he stopped being disoriented he would've done a quick but not as powerful stab on the right arm to make sure it falls and won't regenerate.*\n```85/100 mana```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*The tree spirit is playing on the defensive now. It begins backing up, keeping its left arm in front to shield its right arm, which blocks the stab. It keeps on backing, and doesn't seem keen on fighting the Titan for a while.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Providance would've followed the spirit at the same pace it was trying to move away, he would've started to go on a rampage after it blocked his stab, firstly attacking the left arm with the stab from last turn, following with a downward strike on the left arm again, then he would've stabbed up at the face as it was more focused on protecting the other arm, casting emp strike before stabbing the face, obviously.*\n```85/100```" }, { "author": "warlordsuntzu", "message": "*The downward strike is the only one moderately successful; it causes some blunt damage to the spirit, as the force is transferred from its right arm to its head. It's nimble enough though to block Providance's other attacks.*\n\n*The right arm begins to glow green, showing signs that it may start to regenerate.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "\"Your right arm will make a fine weapon once this is over\"\n\n*Providance would've found acceptable that one of those hit actually did something,providance would have done a stab at the remainder of the right arm's elbow as a way to force the left arm to come block, at which point he would hook it onto it's elbow and rip it out, of course casting empowered strike for that, but if the spirit is able to not get his other arm ripped out, he would do an upward strike at the face*\n```casted emp strike\n85/100```" } ]

[ { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "*Ulric walked along a sparsely used dirt path through the Salvainian Empire, the butt of his spear lightly thumping the ground with each step as he used it as a walking stick. It was a fair day in the forest, there was a gentle breeze blowing above the tree tops and just enough sun poked through to keep the air around him warm. There was few that knew, but Ulric was on his way to the capital city of Salvainia in search of work. This man was a soldier of fortune, or a mercenary as many would call him, though either way he had services to sell and the capital city would have the most buyers. The only thing Ulric had to do at this point was keep walking, he had just crossed the Prasia-Salvanian border so there was still a few days journey ahead of him. He enjoyed this though, the peace he felt from being away from civilization was a refresher from his last job. With a slight smile under his helmet Ulric kept walking, keeping a thoughtful eye on the calm forest around him*" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*The rays of the sun shone through the leaves of the trees as Ishikawa hefted the carcass of a deer onto the back of his horse. Leaves littered the ground around him, the forest a sea of golds and reds. The Kitsunes hair shone like the feathers of a raven in the autumn sun as he continued his work, his footsteps barely audible. \n\nHe was disguised as a Macen, as he often was. While he didn't expect to encounter others this far into the forest, he could never be too careful. The hunter was going on one of his last trips for the season before the frost set in, knowing that soon prey would become scarce, and he would have to rely on his dry stock. Blood stained the shoulder of his shirt, and a great fur cloak hung off of the side of the horses saddle. \n\nFor a hunter, he seemed quite young, toeing the line between being a boy and a man, however, silver streaks dotted his hair, and his face seemed perpetually tired. Faded scars crossed his face, seemingly from old illness, though there was a newer one across his nose, matching a set going up his left arm. His eyes were a piercing blue, with silvered flecks that shone in the light. \n\nWhile he heard Ulric approaching, he didn't seem to be alarmed, continuing about his business. He made no attempt to hide himself, but his quiet nature might've made his presence a surprise regardless.*" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "*Ulric's own appearance wasn't too obvious on account of the armor that he wore. He wore a standard steel helm with only a slit in it for him to see out of, with that he also had a gray wool gambeson on with steel pauldrons layered over. His armor was fairly light in terms of what he was used to seeing, but then again he was a former spearman, so fairly light armor was more advantageous.*\n\n*It wasn't too long until Ulric had come upon the stranger, another macen by the seems of it. In response to seeing the man, he gave a wave of acknowledgement before speaking as he approached.* \"Greetings stranger, fair weather in the woods today.\" *It was a fairly standard greeting, but such was given considering how he had the faintest idea who this man was, he could only tell that he was a Macen and that his shoulder was stained with... Blood? Just the sight of the red stain caused the man to briefly falter in his steps as memories or days long gone started to resurface. Ulric was able to repress these memories like he had done many times before, regaining his composure once again before speaking to the man in a more concerned tone.* \"Are you alright sir? Your shoulder seems to have seen better days...\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa took a moment from his work to look at the stranger, gauging the intentions of the man in armor. He didn't seem to be a threat, but it was odd for him to walk around in full armor without a purpose, as well. Ishikawas voice lacked warmth, or any emotion, for that matter.* \n\n\"Greetings to you as well,\" *He looked back to his work, using rope to secure the body of the deer to the back of his horse.* \"It is indeed a fine day.\" \n\n*Ishikawa paused for a moment, taking a look at his shoulder. His work was often what he used to distract himself from the sorrows of his day to day life, and he had a tendency to become so wrapped up in it he failed to notice certain things. Such as his shirt being stained with blood.* \n\n\"Ah. No, I can assure you I am quite alright, it must've gotten upon my shirt whilst carrying my kill.\" *Along with the deer, a rabbit hung off of the side of the horse.*" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "\"Ah I see! That's a relief\" *Ulric relaxed upon hearing that the blood was that of a hunted animal's, it was a relief to him as his medicinal skills were severely lacking. Upon hearing of the hunted game Ulrich cast a glace to the two carcasses that were being hauled by the horse; the deer was of seeming good size from what he could tell and the rabbit was in good condition, seems like this stranger knew what he was doing.* \"You seem to know your way around hunting\"\n\n*This was when Ulric noticed that the stranger was a little weary of his armor, he would be too seeing a random soldier approach him in the forest. There many a reason Ulric wore his armor when travelling, but the simplest and less intimidating was that he had no where else to store it. With his slightly suspicious appearance in mind, Ulric decided to reach up and take his helmet off. Underneath the steel helm was the face of a man in his early thirties, a slight stubble lined his jaw and stretched down to his neck and faded scars from past battles barely showed their ugly faces. Ulric's eyes told a similar story, one studious look could tell that under the thin veil of composure laid a man broken by war.* \"Pardon my armor, I wear it when traveling. Names Ulric by the way\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa shivered as a gust of wind blew past the two of them, carrying leaves with it. Though the weather was nice, a wet shirt simply wouldn't do. Ishikawa began the process of unbuttoning it, but stopped, remembering he had company.* \n\n\"Do you mind if I..?\" *He looked over to the fur cloak that lay draped over the horse, \"I wouldn't want to alarm anyone else.\" \n\nThe man seemed to have trouble meeting the others eyes, but that would make sense, as they were still covered at this point. His gaze trailed to the ground as his arm was planted firmly against his horses side, the beast not minding much as he leaned. He smiled slightly as he was complimented, but it never reached his eyes.* \n\n\"I've known how to hunt since I was just a boy... Now, it's most of what I do. I'd hope I was good at it by now.\" *His smile quickly faded, his face returning to its usual somber state.* \n\n*The Hunter relaxed slightly as the helmet was removed, taking a glance back up at the face of the man. He met his eyes for just a moment, before looking back down again. There was an echo of the pain in Ulrics eyes reflected within the young mans, but it wasn't as obvious as it was in Ulric. His emotions, in general, were kept locked away.* \n\n\"It's quite alright... It's-\" *His voice wavered slightly for a second.* \"It's nice to meet you. You may call me Ishikawa.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "\"Go ahead, dirty clothes will only lead to sickness\" *Ulric knew this all too this well, coming from an impoverished background. He also knew that the sight of blood on one's shirt will cause concern, he fell for it after all. With this, Ulrich turned around as to give the man a semblance of privacy as he changed tops.*\n\n*While facing the opposite way Ulric had listened to what the man had to say, how he had learned how to hunt since young. Ulric couldn't say he had learned any important skills from his upbringing , aside from begging of course. Those are days he'd rather not recall.* \"Hunting is a good thing to know, these days I've resorted more towards fishing\" \n\n\"Its also a pleasure to meet you Ishikawa, though our meeting is under unusual circumstances\" *This was when the man introduced himself as Ishikawa, a name Ulrich couldn't say he had heard before and a name that the man had a hard time pronouncing. Ulric's Upper Mentian accent made it hard for him to string the syllables together, yet he figured it out quick enough. It was also true that these two had met under strange circumstances, it wasn't often you run into a stranger while walking a beaten path after all. This made Ulric a little more curious about Ishikawa, his name was definitely unique for this region so was he from around here?* \"Pardon me asking but you from round these parts?\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa gave an appreciative nod before gingerly slipped his shirt off, putting it into one of the saddlebags on the side of his horse. He had nothing to replace it, so he slipped on the heavy fur cloak, which mostly covered his torso, at least. He murmured,* \n\n\"You can turn around now.\" *Though his cloak covered most of his torso, a large scar was present on what little could be seen of his chest. It looked like it had ran deep when it was still fresh, now mostly healed.* \n\n\"I never was much one for fishing...\" *He used to be decent at it, but after an encounter that caused the majority of his scars, he found his hand shook far too much to set up a pole, let alone remove a fish from the hook. He wondered if the other had noticed his hand shaking.* \n\n*Wherever Ishikawa was from, it didn't seem to be from Mentia, or any of the nearby lands, for that matter. His fair skin and piercing eyes signaled he came from the north, far away from Salvania.* \n\n\"Well, I'm quite used to meeting others in strange places...\" \n\n*The Kitsune hesitated when asked where he was from, not being open about much of his background, but, given he didn't expect to encounter this man again, he decided to continue.* \n\n\"I'm from lands far north from here, not ones that are well known... I was cast out to make a name for myself when I was but a boy, and I've resided here in Salvania since.\"" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "*At being told that he could turn back around Ulric did just that. Now facing the man he could see the the man was just wearing his cloak, a scar barely peaking out from under the heavy fur garment. Ulric paid little mind to this though as he too had scars, though he did wonder about the story behind Ishikawa's scar. This was when Ishikawa mentioned his lack of interest in fishing, it was understandable in Ulric's eyes as it was only after his retirement from the military when he had taken an interest in the art.* \"No worries, fishing isn't for everyone. Hell, it was barely for me before...\"\n\n*Ulric's words drifted a little, as if he reluctant to share much of his past. This drifting was cut off by Ishikawa speaking of the northern lands where he had come. Ulric hadn't ever heard of any lands far north of this continent, but then again he isn't the most knowledgeable about what lands did and didn't exist after all, it was his first real journey out of the borders of Upper Mentia after all.* \"Lands far North? Can't say I've heard of 'em. I come from Upper Mentia, west of here, though it has been a short while since I've been back. Cause work and all*" } ]

[ { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*The Hawk that had been circling overhead swooped down, landing rather gracefully on the back of the horse, for such a large creature. It fluffed its feathers as Ishikawa reached a hand out, gently stroking the top of the creatures head. He said something in a language his companion couldn't understand, but it seemed to be some sort of compliment to the bird. Then, as quick it had come, it darted out again, flapping its wings hard enough to brush Ishikawas hair to the side with the wind. It returned shortly after, a pheasant in it's talons. It set the carcass of the other bird before him, tilting it's head as if it was expecting something. The hunter cooed to the animal, gently taking the Pheasant from it.* \n\n\"Good, Havock.\" *The mans voice had a genuine warmth to it that hadn't been present previously, though it slowly faded as he went back to addressing Ulric, the hawk hopping up onto Ishikawas shoulder.* \n\n\"Not many have. A trip across the sea is not one many will take... It's a journey that takes several months...\" *Ishikawa quickly affixed the pheasant to the other side of his horse, looking back up at Ulric as they spoke, though he still failed to meet his eyes.* \n\n\"What sort of work do you do? If you mind my asking.\"" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "Ulric watched with interest as Ishikawa interacted with the hawk, he hadn't known it was possible for such a bond to be made between a bird of prey and a macen. It was possible though, that was obvious enough considering how the macen in front of him had a perfectly calm hawk perched right on his shoulder. \"Can't say I've seen a macen falconer before, you're just full of surprises aren't ya\"\n\n\"As for what work I do? To put it lightly, I'm a soldier of fortune.\" This was when Ishikawa had asked about Ulric's line of work, it wasn't that personal of a question considering his armor and such. Ulric also didn't like to use the term 'mercenary' when referring to what he did for work, to him it implied that he was an undisciplined, ruthless fighter and he knew full well that he was not that. Ulric leaned a little on his spear as he wondered what Ishikawa here did for work. Being a hunter made sense, but the scars he had indicated run-ins with beasts far fiercer than deer or rabbits. \"Same question can be asked to you, seems like you've experienced many a battle\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*The Hawk responded by gently pulling on Ishikawas hair, playing with it as it sat, the 'Macen' unable to hide a grin as he side-eyed the raptor.* \n\n\"My family raised birds for Falconry. We grew up together, you could say. I've had him since at least my 10th year, if not earlier.\" \n\n*Ishikawa seemed to look him over more carefully when it was revealed Ulric was a 'Mercenary'. In contrast to his armored companion, Ishikawa didn't seem to have any sort of bladed weapon, only a bow; though, if one were to look more closely, a sword belt hung across his waist, empty. His smile faded as he was asked about his work, a distant look crossing his eyes. He started to speak, but stopped himself, turning his head towards the horizon.* \n\n\"I hunt monsters, by trade. Though...\" *His voice became quieter and somber in tone.* \"I wouldn't call the beasts I am paid to hunt monsters.\" \n\n*Barely audible now, only a whisper.* \n\n\"It's the people.\" \n\n*His hand absentmindedly trailed across a great scar on his neck, left hand visibly trembling as he did.*" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "*The wisper Ishikawa let out barely stood out from the light breeze of forest, yet Ulric was still able to hear just enough to get the gist. It seems like Ishikawa doesn't quite enjoy hunting these monsters and instead holds a grudge against those that hires him to do such, this was Ulric's interpretation at least due to his own background. While Ulric wasn't always contracted to kill as he wasn't an assassin, there were times when killing was a part of a job he was tasked with. Ulric didn't enjoy killing others much like how he assumed Ishikawa didn't enjoy killing the beats, this connection shone a different light upon his acquaintance.* \"You don't have to tread carefully with your words 'round me, I understand what you mean by saying people are monsters... Seen it myself many a time.\"\n\n*Ulric's eyes dropped to the ground for a moment as fragments of repressed memories of past jobs tried to claw their way back into his mind. He had done some terrible things in the past in the name of money so it wasn't unfair to call himself a monster too, though it was the regret he felt that proved he still had a sense of morality. Ulric stopped himself from thinking on it too much though as this was no time for sorrow after all, instead he focused on what Ishikawa had said about his family and falconry.* \"Your family seems like an interesting bunch, I guess macen from the northern lands take up different professions than those here.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*The bird stopped playing with his hair as it sensed his solemn mood, instead burrowing lovingly into the side of his neck, as if it seemed to understand the change in mood. His hand gently caressed it, mumbling something softly to it, a message of gratitude. It did little to change his expression, however. \n\nThe wind around them picked up now, what once was a pleasant day, now turned, the subtle warmth of the sun being replaced by a biting cold. As leaves swirled around them, it seemed as if nature itself had sensed the change in mood. Ishikawa shivered, though it was unclear if it was from the cold or... Something else. Memories. \n\nAs the topic changed back to his family, a hint of a new emotion was heard in his voice. Bitterness. He didn't seem to be aware of it, but it was there all the same.* \n\n\"You could... Say that. They're renowned monster hunters where I am from.\" *The bird on his shoulder pressed itself against his hand, forcing him to pet it when he had halted momentarily. He gave a superficial smile, then continued.* \n\n\"They send each of their children out into the world once they near maturity, with little more than the clothes on their back and a weapon to make a name for themselves. If they don't return... Well, I suppose it's no loss to them.\" \n\n\"After all, I've heard nothing from my family for 3 years.\"" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "*The sudden appearance of the cold was even felt through Ulric's layers of armor and clothes, though it wasn't enough to concern him. What did concern him was what Ishikawa had said about his family, how they were reputable monster hunters and their tradition of forcefully sending their own children to carry out the family profession. Ulric let out a deep, exasperated sigh before mumbling under his breath* \"Seems like even the farthest of lands have their injustices..\"\n\n\"You said it's been three years since you've been sent away, how old does that make you now?\" *While it was clear that Ishikawa was on the younger side, it was hard to place his age since he looked so beaten and battered. It made sense though, Ulric knew how dangerous the wilds could be from his own three years in the wilderness, though he went through those three years willingly... It doesn't seem like Ishikawa had much a choice* \"Pardon me for asking by the way, It's only out of curiosity" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*As wind continued to blow past them, Ishikawa reflected momentarily. Why was he telling this stranger so much about himself? Him, who had spent so much time alone. All of the people he bothered to get close with disappeared, his relationships impermanent, like the wind. But he knew, deep down, it was because he was lonely. It had been months since his last meaningful conversation with someone, months since he had even bothered to remember the name of another. He couldn't keep himself in self-inflicted solitude; he'd go insane. And, as he finally looked Ulric in the eyes, he knew the man could relate to what he had gone through. \n\nHis eyes began to water, being saved from tears by the biting cold. He couldn't answer right away, it took him some time to think. He thought it had been 3 years at least, but he honestly wasn't sure. The months had bled together, a mix of drug-induced haze and pain. Uncertain, he forced himself to answer, having taken too long already.* \n\n\"Nineteen... I'm... Nineteen.\"" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "*Ulric had waited patiently for Ishikawa to respond, he could tell that he was struggling through his many emotions so he let the man take his time. While the interaction with this stranger had gone off the deep end a little, Ulric found a sort of solace in knowing that there was someone out there that had shared similar pains* \n\n*When Ishikawa had finally responded, telling Ulric that he was but only nineteen, well the man didn't really know what to say. He was sort of taken aback, not by the young man's age but more so by the fact that he had experienced so much hardship in such a short period of time. The lives the both of them lived were full of pain, that much was obvious to Ulric, it allowed him understand Ishikawa just a little more* \"You're just a kid, damn... I mean I kicked off my soldiering work when I was eighteen, but you were kicked out at what? Sixteen!?\"\n\n*There was a small inkling of astonishment in Ulric's voice, seeing a kid like Ishikawa make it this far on sheer willpower alone was impressive to say the least. Ulric had also approached Ishikawa, stopping just in front of him before setting his right hand on the young man's shoulder* \"You've got a great deal of willpower kid, but you've also got pain in ya... More pain than you should at your age, it may be best to just let it out at this point\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Upon being touched on the shoulder, Ishikawa couldn't resist the tears that began to fall down his face any longer. A small amount of silver mist swirled around him, revealing a set of fox ears upon his head and two tails. The Kitsune felt no need to hide his true self any longer. He could only hope the reveal of his deception didn't drive Ulric away... \n\nShaking, Ishikawa began to quietly sob, tightly hugging Ulric once he had finished speaking. His ears angled down, and his twin tails hung limply. His hair stood on it's end from the cold; the Hunter continuing to keep close to Ulric, despite the cold metal of his armor. Softly, he spoke, a tremor in his voice,* \n\n\"Thank you.\"" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "*Ulric was a little surprised when Ishikawa suddenly embraced him, though he didn't push the young man away. Instead Ulric wrapped his arms around Ishikawa and just held him, something unexpected happened. The man that was in Ulric's arms changed, a set of fox ears replaced his macen ears and a pair of fox tails had appeared. Had Ishikawa been a kitsune the whole time? While it was very much a surprise to him, Ulric didn't have much a problem with Ishikawa showing his true form, to him it was more of a sign of trust* \n\n\"So you finally decide to show your true self? Don't worry kid, I won't see ya any differently\" *Ulric chuckled a little as he patted the young kitsune man on the back before letting him go from the embrace. Ulric then grasped Ishikawa by the shoulders and looked at him in the eye with a kind smile before speaking once more* \"And don't think of yourself weak cause of a moment like this, seen soldiers stronger than yourself in a state like this before. It's only natural I guess\"" }, { "author": "nikstarling", "message": "*Ishikawa didn't remember the last time he had hugged someone. The last time... It must've been with Ikari. That's what he thought, at least. It had been so long since he had last seen her... If she was still alive, he had no idea where she went. Would Ulric just be another on a long list of those who had disappeared without a trace? He didn't want to think about it.* \n\n*As Ulric stepped away, he wanted to ask him not to leave, but he didn't. He felt somewhat ashamed, hiding himself as he did. But it was for his own safety, that's what he told himself, at least. He had trouble being... Open. As Ulric consoled him, he smiled slightly, wanting to say something, but still unable to force words out. He nodded instead. Even if he could speak, he didn't think words could explain his gratitude to the man that had been a stranger but an hour ago.*" }, { "author": "Ulric Bekker", "message": "*Ulric could tell that Ishikawa had much on his mind regarding the current situation, he did as well though no words came to really help put his thoughts to words. To remedy this, Ulric decided it may have been best to try and move the conversation forward a little. He knew Ishikawa probably had somewhere to be so was it best for him to hold him up?* \"I don't mean to ruin the moment here but I have to ask, do you have some place to be?\" \n\n*While Ulric only had a vague destination for his travels, he wasn't sure if Ishikawa was on a bit of a schedule especially since the day was starting to transition into an evening. As much as Ulric didn't want to upright and leave the young man, he knew that if Ishikawa had important things to tend to then it was best to leave him at it. This was an idea sprung into the macen's mind* \"I know you have your hunted game to tend to, but I'd love to share a drink with you. You'd be a fine friend to have these days\"" } ]

[ { "author": "beans16", "message": "`Jos and Beans RP Continued`" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "*Upon arrival, they would be met by the sounds of a waterfall and a frozen river to their right. In front of them, would be Addy's humble abode in which her boyfriend likely awaited them. Addy would look at her house with a smile before turning to Juna* \"Well... Here we are!\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would prick up at the sound of the roaring water, soon enough finding them lying flat atop her head at how loud it was. Her gaze flitted over towards the waterfall, scanning the area as she found herself shying a bit away from it with them nearing the house. There was something about rushing water that the Canifor simply couldn't help but keep her distance from or any body of water for that matter. With Addy introducing the house, she'd come to a stop and take in the new place she'd be staying at for the time being.*\"It... Looks nice...\"*She'd say in a quiet tone, her timidity soon returning with the realization that soon enough she'd have to meet Addy's boyfriend and possibly be met with the awkwardness of staying in his home.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would be able to notice that Juna didn't exactly like the waterfall but she figured that Juna would eventually get used to it since it does end up being quite calming after a while. Noticing that Juna was a bit worried to meet her boyfriend, Addy would take Juna's hand in hers and guide her towards the house* \"Don't worry, he's not scary at all and he'll be very excited to meet a friend of mine\" *She would say with a reassuring smile as she got out some towels from her bag to dry the animals' paws before they went inside*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would be in bed, he was a little battered after a hard hard he was on, his ears would twitch slightly at the sound of visitors, but he would realize it was just his girl, but there was someone else. The waterfall was quite soft compared to the spring times when the ice actually melts and the water is free to flo*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"...Are... You sure...?\"*She questioned the Macen. Juna didn't really like the act of doubting what Addy said, especially with her thinking of the Canifor to be like a sister. However, Juna never had many good encounters with new people. Not to mention the fact of having to stay with them for several months. The last home she went to, the people there were unsettling to say the least. Well, in presence alone anyways. Jace didn't seem to carry as much concern as her, darting forward to sniff at the new house they had come to. Juna thought about calling him back, though she couldn't bring herself to end the Jackal's moments of excitement after their time apart.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Positive\" *She would say with a reassuring smile. Her boyfriend had mentioned many times that he wanted Addy to make friends of her own too. She would dry that pups' paws before opening the door, feeling the warm air hit her rosy cold cheeks and nose* \"Welcome to my humble abode\" *She would say as Azura dashed inside to her little bed and Addy held her arm out for Juna to come inside*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would get off his bed and go down stairs to greet her and her friend. He would hug her with a loving hug, picking her up in his arms and giving her nose a kiss* \"Heya beautiful, missed ya\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gradually made her way to the door, her fur flattening at the sudden warmth after a long time of traveling. She relished it for a moment as she stood by the doorway, only to be interrupted by Kibaru coming up to greet Addy. The Canifor froze where she stood watching them, not from the cold but instead something else. A sense of familiarity. Her brain scrambled through her old memories, shifting to when she was scouting the forests of Salvania for potential dangers. Wait, hasn't she met him before? Her mouth opened to say something, soon clamping it shut as her own thoughts were answered in remembering a peculiar Okamimi disguised as a Macen. Jace, on the other hand, decided not to hide this fact, quickly scrambling into the house and hopping up on Kibaru as he searched him for more food.*" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "*Addy would giggle and blush a little bit as Kibaru picked her up into his arms* \"I missed you too\" *She would say, giving him a quick peck on his cheek before seeing the two pups, Azura and Jace, hopping onto their hind legs so that they could get Kibaru's attention. Jace's behaviour made Addy giggle a little bit since she found it quite adorable but she would soon say* \"It seems like Jace knows you. Have you two perhaps... Met before?\" *She would get down from his arms so that he could attend to the pups*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He would put her back down before regarding the two* \" Hey there little guys\" *He would go down and pat the two* \"I guess we do, though I'm not exactly good with names. And who's the adorable little pup?\" *He would have noticed Juna but would a dress her a little later*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna found her gaze dropping to the floor while the two talked. Maybe he did forget, though Juna wasn't exactly sure if that was a good thing or not. If he did, perhaps they could simply start new again, not that much would change even if they did. Jace would let out a huff of air in disappointment of not finding any food on him, soon taking new interest in wandering about the house.*" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "\"That little one is Azura\" *She would say as she looked over at Juna, took her hand in hers, walked over to the fireplace, and had Juna sit down with a blanket before going to the kitchen to make some hot chocolate for all three of them* \"You like your hot chocolate any particular way Juna?\" *She would say as she put some food in two bowls for the two pups* \"By the way Juna, as I'm sure you can already tell, that's my boyfriend that I've told you so much about\" *She would say with a subtle, shy smile*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Hai. Names Kibaru, but you can call me Kiba. You one of Addy's friends then\" *He asked before sitting down for a bit*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna sat down by the fire as Addy guided her over to it, sitting cross legged with her tail wrapped around herself.*\"Nice to... Meet you too Kibaru...\"*She said glancing back at him. 'Again.' She thought to herself. Jace re-entered the room, pacing around the Canifor. Juna turned her head to look back towards Addy as she asked how she wanted her hot chocolate.*\"I'm... Not to sure... I've... Never had hot chocolate before...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would smile to herself as she was happy the two were getting along so far. She would widen her eyes when Juna said she never had hot chocolate before* \"Really?! Oh boy you're definitely in for a treat! I'll make it the way I usually make it for Kibaru and I and I'll also get started on dinner prep since we haven't eaten much today\" *She would say as she began to make the hot chocolate before taking some ingredients out of the fridge for their dinner*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Why like mine though?\" *He asked frowning a bit. He would also stretch and yawn a bit on the sofa*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Her ears would flick at his response. With Jace nearing her, she would give the Jackal a small pat on his head.*\"It's okay... You don't have to make mine any special way...\"*She responded.*\"I'm sure any kind will be fine-\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Well you and I typically have our hot cocoa the same way with part water and part milk which in my opinion is the best way to have it\" *She would say to Kibaru as she finished preparing the hot chocolate, taking the two mugs filled with it, and giving it to Juna and Kibaru* \"Let me know how it tastes\" *She would say with a smile as she went back to the kitchen to cook their dinner, pointing at the bowls of food for the pups*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Then just say you're making it like how you like it. Oh and which Milk is this?\" *He asked with a smile on his face as he took his cup" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She took the mug in her hands, a feeling of surprise washing over her from how warm it was. Staring down at the brown liquid, Juna took the smallest sip of it before soon drawing her head away. It wasn't that she didn't like the taste necessarily, but it felt strange to her.*\"It's... Nice...\"*She said simply, unable to formulate her words on her opinion of it. At least it helped warm her hands for everything which she took to enjoy in front of the fire. Seeing Addy pointing towards the bowls, Jace quickly rushed over to begin eating at it, not caring which one was his really.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would blush at Kibaru's comment* \"Well I didn't have time to get the one that you prefer\" *She would say, hoping that would answer his question as she took a sip of her hot chocolate. Azura would also walk over to her bowl and begin eating her food. Addy would also begin to take out the meat from the fridge, grabbing some seasonings from the cupboard, and she would start to cook their dinner*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"No not that silly. I was asking which milk, the one is goat's milk and the other normal cows milk\" *He said before laughing a bit at her thoughts, usually he would tease her, but decided it best not when her friend was here*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears flicked back as she listened to their conversation. She'd eventually place the mug on the ground in front of her, moving her now empty hands to seek warmth from the fire. Glancing over at Azura, Jace's nose would begin twitching in curiosity at what she was eating, soon making his way over to try to sneak a bit of food from her bowl in seeing if it tasted better.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Oh it's just regular cow's milk\" *She would say with a bit of embarrassment but thankfully her back was to them so he wouldn't be able to see her face* \"Juna how do you like your meat cooked?\" *She would say as she began to cook the meat. Jace would also soon realize that Addy had given them both the same food*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"You can count yourself quite lucky we have guest or I'd make even your ears red\" *He said with a smirk before looking towards the jackal and wolf cub*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Medium rare is fine...\"*She answered. It felt odd sitting and listening to the twos conversation. Eventually she'd allow her ears to lay back down flat to not eavesdrop on them. Discovering that the food was the same didn't seem to deter the Jackal. Food was always better on someone else's plate in his eyes anyways as he would lick away at the small bits a food around the edge of her bowl.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Oh shush\" *She would say softly to Kibaru* \"Alright and do you want vegetables?\" *She would say as she flipped the meat*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I'm ok with it, you Juna?\" *He asked just to confirm*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yeah, I'm fine with Vegetables...\"*She said, turning her gaze over to her Jackal and clicking her tongue to draw his attention away from Azura's food. He gazed up at her, tongue hanging out rather contently as he licked his chops in satisfaction.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She nodded as she cut up some vegetables and put them in a pan to roast on the stove. She would then take the meat off of the grill, letting them rest on the chopping board for a few minutes while she went to set up the dining table*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"It's getting rather cold, isn't it\" *Kibaru asked kind of feeling a little awkward*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Have you been traveling a lot...?\"*Juna asked in remembrance of Addy mentioning how often he was out on his business trips. Well there was that and the thought of the both of them recently having just escaped the coldness of the outside. The fire helped at least, most of the cold ebbing away from her.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would finish cooking the food, putting it on a plate and then on the table. She would then put some meat in the two pups' bowls before gesturing to them to come sit at the table. She didn't want to say anything as she didn't want to interrupt their conversation*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"As of late, yeah. I mean, it is winter and people do need food. That and I've been exploring more lately\" *He said as he Got up to go sit at the table*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna kept by the fire, Jace eventually coming over to sit by her after becoming too full to continue eating all the food Addy gave. The Canifor gave him a small pat before eventually getting up to go join the others at the table.*\"Oh...\"*She responded.*\"Have you finished mapping the rest of Salvania's forest...?\"*Juna could recall the Okamimi once telling her how he was trying to map out the area back when she once warned him of the dangers of the forest. Maybe this is what he's been doing the whole time. At least it would explain his home being near the area.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Azura would wobble over to Jace and nuzzle him with her nose. Addy would sit at the head of the table so that she could sit between Kibaru and Juna while also being able to serve food for everyone. She would have a gentle smile on her face hearing them converse*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well yeah, Though I've been having to update it allot with new spots and lairs and what not. The winter Map does tend to be a little different from the summer maps\" *He said with a sigh. When he said mapping out, He meant mostly marking down spots where both prey and predators are active*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna had decided to take a seat next to Addy, sitting across from Kibaru.*\"And you didn't have any bad encounters... In the forest...?\"*She asked. Jace regarded the wolf pup as she nuzzled him, playfully grabbing her ear as he would try to wrestle with her.*" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "*Azura would play with Jace as well but Addy would make sure to keep a careful eye on them as Azura was still so young and Addy didn't want anything to happen to her. Addy would then proceed to serving each of them a grilled steak and some vegetables* \"Sorry to interrupt but are there any other drinks that you both would like or another side dish that you'd like me to make?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would look at his body a bit, it would have a few bandages and what not. And there was a scar on his left cheek* \"Well, this kinda happened due to an encounter with a few misplaced creatures\" *He said before regarding the food and beginning to eat*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"No, no-\"*Juna quickly said to Addy.*\"This is fine... Just... Just some water would be nice...\"*Her gaze passed back over to Kibaru, taking notice of his injuries in confusion of what he meant by what he said.*\"Misplaced creatures...?\"" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "*As soon as Addy heard about his wounds, having not noticed them earlier since she was busy getting everything settled, she would turn to him with worry written all over his face* \"Why didn't you tell me about this?! I'll treat your wounds properly later\" *She would say as she got up to get Juna some water. When she got back from the kitchen, she would hand Juna her water before beginning to eat her own food, not looking at Kibaru in the process*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Because... It's already been treated properly and happened a few day ago. Don't worry so much. You're going to have to get use to this sight.\" *He said responding to her*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna fell silent as the water was brought to her. Eventually she'd begin to eat the food in silence as she listened to the conversation between the two of them. Jace had found himself laying in the ground lazily, letting out a huff of air at the pup.*" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "*Azura would nuzzle against Jace and cuddle with him as she closed her eyes* \"On a different note\" *She would say, avoiding his comment* \"Juna will be staying with us for the winter season and will be helping me with my clothes business\" *She would say as she took another couple of bites of her food*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would drop his utensils and stair at her in silence for a bit* \"R-right... You mentioned s-something of this kind\" *He would then sigh deeply before he continued to eat* \"And You will be taking responsibility for her, that includes making sure she and her Jackal stay well behaved.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears flicked annoyingly at the comment. Finding herself placing down her utensil, she would say:*\"Excuse me Kibaru, but I'm fully capable of keeping my own behavior in check.\"*She thought about mentioning Jace as well, though it would be a lie to say she could fully control his behavior, even now with him peacefully dozing next to Azura. Her tone seemed to carry a bit of a sharper edge to it, a lack of appreciation in the way he spoke of her. It reminded her of his comment back in the forest, bringing the same feeling of distaste.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I won't allow you to speak of Juna like that. She and her pup are like family to me so I will do anything to help them.\" *She would say as she brought her empty dishes to the kitchen* \"Juna if you're done eating, I'll bring you to your room\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"And by any chance, is she paying rent? Is she doing house chores, aside from cleaning up after herself?\" *He asked a little annoyed* \"No, she is staying here under you're decision, which I respect. But in that case, you are responsible for her action as you were the one to invite her, which I don't mind... Not too much anyway.\" *He said that last part softly, but it was still audible*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna opened her mouth to say something only to abruptly close it once more in not being able to give a proper response. She turned her gaze away from Kibaru, staring back down at her food with a loss of appetite. Perhaps he was right, who was she to lounge around in someone else's house anyways? Maybe she shouldn't have given up on trying to hunt out in the forests of Lymia so easily.*\"Yeah...\"*She eventually said in a quiet tone.*\"Yeah... I'm done eating...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Come with me then\" *She would say as she shot Kibaru a death glare. She was quite upset with him and decided not to talk with him for the rest of the evening. She was really looking forward to spending some quality time with him after months of being apart but she felt like he didn't trust her when it came to Juna*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*She might have felt he didn't trust her, but he was trying to say that he trust her to look after Juna* \"She can sleep in the lower room. And please do take care I don't step in something, both of you.\" *Kibaru said as he continued eating his food*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna stood up from the table, following after Adeliza in silence. Seeing his owner gett up, Jace would roll over onto his stomach, soon hopping up to follow after her with his tail wagging behind him.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Once Addy settled Juna in her room, she would take Jace and Azura into the backyard to do their business. Once she came back inside, she'd go change into some more comfortable clothing*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would finish up the remaining food before standing up with a stretch and moving to sit comfortably on the couch with some warm milk in hand. He would the give a long relieving sigh* \"It's food to be back home... Though I guess I'm going to have to bit a tinny but quiter now that we have someone else in the house\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Making their way to the room, Juna would say a quiet 'thank you' to Addy before she walked off to take the others outside. She made her way to the bed, coming to lay down in a tired heap. It had been such a long journey getting here and now she wasn't completely sure if she was even welcomed. Maybe she could try hunting outside again. After all, she was more accustomed to Salvania. The snow wasn't favored, but everyone had to live with it she supposed.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would bring Jace to Juna's room once she was done and she would say a quiet goodnight to her before going to the kitchen to take care of the dishes as she normally does*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would be half fallen half asleep on the couch, it has been a while since he had a good rest in his home. It was only here where he could fall asleep enough to be venerable*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*With Jace accompanying her in the room, he would briskly hop up into the bed to join her. She reached her hand out to give him a pat on the head and with her free hand would reach for an arrow from her quiver.*\"Don't worry Jace...\"*She said.*\"I'm sure we'll find some job to do... Even if it isn't hunting like we're used to to...\"*Jace merely stared back at her blankly. Of course he probably wouldn't be any less content to getting free meals everyday, but the Jackal had to go out and do something every now and then, the Canifor too.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would head over to Kibaru and get his mug from him before whispering \"You better apologize to her or else I'm gone forever\". She would then go back to the kitchen, wash the mug, and head upstairs to their bedroom*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I said nothing wrong. I just said what I had to. I doubt she's content having to free load on us. It probally weighs on her mind... Probally. I mean. It would bother me. And it probally did for you as well in the beginning... Probally. Just make sure to take care of her. Any problems she causes will be in your hands to solve.\" *He said quite content that he finally found the words* \"Does this mean I'm sleeping on the couch tonight?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I know and her and I already had this conversation. She will help me with all housework and her and I will do everything together since she's like my sister. And no, you've had a long journey so go upstairs and sleep on the bed. I'll sleep on the couch\" *She would say with her back facing him since she was quite exhausted and just needed rest* \"Just apologize to her in the morning since you hurt her quite a bit\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Nope. That's not how it works. The man sleeps on the couch. But if you want join me, you can go grab us a blanket.\" *He said stretching and relaxing on the couch. He was seriously to tired to stand back up again*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I'll just sleep on the floor with Azura.\" *She would say as she got a blanket for herself and for him, tossing the blanket on his face in a slightly playful manner before grabbing an extra pillow from the couch for her to use*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Stop being so stubborn\" *He said before suddenly reacting and grabbing her. Hugging her tightly as he nuzzled her cheek*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would get butterflies in her stomach as he pulled her onto his chest which she nuzzled her face into since, even though she didn't verbally admit it, she missed his warm embrace* \"I-I'm n-not being stubborn\" *She would say as she hugged him tightly, allowing herself to finally relax*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"If that's so, you would have derided to cuddle me long ago. You're not the only one that's missed the other\" *He said with a smile before bombarding her face with kisses*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would giggle as she felt that fluttery feeling inside of her that she always does when she's with him. Sensing the excitement coming from the two of them, Azura would decide to come over to the couch and lean against it by standing on her hind two legs, also offering kisses to the two of them*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would calmly place his finger on its head a keep it at a distance* \"Woah now girl. Not the moment to come seeking attention\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would place a kiss on Azura's head while stroking her fur* \"Come now why don't you go to sleep, hm?\" *She would say as she gently helped her lie down on the ground, giving her gentle strokes down her head to her back*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would be somewhat irritated by her getting the attention, but tried his best not to show it to much*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*After a few minutes, she would turn her attention back to her boyfriend since Azura was asleep* \"Jealous much?\" *She'd say with a bit of a smile*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Quite.\" *He said before looking away and pouting* \"I better be getting allot of attention tonight or I won't forgive you\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would giggle as she kissed his cheek before placing her hand on his cheek, gently stroking it with her thumb as she knows he likes it when she does that. She would then place a quick peck on his pouting lips* \"Well I'm not planning on going anywhere for the rest of the evening so I can give you all the cuddles you desire\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"For tonight I guess that'll have to do, huh?\" *He said hugging her tightly before falling down on the couch laying with her in his arms* \"But I'm feeling really tired, so let's get some rest first, Kay?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I think I agree with that\" *She would say as she let out a big yawn, closing her eyes, and snuggling into him*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*And not long would pass before he was deep asleep around her*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's eyes flitted open to the darkness of early morning, finding herself awakened once more in this new environment with the distant sound of a waterfall. She got out of bed, grabbing her bow before she'd make her way to the door. In feeling her move, her Jackal would instantly wake up and hop off the bed to follow her. She made a small hand gesture to tell him to keep quiet as she would creep her way back up the stairs with her Jackal following at the heels. Heading back to the main room, the Canifor caught a glimpse of the two sleeping with one another before eventually turning her gaze away to the front door and making her way over to it. She pressed her hand against the door, slowly opening it to feel the cool breeze of the early morning air reach her before she would take a step outside.*" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "*As Addy started to hear movement and the sound of a door opening, she would begin to open her eyes, rubbing them as she tried to rid them of tiredness. She had a feeling that it was Juna so she would carefully get off of Kibaru so as not to wake him, carefully stepping around Azura as she headed to her bedroom to change into some warmer clothes. When she came back downstairs, she would decide to head out into the backyard to check on Juna*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna went outside, trudging through the heavy snow while instinctively keeping her arms crossed to shield herself from the cold. The snow seemed to come up relatively high on her boots, but fortunately enough not reaching the top of them. Jace followed behind her, bounding from one bit of snow to the next. Reaching into her quiver, Juna would grab one of her arrows and notch it into her bow as she gazed out into the nearby forest for any signs of prey. She doubted many would be awake at this time, but maybe she could wait a bit longer.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She could see Juna and Juna would be able to hear her approach since she wasn't super quite when walking through snow. When she got to her, she would give her a hug and wish her good morning* \"Did you sleep well?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears flicked back at the sound of Addy's approach, soon finding herself receiving a hug by the Macen which only caused her to go still before she finally realized it was only Addy.*\"Oh- yeah... I slept alright...\"*She answered, stretching the truth with her inability to sleep well in newer areas. Eventually she'd turn around to be able to fully face her.*\"What... What are you doing up this early...?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Well I wanted to come and check on you but I also wanted to apologize for everything my boyfriend said last night. He didn't realize that you and I had already talked about those matters but I also spoke to him about it last night too\" *She would say as she looked out at the forest* \"But how about you help me with breakfast this morning to show him that he was wrong in what he said\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"It's alright...\"*Juna said, her ears lowering slightly. She figured she shouldn't have expected anything different, but it was still surprising nonetheless to see the same Okami from the forest. With Addy suggesting she helped with breakfast, Juna would cast a glance back towards the forest.*\"Well... I was planning on trying to hunt for something... Maybe... Find something to eat out here...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I think that's a wonderful idea\" *She would say with a smile* \"I'll head inside then and prepare some other dishes that will go along with breakfast. Is there anything in particular that you'd like?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"You don't have to worry about me.\"*She said, offering a smile.*\"I'll be sure to catch something for myself as well.\"*Jace let out a huff of air from where he had been sniffing along the ground. Turning his head back towards them, he let out a quiet bark to get his owner's attention before continuing onwards.*\"Oh... And Jace as well-\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alright sounds good\" *She would say as she gave her a quick hug again* \"I'll be making some pancakes and cutting some fruit which I think will accompany the meat that you catch very well\" *She'd say before heading back towards the house* \"If you need anything, you know where to find me!\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She gave a light chuckle.*\"Alright...\"*Juna said, her tail giving a small flick as she hugged Addy back before watching the Macen head back to the house. She stared after her for a while, waiting for her to return to the house only to be interrupted from a sudden bark coming from Jace.*\"Alright alright... I'm coming.\"*She said, turning to follow after him.*\"We'll try to catch as many as we can before noon...\"*Juna said to him as the Jackal continued his progression forward. The Canifor would glance back towards the house briefly, a faint smile appearing.*\"Maybe this won't be so bad after all...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would have gone back to sleep for a short while after bidding goodbye to Juna but she would wake once more after a few hours. She would then go to the kitchen to begin gathering the ingredients for the pancakes and for a small fruit salad*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*As the sun had long since rose above the horizon, the Canifor had eventually returned to the house. In her hand were a couple of voles that seemed to have run out of luck in the face of the huntress. They weren't filling whatsoever, but the cold had already started to take its toll on the two and in the end they found themselves returning early. She knocked on the door as she drew near it, waiting to be let inside to escape the cold once more.*" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "*As soon as she heard knocks on the door, Addy rushed over to it, knowing that it was Juna. She quickly opened the door so that she could come inside the house* \"Welcome back! Would you like some tea?\" *She would say as she got Jace to clean off his paws on the doormat before coming inside the house. Once he had done that, she would head over to the fireplace and add more wood so that its warmth could be felt once more*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Will... Will it be warm-\"*She said through gritted teeth as she ushered herself inside to escape the cold wind. Juna never favored the cold. She favored it even less now in having to deal with it. The Canifor longingly glanced towards the fireplace, tempted to quickly run over to it and not move away from its warmth. However, she had returned from a hunt and it was probably best to have to prey cooked before it soiled.*\"I... Caught...\"*She found it hard to finish the sentence, instead deciding to hold out the two voles by their long tails.*\"Food-\"*She just decided to say simply. Jace paced around the Canifor excitedly, his tail wagging as he waited for her to possibly drop the two animals down to him.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I slept like a rock\" *Kibaru said suddenly, having woken up by the two disregarding silence as he slept* \"What's for breakfast?\" *He asked sniffing the air*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Well my dear... Juna was so kind to go hunting for all of us\" *She would say as she helped Juna take off her boots and coat, instantly wrapping a fuzzy blanket around her for warmth. She'd then guide her to the kitchen where she could place the two voles down. She'd then hand her a nice hot cup of tea* \"Be careful not to burn your tongue\" *She'd say to Juna with a smile* \"I'm going to get started on some pancakes as well as some fruit salad. Perhaps, once you're a bit more warmed up, you want to cook the voles with some spices and seasonings?\" *She'd say as she turned to Juna*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"If you wanted some meat, I could have gone. I don't mind the cold\" *He said as he stood up and stretched for a minute*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna took the cup of tea in her hands, the heat spiking through as it fought the numbness of them. She didn't mind however. Juna would still prefer the warmth either way with the fur along her ears and tail having already grown bushy to block out the cold. The Canifor didn't drink it just yet, feeling contentment in simply hugging the cup close to her to warm her up externally. She gave a small nod in response to Addy's question. Juna was never the best with using seasonings but she could at least cook the voles. With Kibaru waking up, an ear would raise in hearing his words. She turned to gaze over at him with a neutral look.*\"It's fine...\"*Juna said back.*\"It's the least I could do...\"" }, { "author": "Adeliza", "message": "*In hopes of changing the atmosphere between the two of them, Addy would say to Kibaru* \"Why don't you make your famous curry and rice that I like later while I show Juna my designs?\" *She'd say while also giving him a look that would indicate that she wanted him to do what she had told him to do last night as well while they're having breakfast. She'd also begin to mix the ingredients together in a bowl while heating up the stove*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Happy to\" *Kibaru said with a blatantly ignorant smile. Telling her exactly what he thought if her look. A plain and simple: no.* \"Though I do think it best if you showed Juna the house a bit first\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna took a small sip of the tea, feeling the heat rush through her for a short moment. The Canifor was only half aware of the looks the two kept passing between each other, but she tried to feign ignorance of it.*\"I... Think it would be best if... I cook the voles...\"*Juna offered, so as not to spark something. She placed the tea down on the counter, saying:*\"I'll cook them and will try to search for more this afternoon.\"*Juna wondered if it would best to give them their space. Perhaps if she kept herself busy it would help, though she mostly didn't want to lose hope in the animals being completely gone from these forests as well.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would role her eyes at his stubbornness and would turn her back away from him. She would then call out to Juna* \"Would you like to help me with the pancakes so that we can do the voles together since I would love to learn how to cook them\" *She'd say with a gentle and reassuring smile as she could sense her uneasiness* \"I also can't wait to show you all of the things I've been telling you about in regards to my designs\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"No need for you to hunt. This is my territory. And I do prefer no hunting on it. I'll show you where it ends and where to hunt if you're ever in the mood to do so\" *He said as he dressed a little warmer, yet still in short clothing.* \"I'm going training for a bit, Kay Addy?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Sure-\"*Juna said, offering a smile.*\"We might want to cook the voles first so that they'll be ready, but... Shouldn't take too long with them being so small...\"*With Kibaru mentioning that the area was his territory and that he would show her the ends of it, she'd respond:*\"I'll hunt closer to camp next time...\"*Of course by camp she meant her own, knowing full well that it was somewhere deeper in Salvania's forest where she usually secluded herself. Juna wasn't quite sure how long it would take her to get back there, but it was at least an environment that she was more used to.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Okay but breakfast will be ready soon\" *She'd say in response to his comment about him going to train. She would think to herself that he could at least be a little nicer to Juna* \"You two should go hunting together sometime\" *She'd then show Juna what she was doing with the pancakes and while she was letting the batter rest, she'd look at the voles*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Your camp is way to far. Don't be silly. You might as well learn the lay of the land, especially with a certain someone being so accident prone. Isn't that right my angle\" *He said with his eyebrow twitching slightly*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna didn't look back at him, focusing on the two voles as her tail slowly flicked one way then the next in its tension.*\"It's... Fine...\"*She'd repeat herself.*\"I wouldn't want you to go through the extra trouble... Besides... I'm more used to only hunting with Jace...\"*Juna reached her hand down towards her dagger that she kept at her side, taking it out so that she could use it to skin the voles set in front of her.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I've actually been a lot less clumsy recently thank you very much\" *She'd say in a bit of a teasing tone so that Kibby wouldn't take her comment the wrong way. She'd then watch Juna carefully while also looking around to see where Azura was* \"Why don't you take Azura outside with you? You two will be able to get some nice quality time together\" *She'd say with a smile as she saw Azura jump up at the sound of her name, tail wagging non-stop*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would give a long hard sigh at both of them* \"I'm just going to show you around, you might as well get the lay of the land if you're to stay here. Where you hunt doesn't concern me as long as it's outside my domain. So you might as well learn where not to hunt\"\n\n*He then looked at the pup a bit exhausted before speaking to it* \"You look like soft, let's go train you some as well\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would remain silent, peeling away at the fur of the two voles before piercing them to begin removing the insides out of them. Jace would make his way over to her side, gazing up towards the Canifor to see what she was up to as the scent of the animal met his nose.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"If you don't want to take her, then don't. It was merely a suggestion\" *She'd say simply. She assumed this is just a taste of how he'd be when the time came for them to have children. She would then go back to Juna* \"I'm going to start making the pancakes now\" *She'd say as she turned to the stove and her pancake batter*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Come on Azura, Let's go for a run\" *He said as he opened the door and exiting first* \"Didn't say I didn't want to take her. So calm down. We're still basically strangers\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*'Basically...' Juna thought to herself before eventually letting out a sigh and turning to face Kibaru. This probably could have gone better, though she couldn't help but feel herself contributing to the tension.*\"I'll go out and hunt this afternoon...\"*She finally said.*\"You can show me then...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Sorry\" *She would say softly as she could tell she was starting to make him angry. Though when Juna said she'd go with Kibaru later, she couldn't help but to have a huge smile on her face and she would rest her head on Juna's shoulder, nuzzling it gently as a bit of a thank you*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Excellent, I'll leave you guys to it then, be back in a bit, you coming Azura?\" *He said shooting a quick glance at Juna as Addy nuzzled against her. He would then close the door whether Azura followed or not*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears lowered on her head as she turned to focus back on the voles. With Addy resting her head on her shoulder, the Canifor's fur gradually began to lie flat once more, losing its initial tension. She stripped the tail from the two voles, tossing them on the ground for Jace to treat himself to before handing Addy what remained of the animal.*\"I'll admit...\"*She said quietly, one ear raising while the other laid flat in that sort of lopsided confused way it typically did.*\"Didn't think I'd see him again...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Azura would quickly trot after Kibaru, trying to get his attention and some pats, not to mention, some love. As Juna handed Addy the animal, she'd put it in a bowl so that she could add some spices and seasonings. With her saying about meeting him again, she'd respond* \"I take it that your first encounter didn't go so well?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"It was... As uncanny as this one I guess you can say...\"*She admitted, grabbing the cup of tea to take another sip of it. The Canifor could only really take small sips, enjoying it more for its warmth rather than taste. Jace in the meantime seemed content with eating the scraps of his labor, soon rolling over to lay on his back.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I see...\" *She would say as she recalled the day when she first met Kibaru. It was certainly quite a day* \"So, how do you suggest we cook the meat?\" *She would say as she let the meat marinate for a little while so that it'll be more flavourful*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"We can probably just add some seasoning to it, then cook it over the fire...\"*Juna said, angling her head towards the fireplace.*\"I'm not... Too sure how it'll taste, but... Maybe it should be good enough with the pancakes...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alright that sounds like a plan!\" *She had never actually cooked anything in the fireplace since they got the house and she wasn't sure what her boyfriend would say but oh well, they were going to do it anyways since why not* \"I'm just going to let this marinate for a bit so that it gets more flavour so while we're waiting, why don't we cut up some fruit for the fruit salad?\" *She would say as she washed her hands and took out some fruit*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Her other ear rose up with a new sense of curiosity. It's been a while since she's had any fruit, to her knowledge anyways.*\"What kind of fruit?\"*She would ask. The Canifor placed the tea back down on the counter, walking over to Addy as she brought out some of the fruits for the salad.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd place all of the fruits on a chopping board for her to see* \"Some apples, berries, and citrusy fruits\" *She'd say as she began to cut them* \"Would you mind grabbing me a bowl from that cupboard\" *She'd point at the one she was talking about*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna nodded and turned her gaze towards the cupboard she was pointing towards, walking over to it as she would search for a decently sized bowl and bring it over to Addy.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Once she brought the bowl, Addy would put the cut fruit in there and then put it to the side. She'd then look at the marinated meat* \"I think we should start cooking it now. Do you want to do that while I cook the pancakes?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Sure-\"*Juna said, taking the cup of tea to have one final sip before she would grab the bowl of meat and her dagger and head off towards the fireplace. Jace would roll over from where he sat lazily watching the two and would gaze up at Addy, letting out a bark for attention.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would giggle as she looked over at Jace* \"Hey there Jace, want some treats?\" *She'd say as she dangled one in the air in front of her. She'd then throw it a little far away from her so that he could go fetch it* \"I think Jace is getting used to me, don't you think?\" *She'd say as she smiled over at Juna while waiting for the stove to heat up*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace got up and scampered off after the treat. Juna found herself glancing over at him as he snacked down on the food before deciding to lounge in the new resting area.*\"Yeah...\"*She responded.*\"I don't think I've seen him this comfortable around other people in quite a while... Well... That or he's just using you for the extra food.\"*The Canifor let out a quiet laugh at the thought, knowing full well of the Jackal's devious plots.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would giggle at Juna's last comment* \"Do you think he'll let me pet him at some point?\" *She'd say as she began pouring some of the pancake batter onto the pan that was on the stove. The vanilla aroma of the pancakes would spread across the house and she wondered if Kibaru could smell it from outside too*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Maybe someday.\"*Juna would answer, leaving the meat out over the fire so that it could cook. In all honesty, Juna wasn't quite sure seeing as Jace had never really formed a bond with anyone since they've left home, but maybe the Jackal would come around at some point.*\"The voles shouldn't take too long since they're small... So they should be ready soon enough...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd nod and smile at the thought of Jace letting her pet him. Once Juna said that the voles would be ready soon, she would flip the pancakes* \"Alright these should be done soon as well. I wonder where Kibaru is\" *She'd say as she began to put plates on the table*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Speak of the devil. Kibaru would open the door and follow* \"Come on Azura, hurry up... Maybe these clothes was a mistake for running, brrrr\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna glanced up as Kibaru made his way inside, instantly tugging on her clothing in order to draw it in and prevent the cold from sleeping over her with the air coming through. She could feel her fur spiking up against it, soon causing her to whisper:*\"Please close the door...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd quickly rush over to the door and close it as soon as she saw Azura trot inside. She'd then dry her paws and her fur before carrying her over to near the fireplace* \"Cut her some slack, she's still small\" *She'd say to Kibaru since Azura was only a couple months old. She'd then grab a thick blanket and walk back over to Kibaru, wrapping it around him and hugging him for a couple minutes to allow for some of her warmth to transfer over to him before bringing him to sit near the fire* \"How's the meat doing Juna?\" *She'd say as she rushed back over to the stove to make sure the pancakes weren't burnt, which thankfully they weren't. They were perfectly golden brown on both sides, causing a lovely smell to spread all over the house. She'd then put them on one plate, carrying it over to the table along with the fruit salad and some chocolate chips. Once she placed that down, she'd then call Jace and Azura over, putting some meat from the night before into their bowls so that they too could have their breakfast, or rather brunch considering it was much later in the day*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Pretty sure I don't do breaks\" *He said with a smiled before she gave him a hug. He would hug her back, tails swaying from side to side. Once she let go of he he moved to the fireplace to warm up some more*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna had decided to walk away from the fireplace while Kibaru took the time to warm up, deciding to give the voles time to cook while allowing the Okami to have some space.*\"The meat will be done in the few minutes.\"*She updated, getting Jace to follow her so that he could have some of the food Addy had left him.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Awesome, everything else is ready so we can just chat for a little while\" *She'd say as she sat down at the table*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Looks delicious, might just grab a bite\" *He said as he sat infront of the fire*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna jointed Addy at the table, watching the food from a distance in utter silence as it cooked over the fire. Whatever chattiness that was once in the Canifor prior had seemed to have left her for the time being.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Seeing Jace trot over to his food, Azura would follow him out of curiosity. Once she saw her own food, she would let out a small happy bark before digging in* \"Well that's the first time I've heard that out of her\" *She'd say with a bit of a giggle* \"After we're done eating, we can take them out into the backyard so then can do their thing and then we can go upstairs to my design room\" *She'd say with a smile to Juna*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Don't forget to show her the house first\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace eyed the pup as she trotted after him, letting out a half bark of warning at her excitement towards the food before he would eventually going back to eating. Juna would eventually get out of her seat before going over to check in the voles. After seeing them finish, she would carefully take them from the fireplace and set them on the plate before returning to the table.*\"We could do both at once maybe...\"*Juna said in a partially joking tone.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"We could\" *She would say with a bit of a giggle. She'd then help Juna so that she doesn't burn herself* \"Oooo this looks so good!\" *She'd say as she clapped and jumped a little in excitement. She'd then side hug Juna gently* \"Thank you for catching and making it\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Very well. Now hurry up, I'm starving\" *Kibaru said as he stomach growled a bit*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"No problem.\"*Juna said as she was side hugged by the Macen. Soon enough the Canifor would take a seat again, her ears flicking at Kibaru's impatience. She supposed he reminded her a lot of Jace, that is if the Jackal could speak. Perhaps they weren't all too different.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd sigh as she heard Kibaru's comment. She wasn't a maid you know* \"If you're so hungry, then why didn't you come take it yourself\" *She'd say as she put food on a plate and handed it to him. She'd then turn to Juna* \"Let's eat, shall we?\" *She'd say as she sat down and began serving herself some food*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would immediately get up and go get some food* \"I'm to lazy, that's why\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna eyed him, finding humor in the contradiction between his words and current actions.*\"Yeah-\"*The Canifor said to Addy before walking over and making her own plate of food. Turning to Kibaru, she would ask:*\"Are you too lazy to hunt later today?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would giggle secretly at Juna's wittiness and she'd shoot her a secret smile as she didn't want her boyfriend to get mad at her. She'd also begin to take a bite of the voles with the pancakes, closing her eyes to savour the delicious taste*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I'm pretty sure some food will fix that laziness\" *He said as he grabbed his food and began eating*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"If you're sure.\"*Juna said smugly, soon deciding to eat away at her own food. She didn't savor it as much as Addy did, taking it as a simple meal, however, the pancakes were a nice new treat for her to enjoy.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would continue eating her food, making sure to keep an eye on the pups, especially Azura. She was also trying to think of some new designs for her clothes and decided to use the winter season and the new feelings of joy Juna had brought her as inspiration. She'd also try to make small talk with Juna while they were enjoying their breakfast*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would enjoy the pancake and wouldn't utter a word, just simply look at whom ever was talking and answered if prompted*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*As Juna would finish her short meal, she would let out a satisfied sigh and eventually lean back in her chair. Something about the warm house and nice meal seemed to make the Canifor feel more relaxed, at least much more than the night before.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"How was it?\" *She'd say with a smile as she began to collect the plates and gesture to Kibaru to see if he wanted anymore food*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Yes please\" *Kibaru said with a smile* \"Lot's more fruit please\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Pretty good-\"*Juna said with a smile before eventually getting up to clean her area on the table. Jace lifted his head up from his bowl, licking his chops as he watched his owner curiously.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I'm glad\" *She would say to Juna. Azura would trot over to Juna and bark happily up at her, hoping to get some attention from her new friend* \"Seems like she's taken quite a liking to you\" *She'd say as she smiled at Juna. She'd then serve Kibaru more food after taking his plate from him. She'd also steal a few bites of fruit from his plate with a cheeky smile as she handed the plate back to him*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He simply smiled at her as she stole his food. He somehow knew she would do that with the fruits After a bit, he would finally finish up* \"Thanks for the food\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"So are we going to go to your design room?\"*Juna asked curiously while she'd stoop down to give Azura a pat on the head. Jace gazed over at her, letting out a bark before he'd walk over and paw the pup out of the way to get some of the attention for himself. Juna gave a roll of her eyes, deciding to pat both of them.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would giggle at Jace's behaviour* \"He sure is possessive isn't he\" *She'd then nod at Juna's question* \"Yup we can, and maybe Kibaru can wash the dishes and take the pups out to do their business? Since you and I have done all the work so far this morning so it's only fair he does some too\" *She'd say as she looked over at him. She wondered what his reaction would be to her using his first name*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He then stood up* \"Fine, but we're going to have a little talk about this, kay\" *He wouldn't have minded washing the if she had asked, but it's different when you're told*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"You have no idea...\"*Juna said in response to Aldea, soon standing back up fully right after.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy could sense that Kibby was mad at her* \"Sorry\" *She'd say softly as she turned to Juna* \"Come, let's go upstairs\" *She'd say in a slightly scared way as she wasn't sure what her boyfriend was going to do*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"You're acting like I'm gonna hit you... Well... I won't hit you cause I'm mad.\" *Kibaru said, before facepalming.* \"Go have fun\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would remain silent, as she would wait to follow Addy up the stairs so she could lead her to the room without interfering with whatever was going on between the two.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd run to him and quickly give him a hug and a peck on his cheek before whispering sorry to him again. She'd then take Juna's hand and run upstairs*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna allowed herself to be pulled along as Addy took her upstairs, her jackal instinctively following after her as she vanished to the floor above.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Azura would stay downstairs with Kibaru, trying to get his attention by sitting obediently next to him but as he walked around, she would follow. Juna would then open the door to her design room. Fabrics and outfits in the process of being made could be seen everywhere* \"Welcome to one of my favourite rooms in the entire house\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Not going to follow your master and best buddy?\" *He asked as he did a few extra chores*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gazed around the room curiously, taking surprise in the amount of outfits lining the room. She could only assume that Addy must spend a lot of time in here with her job of selling the clothes she made, though Juna could not imagine how much time it would take.*\"Woah...\"*She whispered, deciding to take a step inside and trying to be careful in not walk into anything.*\"Is this where I'm going to be helping you with the clothes...?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Azura would nuzzle against Kibby's leg wanting to spend some time with him while primarily getting cuddles. She was still quite fluffy so who wouldn't want to spend all their time hugging the little fluffball*\n\n\"Yea for the most part\" *She'd say kind of shyly as there was only a little bit of space by the window for the two of them* \"I think one of the first things I'll need your help with is organizing everything because as you can see... There's quite a lot of stuff\" *She'd say as she looked around at the bits of fabric lying everywhere*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I hope you're not this friendly with all the strangers you meet.\" *He said using his leg to rub her a bit as he was still a bit busy*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Is there a specific place you want them...?\"*She asked, scanning the room in uncertainty of where all the fabrics were meant to go, especially with how many there were.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I think we might need to build a storage... Section... Thing\" *Addy would say as she herself was unsure as to where to put things* \"Well shall we go on our house tour now?\"\n\n*Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Azura would bark up at Kibby as she didn't like his comment and she would move away from him to go curl up by the fire. He wasn't exactly doing a good job in terms of bonding with her*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I hope that was a no\" *He said before he started finished up* \"Hey, wana go for another walk?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Okay then-\"*Juna would say as she figured that maybe she could finish it up after her hunt this afternoon.*\"Where are we going next?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Azura would perk her head up as soon as she heard the word walk*\n\n\"Let's go check out the master bedroom and the balcony\" *She'd say as she began walking towards that room*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well, let's go go girl... Wait\" *He would then grab a bowl and fill it with water* \"Drink up first\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Alright-\"*Juna would say, following after the Macen.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Azura would trot over to the bowl of water and would begin lapping it up*\n\n\"So this is where Kibby and I sleep\" *This was Addy's first time using the nickname in front of Juna but since they were basically like sisters, she didn't mind. Juna would be able to see a decently sized bedroom that led to a bigger balcony than one would usually expect. There was a table and chairs outside which they used when they wanted to have meals outside*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Ok, now we can go... Think we should go ask Jase to join us?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Kibby?\"*Juna would ask in confusion as she glanced around the bedroom. She had to admit it definitely looked grander than her own, but that was to be expected at least. Jace would pace his way in behind her, taking more initiative in entering the room with his need to explore and sniff at everything within it.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Azura would bark in response which meant she agreed to what he was saying*\n\n\"Oh um that's the nickname I've given to Kibaru\" *She'd say slightly embarrassed as she became a little bit shy. She'd allow Jace to wander around the room* \"We could go on the balcony but it's pretty cold outside so maybe we can go out in the warmer months\" *She'd say as she led Juna to the rest of the rooms on the top floor*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I'll assume that's a yes\" *Kibaru would walk to the stair and Call Jace* \"Hey Jace, you wana go for a walk buddy!?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Oh... Right-\"*She said, quickly coming to understand what Addy meant. Juna decided not the press the questions, instead following her to the other rooms with Jace just behind them. At the mention of his name, the Jackal would look towards the stairs with his tongue hanging out as if he wasn't sure whether to go down or not. Juna turned back to look at him, inclining her head towards the stairs.*\"Go on Jace-\"*She whispered. Jace bounded forward a few steps towards the stairs, stopped to look back for a moment to get a second confirmation from Juna before he would eventually made his way down.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would smile at Kibby, almost thanking him for being so inclusive of Jace and wanting to spend time with both pups. Azura was also quite happy and was hopping around a bit when she saw her friend coming down the stairs. Once Juna and Addy finished upstairs, she'd lead them back down to the main floor, grabbing a game as she headed to the couch* \"Wanna play?\" *She'd say as she took out the pieces and a game board that seemed like they resembled that of snakes and ladders*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Hey bud, wana go for a walk with us?\" *Kibaru asked before realizing Jase probably didn't understand* \"Let's go\" *He said going for a walk*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gave a tilt of her head as Addy pulled out the game board.*\"What... Kind of game is it...?\"*She asked, unable to recognize it. Whether or not she's ever actually played, Juna wasn't quite sure. Jace had made his way downstairs, standing just at the bottom step as he found himself looking at Kibaru. His tongue hung out of his jaws as Kibaru asked if he wanted to go on a walk, the Jackal not moving when Kibaru said let's go. Perhaps the Jackal simply didn't know what Kibaru was going on about, nor knew him very well to understand what he was saying.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would show Juna the instructions that came with it* \"To be honest, I haven't played this yet either\" *She'd say as she looked over at Jace* \"Jace! What's the matter bud?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I don't know, maybe, we don't quite understand each other just yet, I mean, I can't blame him\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna turned her gaze towards the Jackal as he sat waiting on the step. Glancing between him and Kibaru, she would say:*\"He's just a bit confused right now...\"*Reaching to her waist, she grabbed the bag of jerky that Addy had given her, calling out to the Jackal.*\"Jace.\"*She said, clicking her tongue. The Jackal gazed over to her, quickly getting up to walk over to the Canifor.*\"Outside.\"*She whispered, pointing to the door. The Jackal gazed up at her for a long while, seemingly taking his time to figure out what she was saying before eventually turning and walking over to the door.*\"Good Jace.\"*She'd say, soon looking to Kibaru.*\"You may want to bring these treats with you...\"*She said, holding the pouch out to him.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would smile at the fact that the two of them were finally getting along, or at least it seemed like it* \"Oh yea he loves those\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Ok then\" *He said as he took the treats before leaving outside to go for a walk, using the treats when ever necessary to spur Jace on*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace would make his way out the door after Kibaru, eventually leaving Juna and Addy on their lonesome again. Turning to Addy, Juna would ask:*\"So... How do you play the game...?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Well you start here\" *She'd say as she pointed to the start area on the board* \"And then I guess you roll this and move however many spaces it tells you to and try to get to here\" *She'd say as she pointed to the end area* \"And if you land on a box that has the bottom of a ladder, you can go up it and if you land on a box that has the head of a snake, you go down it\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru walks with friends*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's head would tilt a bit to the side as she looked over the game board and listened to Addy's instructions.*\"So... You just have to get to the end of the board by rolling in order to win?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Yup that's pretty much it\" *She was a little unsure as to Juna's reaction to the game*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's tail would sweep against the couch, making room for her to sit down on it to get a closer look at the game.*\"The game... Sounds like it uses more luck than skill...\"*She responded, gazing up at Addy with a look of confusion. Perhaps the Canifor was simply used to more talent-based games, but this one didn't seem to need any talent of skill at all besides the lucky roll of a dice.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Right we'll um... Do you have any other games we could play?\" *She thought Juna might know some others but if not, Addy had another one that was based on acting skills*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*It was true Juna had other games in mind, most that she used to play with her parents all the time to the point of the Canifor not being able to help the smile that formed. She was so good at those games or maybe her parents just let her win. Juna was fairly young after all. She wondered if others usually played those games. Having not talked to many other children, Juna wasn't quite sure herself.*\"I- Ehm... No... None that I can think of...\"*She would say, rubbing at her arm absently. It was probably for the best anyways. Most of her games involved going outside and who would want to do something like that in this cold?*" } ]

[ { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Hm alright well I've got another one that is more skill-based I guess\" *She'd say as she got up to go grab them some more fruit to snack on while they were playing* \"Basically, you think of a word, maybe later we can create a bag of words that we need to pick from, and you need to act it out so that the other person can try and guess it\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Acting out a word...?\"*She questioned, going lost in thought for a moment.*\"Seems simple enough-\"*The Canifor would perk a bit, watching as Addy brought some fruit over for them share.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd put the fruit on the table for them* \"So... Would you like me to go first?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna found herself slowly taking one of the pieces of fruit, wanting to try a piece for herself after ages of not having many.*\"I think... It may be better for you to go first... Then I'll know what to do when it's my turn-\"" } ]

[ { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alrighty then, why don't you give it a go?\" *She'd say as she went to sit on the couch while grabbing a few pieces of fruit to eat*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna took a moment to think, growing shyer at the realization that she'd have to actually act something out. Maybe she could do something simple like Addy did. After a while, she'd bring her arms out to her sides, flapping them up and down somewhat vigorously.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would giggle at Juna's cuteness before taking a guess as to what she was acting out* \"Are you... Flying...?\" *She'd say as she took a peek out the window behind her to see where Kibby and the pups were*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yeah-\"*Juna said, taking Addy's guess as a reason to stop flapping her arms.*\"Did it... Look right...?\"*She'd ask, rubbing at her arm.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Yup it looked perfect\" *She'd say with a smile* \"Okay, my turn\" *She'd say as she got up and began thinking of what to do. She'd then start moving her arms to that it looked like she was clawing the air, moving her legs in a marching motion. To an outsider, she'd probably look really silly but she also was unsure if Juna was going to get this one*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would open the door, closing it soon after the pair entered and walk inside before seeing Addy doing what she is.* \"Uhhh, baby. What are you doing?\" *He asked" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Are you... Climbing...?\"*She'd ask, soon going quiet again as she felt a draft of cold air and would come to notice Kibaru entering once more.*" } ]

[ { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"That's right!\" *She'd say as she went to give Juna a double high-five before turning to face the direction in which the voice came* \"Oh hey Kibby! We're just playing a game, wanna play?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"A game, uh huh. If you say so\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*With Addy inviting Kibaru to join the game, the Canifor's ears would lower at the thought of having to act out in front of both of them. She turned her gaze towards the window, saying quietly:*\"I... Should probably get back to hunting... It may take a while and... Wouldn't want it to get dark while I'm out...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy could sense that Juna wasn't as comfortable around Kibaru as she was around her* \"Would you like me to come with you?\" *She'd say as she sat down on the couch next to her*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Whenever you're ready to hunt, I'll be there\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"I think... It would be best if you stay... Kibaru can show me the territory then I'll be able to hunt things down more easily...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alright... Stay safe\"" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Thanks for the offer Addy, but we're going to be bonding for a bit\" *He said with a joking manner. Though he didn't have any problems with Juna or Jace* \"And I promise I won't try to brush your tail again\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Internally, Juna found herself wishing that she'd just decide to go alone. Maybe this wasn't such a great idea, after all, she was used to hunting alone and Kibaru, well she wasn't sure of him and his tendencies to joke about, especially with him bringing up the tail incident. She turned away from him, grabbing her bow and quiver.*\"Right... Well we best be going...\"*Juna would say, heading over to the door while her tail self-consciously wrapped itself around her waist.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"See you later\" *She'd say as she headed over to the door as well to see them off. She'd also hand them some warmer jackets as she knew they'd need them since it was getting colder as the day progressed*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Ok then, give me a second\" *Kibaru said before running upstairs to their room to grab his Katana, bow and his quiver. After he rushed back down again, grabbed the coat and exited the door* \n\n\"Ok, we're...\" *He stopped for a bit before walking back and giving Addy a kiss* \"See you soon my love\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would wait for Kibaru to return before making her way out. She'd give a small wave to Addy before turning once more to face ahead as she crunched through the snow with her Jackal welcoming her excitedly as he bounded over.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*As Kibby would come over to kiss her, she'd give him a tight hug before letting him go and waving at Juna. She'd watch them reach the start of the forest before closing the door and walking back to the fire with Azura to do some sketching*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*When they got to the forest Kibaru's habit of sniffing his surroundings would begin. His tails swayed from side to side as he walked, sweeping the snow a little bit*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She'd walk in silence for a while, allowing Jace to run off ahead as he typically did whenever he went off to search for prey. Notching an arrow into her bow, the Canifor would glance over to Kibaru, watching him for a moment before she'd eventually ask:*\"Where does the territory line end...?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I've marked it. I There's a few trees with crosses etched into them. They show the basic line\" *Kibaru said as he approached a cave before peeking inside* \"Nothing. That's good\" *He said before continuing in the forest*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Are you looking for prey... Or predators...?\"*She questioned as they passed by the gave, taking note of Kibaru's satisfaction in nothing being in there while she followed him.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Predator. Oh and if you do see a few deer, don't shoot. If their in my territory, they are not to be hunted\" *He said before approaching a tree* \"Here we go. Mark will usually be waist level. Facing the house\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She gazed at the tree, making note of the marking placed on it.*\"Alright...\"*Walking past it, she would notch an arrow into the string of her bow.*\"I think I'll be able to handle it from here...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well, I can't exactly go home alone, so I'll be joining you. I know of a general spot for deer to hang out\" *Kibaru said, taking the lead without a care for silence*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna came to a slow stop as Kibaru took the lead, tilting her head back while she checked to make sure the sun wasn't going down anytime soon.*\"I figured... You'd want to hunt on your own...\"*She'd say quietly, eventually resuming her progress in following behind him.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I didn't exactly come out to hunt, just showing you around considering how much you really want to hunt\" *He said with a joking manner before he started crouching a bit*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"It's a nice thing to... Pass time...\"*She'd say, coming to a stop while Kibaru crouched down. Juna had become used to knowing when it's best to stay quiet based off of small cues, but nevertheless, she'd continue speaking in a more quiet tone.*\"And... It's probably better that I do...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well, I don't exactly hunt to pass the time...\" *Kibaru said questioning her words for a bit. He then stopped and looked at an empty space before standing up* \"Well there's nothing here, not even tracks, onto the next spot. Hope you're taking not\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Do you only go out to hunt whenever you need food...?\"*She'd ask when he got back up before she'd continue following after him. Juna would nod in response to his words, deciding not to say anything back about there not being much to note of this area besides using it to keep an eye out for deer.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I hunt for food and when other need it. I'm a merchant after all an the local hunter as well as a traveling one. It'll be a bit before the next spot, but you should be able to see the travel path\" *He said sniffing a few times as his ears twitched a bit*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Right...\"*She'd say, deciding not to question it further as she watched Kibaru. It was always weird seeing another person sniffing about like a wild animal, but everyone hunted in their own way she supposed.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Ok, we're close\" *He whispered as he lowered again and approached the spot. He would approach quietly before pointing towards a male deer*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*At the notice of being close, Juna would slowly follow Kibaru's lead and would crouch down atop the snow before looking in the direction he was pointing in. A deer, an actual deer. Juna made haste in notching an arrow into her bow calling Jace over with a click of her tongue so that he didn't give chase too early while she glanced over towards Kibaru in waiting of what he planned to do.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would draw an arrow on his bow aiming at the same target. His head signalling her to go ahead and shoot. Seems like he was ready to shoot after her*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Seeing his signal, Juna would fall still. Drawing back the string of her bow, the Canifor would fire off at the deer in aiming for its neck for a swift kill.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would quickly fire after he aiming for the heart. The arrow would fly strait between the ribs but only hit its lungs just after Juna's arrow hit it's mark*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would quickly reach for another arrow, by now knowing that the deer would unhesitatingly flee at the barrage of arrows. She notched it in her bow, pulling it back as she fired off one final arrow to the back of its head before it would inevitably collapse.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would stand still and watch the rest run. He kept an ear out for any that might come towards them by accident. After he would stand up and go towards the deer before taking a knife and slitting it's thought before going to his knees and offering some sort of prayer that would not be as audible except for the last part* \"May you continue to feed the cycle of nature\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would slowly make her way over to Kibaru, giving him the time to pray over the fallen deer before she would eventually say to him:*\"Will this be... Enough for dinner...?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Should be enough for quite a while\" *He would stand up and pick the deer onto his shoulder* \"Ok, shall we return to the house?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yeah... We should get back before it gets too cold...\"*She'd say, soon calling Jace over to join them. The Jackal would make his way over, sniffing at the deer with a look of temptation.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Don't even think about it\" *Kibaru would say to Jace as his tails moved so it was in the way. He would then start walking back to the house*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace had let out a huff of cold, turning away from Kibaru and deciding to continue sniffing along the ground for more prey.*\"I'll save a leg for you later Jace.\"*Juna would say, calling the Jackal back over before following after Kibaru.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would be silent on the trip, still sniffing, but it seemed like he was taking a slight detour, checking things out. After a bit, they would arrive at home and Kibaru would open the door* \"Addy! We're back!\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*He would be able to see that she was sleeping soundly on the couch, cuddling with Azura. Her sketchbook would be lying on her stomach likely indicating she fell asleep while sketching new outfits for Juna and Kibby*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would walk into the house, coming to notice Addy asleep on couch. She'd bring a finger up to her mouth as a sign that they should be quiet before walking into the living with Jace following just behind.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Ok, I'm going to skin this\" *Kibaru said going outside, closing the door and doing as he said he would*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would remain asleep until woken up by someone or something and so would Azura*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would nod in response, deciding to walk over and sit down at the edge of the couch while she tried to regain her warmth. Jace would come to rest his head on Juna's lap, his tail wagging to and fro slowly.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*After skinning and hanging the meat quite high up, he would come in with and entire leg. He would then start separating the meat from the bones and through it in a pot. After he continued to prepare the rest of the ingredients for some stew*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would roll onto her side as she nuzzled Azura which caused her sketchbook to fall on the ground. Juna would be able to see what she was working on while they were gone*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would gaze over at Addy as she heard the book fall. Reaching down, she'd pick it up and, for a short while, would get a small glimpse of the outfits inside of it. The Canifor figured she must have been working diligently on the new fashions and at the sight of them, the Canifor would remember the task she had originally been given with the clothing. She'd get up to place the sketchbook on the nearest table before turning away and heading back upstairs to where she remembered Addy's design room being.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would move to Addy before kissing her cheek* \"Hey beautiful, time to wake up.\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Nooo... Ten more minutes\" *She'd mumble*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would make her way into the room, looking around at all the different bits of clothing lying about. She wasn't sure how Addy wanted her to organize it; she didn't even think Addy was quite sure either. Nevertheless, she would get to work, deciding to separate them by which clothing looked the most similar to one another.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"But I'm feeling a little cold\" *He said in a whining tone*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Then come here\" *She'd say sleepily as she opened her arms for him and Azura hopped off the couch to go find Juna*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Having separated almost everything, Juna would slowly begin folding up the clothes of the pile she already had finished. Jace's ears would raise up as he watched Azura walk off, soon finding himself stalking after the small pup.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*And he would take her up on her offer and give her a hug* \"Mmm, so warm\" *And she would feel his chilled skin\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would shiver as she felt his cold skin against hers* \"Let me grab a blanket for you\" *She'd say as she sat up, instantly being awake*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*And he would smile at her suddenly waking* \"Can you sit in my lap for a bit?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Sure but let me grab this first\" *She'd say as she grabbed a blanket and wrapped it around him*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would continue folding up the bits of clothing, eventually having everything separated into their own piles. She wasn't sure where to put each of them, so as she finished folding up the last few clothes, she'd decide to simply put them all into the corner.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Thank you. By the way, we're having stew tonight. We caught a deer\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"My my seems like you two make a good team\" *She'd say as she rested her back against his chest and snuggled into him a little bit, allowing herself to relax just a smidge*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*With a tired sigh, Juna would head off to her bedroom, deciding to come back down later to help prep the dinner whenever Kibaru was done dressing it. For the time being she had went to her bed, leaving her bow and quiver on top of it while she sat down next to it and gazed out of the window.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Wouldn't really say that just yet... We just understood each other\" *He said before sitting down in the couch*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Still that could lead to some amazing teamwork\" *She'd say as she turned to face him, ruffling his hair and placing her hands on his cheeks to move his gaze to meet hers*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I'd have to say we should first bond a bit more. Not exactly someone I can work with off the bat\" *He said looking her in the eyes*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Well you guys will have plenty of time to do that over the course of the winter season\" *She'd say as she kissed his forehead*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I don't know if I can last that long though\" *He said with a heavy sigh*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"What do you mean?\" *She'd say as she sat down next to him, holding his hands in hers to help warm them up*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well, we can't exactly have fun while someone else is here, you're not exactly quite you know\" *He says with a smirk*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would widen her eyes at his comment and instantly hit his chest as she became flustered*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Hehehe. Well glad to see you're not denying it\" *He said laughing before giving her a quick peck on the lips*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"You're mean\" *She'd say as she pouted and turned away from him*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I'm teasing you my love, but seriously though. We'll have to calm down a bit, think you can do that after not seeing me for so long?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I can do anything\" *She'd say as she stood up* \"Also, totally random but can you make my favourite curry tomorrow? I was telling Juna about it during our trip and I want her to try it\" *She'd say as she grabbed her sketchbook, wondering if he saw her new sketches*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Yeah sure\" *He says a bit disappointed before standing up and checking on his stew*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"What's wrong?\" *She'd say as she held onto his wrist so that she could back hug him, leaving pecks along the back of his neck and his shoulders*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Nothing really. Nothing at all\" *He said in a monotone voice*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Is it because I didn't fulfill your wish of sitting on your lap?\" *She'd say as she nuzzled his back*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"That would probably be one of the things if there was something wrong\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"But something is wrong\" *She'd say as she stood in front of him and looked into his eyes*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He looked at her and sighed* \"Don't worry about it, I'll fix it pretty soon\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Oh I get it now\" *She said as she flicked herself* \"Sorry it took me so long to understand but you know, we could always go out to the cave for a little bit\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He then looked at her with a bit of a smile* \"Not what I meant, but I'm down with doing some painting in the caves\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alright then I'll tell Juna that we'll be going there for a little while and ask her if she can keep an eye on the stew\" *She would say as she pecked his cheek before running upstairs to Juna's room*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He then grabbed her hand* \"Give it a sec. Let's eat first. Ok?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"As you wish\" *She'd say as she hugged him tightly* \"I missed you so much\" *She'd whisper*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I missed you just as much. But it's a little hard to show my love for you right now\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd giggle* \"I'll let you cook then while I go talk to Juna for a bit unless you want me to stay here with you\" *She'd say as she looked up at him*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I would like that\" *He said with a smile*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd then hop on the counter and watch him cook* \"Your wish is my command\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Thanks... The food will be ready in about 10 minutes. So could you get Juna when it's done?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Of course\" *She'd say as she watched him intently, letting her legs dangle above the floor while childishly swinging them back and forth*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He smiled at her before going to grab some spices and giving her a peck on the cheek as he went passed her*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd giggle as she watched him* \"I can't wait for cuddles later\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I bet you can't\" *After a few minutes, the stew would be done* \"OK, all done, you can go get Juna\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alright I'll be right back\" *She'd say hopping off the counter and running upstairs after pecking his lips. Once she got to Juna's room, she'd flop on the bed while giggling*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna had remained still on the bed, gazing out of the window while her fur kept standing on end. As Addy would hop up on the bed, she'd let out a sudden gasp as if being tugged back into reality only to realize it was just the Macen. Taking a few moments to try to relax the Canifor would offer a light smile to her.*\"Hey Addy...\"*She didn't seem to really match the Macen's giggly mood, but maybe that was just to be expected.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Oops sorry did I scare you\" *She'd say as she sat up with a look of worry on her face*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"No no... I guess... I was just a little surprised...\"*She said, scratching the back of her head.*\"It's fine really... Just been, a little distracted-\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Is everything okay? I'm here if you wanna talk about something\" *She'd say as she reached over and held her hand*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna fell silent as Addy grabbed her hand, soon turning her head back towards the window.*\"You ever... Get the feeling that... Something's happened...?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Sometimes yes but is it to do with Eggbert?\" *She'd say as she turned to look in the direction Juna was looking*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Her ears would lower atop her head, her fur dropping back down alongside it.*\"Yeah... Yeah it's about Eggbert...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Do you think you need to go?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would open her mouth to say something, though considering how far they had come to get here just for her to want to turn back around and get on the road again, no words came. She'd simply find herself nodding in response, curling her tail back around her.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Do you want me to go with you or would you like me to come later?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"You don't... Have to go... Traveling gets harder the longer winter goes on for... And... I wouldn't want you to get caught in it...\"*She'd say, sliding off the top of the bed.*\"Besides, someone will have to keep watch of Jace... Someone... He can trust...\"*Juna offered a light smile towards her before walking over to grab her bow and quiver.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"At least stay for dinner? You can leave first thing in the morning\" *She'd say as she got up off of the bed* \"And don't worry, I'll make sure to take good care of Jace. After all, he does seem to have a new friend\" *She'd say with a smile*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna looked between Addy and the window, seemingly in debate before eventually placing her weapons back down with a sigh.*\"Alright...\"*She had to admit, she might as well eat now while she can. There was no telling how often she'd be able to find food out in the forests while she traveled back to Lymia.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Come let's go downstairs\" *She'd say as she headed downstairs* \"You can have a seat at the dining table, I'll just get some dinner for the pups\" *She'd say once they reached the kitchen*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would have set up the table and served the food before pulling out a chair for Addy* \"Took you guys long enough\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would make her way over towards the table, pulling out a chair for herself to take a seat in.*\"Sorry for the wait...\"*She said, sitting down.*\"Just been... Keeping busy...\"*Jace would appear from down one of the halls, quickly bounding over towards the table with the scent of food leading him.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Yea sorry we were just discussing some stuff\" *She'd say as she gave him a look that would indicate she needed to talk to him about something later. She'd then head over to the kitchen and see what meat they had left over that she could give the pups. Once she found some, she'd put some bowls on the floor filled with it. Azura would dash over to Addy and give her a quick nuzzle before digging into her food* \"Jace come get dinner\" *She'd say as she pointed to his bowl before heading over to the chair that Kibby had pulled out for her* \"Thank you\" *She'd whisper*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"You're very welcome my love\" *He said before pushing it in a bit and going to take his seat* \"This looks delicious, do you guys think?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace would run a quick circle around the table, sniffing at everyone before looking up at Addy as she pointed over to his food bowl. Eventually he'd turn away from them, sniffing around his own bowl and taking small bites from it. Juna would gaze down at the stew, tilting her head a bit at it. It had been some time since she's had venison stew. It was quite a change.*\"Yeah, looks great-\"*She'd say in response.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"It looks amazing and I'm sure it'll taste wonderful\" *She'd say as she began eating it* \"Mmmm this is really good! Thank you guys for hunting earlier\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I take more pride in the dish served, truly outdid myself here\" *He said as he continued to eat the hot stew*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"You're welcome...\"*Juna would say simply under Kibaru's more prideful statement. With the food in front of her, she would slowly eat at the warm stew, deciding to savor its flavor for the time being despite with weighted feeling in the pit of her stomach.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would continue to eat in silence as she savoured her dinner* \"Kibby and I will take the pups out for a walk since we were planning on going on one ourselves. You can go to sleep since you'll have an early start tomorrow\" *She'd say as she looked at Juna*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"So Juna, have any plans for the future?\" *Kibaru would ask randomly while he ate. He didn't eat really fast either, but this was more a habit*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna stirred at what was left on the soup, not hungry enough to finish the whole thing.*\"Just... Surviving this winter really...\"*She'd say quietly, surviving being for also Jace and her soon to be hatchling.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would listen quietly and intently to their conversation*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"That sounds pretty... Well, it sounds boring to be honest\" *Kibaru said as he finished his food*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yeah...\"*She'd say with a quiet laugh.*\"Boring...\"*The Canifor would turn her gaze towards Addy.*\"By the way Addy... I...Went ahead and organized your clothing room... I wasn't sure how'd you like it, but... I tried separating the clothes at least to those that matched each other...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Oh thank you so much! I'll continue organizing it tomorrow but that's such a big help\" *She'd say as she smiled at Juna, finishing up her stew right after*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would look out the window* \"I think it's going to be a little cold outside tonight\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would slowly push away the bowl of stew as she had finished her portions of it. With Kibaru bringing up how cold it might get, she would say:*\"It may be best to take the pups out now... Before it gets too cold...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I'll just take care of the dishes quickly then and then we'll take them out\" *She'd say as she took their bowls to the kitchen sink and began washing them*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"You're right. And you can give that to Jace\" *He said regarding her bowl*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would get up from her seat, glancing towards the door before deciding to walk over to her Jackal and give him a small pat on his head.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would do as her boyfriend said and gave any bits of stew that were left over to Jace. Once she was done washing the dishes, she'd walk back to the dining table to clear it off*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*And Kibaru would stand up and go lay in the couch before stretching* \"Well this was a good day, we caught a good haul, should last us a while with the cold\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace would find himself rolling over onto his back from the pats as Juna would soon give him a light belly rub.*\"Yeah...\"*The Canifor would say in quiet agreement.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Whenever the pups are ready, I'm ready to take them for a walk\" *She'd say as she stood by the door, putting on her winter attire*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru's ears would perk up and he would go to her* \"I'm ready\" *He said with a smile*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would move her hand away from Jace, causing the Jackal to look back up to her.*\"Go on Jace, time for a walk-\"*She'd say, pointing towards the door. The Jackal would sniff at her hand for a while before eventually rolling back over to head towards the others. Gazing at Addy, Juna would say:*\"I'll get my stuff ready for tomorrow in the meantime.\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alright we'll see you soon\" *She'd say as she hugged Juna while Azura followed Jace to the door. She'd then turn to Kibby with a bit of a giggle* \"You're not exactly ready yet\" *She'd say as she handed him some warmer clothes and a warmer jacket*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Yeah, gona be a little cold for our walk, don't you think\" *He said as he dressed up* \"Now hurry, let's go\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would hug Addy back, soon waving to the two of them before she would go back upstairs.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alright let's go Mr. Anti-Patience\" *She'd say as she opened the door and let the pups out*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Ok miss slowpoke\" *And Kibaru would pick her up into his arms and lead the way*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would make her way up the stairs, back to her room. As she would enter it, she'd begin grabbing the extra clothes that Addy had once gifted her before creating a short pile with them and her bow and quiver.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd giggle as he picked her up* \"I can walk you know\" *She'd say as she looked out at the pups in the snow*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"And I want to carry you and I'm pretty sure you don't mind\" *He said before closing the door and venturing fort*" } ]

[ { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Yea I don't\" *She'd say as she wrapped her arms around his neck and nuzzled him* \"We'll have to be quick though\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"We can walk for as long as we want, you know\" *He said before kissing her nose* \"And you're on dog duty By the way\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Oh by the way there is something I wanted to talk to you about\" *She'd say as she looked out at the pups*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Yeah, what on your mind, something to do with your little friend?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Huh?\" *She'd say not knowing what he meant by her little friend* \"Well Juna is leaving tomorrow morning but no, I'm not going with her. She's going to leave Jace her with us for a little while since she needs someone he trusts to look after her\" *She'd say all in one go as she wasn't sure what he was going to say*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well as long as you're sure about letting her go alone... Though Jace will be you're responsibility. Well we're at the cave now\" *He said as he sat her down*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Well I even asked her if she wanted me to go with her but she said I should stay here since she doesn't want to drag me back into the cold considering we just arrived. Plus I wouldn't want to leave you for an indefinite amount of time again\" *She'd say as she looked up at him*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I don't mind, as long as you make it up to me. That and as long as it's not you running away again. Besides, I'm going to have to travel allot more\" *He said patting her head*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd look down with a sigh* \"My heart is torn, I don't know what to do\" *She'd say as she watched the pups run in and out of the cave, chasing each other* \"But you're going to be at home for the winter season right?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Some of it, yeah. I know you'll miss me, but I can't exactly stay home all the time, you know\" *He said poking her nose*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I know but you've always stayed home during the winter season\" *She'd say with a bit of a pout* \"At least take me with you\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"When you prove you have the strength, I will. I'm not exactly going on peaceful walks\" *He said before patting her head*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"What do you mean when I have the strength?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"You're not exactly what I would call: 'A capable fighter'.\" *He said as he sat down*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Okay well I can't really argue with that\" *She'd say softly as she looked away*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Exactly my point. I don't want to put you in dangerous situations that you can't handle\" *He said before turning her gaze back to him*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She would nod as she blushed a little bit while moving to sit on his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck and hugging him, nuzzling her face in the crook of his neck*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"There we go, now that's much better, wouldn't you say\" *He said before giving her a quick kiss*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Much much better\" *She'd say as she hugged him tighter* \"I missed this a lot\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"So did I my love, so did I. I am however glad you made a friend\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Mhm\" *She'd say as she closed her eyes* \"She's like family to me\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well then I guess she's my family too\" *He said shivering slightly*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Indeed she is but what's the matter?\" *She'd say as she let go of him and looked into his eyes as she felt him shiver* \"Do you want to go back inside?\" *She'd say as she looked over to check on the pups only to find them sleeping soundly at the entrance of the cave*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Not exactly why I was shivering, I'm pretty warm right now, how about you?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Is it cause of that thing that you were telling me about earlier?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"No no. It's fine. But why is she leaving again?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"No it's not fine, you should tell me\" *She said as she gave him a very serious look* \"Um well she didn't exactly say if I could tell you but I'll tell you anyways since I don't want to keep secrets from you. She's going to go check on another one of her pets that she will be getting and since it's an animal that she wasn't exactly used to taking care of, she left it with someone who can take care of it and she is just going to check on it to make sure that everything is okay since she is having, what I like to call, a lot of maternal instincts at the moment\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I guess I can understand that\" *He said before kissing her forehead*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Now will you tell me what's wrong with you?\" *She'd say as she rested her forehead against his and closed her eyes*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Like a said, nothing's wrong\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Prove it\" *She'd say as she crossed her arms and looked at him, moving around a little so that she could sit a bit more comfortably*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Some things I can't say ok. That's just how it is\" *He said before scratching her head a bit*\n\n\"But I guess we did make a promise, didn't we\" *He said before lightly flicking her forehead*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"We've made a lot of promises but what was that for?\" *She'd say after he flicked her forehead*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Because someone forgot a promise\" *He said smiling at her*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I did? Was it what you needed my help with?\" *She'd say as she tilted her head*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"No silly. Our 'no-hiding-things' promise\" *He said before patting her head*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Oh yea that one but I didn't break it and we should head inside soon\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I did however, don't you think?\"\n\n\"You can push me to tell you what wrong you know\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I know\" *She'd say as she got up and sat in front of him knowing that wouldn't make him happy*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He would put a bit and lazily reach out to her* \"Nooo, not my warm blanked\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Until you tell me, I'm not going to sit on your lap again\" *She'd say with a bit of a smirk as she moved back from him a little so that he couldn't reach her*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I don't really like her per say. She's really awkward and kind of hard to talk to when I try\" *He said in a straight monotone voice*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"It's because you had a weird first interaction and she hasn't spent as much time with you\" *She'd say as she looked over at the pups who were sleeping peacefully cuddled next to each other* \"But I'll talk to her about it. Though is that really what was bothering you?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Just now, yeah.\" *He said quickly as he reached his arms out again*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Then what about when you shivered just a short while ago?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"That's what I was talking about\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Hm alright if you say so\" *She'd say as she crawled back to him*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Come over here please\" *He said as his tails wagged*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd move to sit on his lap again as she snuggled against him* \"Are we gonna go inside soon?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Maybe, it depends on how cold my baby is\" *He said before wrapping his arms and tails around her*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Well I think Juna would want Jace back inside with her\" *She'd say as she nuzzled his neck*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I can't exactly get up right now, can I?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd get off of him and head over to the pups, picking Azura up in her arms which would cause Jace to wake up as well* \"Now you can\" *She'd whisper as she kissed Azura on her head*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Better not coddle her to much. She needs to toughen up a bit\" *He said standing up and stretching*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I know, I know and besides, she won't remain this small and cuddly for much longer\" *She'd say as she began walking back to the house* \"Come on Jace\" *She'd say as Jace got up, stretched, and began following her*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"She needs to protect her mother. You can still cuddle her, just make sure, I'm not left out\" *He said as he lead the way for them*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd giggle* \"Don't worry, I'll be cuddling you all night long\" *She'd say as they reached the house*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*He then opened the door for her* \"I'm ok with that\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I wonder if Juna's still awake\" *She'd say softly, careful not to wake her in case she was awake. She'd put Azura down and she'd trot over to her bed by the fireplace and went back to sleep. She'd also let Jace go wherever he wished*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace would dart into the house, making his way up the stairs to the room where Juna would find herself laying down on the bed. With an excited bark, he'd enter and hop up onto it to the Canifor's surprise.*\"Welcome back Jace...\"*She'd say after taking a moment to realize it was only her Jackal.*\"Did you have a fun time outside?\"*Juna would give him a light pat on his head, feeling the chill that came from touching his pelt.*\"You're so cold-\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would go inside and flop onto his Bed* \"I'm sooo sleepy\" *He said with a yawn*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*She'd flop onto him and cuddle him* \"I'm not too tired yet\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would curl up on the bed, resting her arm on her Jackal as he would eventually lay down.*\"I'm sorry I'll have to leave you again tomorrow...\"*She'd murmur him.*\"I promise I'll come back as soon as I can... And maybe... I'll return with your new brother or sister...\"*Juna knew the Jackal didn't understand a word she said, but it at least made her feel better to tell him either way. She'd rest her head down on the pillow, closing her eyes slightly though not exactly having the will to fall asleep just yet with all that sat on her mind.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Oof. Why exactly is that my problem?\" *He said wrapping his tails around her waists*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"I never said that it was your problem\" *She say as she rested her head on his chest and listened to his heartbeat*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"So you're telling me I can sleep?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Yea you can sleep\" *She'd say as she rolled off of him and sat up next to him looking out the window*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Kibaru would soon fall sound asleep*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*Addy would remain awake for another hour or two and when she did end up falling asleep, she only fell into a light sleep as she wanted to make sure she saw Juna off*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would continue laying on the bed, hardly getting a wink of sleep in her anxiousness to get going the next day. At some point, she had lost track of time, finding the night pass by only to be replaced by early morning. Restlessly, Juna found herself getting up out of the bed, being careful not to disturb her Jackal. Grabbing her bow and extra clothes, Juna would make her way down the stairs to get ready to head off on her trip back to Lymia.*" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "*As soon as Addy heard Juna getting up, she'd quietly get off the bed and head downstairs to the door to see Juna off* \"Juna?\" *Addy would whisper*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would flick back as she heard Addy. Turning around, the Canifor would whisper back:*\"Oh... Sorry, I didn't wake you did I?\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"No no you didn't but are you sure you don't want me to come with you? In fact, we could all go with you\" *She'd say as she rushed over to hug her tightly*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna fell silent, growing stiff within Addy's embrace as she would speak with a sigh:*\"I wouldn't want you guys to waste a trip on... A feeling... And... It seems like you and Kibaru have a lot of catching up to do... Something I don't want to come in between...\"*She'd say, carefully taking Addy's hands in her own and moving them out of the hug.*\"I've already asked so much from you this winter Addy... I...I can't possibly ask for more...\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Juna you're like my sister! I'd do anything for you and I know you're a capable huntress and can stand your own but you aren't even taking Jace with you and you and I both know how long the trip is from Lymia to here but alas, you must promise to write to me whenever you can, alright?\" *She'd say with a bit of a sad smile*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She'd give a light dip of her head.*\"I promise...\"*Without saying much else, the Canifor would turn around to head to the door before glancing back at Addy.*\"And... I've survived Lymia once, right...? I'll be fine.\"" }, { "author": "beans16", "message": "\"Alright but be careful out there\" *She'd say as she saw her off*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would nod, soon opening the door to head out to the cold snow beyond. It was still relatively dark with how early it was in the morning, but Juna suspected as much. Eventually she'd vanish out into the darkness, her footprints being the only sign of her having left.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Ellena would be strolling thought the forest on her way to the big City of Salvainia in search of some adventure to make some money. She always dreamed of opening her own forge one day and she was determined to realize that dream and make her family proud. The young macen's eyes were filled with hope. She was in her full suit of armour her father had crafted her for the journey, but she planed on making her vey own armour both for herself and other* \"I wonder if Salvainia is much more further\" *Undenounced to her, she had already passed it and was now going in the opposite direction*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Deep within the forest, a Canifor would wandering about the area around her camp. A large stick sat in her hand while she traveled, hear ears raised and alert. By her side was her Jackal, who seemed to have taken interest in sniffing along the ground.*\"Do you think this far out is good enough Jace...?\"*She murmured, looking up at one of the trees in particular.*\"Surely this isn't too big of a space...\"*It seemed for the time being, she wasn't fully aware of the Macen's presence. However, with the clanging of armor, Juna's ears couldn't help but shift in her direction.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*The macen would stop and look at her map a bit confused* \"My feet are starting to hurt and I'm going to die if this continues\" *He said before moving forward towards the Canifor's direction without knowing*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*At the sound of the voice, Juna would suddenly freeze. Turning to look back in the direction it was coming from, Juna would quickly decide to scramble up the tree she stood near, whispering to Jace to flee for the time being. The Jackal would turn away, heading off further into the forest while Juna would wait for the woman to approach, her hand tightly gripping the stick she held onto.*\"Who's there...\"*She'd eventually say, her gaze slightly narrowed from the safety of the tree.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Ellena would soon come to be visible.* \"Umm... Ellena. Is this one of those robbery things everyone goes on about?\" *The confused girl asked a little confused as to where the voice was coming from.* \"I mean. I've got money, but I'd much rather keep it for myself thank you\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would flick in slight confusion of the question, almost considering to say no. Maybe this girl had never been robbed before or frankly never seen it first hand. Surely there wasn't someone more naive than the Canifor. Shaking her head, she would question:*\"What are you doing so far out in the forest?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I'm heading to Salvainia. Looking to make some money\" *He said now searching for the source of the voice becoming a little confused* \"Wait, are you hiding. Where are you hiding?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna fell silent, debating between whether it was worth answering the woman's questions or not. It seemed like she was merely confused or perhaps just lost.*\"Miss you're... You're heading in the wrong direction if you want to go to Salvania...\"*Juna would say, dodging around her questions.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"I-I am... Uh... Which way is it then if you don't mind helping me just a little bit... I'm not exactly good with maps\" *She said laughing at herself*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"You are lost...\"*Juna would say in a tone that made it hard to tell if she were pointing it out or asking.*\"It gets rather cold out here... It would be best for you to find a way to the nearest town.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I don't much like the cold. Could you help me please?\" *She asked yet again. She didn't much like how rude the stranger was being to her and was getting a little frustrated*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*More silence. For a while the Canifor sat there, allowing the wind to be the only sound passing between them. Gripping the stick tightly in hand, she'd hop down from the tree, landing in front of the woman before giving a slight bow of her head.*\"I can...\"*She'd whisper before tilting her head a bit in the direction the woman was coming from and walking off that way.*\"Follow me...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"A appreciate it, but do mind giving me your name first miss...\" *Ellena asked pouting a bit a the fact that the Canifor still hasn't introduced herself*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"My name...?\"*She'd question as she walked on, almost as if she had to think about it.*\"It's... Lady...\"*Juna would finally say after a while of silence.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Lady... Not exactly a normal name... Anyway, Thank you Lady\" *She said as she followed the stranger without regard to distrust her*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would flick back in listening to the woman as she walked, saying back:*\"Yes... I suppose it is... Pretty strange...\"*The Canifor would make her way past a few set of trees, taking a short bit to scan the area before continuing on further.*\"Is... This your first time going to Salvania...?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Yup, First time venturing out of my home nation\" *She said with pride* \"How about you, you live here?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"No...\"*She'd lie, her tail whisking behind her. The Canifor's tone seemed to have grown softer yet more thoughtful as she spoke.*\"I come and go typically... Never in one place for too long...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"So a traveller then. Must be fun, huh?\" *She said as she started to clean her armour as they walked with a cloth*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"It has its ups and downs... Not every person I meet on my travels are... Well the most pleasant...\"*She'd say.*\"But... Sometimes it can be... Nice... You seem like a traveler... How have... Your ventures been...?\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I just started venturing. My plan is to make a name fore myself, do a few quest. By some land and retire from adventuring\" *She said with a smile before going in front of Juna to get a better look at her* \"Are you... A Kemonomimi?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She'd give a half hearted laugh at the question, soon shaking her head to and fro.*\"No ma'am, I'm... A Canifor... But I suppose it's easy to mix up...\"*Juna would answer. It was often she found herself being asked this. At least more so recently since her trip to Lymia. Times like these it made her wonder if she were the only Canifor who looked like this. She knew was a Canifor for certain, after all, growing up she didn't always look so similar to the Kemonomimi's.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Strange, I thought they looked you... I heard Canifors were more fury and beastly. And you don't need to call me ma'am... Doubt I'm much older then you if at all. I might just look older then I seem, but I can assure you I'm just 20\" *The macen said without regard to privacy*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yes well... I guess it depends on how Canifors are raised...\"*She'd answer, not completely sure herself. Though meeting other Canifors that seemed to both look and act vastly different than her. Maybe it's something to ask her parents if she ever saw them again. After all, what did she know about raising Canifors or really being one for that matter? At the mention of not having to call her ma'am, she would respond:*\"It's only polite... We are simply strangers after all...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Just call me by my name Lady\" *She said contemplating what the Canifor had said* \"I mean... I still look like a mace, but I guess if I was by with wolves, I would have fur every where, right?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Right... Right... Ellena...\"*She'd say, repeating the name aloud. At Ellena's thought of how Macens worked, she'd give a brief shake of her head at the ridiculousness of it.*\"I don't... Think it works that way...\"*She'd think aloud.*\"You see... Even raised by Macen's I still have my ears and tail...\"*Which Juna could have wished to live without at times. She never really thought of herself as much as a Canifor, but her senses and features only seemed to disprove it and grab unwanted attention.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"So then I would have normal ear and no tail, but look like a wolf?\" *Ellena says after reconsidering what Juna had just said*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"I-\"*Juna paused, trying to imagine the sight before giving a quiet sigh.*\"I don't think Macens can becoming more... Wolf like...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"So it only applies to Canifors?\" *Ellena asked as she scratched her head* \"Well that kind of sucks, I was hoping to grow some nice fur to protect me against the cold... Though I think I would rather not. I might die from over heating\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna wondered why anyone would want to simply change into a whole new species, not that she could question it. Being raised by Macens had made it hard at times when she was a Canifor.*\"I think you may be a bit too old for that... To happen now...\"*She'd say, thinking back to her childhood.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"So can young Macen transform?\" *She'd question seeming a bit more confused*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna could tell she seemed a bit upset with the thought of Macens not being able to transform, which as odd as it was, maybe it was just something the Macen wanted to be true.*\"I... Can't say I've ever seen it before but... Who knows? It could be possible...\"*She'd say not wanting to really risk lying to the woman.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well that's integrering kno-knowl... It's interesting to know that. Though I'm perfectly fine the way I am... And I guess you have some ups to looking like this instead of beasty-like\"*He said as she looked at her body admiring it somewhat*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*At her words, the Canifor would glance back, one ear raised while the other remained lowered on her head and in that typical confused look she had.*\"Like what?\"*She'd ask curiously.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well you don't overheat as much, not as heavy. Less to no fur to dry and armour fitting and wearing is tenfold better. Not to mention how you can appeal to men a lot easier\" *He said as he nodded with her appraisal*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gave a slight tilt of her head.*\"You... Seem to know a lot about it...\"*She'd say. Well much more than the Canifor knew anyways, not that she was sure how accurate her facts were.*\"How come...?\"*She'd ask.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Fur acts as protection. By protecting from the cold, and other outside forces, but you can't exactly take it of to protect yourself from overheating... And it makes it harder to treat wounds. Well that's how I imagine it, because it's almost like armour we create. But I guess you heat up faster with metal armour then with fur\" *Ellena may not have been the smartest, but she sure was knowledgeable about armour. Whether it be metal, hide or what ever kinds of types*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna supposed Ellena had a point, though fur seemed more comparable to clothing than actual armor. It wasn't like it was going to save someone from an attack anyways.*\"Yes... Though it does make the winter colder without it...\"*Juna would say, at least glad she had to Gambeson on to provide some protection from the cold, not that she could bring herself to wear anything heavier. She liked feeling looser whenever she found herself needing to move quickly.*\"Does... Metal armor get colder faster as well...?\"*She'd ask curiously.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well metal conducts heat and cold, so which ever one is greater. In this case it would be the cold\" *Ellena said as she scratched her head thinking about it. Knowing temperature was also you need for smiting* \"But I guess you can ware fur or leather underneath to have some resistance\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Do you usually work on armor a lot...?\"*Juna would question, suddenly coming a stop as she'd gaze around the area before veering off to the right.*\"You seem... Very knowledgable about it...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Yup. I come from a long line of smiths. Our family tree works all kinds of metal. Some even chemically and some in the mines. My family branch however mostly do armours... We can dabble in the other arts, but we're not exactly as good as other branches\" *He said looking at Juna* \"Why'd you suddenly turn?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gave a light tilt of her head at the thought. A whole family of smiths? Part of her wondered if Ellena was looking to make money in Salvania by crafting different kinds of armors. She was relatively new at traveling anyways, so maybe she planned on settling there for a while. As she asked why Juna was suddenly turning, the Canifor would say:*\"This way will lead us to the main road to Salvania... From there it'll be a much... Easier path to follow...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Oh. So you just know this place so well that you just know where the roads are?\" *He asked trying to relate by thinking of how she knows her intire village out of her head* \"Though we aren't all in the same place. We do have a main area where we hold gathering and where most of the family lives. Sometimes we even do switches there*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"I...\"*Juna paused, realizing she had to be careful with her words so as not to seem like she lived here.*\"I travel through these forests a lot... They're... A great link between capitols and other towns...\"*Listening to Ellena talk about her own home, Juna would question her.*\"Kind of like... A tribe...?\"*Juna didn't know much about tribes, but by description alone, it sounded similar to one.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Precisely\" *She said before pulling up a sleeve to reveal some purple markings on her* \"And this is my mark of it... They aren't all the same and the colour and type of marking sometimes differ, but yeah\" *She showing allot of pride in those marking she would then tilt her hair slightly and pull her loose white and lightly pink tinted hair to side to reveal some more on her neck* \"They cover my entire upper body and some of my lower.\" *Just by her showing these, Juna would notice just how built she was, clearly indicating hard work. Her arm also seemed to have a few aged burn on them*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would glance back at her, gazing at the markings for a short while before refocusing on what was ahead. She wondered if all tribes usually gave people markings like that. Juna was used to hearing stories about there being beastkin tribes, though it was a wonder how they'd be able to do something like that with all the fur.*\"I... Didn't know Macens had tribes...\"*She'd say thoughtfully, mostly use to Macens living out in the capitols and other similar places.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Yeah, Macen have Clans, Tribes, Groups. Though my Tribe I guess can be seen as a Clan... Though we prefer tribe. Just feels natural, you know\" *He said before raising Juna's arm up for bit. She would then shake her head and let her arm go*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"What's... The diff-\"*Juna would cut herself off as Ellena had suddenly lifted her arm up before shaking her head and letting it go once more.*\"Wha... What was that for...?\"*She'd ask in confusion.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Was just checking sometime, don't worry. You were saying?\" *She asked with a smile as if that was nothing strange*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would rub at her arm absently as she would continue on walking.*\"Looking for... What...?\"*Juna found herself asking, completely forgetting her original question.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Just checking you out\" *Ellena would say in a joking mode. Clearly that wasn't why... Sort of*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would give a small flick before she would say:*\"Um... Okay...\"*She would walk on ahead, this time more hastily in the awkwardness until she eventually find the small incline she was looking for and would begin to head over to it.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Could you slow down a bit. I'm still trying to enjoy the view\" *She nagged as she slowly followed*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gave a quiet sigh, slowing down slightly and eventually coming to a stop at the base of the slope.*\"The main trail is just up here...\"*She'd say, waiting for Ellena to catch up. It seemed the Macen was more focused on sightseeing than reaching her destination. No matter, it should be a straight shot from here.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Saving you're going to leave me to get there?\" *Alles Alles with a flight time of fear from getying lost again*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She glanced back at Ellena, saying in a tone of confusion:*\"I... Thought you wanted to take the time to sight see...\"*The Canifor would gesture up the slope, saying:*\"It should be straight from here, no need to worry-\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"But what if I get lost after enjoying the view. I don't know if you've noticed. But I'm not exactly good at getting anywhere in this new place *She said before eventually approaching her*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would lower slightly. Would she have to guide them all the way throughout Salvania? Surely not, there was much the Canifor had to get done today between hunting and working on the camp to prepare for her hatchling. Juna would fall silent, turning and quietly heading up the slope onto the path above before waiting for Ellena to join her.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Just to the gates at least... Pleeeeease\" *Ellen's beg with the biggest puppy eyes she could muater*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give a light nod before continuing to walk once more.*\"There's nothing wrong with sightseeing... It can... Actually allow you to learn the terrain a lot more...\"*She would say before gesturing down to one tree in particular. It didn't seem any different from the rest but she seemed to find need in pointing it out.*\"Like that tree down there... That was... Where an assassin tried to shoot me once...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Oh. Did he sucseed?\" *Ellen's would ask a bit concerned for her fried*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gave a light smile.*\"No... They missed their shot and... Before I could react... Someone else came and...\"*The smile faded once more, leading to a sigh.*\"Killed them...\"*She could still remember the strong smell of blood filling the air, merciless acts from both of them. Juna didn't want to become the same, but sometimes it was necessary.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well... Isn't that good then. If he didn't then he could have shot you again?\" *Ellena asked seeming a bit confused*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yeah... Yeah it's good...\"*She'd say, her tone suggesting otherwise. Nevertheless she continued on anyways.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Though I'm surprised you remember that three for that\" *He said before walking a little forward and looking at Juna* \"You could do with more smiles\" *She said before giving a smile of her own*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Oh... Heh... I guess I... Forget to sometimes...\"*Juna would glance around the area some more as they walked, soon pointing to a light patch of grass covered in a few bushes off the side of the road just further ahead.*\"That was where me and Jace nearly missed our catch... He chased the rabbit all along the road until someone finally came and assisted us in catching it...\"*She'd say with a light laugh, a rather fond memory at least.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Oh, you hunt?\" *Ellena asked Juna curiously*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yeah... It's... How I spend most of my time in the forest...\"*She'd explain. It was all she really did in the forest when she wasn't simply resting or playing with Jace around camp. Such fun times when she had little to worry of.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Do you sell what you hunt or is it only for yourself?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Both usually.\"*She'd say.*\"Which is why winter can be especially hard with having to make coin while also making sure I have enough food for myself and-\"*Juna thought about saying Jace as well, but with him currently back at camp she decided to leave him out of it.*\"Well... Just myself really...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I would think the price for meat would go up in the winter, doesn't it?\" *Ellena asked knowing a little about how trading work from her teachings*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yeah, it's just... Prey is also harder to find... So sometimes you just have to take what you get...\"*She'd answer.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Well I know how winter can affect trade. Like we had to wait a whole month for the shipment of iron to get to us because of the snow and stuff\" *She said getting a tiny shiver*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yeah...\"*Juna would murmur, wondering how such a delay could have affect those already trying to make the most out of the winter. She'd glance down the path ahead, her fur standing on end from the gentle breeze blowing by.*\"I hope spring comes soon... I...Miss the warmth...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Ellena would shiver again* \"Yeah, Same... This cold affects me way more than just now\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give a light dip of her head in silent agreement, focusing on what was ahead once more.*\"The gates should be coming up soon...\"*She'd murmur, the distant appearance of the Capitol gradually coming into view the more they walked.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Really. Where!\" *Ellena asked excitingly as she stared out forwards*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Just ahead-\"*She'd say, motioning her hand forwards.*\"Shouldn't be such a far trek now.\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Awesome. Hope I get to see it soon!\" *Clearly Ellena was exited enough, because she started tugging on Juna* \"Hurry up. Let's go. Let's go\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna let out a quiet yelp, finding herself suddenly being pulled along by the Macen as she found herself being forced to speed up in order to keep up with her.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "*Ellena would still pull her even when the Gates were in view. She seemed happy enough and her amour was making quite enough noise*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Ellena- please... Slow down-\"*She'd pant, eventually getting her footing back so that she at least wasn't being dragged completely.*" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Sorry\" *She said before stopping and bowing* \"I just wanted to see the Gates\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*As they neared the capitol's gates, Juna would come to a slow stop and drop her hand away from the Macen while she'd take the time to recollect herself after the sudden run.*\"It's... It's alright... I...I hope you find what you're looking for here...\"" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Wow, they look so different than what I imagined\" *She said with an exited tone as she looked at the gates* \"Thank you Lady\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"You're welcome Ellena.\"*Juna would say with a bow before turning away from her.*\"Good luck with your ventures...\"*The Canifor would soon walk off, beginning her journey back home.*" }, { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Do you know of a Inn I can stay at?\" *Ellena asked real quick as she noticed she didn't know anything about this place*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would turn her head back, saying:*\"There should be a tavern near the center of town. It will have the rooms you're looking for-\"" } ]

[ { "author": "b.r.i.t.z", "message": "\"Thanks Lady. I hope you the best\" *She said with a smile as she hurried into the city with excitement. Soon to get lost in the city and spending the rest of the day finding an inn nowhere near where Juna has mentioned*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would turn away, gradually making her way back to the forest where she had remembered leaving Jace.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Too hot...\"\n*The Uto would trill from the heat, his feathers bristling uncomfortably as he continued through the Salvainian forests, loosening his wing wraps and putting them away. The journey from the Mattan Highlands had been a long one, but most of the regions had at least been cold enough to tolerate, but as the sea came into view the sun felt all that much harder to bear. Kynia unscrewed his canteen and drank slowly, his eyes darting about as he listened to the background noises of the woodlands.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would walk along the thick branches of the trees within Salvania forest, her eyes scanning the ground as she patrolled the area around her newly fixed up camp. Her gaze drifted down as she transfixed it on the bird-like person walking through the forest. Instinctively, Juna's hand would go to the string of her bow, soon hesitant in her own personal promise not to use it. With a shake of her head, she'd grab the stick resting in her bag as she'd slowly pursue Kynia, the simple sign of her presence being the faint bobbing of the branches from the trees as she gradually got closer.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "*The rustling of leaves and branches put Kynia on edge, sweeping his wing across his chest and fingering the grip of his war cleaver, the feathers on his head twitching softly. That wasn't a bird, at least not one he'd seen before...*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would come to a stop at the base of one of the branches, sitting just above the bird. Her eyes narrowed slightly, staring down as he was seemingly reaching for something. Distance, something she needed for now in case he tried something.*\"Who are you...\"*She would murmur as she watched him from the safety of the tree.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"That would be my question. Why are you following me?\"\n*He'd fire a question back, turning on his heel and looking up at her, letting his wing drop to his side as he crouched slightly. The down around his ears would twitch as he listened, eyes scanning her over multiple times.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's tail would wrap around her torso as he stared up at her. She didn't move, sitting upon the branch is stoic silence for a while.*\"This is my part of the forest...\"*She'd say in a low tone.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"You own this forest? I wasn't aware. I'm trying to leave, but this place isn't very easy to navigate.\"\n*Kynia returned matter-of-factly, standing straight as he relaxed; meeting her gaze with an honest curiosity. He stretched a moment, unfurling his wings, the flecks of light that broke through the trees glittering off his adult wings - the majority of which were not so.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's shoulders would go lax a bit at the mention of just passing through, standing back up to her full height, she would say:*\"I don't own all of it... I simply reside in this portion and prefer to keep it safe from any dangers...\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "*Kynia would tilt his head in confusion, looking over her tail as she stood up. Clearly the woman was a Canifor, though this was only his second interaction with one directly.*\n\"Who owns the rest, then?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would look around at the trees surrounding her for a brief moment before lowering her gaze back down to him.*\"No one...\"*She'd murmur.*\"This forest is free to everyone... Though unwelcoming to those who wish to cause trouble...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"We have the same in the mountains. But trouble for us was monsters and bandits. Is it the same here?\"\n*He hopped a little closer, placing his leg against the tree - his talons pressing into the bark and testing the grip.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give a nod in response to his question, soon tensing up as he'd draw closer and place his leg onto the trunk. Reaching for her stick and holding tightly, she'd say:*\"You are lost... Aren't you...?\"*The Canifor had recalled Kynia recently mentioning how he was trying to navigate the forest.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Mhm. I was looking for something to hunt in these forests, but I realised I had no clue where to find one...\"\n*He shrugged, quickly scaling the tree and perching on a branch near Juna, unfurling his wings and covering his torso as he shook off any leaves that fell on him.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would tighten her grip on the tree as he hopped up, soon relaxing once more as he went still again.*\"It's tends to get too cold and too hot for animals at times...\"*Juna would point out before inspecting Kynia and looking over his wings and talons.*\"I've... Never seen someone like you before... Are you... Some sort of bird of prey?\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "*The concept confused him for a moment, being used to seeing his kind as the norm. He settled his talons around the branch, testing its strength tentatively as he beat his wings to counteract the heat.*\n\"In a sort. I'm an Uto, we descend from birds. I've only seen a few of *Your* Kind, where I'm from. What are you?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*'Birds...' Juna wondered. She hasn't ever heard of a species like that before. Being asked what she was, Juna would say:*\"I'm... A Canifor...\"*After a moments' pause she would continue.*\"But... It can be hard for some to tell sometimes... I can be... Mistaken for an oriate of sorts...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Oriate? The half-breeds, right? We are the same, I've been told.\"\n*His eyes examined her again as he stalked the branches, drawing closer as he attempted to get a better look at her.*\n\"Why are you here? Are there more of you in this forest?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give a nod to answer his question, gazing down at Kynia as he'd slowly draw closer to her, causing her to become more antsy as her claws would dig into the bark of the tree. The Canifor wondered if she should tell the bird man that this was her home.*\"I... Reside here...\"*Juna would repeat from earlier, her tail lashing to and fro anxiously. Being asked if there were more of her in the forest, she'd bite her tongue, murmuring:*\"I don't typically see many of my kind... None that I know of live out here either...\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "*Kynia noticed her claws tightening, pulling back slightly in an attempt to placate her - the last thing he wanted to do was make an enemy of the first person he'd seen in weeks.*\n\"Do you not have family? Most live with their family, as far as I've seen. Where are we, anyway? Country-wise.\"\n*He'd ask, his expression unchanging as he looked around like an owl, chirping softly as he took a moment to relax. This journey had been tiring, though it wouldn't show too much from the level of dexterity the Uto was still capable of.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would slowly lower her hand away from the trunk, having to make sure her claws sheathed themselves before she accidentally scratched herself as she'd rub at her arm.*\"No no... I do... They're just... Not... Actually Canifors...\"*She'd say. Being asked where they were, she'd avert her attention out towards the forest beyond, deciding that maybe she could relax a little in Kynia's presence with him giving her the space.*\"We're within Salvania...\"*She'd say.*\"Just in the wilderness beyond the Capitol...\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "*He again tilted his head at her statement, only ever seeing homogeneous families in his homelands - most were filtered into a soft caste system.*\n\"Non-Canifors, yet they are family? That doesn't make much sense.\"\n*His head would perk, the tufts of hair around his ears twitching as he faced towards the Salvainian capital, eyes fluttering and standing tall as a gust of wind whipped through the trees. His wings would be spread as he took in the sorely missed experience.*\n\"...Salvainia is an old name to my people. Maybe stories spread to my elders, but it was never mentioned to us. Mayhaps I will find some of my lost siblings there...\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Well I'm sure I have a Canifor family out there... Somewhere...\"*She'd say almost distantly before quickly shaking her head to and fro.*\"But I've been raised by Macens and... They're the only family I know of...\"*The Canifor would eventually come to sit down on the branch, allowing her tail to relax and hang off the branch as it blew in the gust of wind.*\"Have you... Never been to Salvania before...?\"*She'd question with a slight tilt of her head towards the bird. Juna supposed that she could have grown so used to this place that she hadn't considered others only ever hearing of it.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Maybe. All your sorts are new, Canifor and these Mah-sen.. What kind of place is Salvania?\"\n*He'd settle back down, finished with relishing the breeze and faced Juna once more. Maybe if he had stayed with his family, and gone along with their farce, he would've seen more than just Uto... But that wasn't worth the effort.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Have you... Never heard of others outside your own...?\"*Juna would ask in confusion at the bird thinking Macen and Canifors were anything new. She supposed she was no different having not heard of Uto either, but even then she knew most of the other kinds of people.*\"Well... Salvania is just like... Any other Capitol I suppose... It has a large city with gates and... Places to eat and shop at...\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"I never left my family's estate, unless I was going climbing. No reason to.\"\n*He'd chirp back, letting his Mattan accent seep back into his voice as his eyes darted about a moment. As he shuffled on the branch, Juna might notice the blade he kept on his breast - the scabbard wrapped with a thick black sash.*\n\"I've never seen cities before. Do they have lots of these Mah-sen? And are there more of your kind?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Yes... Lots of Macens and Elves and... Well just all kinds of people really...\"*She'd explain.*\"I'm sure there's more of my kind... I just... Haven't met very many and... Some encounters with them aren't the best I suppose... But... I think you'd really enjoy getting to see around Salvania.\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"I might get lost before I get there, but I'd like to see this city.\"\n*Kynia listened carefully, nodding at each interval - an attention that was quickly broken as his stomach churned audibly.*\n\"Foood...~\"\n*He'd coo sadly, recalling he was the last few slices of his preserved food. He flexed his talons gently and fluttered his wings, glancing about for anything more substantial.*\n\"My stomach hurts. Anything to eat around here?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"I can... Possibly show you the roads that'll take you to the Capitol...\"*The Canifor would offer, knowing she could at least show them the path she used to take. At the mention of needing food, she'd say:*\"Most things to eat around here need to be hunted... There may be some berries around but... I only have some spare jerky on me...\"*She'd say, reaching to her waist side to grab a small sack of jerky bits she usually gave to Jace.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"It's ok, I still have a few rations left.\"\n*He'd respond shortly, fishing out a leaf-wrapped piece of bread, darkened by the oil it was seasoned with and taking a bite out of it - shivering from the texture as he swallowed. His eyes were drawn to the road below, muddy and under-used due to the forest's encroachment, then back at Juna.*\n\"I would like that, yes. Thank you. How far is it?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would watch him eat away at his rations, her gaze soon shifting off of him as he asked how far the road was.*\"Not too far... Just about in sight from here...\"*She'd say, staring out at the distant road with her above average vision before inclining her head in its direction to give him indication of where it was.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Mm, ok. Not too far then.\"\n*He'd chirp back, wrapping the leaf up and putting it back in his bag, matching her gaze and looking as far as he could - the outline of grand buildings hazily making themselves known on the horizon.*\n\"Did you need to prepare anything? I have no specific reason to go there.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's tail would flick in the breeze as she'd turn to look back at the bird.*\"I typically go there for the marketplace but for now I'm simply keeping watch of this place...\"*She'd answer as her way of saying that she too didn't have much reason to visit the place currently.*\"The Capitol... Isn't always the place for me...\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Why not? You're attractive, and a canifor must bring attention if it's mostly mah-sen.\"\n*The Uto would return, trilling softly as he watched the ground for a softer landing spot. While his wings would break his fall very slightly, flight feathers were useless for a creature of his size, despite being far lighter than most upright folk. 'Vestigial' was the word his father used, which is why his climbing skills had been honed so well. His eyes slowly wandered upwards, peering between the tree cover at the brilliant sapphire above. His trills turned to forlorn coos at the sight.. Oh, how he wished he could truly fly...*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"It's... Mostly unwanted attention really...\"*She'd respond awkwardly.*\"I'm not always the best around people not even Macens at times...\"*The Canifor could recall countless points in time growing up with Macens. Sure she felt just fine with her Macen parents, though with the other Macen kids, things typically didn't end well. She gave a brief shake of her head. The Canifor never liked the attention, deciding to keep to herself mostly in the forests as a way of isolation as well as times of peace with the bustling city nearby.*\"I'm sure many would be curious about you there... I don't think there are many of your kind around here...\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"You think so? That would make it easier to find my kin. Maybe we'll find more of yours.\"\n*He'd remark, trying not to let his riding anxiety show too much - failing as he tweeted lowly and fluttered his wings. Even though he wasn't averse to crowds, he'd never experienced so many strangers in one place, especially in a sprawling metropolis like Salvania must be.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna didn't seem to match his excitement, her ears eventually lowering on her head.*\"I think... I'm better off not meeting them...\"*She'd say, part of her downcast from some of her previous meetings with other Canifors.*\"They're just... Hard for me to understand I guess... Maybe I just lived with Macens for too long...\"*Shaking her head briefly, she'd eventually stand back up on the branch and would begin to make her way back down the tree with the idea of Kynia not here to cause trouble.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Mah-sens and Canifors are that different?\"\n*He'd continue, quickly climbing down with decided deftness, waiting for his new guide to show him the way.*\n\"I saw your weapon. Is it a bow? I've seen a couple used by my siblings.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Very different...\"*She'd murmur on the way down before her feet would finally plant themselves on the ground. With Kynia following her down, she'd decide to turn away and begin heading towards the road she had pointed out earlier.*\"Yes it's a Shortbow actually... I...Mostly just use it for hunting now...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Does it kill easily? Or is it a slower death with it?*\n*He'd follow up, the curious expression on his face contrasting his macabre question. Fishing out one of his metal darts, he'd flip it between his fingers quickly, explaining himself with a bizarre calm.*\n\"These aren't very effective unless they hit a vital point, the neck is best.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"It uh... Kills the same I suppose...\"*Juna would say in confusion to his question on how the bow worked. Surely anything kills easily if you hit a viral part and not if you don't. Sometimes it appalled her how easily people speak of killing as if it were a normal afternoon for them. Then again she usually hunted animals, so it was no different for her.*\"Usually you have to aim for the neck with it as well... The chest if you have a good enough shot and... The head if there aren't any other options...\"*It felt better explaining this with the idea of hunting in mind. Some animals took multiple shots to kill while others fell rather easily. It really depended on the animal and situation.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"I see. I've never killed anyone before. I'll have to at some point.\"\n*He gave a small nod as the implications of his training slowly dawned on him. To take a life... The Uto had little understanding of people in general, so stopping one with a blade was far beyond what he could imagine. The back of the neck, the small of the spine, between the collarbone... Could end a life. How it haunted him, the thought. Kynia returned to his senses after a few solemn moments, meeting Juna's eyes again as he sweeped his wing in a gesture.*\n\"Lead the way. I don't want to get lost again.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"What... Do you mean...?\"*Juna would ask hesitantly as Kynia stated he would soon have to kill. It left a foreboding feeling inside her, though part of her felt she should have expected this much from a stranger she just met. Being told to lead the way, she would continue further in the forest, her ears now up and alert as if she expected them to potentially get attacked as she made her way through the forest.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"It is what I've been taught. How to kill. One day I will use it to my advantage. Though not on the innocent, we took an oath against that sort of thing... Honour, they described it as.\"\n*He explained flatly, putting away his dart and following a few paces behind. Though he was an oblivious lad, he wasn't dense enough to stay close after a statement like that.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Oh...\"*She'd murmur before giving an accepting dip of her head. The Canifor supposed that was fair of him. After all, she'd do the same whenever it came down to it.*\"I guess I'm similar in that aspect... Well... Besides the oath anyways...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "*This solemn talk was interrupted once again by Kynia's stomach, the pitiful growl followed by his soft whine as his stroll became a stumble.*\n\"I didn't pack enough food for this journey...\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would come to a stop, turning around to face the bird. Taking the pouch of jerky from her side, she would hold it out to him.*\"Here... You should have this... It's not much but... It should hold you over until we reach town...\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Thank you, Juna. You are kind.\"\n*He gave his gratitude quietly, taking the offering and nibbling at it between happy chirps.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would hide a faint smile, turning her head away as she'd continue walking on.*\"It's nothing really... There should be much nicer foods to try out in Salvania...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"I shall pay for such foods.\"\n*He'd reply quickly, pulling out a heavy bag of coins, the glint of silver unmistakable.*\n\"Spending most my years training means I had little to spend my allowances on. Simple foods were cheap.\"\n*He'd chirp, a twinge of pride under his flat voice as he subconsciously puffed his chest out.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She'd give a quiet laugh at the bird's pridefulness towards his training, saying:*\"Training must have been... Very enjoyable then... Hopefully you won't have to put it to too much use though... Enjoying nice foods are... Way more fun...\"" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Oh no, it was hell. But I learnt much from it. Though...\"\n*He'd trail off during his correction, his expression turning extremely pained for a few moments as something tore at his mind. He remained silent, lowering his head and fanning out his wings, as if to protect himself as they walked.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Oh...\"*She'd say quietly. Juna would come to a gradual stop as they began to near the edge of the woods.*\"The road to Salvania is just beyond here... I...Don't typically like to take it because... It's trouble bound...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "*Again the Uto would deflate, though managed to flash a solitary smile, a hollow brightness to it as his eyes wavered.*\n\"Well... Thank you. I am being unreasonable when I say this has been very special to me. You are the first stranger I've met in my life, and I won't forget you.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give a dip of her head, offering a smile back.*\"I won't forget you either...\"*She'd say.*\"If you ever wish to visit you know where to find me...\"*She had almost cut herself off at that part, knowing full well the dangers of the woods alone. Besides, she'll have a hatchling to raise one day. Maybe it was best she secluded herself to care for them, but she didn't want the bird to think that she cared any less.*\"Enjoy yourself in the Capitol and...\"*Again another pause before she'd continue.*\"If you find any nice treats... I...I wouldn't mind a few... Just... Just if you ever decide to visit...\"*The Canifor didn't want to sound so demanding, but she supposed she did give him the rest of her jerky. Maybe it wouldn't sound like asking too much.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"I will bring gifts. But it will not be soon. I wish to find my siblings, at least one of them, before anything else. They have much to answer for.\"\n*Kynia returned, his tone returning to it's usual flatness, the smile unfading as he nodded to her. Reciprocating with a low bow, fanning out his wings in a show of respect.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give an awkward courtesy back, never really being good at the more regal way of greeting and saying goodbye. She'd take one receding step back.*\"Farewell...\"*She paused once more, realizing that they hadn't properly introduced each other.*\"Uto...\"*She'd finally say, deciding to use his species name before turning away to head further forest.*" }, { "author": "Kynia Cael", "message": "\"Fare thee well, Canifor. May the winds carry you far and high.\"\n*He'd have the last word as he turned towards the grand city, taking a deep breath to steady his nerves. Here we stand, in front of the world... It waited.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Mhm?\"\n\n*Both Oshikuru and the bear turn towards the small figure. A young girl, in the middle of the forest, attempting to interrupt a fist fight between two great warriors. The bear roars, and Oshikuru shoves onto its back, looking at the small woman.*\n\n\"What are you doing here?\"\n\n*There was no possible way that she was a bounty hunter. She seemed to care for the bear more than about Oshikuru being captured; plus, someone seeking his head would have let the bear weaken him first.*\n\n*Now that he thought about it, he shouldn't have taken his eyes off the bear. To his surprise though, the bear was also looking towards the young girl, and huffs.*\n\n\"I'm fighting a bear to get stronger.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I'm just here to collec- No! The bear is just protecting it's mate! Knock it off!\" *She took a step forward but only a single step. She couldn't really do much against either of them. She needed to think of a way to end this fight before someone or something got hurt for that matter. Standing up as tall as she could before turning her attention to the bear. Inhaling her breath as much as she could before speaking. The words that came out were not one of any documented language as her words were magically translated into one that only beasts could understand.* \n\n\"Excuse me, I understand that you're just protecting something and if you trust me I'll make sure you and whatever you're protecting will be safe. Just... Just go now before you get hurt.\" \n\n*She even went as far as turning to the bear, completely bowing to it as a sign of respect. It was just doing what it was designed to do, protect it's mate or it's territory. The one out of place was the Oni who was fighting.*" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"I don't have anything I'm protecting really. I was just minding my own business when this asshole runs into the forest, without anything, and yells at me. Me being a bear, of course I would think I could obliterate this bastard, but he's a hell of a lot tougher than I thought. Tell him that I would have beaten his ass if this continued.\"\n\n*The bear's voice is heavy and seems exhausted.*\n\n\"Wait a second, you can speak bear?\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Yeah? So? Why would I care about their mate?\"\n\n*The girl then seemed to be speaking to... A bear. A literal bear. As far as he was aware, he was not fighting an Ursinoid. Was this a druid? They didn't seem to be wearing what druids typically wore, at least to what he had heard. No rags made of leather or minimal leaf clothes.*\n\n*And then she bowed to it.*\n\n\"What the fuck are you doing? If you're talking to it, tell him that I would have liked for him to hit harder. I need to face the true power of the bear.\"\n\n*Oshikuru then turns towards the bear.*\n\n\"Be glad this interests me more than fighting you is.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon stepped forward until she was directly in between the bear and the Oni. Without warning she slammed her back into the Oni's waist as she tried as hard as she could to push him backwards. Her gaze remained focus on the bear in case it tried to attack.* \n\n*Once more in a foreign language she spoke, not to the Oni but to the bear.* \n\"Yes my friend is a total idiot, He. Uh... He likes to flex himself in front of me. I try to tell him that I love no one else but he feels the need to prove himself in the most silly of ways.\" \n*She turned around now to press both of her hands against the Oni's stomach, using all of her strength to just force him to back away from the bear. She tilted her head back, staring up at the Oni as she spoke in common tongue.*\n\"Just LEAVE!\" *She gasped, clearly straining herself to get him to move*" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"....I mean to be fair, being able to fight me is a total flex. If I were a humanoid, that would be cool as fuck.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\".....No.\"\n\nA powerful hammer fist drops down onto the top of Manon's head. It wasn't aiming to kill her, more of a nonchalant strike, but it certainly could have dropped any normal peasant.\n\n\"Huh. Well that was easy. Now, shall we resume?\"\n\nOshikuru pounds his two fists together." }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*One moment she was looking at the Oni's legs as she tried to push him back, her palm against his abs. The next she was entirely blind, She couldn't feel her arms or legs either. Manon dropped straight the ground as fell unconscious just like anyone else. For a few seconds she simply laid face down onto the ground at the Oni's feet until her hand grabbed onto his foot. For such an insignificant girl she had no issue bringing herself to his ankle before four sharp fangs bit through his flesh. She managed to coax a mouthful of blood from the Oni before swallowing, her head peeling away from his foot. She directed her attention back to the ground, coughing his blood all over the mossy grass of the forest floor. The hand that held onto his foot grabbed his thigh as she wobbled back to her feet, entirely relying on the Oni for support.* \n\"Just..\" * Finally standing on her own two feet once more, her back slamming into him once more before screaming.* \n\"LEAVE!\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The oni was prepared to fight the bear once again, but he felt a sharp object enter his foot, blood soon entering. The girl had bitten him. That was unexpected. What was more surprising though, was that she __stood back up__.*\n\n\"How the hell are you still alive? And standing?\"\n\n*Amazed, Oshikuru picks the girl up by the waist, tilting his head in curiosity. It seems that this girl was a vampire; a powerful disease that allowed the cursed to heal back from wounds that would normally cripple a man, yet at the same time rendered them vulnerable to fire and light. He had considered seeking their powers, but after his last encounter with a certain fiery fox mage, decided not to.*\n\n\"So you're a vampire? You can heal off the life force of others?\"\n\n\"And just so you know, I'm not leaving. You're not making me leave that easily after I spent all day trying to find a bear. Can you really talk to the bear?\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"What in the actual holy shitting fuck did I just watch. How are you alive? Why did you bite him? And what are you saying to him?\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*A few second after standing on her own two feet she began glowing in a faint lavender light. Any wound she had that wasn't healed from consuming his blood was now completely gone as her faith magic took care of the rest. Not only was she in perfect health, she seemed to have no recollection of the time she was knocked unconscious. Pulling her right hand back before punching the Oni's stomach as hard as she could, which probably wasn't hard at all compared to his size.* \n\n\"I don't know what you're talking about!\" \n\n\"Mister Bear, Please just leave us. Nobody has to get hurt.\" *She said in beast tongue, although she was entirely healed in made no difference to her stamina. Instead of pushing onto the Oni she was now leaning against him or she would fall to the forest floor. Her breathing was labored and it was clear that she was tired now. She chose to ignore his last question since he seemed keen to beat up the local wildlife*" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"I dunno about that. He'll just hunt me down again after he tosses you to the side. I think it's best that he and I come to an understanding. Punching him probably won't do anything either.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The punch proceeds to not do anything, and Oshikuru simply places a hand on Manon's forehead, keeping her away and unable to reach him.*\n\n\"Are you talking to the bear or not? It's huffing, and I'm pretty sure it's not directed at me.\"\n\n*The Oni looks at Manon carefully. No visible damage to her skull. It seems the only thing she sustained was exhaustion, considering her labored breathing.*\n\n\"I came here to find the might of the bear. If you are able to translate for us directly, I will be able to find the secret to the power of the bear without harming it.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon reached up and grabbed the Oni's wrist firmly within her two hands. Instead of pushing the Oni she began pulling instead, trying to lead him just away from the bear. In all honestly she was just leaning backwards with her head thrown back. Manon even went as far as digging her heels into the grass.*\n\n\"Hypothetically, if I could speak to the bear. Why would it want to help you after you attacked it?! We can talk as much as you'd like, just not here!\" \n\n*She gave him a sharp tug on the wrist. Almost as if she was trying to knock him off balance with her own strength, which was non-comparable.* \n\n\"And to a different bear.\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "*The bear simply sits down, not understanding what was going on.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"It would help me so I don't beat it. Is that so difficult to understand?\"\n\n*Oshikuru simply bicep flexes and pulls Manon back, lifting her up into the air.*\n\n\"And what are the chances of me finding another bear?\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Hey, I can say that I went toe to toe with a demon! That's fucking dope!\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*If she didn't feel insignificant before, she certainly felt it now that she was lifted from the ground. Her legs dangled for a few seconds until she released her hold on his arm. She opened her mouth to say something to the Oni before the bear spoke again. Whirling around on her heels until she now faced the bear, even going as far as placing her hands on her hips and leaning forward. Words flowed from her mouth in language not understood by people* \n\n\"Yes, you did very well but people and demons do not care if you live or die.\" *She started scolding the bear as if it was a child* \"You need to be more careful!\" \n\n*She stood upright and turned her attention back to Oshi, hands still on her hips.* \n\n\"As for you, what are you even talking about 'the might of the bear'? If you promise to take three steps back and not fight the bear, I will try and ask..\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "*The bear huffs in a pouting way.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Fine. I will not fight the bear.\"\n\n*If he could really talk to a bear... This would quicken the process more than just fighting one. He couldn't afford to miss out on this opportunity. He would test out the power later, on maybe a tree or a rock.*\n\n*Oshikuru takes 3 steps back as Manon says. This was starting to get annoying; this had better been worth his time. This pesky little girl was trying to boss him around; the only reason he listened is that he wasn't stupid.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon placed her hands together for a few seconds, almost if she was sending a prayer to a goddess. Then her hands gave off a faint green light as she separated her palms. She needed to touch his head but she was a too short compared to him. She had to leap into the air to reach him, even then she palmed his nose versus the intended forehead touch.*\n\n*Manon landed gracefully on her own too feet with an apologetic look written all over her face.* \n\n\"I didn't mean to hit you like that but you should be able to communicate with the bear now.\" *She said in beast tongue which the Oni should now fully understand for a few minutes.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*A smack in the nose didn't hurt much, but it certainly bothered him. Did this little shit really think she could just do that-*\n\n*Wait. Something was different.*" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Smacking him in the nose? That's not going to do much.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The oni then looks at the bear. She could indeed talk to the bear, and she had just allowed him to do so.*\n\n\"So. We can actually talk now.\"\n\n*The demon then turns to the smaller girl.*\n\n\"Next time, ask before you smack me in the nose.\"\n\n*Oshi turns to the bear once again.*\n\n\"So. What's the secret to your power?\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Wait, miss, did this fucker just talk to me?\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I already apologized.\" *She said rather curtly, If there was any visible damage she would've healed it. She took a few steps to the side so she was no longer directly between Oshi and the Bear. She did keep close enough to break up a fight if it started up once more.* \n\n\"You should probably start with an introduction and an apology.\" *Feeling the need to correct the demon on his manners, the bear was a different story. Animals never had manners because they're simply animals* \n\n\"Yes and he can hear you too, He was talking about some Might you possess but he sounds crazy to me, maybe you could help him out?\" *Not caring that the Oshi could now understand her as well.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Why should I apologize?\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Maybe because you attacked me out of nowhere.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"I had a goal, and I was pursuing it.\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Well, you could have asked her to translate for you. She said you were trying to flex for her.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*Well, that was annoying. He glares at Manon for a bit before resuming conversation with the bear.*\n\n\"So. How *Do* You generate so much power?\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Well, it's mainly using my own body weight. I'm heavier than most creatures, you know.\"\n\n\"Oh, yeah. Um, miss, thank you for allowing this bastard to actually talk to me and not just fight me.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*When the bear mentioned what she had said Earlier to Oshi, she looked towards the forest. Finding the endless landscape far more interesting than the conversation. She didn't know what she was supposed to say. It had to be something convincing for the bear. Calling herself someone important was the only thing she thought of.*\n\n\"Oh, you're welcome Sir. Are you hurt anywhere?\" \n\n *She turned to face the bear before giving him a curtsy. She couldn't help but smile from being appreciated. She felt the Oni was strong enough, why would he need more power? Nobody ever goes hand to paw with a bear but he could. Manon kneeled onto the forest floor as she played mediator for the conversation. For someone as weak as she was, she didn't seem to mind being around potentially dangerous animals.* \n\n\"How come you wish to learn these things... Dear.\" *She hoped the bear wouldn't be upset with her about the lie from earlier.*" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Honestly, it does ache quite a bit.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Of course it does. You're being hit by me.\"\n\n*Oshikuru decided to sit down crosslegged. It wasn't often that he tried learning something, but he was currently talking to a damn bear with the help of this girl. Maybe he should try getting the assistance of mages more often.*\n\n\"So how does a bear develop strength? You don't weightlift, don't harden your bones against rocks, don't wrestle against other bears on a frequent basis. How do you gain power?\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "*The bear leans in to Manon.*\n\n\"Does he even need this? He's pretty fucking strong already.\"\n\n*To Oshikuru*\n\"We do have resistance 'training'. Taking down elk, constant use, using our jaws to rip apart flesh from bone... You know, typical bear stuff. Try using your weight to crush your opponents down.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*She could definitely say that having a bear so close to her was frightening. In fact she leaned away from the bear and used her hand to support herself. Her cat like pupils fixated on it's face, waiting for it to maul her or bite or anything to be honest. She also didn't believe this Oni would protect her either. There has been a lot of people who were contempt on watching another vampire get purged from the planet.*\n\n\"Well, He has this unhealthy obsession with being stronger. He's a lot like an animal. Using his strength to win the ladies and protect his home.\" *She was entirely making things up as she went. It was the lie she dug for herself and she continued digging, hopefully the Oni would understand and forgive her. She was most afraid of being attacked if the truth came out.* \n\n\"Or try talking to your opponents.\" *She interjected, always opting for the more pacifist route if she could. From below a long grown erupted from her stomach. It was rather loud too, so loud that it felt like it interrupted the conversation. She didn't dare look up and focused down at the ground.* \"S-Sorry.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"What the hell are you talking about? I don't chase after women. They're a waste of my time. I could be training. And I'm not 'protecting' anything either.\"\n\n*However wrong Manon was, she was (at least partially) correct about one thing. His obsession with becoming stronger. He had gained Herculean strength during his training and transition from a pale oni to red, and sought more.*\n\n*A question did circle through his mind though. Why was this girl here? She couldn't have just popped out of nowhere.*\n\n\"Are you one of those fucking tsundere I keep hearing about?\"\n\n*Certainly, she wasn't keen on violence. She wasn't strong in the slightest, and was obviously against the prospect of fighting.*\n\n*His thoughts were interrupted by the grumbling of the girl's stomach.*" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"....I have a rotting deer carcass, if you would like that.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon shook her head to the bear's question. She needed something a little more fresh to sedate her desire. She tried feeding off of an already dead creature, it was also a deer that was half eaten. It was then that she learned how awful rotten blood tasted. She had plenty of berries that night in her attempt to calm the raging hunger and after drinking the putrid blood. Well she painted the forest floor with the berries in a matter of seconds.*\n\n*She watched looked at the bear in case it was provoked from her lying. Watching his feature for the first sign of hostility. She didn't even register that his question was pointed at her. 'Now that was a strange question, what does that have to do with pow-' Turning her head to Oshi with a confused look. Seeing him looking at her made her realize who he was talking to.* \n\n\"W-What?! No?\" *It was more a question than a statement. If there were rumors spreading about the healer, it was unbeknownst to her. Manon's head turned from Oni to Bear. Making sure the Bear wasn't turning hostile and confused by the Oni's words.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Either that, or I could kill something for you. You did save me from this madman here, after all.\"\n\n*The bear glares at the oni, but doesn't attack. He knows that he's more powerful, despite the bear technically having more power.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The oni doesn't seem even fazed by the glare the bear gives him, remaining scarily calm.*\n\n\"Hm. Not that you would know what they are anyway.\"\n\n*A simple scoff comes from Oshikuru. This elf was incredibly foolish and naive, yet incredibly stubborn or brave. Or stupid. Maybe all three. He did wonder about her origin though; it wasn't often that there was a vampiric druid.*\n\n\"So, girl, what's your name?\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "*The bear seems completely fine.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*She gave a small smile to the bear, even going so far to nod her head to him.* \"No thank you, I think you need the energy more than me, Sir. You were the one fighting an Oni.\" *This is where Manon would've rubbed the bear's head if she trusted it to not bite her. The bear offering it's service was enough to make Manon feel comfortable taking her eyes off it for longer periods of time.* \n\n\"My name, I'm Manon. Why do you ask... If I may ask.\" *She took a quick glance at the bear before looking at the Oni* \"I've told you so many time-\" *The Oni had a faint green aura rise from his body before it entirely dissipated. Manon was left to assume that the spell had just worn out. Clearing her throat as she switched back to the common tongue.* \"Are you happy now? You can go brag to your friends that you talked to a bear.\" *Clearly Manon was keeping an act up for the Bear, her attitude towards the Oni who went looking for a fight with animals has not changed.* \"I wouldn't recommend you do that, you'll just get looked at crazy. Kind of like how you looked at me earlier.\" *She stood up to her feet and glanced at the bear, The Oni would have no idea if they it was talking or not.*" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "*The bear leans its head towards Manon, allowing it to scratch its head.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Manon. Just curious.\"\n\n*The language had changed. Had the spell worn out?*\n\n\"Talked to a bear? That is not a feat worthy speaking about. Fighting a bear toe to toe is. Bare-handed, with no armor or weapons. While specializing in weapons. I've heard more outlandish brags. I won't be called crazy; people will simply call my bluff.\"\n\n*It seems like the spell really did run out. Manon appeared to be talking to the bear, but couldn't tell what they were saying anymore.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Well I don't know what to tell you, but I kept my end of the bargain.\" *She walked over to Oshi and began pushing at him once more, trying to get him to leave the area.* \"You're not allowed to fight other bears either!\" *She yelled as she gave him another firm push. Why was this Oni so stubborn, at any rate she was going to tire herself once more. Sending a breath up to send strands of her hair flying from her face she then walked over to the bear.* \n\n\"Actually, I will take you up on your offer, We should go find a meal before this Oni strikes you down.\" *She looked back at the demon before adding.* \"And probably me.\" *She stepped to the side of the bear, her fingertips lightly grazing it's fur. Would it be entirely insane to mount it...* \"May I climb on your back, Sir?\" *She almost wanted to see the Oni's expression if the bear did allow such a thing to happen.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"What do you mean 'allowed'? Are you the ruler of the forest? If so, I defy your word. If not, I defy it anyway.\"\n\n*He still wasn't sure why Manon was trying to push against him. It was futile; she couldn't do it no matter how hard she tried.*\n\n\"Later, I will go and fight another bear.\"" }, { "author": "Bear", "message": "\"Sure.\"\n\n*The bear allows Manon to climb into his back, and stands on 4 legs.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The demon raised an eyebrow as the bear allows Manon to climb onto its back. Talking with it certainly seems to have improved its mood. To think that such a small girl could tame such a large creature. It was certainly impressive.*\n\n\"Not bad.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon threw her right leg over the bear's back as she mounted it. Her hand gently caressing the fur between it's ears. Thankfully the bear couldn't understand Oshi anymore. This would've been an awkward time for them to resume their fist fighting. While maintaining glare with Oshi she leaned forward until her pink lips pressed into the bear's ear. Clearly whatever she was saying was a secret, not like the Demon could understand her now anyways.* \n\n\"Thank you for being kind and reasonable, the demon is more an animal than you are.\" *It was meant as a compliment, she hoped it reached him well.* \n\n*She placed both hands around the Bear's side and squeezed gently, she didn't know if pulling it's hair would provoke it so she stayed away from doing so.* \n\n\"You learned that animals have feelings too, this one even told you it's secrets.. Go fight in the arena if you need to prove yourself. I'm not a ruler of the forest but I'll try to protect it.\" *The more the Oni talked the less she cared for him. Of course she would heal him if he laid injured on the forest floor but.. It wouldn't be a pleasant time for either of them.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"People have feelings too. They die all the same. I respect this bear more than most people. It is strong.\"\n\n*Naive. So naive to think that feelings mattered much. She might be powerful though; talking to a bear and taming it was an incredible ally. What if she had gotten stronger? Tamed other, stronger animals?*\n\n*Wait a second. Oshikuru didn't use his head much, but he did use it sometimes. If he could find the secrets of power to other animals, and not just bears...*\n\n\"Wait. I have a proposal. If you help me, I won't harm any more forest animals.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*She gave the Oni a long overdue suspicious glance. What could she possibly have to offer, she was just a healer. She folded her arms as she looked at the Oni, willing to at least hear what he had in mind.* \n\n\"I'm listening... Whatever your name is.\" *She made no move to dismount her new ally, in fact if the Oni got closer she would order it to run. He might've been strong but he couldn't have been very fast. At the very least she could summon vines to slow him down long enough to make an escape.* \n\n\"And how do I know I can even trust your word? You barely managed to keep this promise and you stated that you don't have compassion either.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Oshikuru. I did keep my word though. And I'm not doing this out of 'compassion'. I'm doing this out of my own self interest. It will be easier to gain power from talking to animals about how they gain it rather than simply fighting them. It's in both your interest and mine. Otherwise I'm going to fight the bear again.\"\n\n*Just to show that he's not kidding, Oshikuru pulls out a massive axe from behind a tree. He was completely unarmored, so his typically heavy armor wouldn't slow him down. He doubted Manon knew exactly what he was capable of; he could easily chase down most targets. He could probably take off Manon's head in one blow, though maybe two to account for her healing. And then the bear. Easy target.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*She closed her eyes and slid off the bear. Reaching behind her to brush his fur once more before dismissing him. She still didn't trust the Oni but it wasn't worth both of them dying in the end. She slowly walked to the one named Oshikuru, her head thrown back as she looked up at him. Cat like pupils examined his expression for any truth in what he said, a look of disdain across her face. If there were any type of people Manon couldn't stand, it were the ones who just kept fighting and spreading pain. After she was finished with her assessments she continued walking, figuring the Oni would be smart enough to follow on his own. 'Men' she found herself thinking. As she passed a small gust of wind brushed Oshi's face except it was rather warm to the touch despite it being cold outside.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "*The girl's eyes were catlike. Unusual for an elf. Definitely a Druid. Oshikuru's own were unwavering and dark, like steel. There was no semblance of emotion or warmth, nor cunning or deception. It was brutally honest.*\n\n*Oshikuru follows the woman was she walks away, noticing the warm gust of wind.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"What other animal do you wish to speak to? I'm pretty sure a fish can't teach you how to swim, nor how to fly from a bird.\"\n \n*There was nothing soothing in her voice. It was obvious that she felt forced into doing this on the behalf of all the other animals in the forest. Branches and vines slithered away from the girl, creating a path that she could walk through without needing to fight nature. It wasn't intentional but the path was just slightly larger than she was, the Oni would have to struggle on his own. For Oshi, this could be seen as almost intentional. For Manon, this was all done subconsciously through her nature magic.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"A ram's charge, a python's grasp, a crocodile's bite. All demonstrations of power without necessarily needing size. There are enemies larger than I am; I intend to cut them down the same.\"\n\n*Oshikuru didn't notice that the path was intentionally smaller for him that for Manon; for him, this was simply a result of his large stature. Not that it mattered. Blades of grass were brushed aside, branches were knocked out of the way, and roots were ripped right through.*\n\n\"I must also study beasts similar to my opponents. Quick strikers with deadly blows such as snakes or tigers. That way, I am prepared for any foe.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon's shoulders shrunk at the list Oshi gave her. She barely survived the encounter with a brown bear. Now she needed to survive against a crocodile? A tiger even?! She wanted to leave him stranded in the woods. Maybe warn all the animals in the vicinity so he may never find that which she sought after.* \n\n\"Have you tried simply not attacking everything you meet? Why are you so prepared to fight *Everyone*?\" \n\n*She wanted to ask who hurt him, usually creatures who spread pain are also in pain themselves. Misery loves company. The worst part was, if Oshi did fight and get injured, she probably wouldn't be able to stop herself from healing him anyways.* \n\n\"Can't you just go to your Oni town with your Oni friends and drink whatever Oni's drink and be happy!?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"I do not attack everyone. Most people are so weak that they are not worth fighting. It's like going for small fry and ignoring the big fish. If they attack, however, I will not hesitate to destroy them.\"\n\n\"My town was poor and crappy. There wasn't anything for me there. Plus, I'm a different kind of oni now. I was never with them in the first place.\"\n\n*A phrase that might have sounded sad was said in a completely emotionless voice. It doesn't seem like Oshikuru cared much about his past.*\n\n\"I do enjoy drink, though. Sake. Lots and lots of sake. I'm happy when I'm doing two things; drinking, and beating the shit out of people. And training, so I can beat the shit out of people better.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Is that actually all you think about?\" \n\n*Manon wasn't sure why she was leading the way, she could only sense things vaguely. If she had things her way, she'd march the Oni straight out of the forest and point him towards the nearest village or town. Maybe that's what she should do.*\n\n*Manon took an abrupt left turn, planning to go towards the forest edge with the Oni while using conversation as a means to pre-occupy his thoughts.* \n\n\"Well there clearly isn't any Sake out here, Oshi. Also, there are no people besides me out here, as far as I can tell. Animals aren't considered people.\" *She interjected before he said anything about beating more animals.* \"And no, you may not beat me either.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Yes.\"\n\n*A sudden left. That was odd. Wasn't she going straight earlier?*\n\n\"Isn't this the way to the city?\"\n\n\"I did not plan on either. If I had nothing to do, I would have practiced on the trees and stones. They help build power.\"\n\n*Manon said that as if she could stop him. Technically, if he wanted to, he could rip off her head. But she was useful and he wanted to make sure he could get the most out of her.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Is this way to the city?\" \n\n*She asked him, trying to feign ignorance. She turned around and looked up at Oshi.* \n\n\"Why am I leading anyways, I haven't even seen a snake or a-a.. Ram or even a tiger.\" \n\n*She wasn't lying about this however. The only animal she did see was a crocodile. Even then she wasn't entirely sure it was a Croc, it looked like a brownish green log. The only thing that gave it away was when it started talking. 'Food, food' She remembered it saying as it drifted towards where she was on the edge of the pond.* \n\n\"Practicing on trees or stones would be far better than on actual animals. Let's go ask a tree how it becomes so sturdy and a rock how it becomes so unyielding. I say you keep asking until you get a response while I go and find you an animal. Deal?\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"It sure seems like it.\"\n\n*The oni's eyebrows furrow slightly as Manon mentions that she hasn't seen a snake.*\n\n\"You don't know what a snake is? They're one of the most common animals out there. A ram is a big sheep with horns. A tiger is a big deadly cat.\"\n\n*Rams and tigers were understandable. Rams lived high up in the mountains, and tigers were incredibly stealthy. But a snake?*\n\n\"....Do you really think I can talk to a tree or a rock? You must think I'm some sort of idiot. I simply hit it until it breaks, and I try to put in as much power as I can.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon stopped abruptly, whirling around to face the Oni.* \n\n\"Yes I know what a snake is, I know what a Ram is, I KNOW. What a tiger is too.\" *She stretched out both her arms in opposite directions, indicating more to the forest itself than anything.* \n\n\"I have not seen them HERE.\" *She glare up at him, not remotely scared of what he could do to her if anything. Though this would be her own fault at misjudging his actual strength.*\n\n \"I don't care if you're an idiot or not, I can't stand brutes like you who just communicate thorough violence. *Things* Like you who don't have a need to kill and do so for pure... Entertainment purposes are the worst kind of people.\" *At this point she was just making herself upset, He was entirely opposite from who she was.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"I see.\"\n\n*The girl was certainly brave. Or stupid. The fighters who stood up to him had both of these qualities. Her glare isn't matched. Instead, a bored look is seen on the oni's face.*\n\n\"I can talk. That is communication. And everyone understands violence.\"\n\n*Oshikuru places his hands on his knees and bends down, his face closer to Manon.*\n\n\"Most people have purposes in life. It is not simply entertainment; it is my *Goal* To become stronger. And to do so, I fight.\"\n\n*The demon began to wonder if this was even a good idea. Would she be like this the entire time? Would she sabotage him? Perhaps try and get him captured?*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I can promise you, if you walk up and just hit someone. They will not understand.\" \n\n*She took a step back when Oshi lowered himself to her level. She couldn't understand the need to get stronger, did he even have a reason? Manon placed her hands on her hips and leaned forward. Her nose almost touching his now.*\n\n\"And why must you get stronger? You're plenty strong enough so what reason do you have to continue?\" \n\n*She stared him into his eyes, almost searching for the answer itself within them.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"If they get hit by me, they're not talking anymore. If they live, they'll understand that they're going to die.\"\n\n\"And I get stronger because there is bound to be someone better. Why do people train? To become better. Saying \"That's enough\" Is a recipe for failure.\"\n\n*Oshikuru's eyes have a dark flame in them; a hint of rage, but not bright enough to be visible.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon sighed into the Oni's face. Not impressed by his answers at all. Instead she took a few steps to the side before bowing in front of him, her stretched out to the right.* \n\n\"My all means, lead the way. You have no intentions of listening. I will gift you the power of beast tongue as long as you remain passive.\" \n\n*She didn't bother telling him what she would do if he wasn't passive. Finding no reason to give him a heads up on what other magic she knew. She just wished nobody else would get hurt, that's all she really cared about in the end. Even the Oni, he just needed to go home peacefully instead of this journey.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Flick them? What is that going to do? Make them laugh? A flick won't work against angry wolves, or moose. And if you're not hungry, I am. We'll need to eat, eventually.\"\n\n*Oshikuru looks at the vampire, seeing that she was obviously lying. He wasn't quite sure why she was lying about that, though. As Manon stops, he does as well, hefting his axe. Sure, the girl didn't want combat, but he wasn't going to stand back and let beasts tear him to pieces.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Speaking of angry wolves, we have company. Can't you scare them away, without murder?\" \n\n*Manon turned to face the Oni, her staff now pointing towards the way they had just came. Somewhere off in the distance the sound of twigs snapping as multiple unseen animals drew closer to their locations.* \n\n\"Or are you going to ask me to talk to them for you. 'Oh pack animal, how are you so strong. Me Oshi.'\" *She began mimicking the Oni, not caring if she was insulting his intelligence or not. She was testing the demon, if she wanted the wolves to run away it wouldn't be too difficult for her.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"Hm?\"\n\n*Huh. Wolves. Almost too easy, unless they were maybe desperate.*\n\n*Oshikuru sinks his axe blade into the earth and pounds his chest, letting out a gutteral roar only a demon could make. He wasn't planning on talking; simple noises should be enough for beasts.*\n\n\"They should understand that.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Almost instantly Manon raised her hands to cover her ears. Oshi was insane, she was convinced of it. It did the job as she requested, the wolves no longer wanted anything to do with the pair. Unfortunately, ever other animal in the area decided it was no longer safe. The idea of ending things rather quickly and feeding seemed unlikely now.*\n\n*Slowly Manon removed her hands from her ears as she scowled at Oshi. A little warning would've been nice but she didn't have anything to complain about. Without another word she turned her back to him and began walking once more. The sound of his roar still fresh in her mind.* \n\n\"We're going to have to walk longer now, you scared everything away.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"What? Worried that we won't be able to find food for a bit?\"\n\n*Was he that loud that Manon had to cover her ears? Or maybe she hadn't heard something that loud before? Either way, it wouldn't be that long. He picks up a fallen tree branch and his axe, whittling away at it to form a makeshift javelin. So she did intend on hunting something to eat.*\n\n\"If you told me that maybe we were getting something to eat, you should have said something.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"It's fine, I don't think I'd have an issue finding something to eat if I must.\" \n\n*Manon didn't tell the Oni that he's on the menu as well, though feeding from people wasn't her style at all.* \n\n\"I wasn't mentioning food, how are you going to find your snakes and rams now? You think they'll just stick around after that... Moan you just did? \" \n\n*She assumed that they would have to walk for another couple of hours thanks to him. More time spent with someone she frankly couldn't understand.* \n\n\"Are you hungry, is that why you're talking about food so much. I can find you plants if you're going to complain." }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"I didn't plan on finding them today. Rams it is then. To the mountains.\"\n\n*The vampire was a bit suspicious. Was she planning on feeding on him? Eh, he didn't care too much. As long as she didn't turn him; that weakness to fire and radiant damage would be the end of him.*\n\n\"...Did you just call that a moan? Moans are what people in agony, boredom, and ecstasy emit. I wasn't in either of those. And don't expect me to subsist off of fucking vegetables; I need meat. I'll go for several days if I have to. I've done it before, and I'll do it again.\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"It's too bad you're not in agony. Maybe you would have gone back to the city by now.\" \n\n*Manon looked towards the mountains, a sinking feeling in her chest as she thought about all the rocks. Maybe if she had any geo magic it wouldn't be an issue* \n\n\"Mountains.. Ugh. Also, you must be weak if you can't survive off vegetables. I must be stronger than you.\" \n\n*Manon grabbed a handful of berries from a neaby bush beforr tossing one into her mouth.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"It's not that I can't. I *Could* Subsist off of plants if I wanted to. But that's the way for weakness. To build muscle, and therefore, strength, you must eat meat. I must meet my meat requirements before eating anything else.\"\n\n*It wasn't dieting, per say. He still constantly drank alcohol and ate foods many considered unhealthy. However, he was keen on getting proper protein before eating any foods that could be fattening.*\n\n\"I do not wish to build fat. Why do bears eat so many berries and eat honey? They are storing fat for the winter. The more fat, the less room for muscle. I have enough reserve to last. Can you last several days without eating?\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Well thanks to whatever that was you did earlier, I don't think you'll be meeting your meat requirement today. Are we walking straight to the mountains or are we setting up camp at some point?\" \n\n*She didn't care for the excuses he had for why he needed meat. As much as she disliked hurting animals, she couldn't argue that people needed meat to survive. Once he started lecturing her on why animals eat what they eat she sighed. It wasn't that long ago that a huntress gave her the same lecture.* \n\n\"Yes, I get it. You need meat. And no, I can not last several days without eating, but I also do not eat meat.\" \n\n*She decided to not tell him that she could hardly go a day without feeding off an animal, it wasn't important to the conversation.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"I suppose we can set camp. It is doubtful we will get to the mountains before a week passes. Tell me when you want to stop.\"\n\n*This girl didn't eat meat? What was she, poor? Maybe, considering that she didn't seem to have much on her. Or maybe it was a Druid thing. But still, nature understood that animals killed and ate each other. So why was this girl so passive?*\n\n\"Also, what about that vampire thing of yours? When you bit my foot?\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"What vampire thing, I don't know what you're even talking about.\" \n\n*She lied. When did she even bite his foot? She only bit one person before and this was not the shirtless Okamimi she met in the Ombu forests. She couldn't recall meeting an Oni before, it's been mostly elves that she came across.* \n\n\"I don't know what floating ideas you have going around in your head, but leave me out of them.\" \n\n*A week of traveling together, she really got herself into a situation this time. An entire week having to baby sit this giant so he wouldn't harm the wildlife on a whim. She balled her hands into fists out of frustration though she knew she wasn't going to hit anything, she never did. Sure enough she relaxed her hands, things could be worst she supposed.*" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"You but my foot. Do you not remember?\"\n\n*Oshikuru's foot still has 2 small bite marks, though no longer oozing blood. Was she lying? Or maybe just stupid?*\n\n\"Very well.\"\n\n*This was going to be annoying. An entire week of travel of dealing with this brat so that he could talk to a Ram. He cracks his neck to ease the tension. Things could be worse.*" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"Are you in pain or something? Do you need to be looked after?\" \n\n*She said more in a half-mocking voice. For someone so large and so bent on obtaining strength, complaining about something biting his foot was unexpected. She glanced down at his foot before she noticed two puncture wounds on his ankle.* \n\n\"Wh- Wait did I actually bite you?\" *She sounded more wary and confused than anything. Even if she didn't have her answer yet, she felt remorseful over her actions.* \"When? I don't even remember doing that. I'm- I'm sorry.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "\"I apologize.\" *She was as concerned about biting the Oni as she was about not remembering even doing so. She figured resting now would be better than later. Predators were more active at night anyways, she couldn't have a tired Oni slowing her down later.* \n\n\"On second thought, how about we rest for a bit and travel during the night. I'm often wide awake during the night so it's easier to defend myself if I feel well rested.\"" }, { "author": "Oshikuru", "message": "\"So you guys are more active during the night too huh? Guess what they say about vampires is true.\"\n\n*The demon sets down his now Tetsubo, the orichalum staff slamming into the ground, sitting cross legged on the ground.*\n\n\"How long do you need?\"" }, { "author": "Manon Surai", "message": "*Manon debated telling the Oni what exactly sunlight does to her, shook the idea from her brain almost immediately. Nothing good would come from telling the Oni that the sunlight burns her skin easily, looking at anything that reflected the sun burned her eyes, sunlight included. There was a handful of times where she was relaxing at a creek and accidentally saw the sun through the reflective surfaces. Those things were easily avoidable for the most part. Simply being in the sun drained her physically, after a few hours of being underneath the rays, with or without an umbrella to shield herself from the sun directly. There had been plenty of times where she had to go into the city during the days. Those days she felt her body ache from fatigue, she was convinced the sun itself was a vampire as it stole her life-force much like she did to those she bit.* \n\n\"Let's just wait until nightfall.\" *She found a tree directly across from the Oni, resting her back against the bark as she closed her eyes. She wasn't planning on sleeping and any signs of movement made her eyes open in alarm. It was only a couple of minutes before she actually fell asleep despite her attempts to remain conscious.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*A faint clopping of hooves could be heard moving along the soft grass of the area, warm sunlight streaming through the trees of the Salvanian forests. An Elf would be making his way along the trekked path, leading his horse as he went while a trio of young wolves would follow after him. He'd let out a quiet sigh, drinking in the peacefulness of the area with the calm it brought. Hard enough to find, even with the irony as he wore a mask of a pig whenever he went. Nevertheless, he could enjoy a nice walk through the forest for the time being before he'd eventually head to town.*" }, { "author": "Mogrum", "message": "In contrast, the heavy footsteps of the armored Brayer boom through the area as he makes his way to the town. His leg faintly scarred from the last battle, Mogrum does his best to limit the weight upon it. He cares little for the pleasantries of nature and sees it simply as a tool for his own gain. As he follows the road, he stops as he sees the elf on horseback. His voice booms, clearly addressing Terrel.\n\"Pig... What? Why do you adorn yourself with the garb of a pig, damn nobility and their parties.\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would shift his gaze over at the Brayer's loud approach, the noise alone being enough cause his wolves to back away defensively.*\"I think it looks rather significant wouldn't you say?\"*He'd ask after taking a moment to look the man over. When was the last time he's seen a Brayer? It was hard to tell really. Eventually he'd let out a chuckle, dropping the whole act of it.*\"I'm afraid if there's been any parties around, I must have missed them all. This mask is simply for wearing on the go, but a party works too.\"*He'd say.*" }, { "author": "Mogrum", "message": "*The Brayer considers what the elf said for a moment.*\n\"Seems rather pretentious, what morally right person would have any need to wear a mask in public anyways?\"" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "\"Someone with creativity.\"*He'd state back rather easily.*\"Besides who's to say what's considered morally right anyways? I'd assume everyone makes up their own versions for it.\"*He'd cast his gaze down to the wolf pups, lowering his hand down in indication for them to stay for the time being. It was best they relaxed for now anyways.*" }, { "author": "Mogrum", "message": "\"I may decide what's morally right, for I'm the one with the hammer. Now, what's your business here?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would raise an eyebrow under his mask at what was seemingly a threat from the man. It seemed he was quick to make his point stand by any means, though Terrel didn't feel too threatened by him.*\"Same as most. Traveler usually, though simply going on a stroll and am now being questioned by a Brayer regarding morals.\"*He'd say, a faint smirk appearing at his own sarcastic comment to the man's question.*\"I'd ask what you're doing here, but since you're the judge of morals I can only assume you're doing nothing wrong.\"" }, { "author": "Mogrum", "message": "\"Exactly right, I must continue on, however.\"\n\n*He starts to continue on the trail, listening closely to ensure the elf dares not follow him.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would turn his head to watch as the Brayer would begin to continue along the trail, for a moment sitting back on his horse.*\"Continue on to where exactly?\"*He'd eventually ask. It wasn't often he came across a Brayer after all, and in such he still questioned what his business was out here if not to threaten random passerby's.*" }, { "author": "Mogrum", "message": "*The Brayer turns, agitated.*\n\"To town.\"\n*He turns back and continues walking along the path.*" }, { "author": "Terrel Bales", "message": "*Terrel would give a light shrug as he'd watch him go. It seemed he wasn't much of a talker. Giving a light tap to his horse, he'd continue on his way along the path he was already taking, his wolves following behind.*" } ]

[ { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "```quest start```\n\n*You would both find yourself at a nameless town situated inside one of the many forest of silvainia, this town was known amongst adventurer good spot for re-supplying, although recently, there has been quite a few reports of small adventuring teams near the town getting knocked-out, waking up with any supplies they had obtained during their trip stolen, the local authorities are promising a reward for any information that could help with their capture or, if possible, the criminals alive.*\n\n*You may do a few preparation, rp interaction, or even ask some of the adventurers for any possible information before leaving to begin investigating.*" }, { "author": "Amalfriede", "message": "*Ever since she got started in her new life in Salvainia, Amalfriede had been finding her everyday life to be... Fruitful, to say the least. Interactions with the common populace, unlearning all of the etiquete that had been drilled into her, trying to pry her eyes off of every piece of metalwork and trying not to scathingly insult its amateurish quality - these were the colourful images of her days now. Not that this was everything. She had been travelling with Adam now, since the assassination request they last took.*\n\n\"Hey, Adam, is there anything you need to get? I've already bought my makeup.\" *She was certainly concerned about the reports of thievery, but then again, that sounded like the sort of job she'd be perfectly suited for. So perhaps she could spot it before it happened.*" }, { "author": "Marshall Ur'Song", "message": "*Quite a town, Marshall thought to himself. Looking through the quaint settlement through the hollowed eyeholes of his mask. Eventually looking back at Amal, his new companion on the road.*\n\n*He winces under his plated face as Amal called him by the name he'd given. In all truth, he didn't expect the two to become friends. Of course hiding his name as an assassin would. That would make for an uncomfortable conversation later however. Now the pair were on a job.*\n\n*The Oni pauses a moment, thinking about what they might need. Information wouldn't hurt... Marshall wasn't exactly experienced in criminal catching though. He glances back at Amal, then pointing to any neighboring Inns or the like. Maybe they could find a recent victim, get some info.*" } ]

[ { "author": "com.co", "message": "I just woke up, gimmie a break 💔" }, { "author": "Marshall Ur'Song", "message": "*Marshall's gaze eventually meets back with Amal as he turns toward her. Tilting his head curiously at her expression. He wasn't a good face reader, maybe a little oblivious to be honest. Though he could tell something was wrong, as to what was a mystery.*\n\n*Hearing her though, she seems to of understood what he meant. Gently reaching over and taking Amal's hand to get the two going, moving boldly towards the Inn. It was if the talk of veggies had sparked something in him, if only briefly.*\n\n*The two before long find themselves moving through the Saloon door. Marshall initially looking around cautiously, his eyes searching for the qualities of an adventurer. Weapons or armor bearing men, sorry looking saps who look roughed up. Anyone who could give some info.*" }, { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*Inside the saloon you would find plenty of adventurer, all of them somewhat roughened up by their past mission but for most of them this wouldn't bring up any suspicion of them having been attacked, that is until you spotted what seemed to be a cartographer with torn clothes, a mostly empty bag and what seemed to be a pretty nasty mark around his neck speaking to a man wearing a pretty heavy suit of armor with a war hammer by his side, you cannot quite pick up what they are talking about due to the surrounding noise but it seems like a good first lead*" }, { "author": "Amalfriede", "message": "*Crikey, that wound didn't look good at all... The cartographer's torn clothes spoke to how recent the attack was and Friede could only imagine they were talking to the warrior man in relation to those damages. It didn't make sense for them to be here instead of trying to fix their stuff unless they were trying to do something about the thing that screwed them over so hard.*\n\n\"Mnnh, Adam, over here.\" *She gripped his hand a little tighter, pulling him along to the cartographer as she listened in to them. She didn't want to seem like she was eavesdropping, nor did she want to interrupt the conversation the two people were having, so she felt content with standing by them and letting them know she was there to talk with a gentle tilt of the head.*" } ]

[ { "author": "chair._._.", "message": "*The armored man would've taken some time to think why would that strange man try to make him go outside? However that would've quickly ended with friede's explanation*\n\n\"Ah,that clears up things, well you're in luck i was about to look for some backup,don't worry about registration the town want that thing gone so much they'll accept basically anyone who's able to get rid of it!\nAnyway i expect you both are already prepared?\"" }, { "author": "Amalfriede", "message": "\"I'm prepared already.\" *She gave a raised eyebrow to Marshall, indicating for him to confirm if he wanted to get anything else or not. Thinking about that, it was a godsend that she had learned so many languages, otherwise she wouldn't imagine him ever being able to get the right things when she went shopping for him.*" }, { "author": "Marshall Ur'Song", "message": "*Pausing in thought as the attention of the group seemed to shift to him, the Oni shakes his head. He'd like to buy a few things, pulling out a pouch of coin that seemed invisible previously. He then motions at the door once more, needing to head into town to find what he needed. Notably rope, if they planned to take this thing alive or just to set a good trap. Some new equipment to help draw the creature out wouldn't be too bad either. Bait would be the best plan here...*" }, { "author": "Amalfriede", "message": "*Rather surprised that he requested some more time to purchase things, Amal turned back to the armoured man and lowered her head respectfully.* \"My partner needs to get some equipment. Would it be alright for us to meet here once we have finished with our supply run?\" *It felt a little awkward to say this after she'd announced that they were prepared, but regardless, she had to say it. Her kindest courtesies were extended and she gave the man a beaming smile.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "*Grey was quite puzzled at the randomly appearing bird. Easing off his weapon as it turns tail and runs back through the foliage. His gaze following it until he spots a figure on the floor. He takes a whiff of the air, as a familiar scent enters his lungs... Smelled like another canifore, one he'd met before.*\n\n*The dog moves closer to get a better look, eventually realizing who it was.*\n\"Juna...?\"\n*He called back, tilting his head. The canifore paused, seeing the new staff and smirking. Looks like she did take a liking to the weapon, at least enough to get a proper one. The dog careful approaches, glancing the girl up and down. She seemed a little roughed up to say the least.*\n\n\"You okay...? Hurt...?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Hurt...? No- no I'm fine...\"*She'd say brushing herself off.*\"Just a... Little clumsy I guess...\"*Seeing the potential threat neutralized, Juniper would let out a shrill chirp, soon turning to wander off once more only for Juna to hold the staff out in front of her as a sort of blockade.*\"Juni... No... Please... No wandering off...\"*The demand seemed to lack any energy, most likely this being a frequent thing for the Canifor with how big the bird was getting and, though the bird could have easily surpass the weapon if she wanted to, Juniper would instead come to a stop, having to be guided back to the Canifor's side.*\n\n\"Sorry...\"*She murmured.*\"Juni can be... Quite the handful...\"*Juna would look back up at Grey, her head tilting to the side in how long it's been since she's last seen him. Juniper hadn't even hatched then and now she was getting close to growing up to her full height.*\"Are... You okay... You... Ran off the last time...\"*She'd question, recalling the Canifor having run off at some sign of danger. Juna wasn't quite sure what. Maybe he had sensed something that she didn't. At the very least, he was still alive though.*" }, { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "*Grey would nod, side eyeing the smaller bird that seemed rather eager to wander off. A smile coming to his doggish lips as he saw the two interact. Like a mother and her kid, granted one was a bird. He then pauses as she asks about last time, becoming abit embarrassed as it were.*\n\"A-ah... Yes, im fine. Someone called, ran to help...\"\n\n\"You... Seem tired. Sure your okay?\"\n*He asked, finding it abit harder to ignore her tired state. She seemed exhausted, probably due to the hatchling at her feet.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "*Grey would glance over his book as he hears gentle movements of a small creature. Lowering his leatherback to find another dog before him, seeming to try and intimidate. He smirks, bringing a finger to his lips as he shushes the jackal.*\n\n*He watches curiously as the dog returns back to Juna's side. Pausing for a moment in thought, before reaching for his bag once more. Now, pulling out a smaller sack that upon opening reveals a bountiful amount of jerky.*\n\n*The dog takes one, throwing it in his maw as he chews it to ease his hunger. Then offering a second piece to Jace, as if coaxing him into friendship.*" }, { "author": "com.co", "message": "To get to Juna, get the dog" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace would snatch the jerky from the wolf's paws, snacking down on it with a sense of satisfaction from the simple treat. It had been a while since he's had Jerky. Jace would sniff around the Canifor, investigating him in an attempt to see if he carried any more on him.\n\nJuna would stir in her sleep, ears flicking to the sound of hushed movement. The Canifor had grown to be a lighter sleeper in time to all the intruders. It wasn't always effective, but she didn't sleep as deeply as she used to.*\n\n\"...Grey...?\"*She'd question him in her half sleep state. Her eyes remained closed, making it a wonder if she were referring to him or something in a dream.*" }, { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "*The wolf did in fact have plenty of jerky in his possession. After all, it was protein that never got old and never expired. It was a good idea to carry as much of it around as he could. The dog would take turns between the two then, feeding himself and feeding Jace. Sort of training him to wait his turn if he'd be so swayable.*\n\n*However, Juna's awakening would hault the flow of jerky as Grey puts it away. Mumbling to the girl in a soft voice as to try and ease her.*\n\n\"Shh... All is well... Keep resting, here to keep you safe...\"\n*He attempted to reassure her, glancing down to Jace as he throws a final piece to Juna. Incentive for him to go and rejoin his master, to keep the girl comfortable. How could he wake her?*" }, { "author": "com.co", "message": "Two responses in a day" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Jace would sit back as he'd wait for him to give him the jerky, seemingly fine with it in knowing that he'd get to have some of it either way. Perhaps the Jackal truly has come a long way since his initial behavior towards other people. \n\nWith the last bit of Jerky being tossed over to Juna, he would follow it over to his Canifor owner and would come to lay down to eat away at the piece of jerky. Juna would lightly reach a hand out to him, caressing his fur for what comfort the Jackal provided her in being alone in the forests for a good potion of her time.\n\nShe fell silent for a moment with Grey whispering to her, ears lying flat as she laid against the ground.*\"I'm scared...\"*She'd say, partially drifting off from those words. Fear was the one thing following her at this point. Fear of hesitation and fear of said hesitation causing her to lose what she had kept with her. She had messed up so often in the past and to sleep may only cause the fear to return.*" }, { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "\"Scared...? Of what?\"\n*Grey questioned, probing the other canifore as she rested. The wolf shifting closer a moment as to hear her better.*\n\n\"Fear is good... Fear protects life... But do not fear, fear itself.\"\n*The canifore pauses in thought, shifting uncomfortably on the floor.*\n\"Fear of death... Fear of loss... Fear of pain... Fear of the unknown. All necessary to live. Embrace it, do not succumb.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's bottom lip quivered in her sleep, half conscious that she was talking to Grey. To her, it was simply a dream. A wolf companion following her as she walked throughout the forest in the unconscious world. The wolf spoke to her in Grey's voice, though she didn't question it. It simply just made sense to her as most dreams did.*\"Scared of losing everything...\"*She'd say.*\"I've tried so hard to protect them... Now I'm hurting others and am losing them too... All this training... And hunting... And secluding and we're no safer now than we were in the Capitol...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "*Grey took in what the canifore had to say, a feeling of sorrow for the girl painted on his face. She really was suffering, and it was a problem Grey couldn't exactly help with.*\n\n\"One person can only do so much... You're trying your best, and that's good enough. And for when it isn't... Maybe someone else's best will be.\"\n\n*He huffs, his eyes wondering to the two pets at her side.*\n\"Learn to rely on others... As you do with your loved ones.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would gaze down at the dream wolf, coming to a stop from her internal walking. It's funny how a wolf would tell her to work with others, almost like a pack kind of thing. Maybe that was what she lacked in her jumble of animals, someone she wouldn't worry to rely on. Unfortunately she worried to much on being burdensome ever since the time leading up to Juniper's hatching. They had helped her so much then, why did she worry now?*\n\n\"What if the others don't want me to rely on them after a while?\"*She'd ask the wolf, her tone carrying less sorrow and more so being thrummed off in a more sleepy tone. There was a hint of thoughtfulness to it, a more curious take in his words. She's tried everything to make herself not seem like she was living off others. Maybe it was simply Kibaru's words that had rubbed her the wrong way about it. Being someone else's responsibility as if she couldn't take care of her own.*" }, { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "\"Why wouldn't they...?\"\n*He inquired, wondering about it himself.*\n\"There's always give and take... You rely on someone, they might rely on you too... A protector needs someone to feed him, bandage his wounds, care for him on the brink... Meet their efforts, and they'd have no problems.\"\n\n\"Of course... They might not be the right person. People come and go with different needs... Find one you can manage, perhaps even like.\"" }, { "author": "com.co", "message": "I'm trying my best but I have no idea what I'm saying" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would fall silent afterwards, for a moment there being a pause in her speech that was soon replaced with light breathing. At any passing moment, it would appear that she had truly fallen asleep. However, a second later she would eventually respond.*\"I'm afraid that I won't be able to meet their efforts...\"*She'd eventually say back.*\"I was so helpless in winter... I had asked them for so much... I can't provide back as much as they gave me...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "com.co", "message": "The procrastination\n\nGimmie another chance, after school" }, { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "\"Yet you've also grown a great deal...\"\n\n*Grey reassures her once more, looking to the stick that turned a powerful weapon in her hands.*\n\n\"What you may see as weakness, inadequacy, others see as strength.\"\n*The wolf reaches quietly, gently patting the bird's head with his finger. Curious as to how it's feathers felt.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Silence. Juna would turn over slightly in finding a more comfortable position for herself while her pets would snuggle up against her. Juniper would let out a quiet chirp upon being patted, which was enough to force Juna's ears to angle towards it before figuring it wasn't much of a danger around. At least for a brief moment in her dream, the bird seemed to be safe. That was enough convincing for her. Within the dream, Juna would look back at the grey wolf she had been talking to.*\"You know... You're one of the... Nicest wolves I've ever really spoken to...\"*She'd say. Of course the actual term was Canifor, but in her dream state it was hard to connect the dots.*\"I've met so many... Evil wolves out there... They... They're not as nice as I would have thought them to be... I thought it was a dream at some point... But then I saw them when I awoken...\"*Juna's brows would furrow on her sleeping frame as if she were having to think quite hard in her dream. What was real exactly?*" }, { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "*Grey leans back, satisfied with his discovery. Holding a chuckle in as Juna compliments him, attempting not to wake her.*\n\"Thank you... Yes, many of my kind chose the path of hate... But there is good to every bad. Balance as everything should... I hope you will choose a path of good too.\"\n\n*He smiled, reaching for his blue backed book once more. His snout finding its place between the pages as Grey thought to conclude the conversation.*\n\"Now, sleep. Dream of the future, and make it reality...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would lower on her head, a twinge of worry and doubt seeping in with her attempts to do something good. There were times when she had tried to do good, but that had only come with its own punishment. She tried to fight back, but then it only made her feel like she was doing wrong. Her mouth would open as if to say more, only to be stopped by the wolf speaking to her again. Dream of the future and make it a reality? Juna wasn't sure if that would end up as a nightmare, but she could only hope at this point.*\"I'll... I'll try...\"*She had lowered her head in her dream state only to look up to see the Grey Wolf beginning to fade.*\"Mr. Wolf-\"*She'd say in a more urgent tone.*\"If you leave... The bad wolves won't come back... Will they...?\"" }, { "author": "Grey Morins", "message": "\"That's all I asked.\"\n*He hummed back, quietly turning the page of his book. Tilting his head at the words on display, as if questioning the author.*\n\n*The wolfs attention would perk once more as she called to him. Looking at her in thought, watching as she spilled her fears.*\n\n\"Come back...? I cannot say they won't... But perhaps, if they do, I'll be there to help. Either way, I trust you'll know what to do...\"\n*He smiles gently, diving into his literature once more.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*The Wolf would eventually fade away as Grey said his final words, leaving Juna in the emptiness that was the forest of her dreamscape. She'd sit down, her sleeping form curling its tail around her as she'd finally grow lax.*\"Thank you...\"*She'd murmur, the air soon filling with the quiet sounds of her breathing as she fell into a deeper slumber. For once, the Canifor didn't feel the need to sleep lightly. The wolf may be gone now, but if something were to come, maybe he'll be there to stop them. For now, she was safe.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would come to sit at a narrow stream of water that swept its way along the forest floor. It wasn't very large, but it mattered little to the Canifor as she would gently run her hands along the feathers or her Airstrider mount. The bird had gotten herself dirtied from the amounts of aimless running she had been doing in the forest which inevitably left Juna having to wash her off in the stream. She was fortunate enough that the bird had tuckered herself out to the point where she wouldn't fight the Canifor while she tried to clean her. Juna would come to take a seat upon the ground, letting out a tired sigh. A staff rested across her lap while at her side was her Jackal companion, keeping watch of the forest while his owner went about her chore of caring for the steed. It was getting hotter out in the forest, Juna could sense it which only meant summer was nearing and her time was running short in this place.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "The nearby bush would rustle perhaps a threat has come to seek blood? Nay this felt different this one felt rather thirsty in its aura. After moments of waiting a Canifor Girl would pop out of the woods carrying her giant axe on her back one handedly. She would seem tired and sweaty as she exclaimed \"Whew, that was a good run!\" Before heading to the clean rivers to wash her face and have a drink of water whilst gargling some later spitting into said river. She doesn't seem to have noticed your presence despite being literally 6 meters away from the group as of now." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would angle to the side as she'd hear the voice, turning her head in the direction to catch sight of the woman. They weren't alone, though Juna supposed she should have suspected as such with the warmth bringing new faces these past few months. She seemed occupied with cleaning herself off, so occupied that she didn't even notice them. Maybe there was still a chance that she wasn't hostile. Juna would keep a steady hand on her staff just in case as she eyed the woman, saying quietly:*\"Miss... I...I don't think you want to put that water in your mouth-\"" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She would look at the group in confusion as she sees a bird being bathed upstream she would take another sip of water as she says \"Oh yeah you are definitely right...\" She would then solemnly and silently head upstream from them to take some clear water from the river still staying close meanwhile in her mind she thought ```\"I hope I don't get any diseases\" Worried of the dirty water she just washed her face in and drank \"``` she'd then continue to do the same as she did before but now noticing the group she would tell her whilst doing her business drinking \"Thank you stranger?\". Of course she had her guard down since she thought she could take em all on if they were hostile as she drank." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would stare back at her with a loss of words, mostly from the disgust feeling within her. Instead she'd simply turn to her Airstrider and would whisper:*\"Let's... Clean you off later...\"*Standing up, Juna would help guide Juniper out of the stream, the bird soon taking heed in preening her own feathers in the meantime while Juna would pet her.*\"My name is Lady...\"*Juna would say quietly in answer to the woman's half-question. It wasn't her real name of course, though she hardly gave it nowadays with all that has passed through the forest.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "Would chuckle a bit as she says \"Heh, Lady? No offense but I'd that what you want to be called just lady like royalty? If that's your style then sure.\" She would then get up slowly facing her as she puts down her GreatAxe with one hand for a moment as she reaches out to her with her other hand for a shake \"My name is Softs-kull nice to meetcha lady!\". She would say so with a smile as bright as day in fact summer was close enough." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"No...\"*She'd murmur in answer of her question.*\"Just lady like... Any other lady...\"*Juna supposed there were better names for it. She could have just called herself Canifor after all, not that many could tell anyways. Maybe that would have helped her situation coming to think of it. Juna would look towards the woman's hand as she held it out to her, slowly reaching out her own to shake it after some hesitation.*\"It's... Nice to meet you too...\"*She'd say with a lot less enthusiasm. Juna drew her hand away once more, turning to glance back at the stream.*\"I haven't seen you around this forest before... Are you... Lost as well...?\"" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "Would accept the handshake as she drew her hand away she would answer her question with enthusiasm \"Yep, I am lost!\". The lack of fear from her is startling I mean why would you be excited when you are lost right?. She'd then say \"I was trying to find some food but guess this woods doesn't have that much to offer so I'm here for some training.\". She'd then flex her muscles a bit indicating her \"Training\"." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Of course she was another lost traveler in these woods, though she seemed to enjoy it as much as Hilmar did for some reason. Strange.*\"Most food is typically found in the Capitol... Out here it's better to know how to hunt if you wish to find anything...\"*She'd say in answer to her question before eventually coming to stand up.*\"You are... Training on your own...?\"*She'd ask in a more questioning tone. It seemed odd for something to practice fighting alone unless they had means of practicing on someone or something. Maybe she was attacking a tree, but even Juna was skilled enough to hit an unmoving object.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She would nod at the question of her training alone as she says with confidence \"Mhm, training is not about just fighting you gatta work up your stamina too or else you'll end up just laying down tired in the field!\". She'd then look around her as she searched for somewhere as she made a gesture with her finger circling the entire forest as she says \"It's good to run around here sometimes. Sometimes you even find a good fight to partake in usually they start first!\". She was probably clueless about bandits or she is just insane when it comes to battles." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Her ears would give a confusing flick to the side.*\"Wouldn't it be easier to just run around an empty field...?\"*She'd ask her, knowing full well how easily one can trip and tumble about the forest if they weren't light footed enough. Juna was hardly sure if this woman was as dexterous as she was making it sound. She'd eventually give a quick shake of her head.*\"It's best not to fight in the forests... Hardly safe if you... End up getting yourself into trouble... There's... Already enough fights that's happened here... To need people to get involved as well...\"" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd rub behind her head as she says \"Oh really I'm sorry. But yeah I suppose so.\". She'd then continue her regular laxed stature as she says \"Anyways fields don't give me the right training most of the time you need to feel your surroundings do you get what I'm saying?\" She would try to explain her point in a wide variety of ways later on. She'd then say besides a few trips and tumbles aren't that much of a harm you'd notice a piece of twig in her hair the entire time." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna gaze would look her over as she spoke about getting a feel of the locations. Part of her was dubious of the idea, but what did the Canifor know about training? She only ever had a couple people teach her and even then she doubted her skills.*\"You didn't... Grow up in the forest did you...\"*She'd eventually say, making an assumption from both her words and the way she went about things. The woman was definitely new around these parts that's for sure, but Juna doubted what knowledge she may thought she has obtained from being out here.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd shake her head in disagreement as the lady was curious of where she was from now as she explained \"Nope, I'm from a tribe can't quite remember what it's called but I'm not really from here to be exact.\" She'd then see a herb plant as she exclaimed \" Ooh a herb.\" She went over to pick it storing it in her pack as she came back as she asks \"Is there anything else?\"." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"So you've... Never hunted before...\"*Juna would say, slowly connecting the dots only for the woman to suddenly dart off in collecting an herb she found. The Canifor would give a quick shake of her head, asking:*\"Wait... You know about herbs...?\"*Maybe it was the surprise or a underlying feeling of excitement that made the sudden fact catch her attention. It was hard to put a finger on it, but the idea that there may be someone else out here with knowledge on the medicinal plants gave her a bout of hope.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd droop her ear confused at her as she tilted her head a bit as she says \"Of course I know about herbs and hunting. Herbs are plants that look normal but are actually good for health while hunting is you hit beast with big stick while running at it right?\" She would make a swinging motion in the air for hunting as if holding a bay. She'd then explain as she held her arms out in pride praising herself \"Anyways I usually know about these plants so I can make my brew that makes me invincible sometimes and helps with my wounds.\"." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Can you show me??\"*Juna would say, her voice raising a little before she'd quickly shy away from it.*\"The herbs I mean... Sorry...\"*She'd absently rub at her arm.*\"I've just been... Trying to find alternative healing techniques... It would be great if... You could show me different kinds of herbs... If... If you want to that is...\"*It was probably the most speaking she was going to get out her really. Rare chances like these, Juna knew better than to let pass up in knowing there weren't too many that carried such knowledge she wanted to obtain.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "Softs-kull would be impressed that someone wanted to learn how to find herbs like she would as she says \"Alright then! I'll teach you a few that I know.\". She'd the gesture Juna to follow into the woods from where she went before as she knew where some are from her sense of smell." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would perk up slightly, her tail giving a light whisk to the side. She'd give a click of her tongue for Jace to follow after before having a steady hand on her Airstrider to help guide the bird along as she would follow the woman.*\"Thank you...\"*She'd murmur to her, a warm feeling of gratitude emanating in her.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "They'd walk by the first plant she wanted to show her it looked like lavender she would say plucking it up as she showed it to her \"This one helps you regain some stamina after a long day it's usually good for long hunts and walks usually.\". She'd then head over to another area plucking another one that looks like a strange reddish fern as she says \"This one would usually help with the healing process sometimes if you Brew it long enough it can even cure stomach aches!\". She'd then Curiously look at a mushroom for the last one as she says \"Now this one... Is either a tasty snack or a deadly poison... Snack... Or Poison...\" She'd look at it furrowed eyes trying to think if this one is actually edible or not as she wagged her tail curious at it." } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would follow after the lady, trying to make a mental note of each one though, in passing quite a few she began to worry if she'd remember all of them at this rate. Times like this she wish she had a pen and paper, maybe even some dyes to help colorize the plants, though getting that would require her to have to go to the city. Something she dreaded and something she found too out of the way to have to go to now. She'd look towards Softs-Skull, seeing her debate over a plant as she'd ask:*\"You wouldn't ...Happen to have anything to... Note this down with would you...?\"*She'd ask in an apologetic tone after having asked for lessons alongside it with her being no more than a complete stranger.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "Soft would look over to her as she says \"Nope, I got it all in here.\" She'd knock on her noggin saying that she memorized em is all. But she appears to have an idea as she gives the herbs that she found to the lady despite being yes complete strangers but it was so that she could remember them and a gesture of good faith. As she was giving it to her she would say \"Here, you should be able to look at them more but they'll only be fresh for 2 to three days give or take so make a good note out of them?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"I'll try...\"*She'd murmur, being handed the herbs looking between the lavender-like plant and fern she hadn't her.*\"Stamina... And healing or stomaches...\"*Juna would repeat before looking back to her and giving a curious tilt of her head.*\"Do they have names as well or... Well do you call them by something?\"*She'd ask her. Juna wasn't sure if remembering the name would be any easier, but it was at least something she could try to write down if given the chance. Juna would have to return to Salvania by summer eventually. She might as well try to get something out of it.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd think about it but being the primitive she is she would say in thought \"Hmmm, usually I call them by their colour like blue thing and red thing nothin much since I already know what they do.\" She'd then look back at her seeing a promising herbalist as she says \"Hey you could give it names lady if you could do that. But I won't remember it as often if you make em tho.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Name them myself?\"*She'd question mostly to herself before looking back down at the herbs.*\"Alright... I can... Try...\"*Juna would decide to name them later, preferably when she could copy the names down. Perhaps then she'll be able to properly remember. Turning back to the woman, she'd ask:*\"Are there any more around here...? Like... Maybe something help with larger cuts or... Wounds maybe...?\"" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd perk up her ears a bit as she asked about larger cut healing herbs as she says \"None that I have used yet, usually I brew them in tonic to make them stronger in healing. There was this one herb which I couldn't sniff out which I fell on it it managed to heal my wounds very fast. But it chooses to be shy and not reveal itself unless it is night time...\" She'd seem like she's thinking hard on what that plant might be as she tries to reminisce that time she fell down." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*A plant that grows at night. She'd think to herself, trying to see if she could picture any plant that may only grow during that time. Juna wasn't able to come up with anything, leaving her to suspect having to wait all night to find a plant she wasn't even sure the appearance of.*\"Did you... See what color it was... Or... What it looked like...?\"*She'd decide to ask. Maybe that description would be enough of a lead for Juna to follow. The Canifor wasn't very knowledgeable on plants anyways, leaving it hard to know when was an optimal time for their growth.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd remember some of it as she tried explaining it to her \"It Looked like a dark green bulb at night not very noticeable but when you touch it, it opens and lets out green stuff. Looks like a weird orchid or something but I usually find it really deep in the forests.\". From that explanation it might be a risky venture to find such plants especially in the deep forests where there's less signs of civilization but perhaps the rewards outweigh the risks?" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"A dark green bulb that opens and lets out... Green stuff...\"*She'd repeat, making that a mental note as well.*\"That looks like an orchid...\"*Juna would glance up towards the sky, seeing that there was possibly quite a few hours left in the day. Maybe she could try searching for it tonight when she had the chance.*\"Do you know of any more?\"*She'd decide to ask once more, debating on whether or not asking for more plant descriptions would impede her remembering. Juna didn't want to pass up the opportunity however. This would be one of the few chances she'd get to learn as much as she could.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "Softs-kull would think more probably hammering her brain alot at this point as she says \"There's a type of plant which has roots that could help heal and even cure poison. The healing part doesn't do much tho but the antidote benefits are amazing. I once got bitten by a venomous snake trying all the herbs until i found that one which worked very well but tasted bitter.\" She'd let out her tongue a bit as she remembered the tatse of the rooted herb. Perhaps they could be combined into an all cure tonic which would be great." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*A plant with a root that can heal poison. Another note to herself as she thought on when she'd use it. Maybe in something similar to Diao's case. She had mentioned being poisoned before as well or maybe like how Softs-kull mentioned with a venomous snake being a possible threat.*\"Do you know what the plant looks like...?\"*She'd ask her in trying to identify it based on the flower's appearance rather than the part that grew underground.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She would try to make a shape in the air looking like a shovel head as she says whilst doing so \"The leaf looks like this mostly it pops out from the groun-\". Then through lucky pure coincidence there was one in the ground as she looked at it pointing saying In excitement \"Oh there's one!\". It looked like a strange spade like giant cover each separated leaf of four looked like a spade. To the untrained eye it might seem like a simple weed to most." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would squint a bit as she drew the shape in the air, having to assume it based on the way she traced her fingers. Spade like, though easy to mistake for a weed. Juna was fortunate enough to have the herbs she gave her for the time being. There was no telling if she'd find the rest in the wild. She'd shift her gaze to the plant Soft-kull pointed out, soon making her way over and trying to carefully pull the plant out by the base of the stem so as not to ruin its useful roots.*\"Thank you...\"*She'd murmur, taking a look at the plant she had retrieved and hoping it had as many healing properties as the woman claimed.*\"I'm... Sorry for asking so much I... Just needed an alternative... Healing method... To magic...\"*She'd explain apologetically as she'd return back to the woman with the three herbs she already had.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd place her hands on her hips as she gave a small chuckle proudly as she says \"Hah, it's of no worries sometimes sorcery can't fix everything so it's better to find where the basic being would use most.\". She'd then asks her a question for a bit \"You found what you needed also is someone in your family sick or something?\" She'd seem to say in a bit of a concern tone. Well with usual speculation of someone really needing herbs it's the norm for someone to care for someone else." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"No... Not family...\"*She'd reply, picking her words more carefully.*\"Just... A lot of travelers come through here and... Sometimes they... Get hurt... Or... Sick...\"*Whether that was by her own hands or something else in the forest, Juna didn't want to clarify. Part of her was ashamed to admitting having any contribution to it, the other part saying she was only defending herself. Maybe she was lying to herself more than she would have thought.*\"I just... Think these herbs would be helpful just... In case...\"" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd nod as she noticed her reluctancy on being transparent on the problem as she says \"Well, I understand where your coming from its okay we all got our reasons for learning things.\" She'd continue looking around as she says \"Well I'm beat that's all I could teach ya mostly but when ya have time we could go at it again for another gathering run its good practice.\" She would smile suggesting the idea of a joint herbal expedition." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would give a single nod in response before eventually saying:*\"You... Said you were lost didn't you...? Was there... Some place you were trying to go... Like... The Capitol...?\"*Juna figured that at any rate she could at least show the woman the way out of the forest. It wasn't too long of a trek from here anyways with Juna's knowledge of the forest's layout from being out here so long.*" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She would be pleased to hear that she could give directions as her ears perked up maybe helping people with stuff in the middle of the forest has its perks after-all. She'd nod as she says \"Yeah! That would be great!\" Whilst holding her giant axe on one hand. She then thought for a bit as she thought \"Might be short on currency for the inns... Eh whatever sure!\". Softskull would seem to be eager to follow the lady for now towards the capital." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would nod in response, gesturing for the woman to follow as she'd begin walk off in a nonspecific direction.*\"I can only take you as far as where the forest ends...\"*She'd murmur.*\"I'll show you where the fields are that'll lead you to the Capitol... They're... Much safer than the main roads... At least... In my eyes...\"" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "Soft would nod following suite with her to follow as she says in a gratiteous tone \" I appreciate it! Been staying too long in the woods anyways could restock on supplies n stuff.\". As they were on their way to the roads she would ask one last question before she went off on her way \"By the way, nice bird but what species is it I haven't seen one in my life so far?\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would lightly pet her bird, caution in her listening to Softs' every word. At least her words didn't seem to suggest any additional interest to its value and, for that, Juna could relax a little. With the fields in view, Juna would come to a stop and nod towards her question, saying:*\"Yes, it'll lead you to the Capitol as long as you keep traveling straight through... The gates aren't too far from here...\"*She'd turn back to look to her and would give a light dip of her head.*\"Thank you... For everything... And... I hope you enjoy the Capitol...\"" }, { "author": "Softs-kull", "message": "She'd raise her hand to acknowledge the bow as she says \"Your welcome, maybe we could work together sometimes if that's okay with you I guess. Eitherway thanks again Lady see ya again.\" She'd continue hauling her axe on her back as she followed the roads leading to the capital perhaps someday you'll get to see her again." }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would watch her go, a light smile appearing at her face before she'd soon turning away from her and would begin heading back into the forest with her two animal companions. At least not everyone seemed to be after her bird. That could at least provide her with hope for the future and now, she had some knowledge of herbs to use at her disposal. Perhaps she'll see the woman again but, if not, she could at least be glad to have met her when she did.*\n\n\"Okay... Let's try again...\"*She'd murmur to her bird. Juniper would be resting upon the ground, having grown tired of her caretaker's consistent attempts of trying to get on her back only to inevitably fall off again. Juna could never figure how other riders did it so easily and because of that each failed attempt only seemed to discourage her more. She was fortunate that Juniper had least been able to keep still the whole time, though not even that made it easier for Juna to figure out. By now, the sun was sitting high up in the sky and as the heat began bearing down on them, Juna began to feel her own bird's exhaustion as well.\n\nShe'd walk over to the Airstrider, considering going forth with trying to hop up on her back now that she was sitting, though in nearing her, Juna would eventually let out a quiet sigh.*\"Never mind...\"*She'd say, coming to sit down next to the bird and resting her head again its colored feathers. Her tail gently curled around her as she'd stare up at the canopy they were sitting in. Large leaves expanded out from their branches, providing some shade for the duo in them escaping some of the impending heat.\n\nSummer was nearing and to this day, it appalled her how much Juniper had grown from a helpless hatchling just in a number of months before. Now the bird was nearly as tall as she was, though still carrying its child-like tendencies. Juna wondered how long the bird would stay a Juvenile because if this wasn't fully grown, Juna was scared to know what was. Surely the bird wouldn't get any bigger from what she saw of the other Airstriders, but it was something to think of.*\"Maybe we can try again... Some other time...\"*Her bird would glance over at Juna, arcing its long neck towards Juna as she'd let out a series of chirps before resting her head on the Canifor's lap. Juna would lightly pat the bird, letting out a small exhale of air in her own fails. At least Juniper was still healthy though. That made her feel a little better.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*The skeleton said nothing, nor would its naked bone face betray any sign of understanding or reaction of any kind save for the natural illusion of the mocking grin that awaited all mortal denizens of Ramul Ta and beyond when the soul leaves the flesh behind. It did, however, seem to have little interest in moving closer, remaining in its shaded half-emergence from the foliage abound. Instead, it raised a boney hand, dangling what seemed to be an old and simply made commoner's tin bell. It stayed still for a moment, sockets locked on bird and canifor, and then quite suddenly began violently shaking its arm, rattling the thick tin of the cowbell.*\n\n*It shook and shook and shook, a linen-draped arm moving unnaturally beyond what a muscled and sinewed arm of a living being would allow, the wild range of its movements made the emotionless construct look almost elated with that mocking, hanging jaw in the whole act of it. Within seconds of this, roughly a similar time Juna in her skill would have been able to rush over with her staff, the skeleton rather quickly crumpled, disintegrating into a wispy and quickly-fading ash. The clunky, flat-sided bell donking onto the grassy floor with awkward sounds, heralding the slightly slower slump of the linens the bone dancer wore.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Needless to say, the bell's noise took her by surprise. Her ears would fall flat against her head, trying to block out the loud noise that rang in them. Juniper would let out chirps of distress, suddenly hopping up and running amok in the clearing. It took Juna a while to try to shake it off, soon gripping her staff as she'd dash over to the skeleton to take a swing at it without second thought. It disintegrate on impact, causing Juna to partially lose her balance in the process as she'd stagger over the area were the skeleton once was.\n\nShe'd look around almost in confusion as she'd come to expect there to be more of a fight and yet, there wasn't one. Juniper had continued chirping about, forcing Juna to have to leave the strange corpse to go retrieve the bird.*\"Shh shh shhh... It's okay Juniper-\"*She'd say, lightly caressing the bird's side. It was getting harder and harder to hold onto her at this rate, though after some light screeches, Juniper would eventually slow to a disturbed walk.*\"It's okay... It was just...\"*Juna would look back towards where the skeleton once was.*\"Some... Monster...\"*The Canifor would gradually walk back over to it, lightly poking at the bell with her staff in her own curiosity of it. It was a strange moment to say the least. One that came and went at the blink of an eye.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "\"Donk!\" *Went the bell as it was poked by the staff. It appeared to be nothing more than a simple farmer's livestock bell. The linens, as the ash seemed to be completely dematerialized, looked rather clean and well-dyed in their colors. Embroidered along the length of them were the motif of a silver snake knotting with the stems of blue roses. There seemed to be little else left.*\n\n*Some minutes later, whether Juna decided to stick around or not, the sounds of a horse walking without hurry neared the clearing, as Ehakli rode it to the origins of where she heard the bell ringing.*\n\n\"Yoooo~hoooo~\" *The tholian called out in a melodic tone.* \"Juuuuuuna~ Are you out here, darling?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's head would tilt to the side as she'd reach down to pick up the clothing only for a noise to catch the Canifor's attention. She'd quickly drop it back down, startled for a short while as if she expected someone else to come. However, after a few moments of listening, Juna's ears would pick up some familiarity from the tone of voice.*\"Ehakli...?\"*She'd say back in her own confusion as if she hadn't expected to see the Elf again so soon after their latest picnic with the Tholian soon riding off to do her own thing. In fact she hasn't really expect her to return at all, though in seeing her again the second time, maybe there was fortune in getting to see each other often enough.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Hooves plodded along, and eventually they were in sight of eachother. The tholian had indeed returned, dressed in a rather smart looking soldier attire under a sloping fastenings of half-maille. The horse she rode on was different than the draft horse from last time, larger, a courser perhaps, draped in a linen caparison quite similar to what remained of the skeleton.*\n\n\"So you *Are* Here!\" *She beamed with a bright smile. There was a wooden pole hooked in her right arm, and as she neared she moved the end of it to shove underneath the once-skeleton's linens, hoisting it up, or, trying to, it took a few attempts before she managed it.* \"I can't believe that worked.\" *She said, looking to the costume, before looking to Juna.* \"How are you, my dear hermited acquaintance?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"I-\"*Juna found herself at a loss of words, partially in her suspecting the Tholian to have something to do with the random skeleton she encountered. She wasn't too sure, but finding herself being right about Ehakli being here surprised her.*\"Did you... Send the skeleton...?\"*She'd find herself asking her in a tone of confusion. Juna knew Ehakli was good as working illusions, yet this one seemed more real to her. At least she thought so anyways with the loud noise it generated.\n\nHer gaze would shift towards her Airstrider, relieved that the bird hadn't run off in the woman making a new appearance. After a moment of trying to recover from the surprise visit, Juna would eventually answer the Tholian's question.*\"I'm... Alright... I guess...\"*She'd say, rubbing at her arm absently with the soreness it had generated from the amount of failed attempts in trying to mount Juniper.*\"What are... You doing here...?\"*She'd ask back looking to the woman's new steed.*\"This isn't the Capitol... Or the road-\"" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "\"Three of them, actually. I wasn't certain how else was I supposed to find you out here off the pathways.\" *Ehakli raised the pole, and let the linens slide down its length until she could snatch it and begin stowing it away in one of the saddlebags at her flank, running the pole in its own, more secure fastening as if it were meant to support a banner for the rider.* \"As for what I'm doing here, well, I'm on my way to meet a sweet little codger in Vuni across the river south from here to see if I can convince him to spare his silver for a potentially lucrative little voyage to Runra.\" *She eyed Juna for a bit, privately considering how well traveled this canifor was.* \"Have you heard of Runra? Such a strange land, but full of very curious exotics to trade with.\" \n\n*Finishing her folding and stowing of the linen, she retrieved a leather-bound tome.* \"And, well, if I was going to travel alone and spare myself of banditry by using the old pathways between here and Lymia, I thought to myself 'why *Wouldn't* I see if I could find myself again in the delightful company of Miss Juna in her hermitage along the way? Besides, it just so happens that I had in my possession a little something.\" \n\n*She tugged at the reins a bit, urging the courser to begin stepping closer to Juna and Juniper, until Ehakli could reasonably present to the canifor the tome. The leather was etched at its borders with curious abstract designs, as well as silnarian words that read \"The Artist's Lie' The Artist's Lie' -Xilfaren\".* \"You guess of your condition? Did your airstrider bite you? They're not venomous if that's your concern.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"No I've... Never heard of it actually...\"*Juna would say, one ear lowering in the confused look she typically gave off with it. She traveled quite a bit prior to Juniper's hatching, though never had she heard of Runra before.*\"Is it close to Silnaria or... Lymia...?\"*Juna would find herself asking with those being the only two other countries she could recall going to.*\"...Or Mentia?\"*Juna would add on the last part, recalling her brief trip through Mentia. It wasn't the most eventful, though she didn't have the best experience there. Not that she had too many good experiences often.\n\nJuna would take the book as it was handed to her.*\"Oh... Thank you...\"*Though her voice didn't carry much emotion to it, the gratitude was still there as evident from the light flick of her tail followed by the smile she'd show back up to the Elf. She could recall Ehakli recommending this book to her before, though Juna never thought she'd even get to touch a book in her seclusion. Is this why she kept bringing hermit up in her finding Juna? Surely the point was that she couldn't find her out in these woods with Juna trying to hide from others. Nevertheless, she was grateful for the gift at least. It had been a while since she had read anything for fun.\n\nShe'd glance over towards Juniper when Ehakli asked about her.*\"No, no nothing like that... I...Just been... Well...\"*Juna thought about telling her about her attempts at riding a bird, though the thought of her fails sent a wave of embarrassment through her.*\"I just thought that well... That seeing some people ride Airstriders meant that maybe I should... Possibly give it a try but...\"*Juna would pause once more, cutting herself off before she'd quickly shake her head.*\"I don't think Juniper is really meant for riding... I...Maybe I just imagined them riding Airstriders...\"*She'd finish in her own doubt.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli dipped her head in acknowledgement of the thanks, making a quick note that the purple ribbon marked place of the \"Juicier\" Bits of illusionary tricks if she ever got particularly lonely out here in the middle of nowhere. The tholian graciously changed the subject swiftly after the indication, looking to Juniper.* \"You get there by sea, through the gateways unless you're mad enough to take on the stretch of the Northern Ocean.\" *She tapped her chin, considering the bird.* \"I don't think I've ever read of subspecies of airstriders that *Can't* Be mounted with the right breaking and training. Perhaps it doesn't understand your intentions. It is a young adult now, it might be confused thinking you're trying to mate with it, which would certainly throw a wrench in your attempts.\"\n\n*As she studied Juniper's behavior in the moment, Ehakli's horse turned its head to sniff at Juna.* \"It is tricky business, I believe I myself have forgotten much of riding, especially in the arena of martial disagreements. It's been perhaps sixty years since I've even attended a joust, and find myself having to relearn the confidence. I *Have* Read that airstriders are a bit trickier than horses, but,\" *She looked back to Juna, giving a nice stroke on the horse's neck as it sniffed the canifor.* \"You raised this creature since its hatching, you likely have a stronger advantage than anyone in forming a bond with riding it. It should be achievable, I would think Miss Juna.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*As Ehakli mentioned the country being overseas, Juna's ear would raise back up once more.*\"Oh I... Guess that's why I've never been there or... Heard of it really...\"*She would say in response. Juna never favored water, at least not water as deep and foreboding as the ocean. The Canifor would visit the coast at times, but as far as actually going out into the water, the very thought filled her with anxiety.*\"I'm not really... A sea traveler... Or... A traveler at all anymore...\"*She'd admit before finally looking back to Juniper. Maybe being able to learn how to ride her would have made it easier for Juna to go visit places more often especially with summer nearing alongside the promise Juna had made to a friend to come out of the forest for a while. She wasn't sure how she'd be able to keep it with Juniper now being a beacon at her size, but she had to find some way to.\n\nEhakli's words only seemed to confirm her incompetence. Airstriders were meant to be ridden like any other mount. She supposed she just wasn't sure what she was doing. Juna would shy away from the horse's gaze, coming to rest a hand on Juniper's back while she fought back a whine of frustration that threatened to surface.*\"But... I don't even know how to climb up on her...\"*She'd say helplessly.*\"And I feel like I'm just hurting her at this point-\"" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli gave a rather gentle, storied smile at the admission of Juna's lack of sea travel, but politely contained it away to give an earnest listen to this troubled canifor, ignoring how she could practically smell the salty air as memories played about in the back of her mind. The more she talked with this hermit, the easier it became to read her face. A white eyebrow pushed inward just a millimeter. So much shame from someone so young.* \n\n\"Well,\" *She said with a thoughtful breath, looking to Juniper.* \"It would help to have some proper rigging to on her to help assist with the issue of mounting, but it's a matter of approach, I think. When I used to ride my uncle's when I was a child, I remembered that it's important to be mindful to not tug on their feathers in the motion. With horses their hair is so short you don't even have to think of it, but for airstriders you should imagine if I were to climb on your shoulders using a fistful of your hair to help get up. At the same time, you should be firm with your palm. I, don't, know exactly why, but I do remember my uncle mentioning this a lot. Perhaps I would recommend sort of cupping your hands rather than grasping with your fingers and thumb.\"\n\n*She then tugged reins and respositioned herself and horse to somewhere more suitable before offering a hand out to Juna, reaffirming her boot's placements in her horse's stirrups before asking* \"Let us try in simple steps, I'll help compensate for the lack of stirrup.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Rigging?\"*Juna would ask Ehakli, the word foreign to her in this context. She'd look back over to Juniper, the bird seemingly pecking at the ground in discovery of something that caught her interest. How does one even begin to ride a bird? Juna would listen to Ehakli trying to explain how she was potentially mounting wrong to which Juna's ears would droop from the partial confirmation that she was hurting the bird. Maybe it was better to give up just then. Ironically enough, she managed to find someone with much more knowledge on this endeavor. And even then Ehakli explained how it had been years since she's tried.\n\nTry cupping her hands rather than grabbing onto the bird? While that seemed logical in not hurting Juniper, Juna can only imagine what a ridiculous sight it would be trying to cup her way up onto the bird's back after so many failed attempts at the easy way. With Ehakli's holding out a hand to Juna to help her with the basic steps, the Canifor would remain hesitant to nearing the horse. She could recall a much similar moment to a vampire she had met, one that offering her a ride to the nearest town. Now here she was trying to learn to ride on her own and it seemed much scarier up front than watching from a distance. Eventually Juna would reach out to grab Ehakli's hand as she'd let out a quiet:*\"Okay... I'll... I'll... Try again...\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*After Juna... Well, got on the bird anyway, and she herself wobbling back to a stable position on her horse, Ehakli rose her chin in an unexpected tingling of pride, despite the unfortunately prone position the canifor assumed upon the airstrider. As she gave a small little wave to the departing Juna, she couldn't help but feel some stroke of contentment that she had made the attempt at all. It was then the Tholian considered perhaps her strange interest in the fate of this girl spawned from a sort of curiosity of how someone so timid and full of doubt managed to survive alone in the harsh wilderness at all. Well, no matter, such thoughts into curiosities would have to wait. Stifling the threat of laughter, she called out.* \"Do not worry, Miss Juna, just hang on...!\" *Stifling a threat of laughter, Ehakli gave a gentle kick with her heels upon the flanks of her horse, and began trotting after them.*\n\n*The horse, a courser bestowed of the name 'Dunkhi', went into his own thoughts as he was guided to catch up to the bird and beastfolk. While the articulation of language was beyond him to put his thoughts into words, he considered his pride as a warhorse, of his bravery and steadfastness, bred from strong stock, capable of the resolve to turn the tides of wars as an equine hero, but this? What great epics would be written of this moment that would encourage the bipedal weaklings to offer him apples and squares of that strange, intoxicatingly sweet white substance? A prison, this was, bars forged of invisible humiliation. Damn the elves, damn all the bipeds.*\n\n*As Ehakli caught up, pulling the reigns to turn to match direction with this seemingly aimless airstrider, she gave Juna a sympathetic, if humored, expression before freeing a hand to retrieve the fastened banner pole, tucking it tightly in her elbow, and bracing it at her lap as she guided its reach over to the canifor.* \"Here, grab on, let's get you upright!\" *She called over the clopping din.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Seeing Ehakli wave to her rather than immediately helping, a quiet whine found itself escaping the throat of the stuck Canifor. Her pupils constricted ever so slightly before she'd suddenly try to pull herself up in her own futile attempts. It only served to make the bird hobble more which in turn forced Juna to stop unless she'd rather drop off the side of the bird again.\n\nSoon enough, she'd see Ehakli approach her upon the horse, her position forcing her to have to look up to meet the Elf's gaze. She saw the Elf reach down to her to which she wouldn't hesitate for a second before she'd suddenly grab her hand in a panic, her unsheathing claws threatening to break skin in her attempts at freeing her from an impending drop. \n\nShe'd use Ehakli to pull her up, dragging her down more than she intended to with her unused strength as she'd finally got herself into a normal sitting position. The Canifor wouldn't let go of the Elf after, too flabbergasted in the bird moving on its own without her having much control of where it was going. Albeit, she was going pretty slow, but in the inexperienced Canifor's eyes, it felt a whole lot faster.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli tried her best to both try to keep stable on her own mount, and power through the wincing of claws on her skin.* \"Easy now, Miss Juna, easy, you're getting there- jkch!- just fine...!\" *When the canifor got into an upright position, the elf just let her hang on for a bit, though it came with much awkward leaning on her part, trying to keep the horse and airstrider from colliding their flanks and driving one to suddenly change direction.* \"See now, not so impossible after all.\"\n\n*She left it like this for a bit of time, letting the poor girl get comfortable with being on the creature's back at all, but this was certainly no way to ride, and the tholian became acutely aware of each bump in this position was gradually teetering her to slip off her saddle. So, she maneuvered the wooden pole she had tucked in her arm, and passed one end of it to get into a crook of her other arm, pointing its length across her belly, and began the other end of it on Juna's belly.* \"Here dear, as much as enjoy your adorable embrace, try using this to hold onto. I'll keep holding the other end. We'll be as the yolk of a two horse carriage, see?\" *She gave a reassuring smile, moments before being lightly smacked in the face by the leaves of a hanging branch.*\n\n*She spat out a pieces of foilage* \"It'll help us focus on what's ahead too, I imagine.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would be hesitant to let go of Ehakli's arm as she would feel the constant bobbing of the Airstrider, each movement daring to cause her to slip right between the two steeds and get trampled in the process. Juna would notice the pole Ehakli would try to move across them, her claws sliding out further in mild panic as if she half expected the pole to be enough to cause her to fly off. Only then would Ehakli's words reach her, causing her ears to move where the rest of Juna's body refused to. Very slowly, she'd retract one of her hands to place it on the pole, soon allowing the other to follow after a few moments of feeling balanced enough to let go. There was some added relief in the change in posture and now Juna had something she could properly cling to even if it did feel less stable than the Elf. At least Juniper seemed to be going with it just fine.*\n\n\"You won't let go of it right...?\"*She'd ask Ehaki, half suspecting her hold on the pole was the one thing not throwing Juna off of balance as she'd find herself having to constantly duck down to avoid the lower hanging branches. What she would give to not be in the middle of the forest right now with all these obstacles. The very thought of her own bird falling over with her on top of it was enough to cause her fur to fluff up in anxiety.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli let out a small breath of relief as Juna managed herself to sit upright. They'd still have to ride close of course, and she would have to try her best to pull the reins with a good grip of the pole between them to help guide the animals to not let a tree pass between them and knock both she and Juna rather shockingly off their mounts from their centers of gravity.*\n\n\"Not until you're ready, dear. You should be thanking Juniper for keeping an easy pace for you. Try to let yourself relax, get used to the feeling.\" *The elf simply busied herself concentrating on keeping the formation together.*\n\n*However eventually, a thought struck her mind.* \"Let's try to cover a simple stretch of ground, I don't think the others should be terribly far away...\" *Carrying her loop of the rein just on her thumb, she made some gestures, and seemed to be wording something in her mouth that sounded... More technical than magical, like someone reading off a set of rules. Then, in the distance, a cowbell began to ring.* \"Ah, there he is. Let's see if we can ride to that sound.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Thank you... Juniper...\"*She'd murmur shakily. Her claws found themselves scratching at the pole she held in not being able to get herself to involuntarily sheathe them again. At least it was better than Ehakli's arm or Juniper herself which was enough to leave Juna distracted by it while she listened to Ehakli speak to her.\n\nIn the light bobbing of the bird, Juna found herself allowing her fur to lie flat again in her growing used to the rhythm. Only when a bell suddenly rang out in the distance, would her ears shoot up in attention growing more tense in the noise sounding much louder in her ears.*\"What's with the bells-\"*She'd yelp back. Part of her found it hard to have to constantly hear the ringing especially after the first skeleton. At this point, Juna was worried that if it didn't scare her bird then it would definitely scare off the rest of the prey that roamed out here.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli grinned as Juna really did thank the bird. Funny as it was, it probably would help in some way to talk to the creature so familiar to her through all this. She tried to ignore the scratching of pole. Maybe she could work them into some carving project next time she's tediously bored making camp along the road. She gave a simple shrug when asked of the bells.* \"I wasn't certain how I'd find you again, our last encounter was just happenstance on the path off the main road. So I bought a few bells from a merchant I made wayrest with along the way, some junk peddler from some hamlet outside the capitol south of here I've never heard of that must have popped up over the last century. Anyway, I summoned a few old dearheats, draped them in some spare linens I use for Dunkhi here, and sent them off in three different directions on Contract that should they find a canifor, and upon seeing one, start ringing their bell. The linens were in hopes you'd remember my banner, I didn't want to frighten you you see.\" \n\n*She laughed.* \"And it worked rather marvelously, hadn't it? Look at you now, your hair isn't standing on end anymore. Anyway, I have them each ringing their bells now, why don't you try using the pole as leverage and try guiding dear Juniper with your knees towards one of the bells? I'll hold my end of the pole with a hand on the reigns just in case.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna didn't even consider the parts of linen being a link to someone she had already met. The ringing was enough to distract her from any real composed thought. Ehakli claimed she didn't want to frighten her, though that wasn't exactly the case with a random skeleton popping up to deafen her. Her hand would slowly reach up to her head in Ehakli mentioning that it wasn't sticking up anymore. Juna couldn't always tell when it did that, just something of her Canifor side that she couldn't control much if she wanted to. It felt normal now though much like Ehakli said which Juna could only imagine how it looked before.*\"The bell is... Pretty loud though...\"*She'd murmur, the ears on her head lying flat towards its constant ringing that only seem to grow louder the closer they got. \n\nAs Ehakli mentioned trying to guide Juniper with her knees, she'd look up towards her with uncertainty.*\"My knees?\"*She'd ask. It was hard enough just getting on the bird, how was she going to use her knees to get her to change course? Would Juniper even know what that meant? She tried to attempt shift her legs to get Juniper to turn, though that only served to make her feel more off balance than actually working which in turn forced her to tighten her grip on the pole again.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "\"Is it?\" *Ehakli looked for a moment in surprise, before ducking a low branch.* \"It's just a tin cow's bell, is your hearing really that good?\" *She gave a little 'hah!'* \"How useful that would be in court, hear all the little hushed conspirings to the ears of the influential in the room.\"\n\n*The elf seemed she was about to say more, but stopped to reaffirm her arms grip on the pole as Juna's balance wavered.* \"Oh dear\" *She blerted, twisting another loop of her reins over her other wrist to get a little more tightness in the guidance of Dunkhi to keep them in formation.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would lower on her head, not exactly drawing the connection between her ears just picking up sound better from being a Canifor, but more so thinking it was just a trait of those with ears like hers.*\"Things are just... Louder for me...\"*She'd say quietly before tilting her head towards Ehakli.*\"Do things not sound as loud to you?\"*Juna would suddenly question to her. Had she been talking quietly this whole time without even realizing? She supposed she never considered the hinderance of others' ability to hear. What sounded louder to her was probably quieter to them. The thought at least seemed to distract her from riding a bit, allowing her to maintain a longer sense of calm in the rhythmic walking of her bird while she focused more on the Elf.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*She briefly looked to Juna with eyes that did not expect the question.* \"Not as loud to me? I'm not certain I'd be aware if it were the case.\" *She looked back on ahead.* \"I can tell you that the bells don't seem terribly loud, just enough to carry over distance. If it's of a disturbing decibel to you at this distance, however, I think it would stand to reason that your hearing may be sharper than mine.\"\n\n*She searched a bit from her saddle to hone in on the direction of the nearest of the two bells.* \"Well unfortunately, while I did put in caveat in their current contract to also signal their bells when I give the command, I did not prepare a means to adjust their... Er, enthusiasm in it. I'm afraid we'll have to simply ride to it in the meantime. I like those linens.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Oh...\"*Juna would say, disheartened by the thought that she would have to constantly listen to the ringing. Hopefully the noise didn't stick in her ears. At the very least with her ears lowered, it allowed the noise to be partially muffled in ensuring that she could focus on something else. Slowly she'd lower a hand down to Juniper's side, careful in making sure she didn't accidentally claw her in Juna knowing her claws were still out.*\n\n\"Please turn...\"*Juna would try to murmur to the bird. Of course, the Airstrider couldn't understand a word of what she said which only seem to cause her to let out a quiet sigh. She'd try to use her knees again to get the bird to move, though instead of turning fully, Juniper would merely stagger a bit sideways before continuing on forward once her footing was quickly readjusted.*\"I don't think... I'm doing it right...\"*She'd say to Ehakli as she'd look back towards her.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Though she kept her eyes ahead and on the road, Ehakli canted her head a millimeter or two when Juna spoke to her airstrider, curious if the bird would listen to the command, or, well, the request. On hearing the canifor's sigh, Ehakli made more conversation as to distract Juna from her frustrations.* \"You know there actually are people that possess the ability to speak with animals and other forces of nature? I don't believe it's even the designs of spell, which makes it an even more peculiar sort of magic. I can't imagine what it must be like, though. What would a beetle ever have to offer in communication beyond a mindless mechanical desire for food or a mate.\" \n\n*At the staggering, Ehakli gave an 'oop!' as she struggled to keep their positioning, the animals nearly bumping into eachother. When it calmed back down enough for Juna to feel comfortable to complain again, Ehakli twisted her lips, thinking for a moment before a sly motion of her brow, and a wand was drawn in stealth with her hand holding the reins.*\n\nA sound emitted from Juniper's beak, no, a voice, a warble reminiscent of its chirps. \"You can do it, Juna, we'll figure this out together!\"\n\n*Ehakli then quickly returned the wand into it's loop on her sword belt.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"There... Are...?\"*Juna would ask her more curiously. She had never heard of the concept of people being able to naturally talk to animals. Sure she spoke to Jace sometimes, though it was no different than talking to any other pet in her eyes. Then again, there was this one time when she could have sworn she heard a horse talking. It was so strange at the time, but maybe-? Juna would give a sudden shake of her head. No, of course it wasn't any magic. The forests of Lymia had long since drained her of her magical abilities and the talking horse was nothing more than a sleep deprived hallucination. But what if it wasn't?\n\nJuna grew lost in thought about it, only for her to hear another voice join in on the conversation. If not for the voice referring to her directly, Juna would have thought it was some stranger passing by which would have just as easily caused her to grow nervous in being stuck atop the bird. But no, this voice spoke her name, seemingly coming from the bird itself.*\"Huh-??\"*She'd let out, ears almost forcefully raising atop her head. Did she imagine it or did the bird actually speak back to her? She'd glance over at Ehakli, face strummed with puzzlement.*\"Did... You hear that...? The... Other voice just now...?\"" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "\"Hm?\" *Ehakli's face was probably overselling feigned ignorance.* \"What other voice?\" *She said with a shrug of a palm, her fingers lightly gesturing, manipulatin the illusion as she made a point to look away from direct eye contact with Juna, because she would otherwise assuredly give it away.*\n\n\"Of course I heard it, Juna!\" Said, supposedly, Juniper. \"Only you can hear me though, what with you being the Chosen of Prophecy. Thank you for not pulling on my feathers this time. What is that ringing sound, anyway?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's gaze would shift back to her bird as she'd suddenly speak up again, her heart skipping a beat from hearing the voice once more. It wasn't her imagination right?*\"The Chosen of the prophe- wha?\"*She'd say in confusion to her words. What was Juniper going on about. What prophecy?*\"But I... Thought she said that there are people who can learn to talk to animals... Are they also part of the... Prophecy...?\"*She'd question, only half conscious of the idea that this conversation was one sided and would make her look crazy in the Elf's eyes. That is, if the Elf wasn't the one creating the false conversation in the first place. With Juniper talking back to her, the Canifor almost didn't notice the ringing to which she'd soon look back up at the mention of it.*\"Oh... Those are... The bells... That she wants us to follow-\"" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli summoned every ounce of strength in poise and grace to do whatever she could to appear not to hear any of this, keeping herself looking busy with the reins, maintain the yolk.*\n\n*Juniper appeared to have taken a breath before speaking further.* \"Your macenlike companion knows? Perhaps they somehow know you are the next with this gift. Wait, did you say bells? Oh no, could it be- then we have no time to spare. Juna- this could be a trap; you *Must* Discover how much your companion knows of the prophecy. Look to her now, and demand the password from her by reciting the following: 'Have you ever kissed a toad on the third toll of the bell?'\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"Wha-?\"*Juna would look at Juniper with a confused expression after the bird's request. She'd turn her head to look at Ehakli, ears lowered in slight exasperation.*\"Ehakli... I think the bell ringing is...\"*Juna would begin, soon scratching her head.*\"Hurting my head a little...\"*Juna would shake her head to and fro, thinking at this point she must have truly lost her mind. That or her bird has.*\"I... Think we should... Take a break...\"*Juna was planning on getting off after, though it became apparent that she didn't know how to properly dismount off of her steed, leaving Juna partially stranded on top of her.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*The dark elf's humor was rung slowly to a neutral stillness when it began to dawn at her that perhaps she was pushing the jest a little too hard on the poor girl.* \"Oh, Juna,\" *She gestured for her attention with her reigned hand, trying to get her to focus.* \"Everything's alright dear, I let a conjured distraction run a little wild on its devices. The bell is close enough, let's... Hmm.\" *She eyed Juniper, realizing she wasn't entirely certain how to convince the bird to stop.* \n\n*In any case, she snapped her fingers, and the sounds of ringing came to an abrupt end, the unseen cowbells making their dull hollow crashing as whatever was ringing them ceased to be.* \"Can you try to get her to slow down? Perhaps reaching and ever so slightly pulling back on their neck, gentle but firm.\" *She guessed.*\n\n*No more words came from the airstrider.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*With the ringing having left her ears and the bird no longer speaking with her, Juna would finally let out a more relaxed sigh. Silence. Outside of the Elf's words and the trotting of their two steeds at least, but Juna could accept that was as much as she'll get. Now she can at least think more properly.*\"Um...\"*She'd say in response to Ehakli's question of slowing her down. The Canifor would try to reach forward to the bird's neck which in turn seemed to cause the bird to flap rather wildly in response to it as if she'd expect to take flight.*\"Sorry Juni, Sorry-\"*The Canifor would quickly say apologetically.\n\nAt least the distraction seemed to cause the bird to come to a more abrupt stop in her try to shake the Canifor's hands off her neck. Juna would see opportunity in it, looking down to prepare for getting off, only to realize how much further the ground seemed to her. She'd take a few deep breaths, trying to get herself to slide off more carefully while clinging onto the back of the Airstrider. Eventually one of her feet would meet ground, soon followed by the other, and only then would the Canifor collapse on the ground altogether in her own relief of being off the mount.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Unable to tell when Juna would find success, when Juniper did indeed find stoppage in trot, Ehakli had to quickly respond, as the pole between she and the canifor became tilted between forces of motion as her horse had no indication to stop, awkwardly causing the tension of the pole to break out of her crooked arm hooking it, up her belly to slope up over under her breast to snap a hair faster to clock the elf under the chin. Dazed in the moment of striking, Ehakli chose poorly in trying to lean further back to try to resnatch her end of the pole as it was held in trust for Juna, causing the tholian to lose her place of gravity on the saddle, and slump backwards over the horse's ass onto the ground in a heavy thud with the metal chains of her armor she wore.*\n\n*After a few coughs as her horse trotted in an awkward semicircle, confused in the sudden drop in weight on its back, Ehakli was suddenly struck with the humor she silenced from moments before, and as she laid on her back on the forest floor, Juna's dismount was met with a raucous cackling instead of the deserved congratulations.* \"You did it! Hah! Ahahahhhhh\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would poke up on her head at the sound of cackling following a rather hard descent to the ground. At first Juna thought she was getting laughed at for her dismount, which in turn sent a rise of embarrassment through her before she soon realized that Ehakli was congratulating her. Juna's ears would fold back on her head.*\"We don't... Have to get back on them... Right...?\"*She'd ask the Tholian, afraid that her enthusiasm of Juna's accomplishment would cause her to encourage the Canifor to get back on the bird. She didn't want to get back on the bird. She couldn't get back on the bird. The bird was currently wandering around the area, trying to poke at the grass for any misplaced seeds or prey.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli winced as she rubbed her smarted chin, eyeing about where the pole might have landed.* \"There's an adage about- ow, about how, nghh\" *She forced herself to prop up on her elbows, breathing heavily with the chain over her chest after the breath had been knocked out of her.* \"About, getting back on again after you get off. I can't seem to conjure the words right now, but-\" *She turned over in her prone position to readjust the angle of the sheathed blade at herside, and then slowly pushed herself back up a bit ungracefully.* \"But,\" *She turned her head and then the rest of her to find Juna.* \"These are the first steps, Juna.\"\n\n*Then, oddly, the elf looked over the canifor with a new regard, though its origin was difficult to determine. Regardless, the tholian trudged in her boots over to Juna, and clasped a hand on her shoulder, looking to the young woman directly.* \"Listen. Discomfort is the price of strength. This is easily demonstrable in that you've accomplished what you have today, in spite of all your storied doubts you wear on yourself like a heavy winter's coat in this hot weather. We can take a rest, but, I beg of you, Miss Juna, consider the value of this effort. PHEW!\" *Ehakli slid off Juna's shoulder in a beleaguered sigh into a half-laying sit on the ground.* \"Osin swallow the linens at this juncture, I forgot how much it takes out of you to fall off a horse while wearing armor. Tell me you have water on you so I don't have to chase my dear Dunkhi, sweet Juna.\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's shoulders would droop at the Tholian's touch, no longer having much of a will to shrug it off or move away from it. She'd listen to her speak about valuing the effort. Juna supposed she did at least manage to ride her bird for a short while, even if she was panicking for the majority of the time and ended up hearing voices on top of it. Riding was still riding at the end of the day.*\"Okay...\"*She'd say in partial submission before finally getting up so that she could sit upright.*\"I'm sorry you... Fell off the horse I... Wasn't sure how Juniper would react...\"*Juna would reach to the pouch on her side, grabbing a handful of berries before holding it out to the bird. Juniper would lift up her head and waddle back over to the Canifor, forcing Juna to have to raise her hand up so that the bird could properly eat from it.*\"She's gotten so big so fast... I'm not even sure if she knows her own strength...\"*Much like Juna if the Canifor ever understood her own either. With Ehakli asking if she had water on her, Juna would give a brief shake of her head.*\"No I... Don't typically carry it on me...\"*She'd say before taking a moment to think it over. There was some hesitation before she'd continue, but eventually she'd say:*\"But... I know where a brook is... Nearby if... You'd like to get some water from it...\"" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli gave a dismissive wave at the apology.* \"It's all part of the process of learning, Miss Juna. Your predisposition of feeling incapable despite your victories blinds you too much. I wouldn't have lead you on this if I didn't accept the risks I know come with it.\" *She then took a few steps about, stretching her back with hands planted behind her torso here and there as she recovered from the fall, casting a glance here and there at the canifor's interaction with the airstrider.* \"You know, it's a good mark that Juniper comes to you when you produce berries. You should incorporate that in their and your training together, since neither of us know what the fathomless depths what we're doing when it comes to breaking in an airstrider. You seem more comfortable using vocal commands, there's room for you to use your treats for Juniper to enforce acknowledgment in words you use. Always worked with my birds anyway.\"\n\n*She then readjusted her military dress and armor on herself as she came back to her natural comfort.* \"A brook would be nice. Let me recover those linens while you decide if we walk or ride there.\" *And with that, Ehakli produced her wand, and started muttering arcane words of contract and intent that went over the details of pathway and description of objects of recovery, which resulted in the sudden appearance of a pair of spectral tholian beings, which nodded and parted ways in different directions on a mission to recover the linens of her previous summons. Ehakli whispered a spell on each of them as they departed, but of what effect was unknown.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "\"It is...?\"*Juna would ask as she'd gaze up to the bird eating away at the berries in her hand. Her head would tilt to the side at it. Juniper always typically came to her when she was hungry. She figured now wasn't any different if she wasn't able to find food herself. Juna would listen to Ehakli's suggestion of using treats to help train the bird which Juna would find herself looking back at the Elf in mild confusion.*\"Kind of like... How I train Jace...?\"*She'd ask her. Juna never considered birds and dogs being trained the same way. Surely there was a difference somewhere. Did birds have the same cognitive thinking as canines? She'd sake her head to and fro at the thought. Maybe she could give it a try.*\n\n\"I... Guess I can try... But I have been running low on jerky and... I can't exactly find more out in the forests...\"*She'd say before finally getting up upon Juniper finishing her berries. The bird would let out a quiet coo'ing noise. Juna would give a gentle stroke of the Juniper's neck, soon watching as her claws would finally slide back in with her feeling more relaxed. She'd catch a glimpse of more summons appearing, Juna keeping still before they'd run off into the forest at Ehakli's command. With them gone, Juna would turn away to begin heading the brook with Juniper trotting beside her.*\"Your summons kind of remind me of my spirit wolves...\"*She'd murmur aloud after leaving the area.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Oblivious to Juna's considerations of how close they were to her camp, Ehakli just kept her eyes forward, eager to find some water to drink, and perhaps wash of the stink of travel she made coming down from Pepor. She listened with simple curiosity of Juna's recollection.* \"A useful array of practical incantations. I remember seeing much of those sorts of expresions invading the beastfolk lands of the west.\" *A small sigh* \"A great many lost a lot more than their magic that year as well. We truly do live in a violent world, do we not Miss Juna?\" \n\n\"Oh, is that it just ahead? I think I can hear water.\" *The elf's pace quickened just a hair.* \"Well, at least you managed to survive it, and can spend your remaining years taking back what you've lost, and learning anew. Not to mention having the inspiring company of yours truly giving the occasional visit, why surely its only a matter of time before some of my confidence rubs off on you, and you'll have the whole of Ramul Ta bending its mana through your little sharp claws.\" *She said with a cheeky smirk.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna's ears would lower slightly at the mention of magic being used to invade Beastkin lands. She had never visited the place herself, though it didn't particularly make her feel better in knowing that magic was used for such ill intent. Maybe she was just lucky to have any magic to begin with, but now in living out in the forests she had given up that freedom.*\"Is it wrong that... I still miss being able to use it... Sometimes...\"*She'd ask the Elf self-consciously. To be able to feel the mana flowing through her as she granted herself protection from any attack was magical on its own. Her spirit wolves were the last spell she ever casted and from then on, she had never felt more alone being out here.\n\nShe was broken away from her thoughts as Ehakli mentioned the brook, soon refocusing ahead as she came to realize just how close they were drawing to her camp. With a dip of her head in acknowledgement to Ehakli's words, she'd gesture ahead to the clearing just beyond where they stood.*\"This is... My camp... I...Decided to build it along a brook to make for easier water access...\"*She'd announce. The camp was nothing too grand outside of the large wooden tent and burned out campfire that sat in the center. Claw marks were etched vigorously into the different trees surrounding the camp as if someone had waged war against the bits of nature and claimed its victory of it in the marks left.*\"The brook is just past here...\"*She'd say, pointing to the opposite side of the camp were the water was at its loudest, albeit not loud like a waterfall, but enough to catch one's attention. She'd tilt her head back towards Ehakli after in hearing her words about occasionally visiting as well as a Juna taking back what she lost.*\"But... How will I be able to do that...?\"*She'd ask the woman as if regaining her old magical capabilities was a more daunting task in the way Juna typically made things for herself.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli flopped her free hand palm-up* \"Well of course it's not wrong to miss such a thing,\" *Her tone sounding as the the notion it being so an inheritently absurd thing.* \"To be able to maniuplate the world around us like a painter with a canvas, it would be like a singer losing their voice, worse than that really.\" \n\n*She seemed to have more to say on the matter, but the sight of Juna's camp was far too distracting. Her eyes went a little wide with a strange playful delight at the sight of it, the structure the canifor had made for themselves. She idly wondered how good a carpenter she might have been, but it seemed servicable enough. Ehakli traced her fingers at one of the claw-ravaged trees, her brow twisting a bit. \"Yes, perhaps the bookmarks were a good idea indeed.\" *She muttered to herself.*\n\n*The tholian turned to Juna.* \"*Well*, you simply endeavor to do so, Miss Juna. You've done it before, so you must remember the motions. You simply practice, and keep practicing, finding your determination and resolve until you break through whatever is blocking your flow of mana.\" *She looked back at the camp.* \"And to think you have such a quaint little place to do so in peace.\" *Her eyes darted about, taking note of the details around the area, retracing her steps to discern what direction this must have been off the path she took to look for her.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*She'd look at her own hand as Ehakli mentioned having to remember the motions and how she managed to cast in the first place. In all reality, she wasn't too sure how. It simply came to her, though maybe practicing similar moves to what she's done before would help jog her memory. She'd walk into the center of her camp, coming to sit down at the unlit campfire while Juniper and Jace would wander about the area. She'd place the book she was handed down next to her, a curious tilt in her head as she wondered what sort of information it could contain. Perhaps it was a read for later in the night or another day all together.*\n\n\"Have you ever lost your mana before?\"*Juna would ask her. Part of her curious in the Elf's own history with her magic. The Canifor was sure magic came more naturally with Elves, at least it wasn't often she saw beastkin with it. If she ever saw beastkin at all. They were often more physical with fighting, though Juna preferred to keep her distance. At least now she had an option for fighting up close. With Ehakli bringing up the camp, Juna would alter her gaze away from the Elf.*\"I've had a lot of help on working on it... My original set up wasn't the most study but... Now I think it'll hold its own much better...\"" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli nodded at the progression of the building skills as she began unfastening her armor's bindings, giving a hum in acknowledgement, before answering her question.* \"Not without my consent, no. There are a few old rites of Osin that I used to participate in years ago where you offer all your mana to the sea at midnight each night for a month for the Serpent to swallow it. It was both an homage and meant to teach lessons of adapting without it. Truth be told I mostly ever did it for the wild parties that often would come with it,\" *A smirk spread as some memories returned.* \"But there was one time about a century and a half ago I participated in it for a full year while I prepared for a war my father sent me on. I thought it would make me a better swordarm, but mostly I think it just helped me develop the drop in sanity one must need for long, bloody campaigns. I wonder if they still make those drugs.\" *She then shook her head and lifted her maille and leather off over her head.* \"How deep is that brook of yours?\"" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would look at her with a face full of confusion. They had rituals for giving up magic? Maybe there was a lot she still had left to learn, though there was something oddly familiar about the name Ehakli kept mentioning.*\"Lord... Osin...?\"*Osin. Osin. Where did she hear that before? Juna would grow lost in thought for a while, racking her brain of a memory she didn't know she was about to hate resurfacing. Once more her thoughts were broken from Ehakli's question.*\"Oh... Not too deep... Just less than a meter or so...\"*She'd answer. The Canifor was never a fan of water that was deep enough for her to sink under. It was always a lasting fear of her potentially drowning in it, but the brook wasn't deep enough for such, which left her with better confidence in living around it at least.*" }, { "author": "kiredwing", "message": "\"Yes, the goddess Osin, the Serpent, Her lessons teach us of death and life, of wisdom in travel, and of the necessity of change.\" *Ehakli spoke with a tone of reverence as she began disrobing, a silvery tattoo on her back displaying a snake draped in robing, a coin in it's fanged mouth, but it was only a fleeting glimpse, as the gentle, eerie whispers of spirits returned to her, encircling around the tholian with the linens trailing behind them a shifting dressing room that depicting that same serpent but with blue roses and thorns. When she had finished, the spirits closed in, draping the spinning linens onto her before vanishing in her thanks and dismissal.* \"That should be deep enough for a drink and quick wash. I shall return shortly, dear.\" *She then stepped on where her ears would tell her the brook would be.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Again, the name sounded so familiar. She simply couldn't recall. With Ehakli showing the tattoo, Juna would fall into a stunned silence, watching as she'd quickly change clothes before announcing her heading off to the brook. Now that Ehakli was gone, Juna was left to her own thoughts. Osin. Lord Osin. There were people that mentioned him before. People. Elves. She met Elves before that mentioned them. Juna fell still for a moment, suddenly being dragged back to the memory of the monastery. The Elves there that claimed to have Lord Osin's blessing. The merciless fight between the Vampiress and group of elves that lead Juna to flee from the scene. Her fur would fluff up. She was one of them. Surely not though. They were all Lathians? At least she thought. Were there other elves that she missed? Were they coming after her? No, wait she met this Tholian before the events at the Monastery, so surely not. Unless.\"*Juna would scoot away from the fire, her thoughts counteracting one another in the memory flooding the emotion of her failures back into her. She's a friend, she's a friend, she's a friend. The Canifor wanted to believe. But how many supposed friends had turned against her in the past? Oh, why did she have to bring her to her camp?*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Though Juna was left alone in her with her fearful concerns, her excellent hearing could pick up the singing of Ehakli as the tholian bathed off in the distance. What first started as a simple home, Ehakli must have been encouraged in the reminder of her faith, singing an old silnarian song of two heroes who became lovers, named Éliara and Aefyr. A song of sweet and beautiful adventures, that gave life and safe travel for many, but the song ends in Aefyr's murder of his lover, for the change of Osin. *For Osin, for Osin, for Osin* The song would go on, the tune carrying an eerie prettiness despite the morbid notion of sacrificing one's beloved.*\n\n*Ehakli would eventually return, having wrapped and tied the ghost-returned linens in a Hombaxian styled toga of sorts.* \"Much better, thank you Miss Juna.\" She said in passing, stepping bare foot to her horse, unfastening a pavisse shield with an reflective surface, taking it with a sharp knife over to one of the clawed trees. She propped the shield up against it, digging its point into the earth, and using it as a mirror as she idly spread out her hair, looking for specific locks she noticed in the brook, using the knife to trim certain length of her white hair, humming that same tune.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would tug her ears down to the side of her head as she'd hear the woman distantly sing about the god that left a hidden memory within her. She didn't do anything wrong, she tried to warn them, yes she took the job, but she tried to go peacefully. There was no stopping the images of the two fighting one another, the Canifor leaving her companion to fall with her not being able to react in time to them trying to kill each other. So many fights that could have been avoided. Did any of the elves survived after they left? They're not going to come back for her from association, right? Being so distracted by her own thoughts she didn't notice Ehakli returning back to the camp, letting out an instinctual yelp as the Elf's words would meet her ears in much closer proximity.\n\nHer eyes would flash up to the woman, her body shrinking back a bit as she'd idly watch her go to work on her hair. Juna wouldn't alter her gaze off the Tholian, staring for much longer than she thought she was. Somewhere in the back of her mind she must have reached for her staff for she couldn't exactly remember how it got in her hand. Jace would look towards her from where he was laying in the grass, clearly picking up on Juna's silent tension. In the back of the Canifor's mind she could envision the Tholian as one of the wolves she'd seen haunting her in her nightmares. A wolf as tricky as a fox, questionably a wolf at all. A false friend so to speak. Has this one come back to her for payback on others that may not have made it out alive? She wasn't too sure.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli flicked cut strands of white off into the wind, inspecting her hair for a bit longer, occasionally eyeing the canifor in the reflective surface of her mirrored shield. A brow raised, she let her humming turned into muted song again, though the lyrics much different, stories of the ancients archers protecting the faithful in their vigil in bough of Silnaria's emerald forests. A precaution of her own, as ash formed into bone of a few skeletal archers hidden among the branches, unmoving in the perfect silence of death.* \n\n\"Is everything alright, dear?\" *Ehakli summoned the strength of her many years playing courtier to not sound as alarmed as her heartbeat. The canifor looked alarmed as if there was a threat coming near, but while Juna's ears were sharp, Ehakli's tholian eyes were adept at reading faces, and she did not like what Juna's face told her.*" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna had frozen completely, Ehakli's words reaching her ears in sounding more distant than she was. Her grip tightened on her staff, claws sliding out to scrape against metal in her silent battle of deciding whether or not to use it. Part of her suggested to go through with the idea, the other wanted to hold faith that someone wouldn't go this out of their way to hurt her.*\"Fine...\"*She'd say in a stale tone.*\"I'm just... Going to wash off Juniper...\"*Slowly but surely, Juna would get up from where she sat. She'd go to Juniper, eyes hardly wanting her to turn her head back to the woman as she'd quickly usher her Airstrider away.\n\nJace would look between the two, soon getting up to follow his owner and her bird to what would appear to be the brook in the direction they were heading in. She'd vanish off beyond the line of trees, occasionally looking behind her in half expecting the woman to follow her with whatever paranoia her words had seemingly inflicted on the Beastkin.*" }, { "author": "kiredwing", "message": "EA: *In the tense moment, Ehakli simply watched Juna in silence, giving just a faint nod of her head in acknowledgment. When the canifor had disappeared with her menagerie, the tholian took a deep breath, and loosened her grip on her knife a bit. \"What a troubled girl..\" She'd mutter quietly to herself, making a gesture to send the hidden bones back to ash, back to nothingness.*\n\n*She then moved to change into a fresh set of clothes from her horse's packs, stowing her dirty set, and redonning her armor. Shield strapped to her back this time, she mounted Dunkhi, and drew her wand. In the air in the middle of Juna's camp, she drew a large scroll in illusion, scribbling from a few meters away it's silnarian calligraphy, before giving her horse a kick and riding off.*\n\n*When Juna returns, the illusionary script awaited her.*\n\n```Dearest Juna of the Forest,\n\nWhile I greatly enjoyed sharing your company again, I cannot help but feel I have offended you in some manner. I know not what troubles you, my friend, but it strongly felt that my presence in your hidden away camp has generated a great disturbance. I wish no rift to form between us, it is rare that I have an opportunity to make friendship outside of the necessity of exchange and matters politic. I shall ride a different direction from this place until I meet a path, road, river or coast, and find my way to Vuni from wherever I end up, in hopes to lose bearing of the location of your home for your peace of mind. \n\nIf I am the fool who misjudges this situation, you can find me in Pepor for the most part, though I shall not be returning home for several months. Farewell, my friend. Enjoy the book in your free time between regaining your mana and further developing your kinship with your animal companion. You're going to be an excellent rider for Juniper.\n\n-Ehakli du Aibaer```" }, { "author": "Juna Carse", "message": "*Juna would make her way down to the brook, looking behind herself once more before finally letting go of Juniper and dropping down to her knees in mild defeat. She'd stare out into the rippling water, bringing a hand to her head as if in a mild headache. Ehakli was nowhere to be seen behind her, merely just her Airstrider and Jackal for company. She wasn't being followed nor attacked out of the blue. Why was she so tempted to hurt her? Has she grown so distrustful that even her friends seemed like enemies to her? Was it so hard for her to accept someone as trusting enough despite whatever connections they may have to her irrational way of storing her memories within her.*\"What is wrong with me...?\"*She whined to herself. No one to answer her, no one that can fix her deteriorating way of thinking. Things seemed so much easier before. Now she couldn't pick friend from enemy anymore. She quivered upon looking at her own reflection, the shadowing darkening her to the point where it was hard to tell where her fur ended and macenized side began. Was this why her kind acted this way when she met them? She'd cup her hands in the water splashing it in her face to bring her back down to reality. There were no wolves, there was no one hunting her down, and the elves, well they were probably doing their own thing still, if they were still alive that is. She'd tell herself this, she'd remind herself on loop as she'd shakily get up and turn around to return to her camp, albeit more shakily in her recovering from the shock of it.*\n\n*Her hand would meet the trunk of one of the scratched up trees, eventually her finally looking towards the clearing.*\"Ehakli I-\"*She began, soon noticing the Elf had left in her absence. The Canifor would look around the camp, entering the clearing in her walking around before soon coming to notice the scroll left in the area. She'd read it over, the words left behind playing out in the voice of the Tholian as her dripping wet ears would lower the further down she got on the page. She'd reach out to touch the scroll, the illusion vanishing just as the Dark Elf had. She messed up, so very badly she messed up.\n\nHow could she possibly go back there? For whatever sanity she had left in her how could she return to that place? She wouldn't have much of a choice if she wanted to fix her mistake. Could she even fix it? There was a weight of hopelessness that sat in Juna's chest, forcing her to draw her knees to her in all that she had left to feel safe in this violent world, a feeble ball with a heavily shattered mind. It would be a lie to say she didn't shed a few tears from her own hopelessness, the misfortune driving her much harder than any blessing could at this point in her life. What could she do about it anyways? She was simply a Canifor, a Canifor imprisoned by her own fears.*" } ]

[ { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*The tholian didn't stop her motions at first, seeming to not even acknowledge the presence of the centaur until her drill with her short, curved blade came to the end of its form. Through this, the lyrics in her singing shifted to something else, of the dead that wait for us below in the return from Ramkurse, privately manipulating a contract as the water mildly shifted in disturbance in three lines from her as he song came to an end, and the elf stood straight, looking to this new stranger. She looked rather expressionless, though it was difficult to tell with her dark features hidden under the moonlight. However, after a moment of assessment, the tholian would bow, sweeping an arm in a welcome gesture to the waters around them. In her bending, she peered through the water at one of the three skeletons laying in hiding upon the waterbed in wait, resting with their arms and armor as if they were laid there upon the deaths. When she straightened her back, she only simply said* \"There is plenty of space to share, stranger. Enjoy the water and the moonlight.\"\n\n*She would then return to her regimental routine, making certain not to trip on any hidden bones surrounding her immediate area. It had been so long since she really practiced this. There were fewer wars these years, at least, those that would demand her own action. In any event, it turned out to be a gentle enough way to blow off some steam, even if she was being a bit unfriendly in the moment.*" }, { "author": "Melody Vander", "message": "*Melody would come to sit down at the edge of the water while the Tholian continues singing and practicing on despite her question, part of her antsy to walk in anyways, but knowing that at least by sitting she could hold back to the need and instead continue to watch the Tholian. There was a sense of uncanniness with her as the woman started singing about the dead before finally looking to her and saying to enjoy the water. Getting back up, she'd carefully trot out into the water. The cold would hit her deer-like body almost immediately, allowing her to let out a quiet sigh of relief. She'd continue out just far enough before she'd lower herself down more so that the water could reach her stomach.\n\nFor a while Melody would just soak in silence, listening as the woman would continue to her practicing in the wake of night. Melody wondered if there was something she was preparing for with her deciding to give up sleep for it, though that was little of her business. She wasn't doing anything wrong out here anyways.*\"Are you heading to the Capitol, Miss?\"*Melody would decide to ask instead, her own curiosity gnawing at her with the Centaur trying to make her way there.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "\"Away from it, I discovered.\" *She said, mocking herself for having strayed so far off path to have made it all the way to the Capitol. Between a series of arcing slashes, eyeing the water at her thighs to measure her disturbance of it, she called out again.* \"I take it that you are?\"" }, { "author": "Melody Vander", "message": "\"Got a bit turned around out here?\"*She'd ask her with Ehakli claiming to just realize she was heading away. Melody would cup some water in her hand, getting it to wash over her skin in cooling herself down.*\"I suppose things can get a bit hard navigating what with it being dark out here.\"*Melody would look back towards her.*\"Practicing for something?\"*At least she was getting the Tholian to talk a little more even if it wasn't much. Melody could only assume that she wasn't one for accepting too many visitors.*\"Yes ma'am, I was actually heading towards it before nightfall. Since it was a bit too dark to see, I decided to just cool down out here for a while until the sun rose again. I have a basic idea of which direction it's in, but it can be easy to get lost out here.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Splash!* \n*Ehakli looked down to the water in disbelief that her streak had broken after being asked if she may have gotten lost. She gave a shake of her head in denial.* \"I know my way around these lands well enough, thank you.\" *She said in little more than a salve for her own pride the tholian somehow thought wounded. Straightening her stance, she started the form routine from the beginning again.*\n\n*Her leg movements caused the water about her to splash again on the centaur's inquiring of practice. With an impatient sigh, she straightened herself again and gestured to the inuisitive deer with her blade.* \"Yes, I am practicing my old martial form to help keep safe when I am approached by strangers in the night.\" *Her tone was clearly annoyed at something.* \"Are you always this forward in encounters this far from the earshot of guards? I could be a dangerous criminal, you know.\"" }, { "author": "Melody Vander", "message": "*Melody would watch her suddenly lose focus on her task, seemingly growing more frustrated in having to start again. She'd give a dip of her head.*\"Sorry for asking.\"*The Centaur would say, not meaning to disturb her. Melody would turn away a bit as if to not watch her while she continued to soak, instead listening to her ask about if she was always this forward.*\n\n\"I have no reason to think of you as a criminal outside of irrational conclusions.\"*She'd say back to her.*\"I like to treat everyone I meet in a friendly way. No reason to act standoffish to someone because of what they could be. If we went by that assumption with everyone we meet, we'd just be sitting alone all the time. What's so great about that?\"*She'd glance back at the woman, figuring her for someone more trained in combat or something similar in the profession. She may have dealt with criminals as well, which did leave Melody a bit curious of her if she was one.*\"I think myself capable of being able to defend myself if it does come to it though, but I'd rather not make an enemy of someone just going about their day if it's not hurting anyone.\"" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*The tholian scoffed at the notion of irrational conclusions, but listened to the centaur's reasoning. Still swept in her frustration, however her tongue was still a bit barbed.* \"An attractive philosophy, pretty fawn, one I think adopted mostly by the wee fae folk, which is perhaps why there are less and less of them to be *Found* As time marches on.\"\n\n*At that, Ehakli moved back into her practiced position, but before she started the sword motions, she paused, sighed, and turned again to the centaur.* \"I- My apologies. You are being kind and I am lashing at your benevolent candor to no fault of your own. It is too beautiful a night for me to sully its charm with my ill-directed venom.\" *Tucking the blade in her right arm, she moved her other hand to her side as if to pinch for a curtsey, but so off her game she seemed to forget she was still in her skivvies, and bowed instead.* \"I beg of your forgiveness, kind traveler.\"" }, { "author": "Melody Vander", "message": "*Melody would do her own thing as Ehakli spoke her harsh words about their nativity being the reason why there weren't so many of her kind around nowadays. A quiet sigh would escape her. It seemed this woman didn't want to be bothered which the Centuar would have accepted as she'd think to get out of the water and let the annoyed Elf be. However in hearing Ehakli apologize, Melody would tilt her head up to her.*\"I'm guessing you must not be having the best time out here?\"*She'd ask, coming to the conclusion that something prior must have happened that reflected off having a friendly attitude ending in the loss of others.*\n\n\"Can't say I appreciate the sour tongue, but I suppose I did interrupt your practice so we can call it even.\"*She'd say, dipping her head back in response to the woman's curtesy with her centaur half still being submerged underwater.*\"I wouldn't be so quick to conclude that being the reason you don't see any other fae's.\"*She'd comment, looking to the woman with a face full of amusement as she'd slowly stand up from the water. Where there was once the half of a deer, was now replaced by more human-like legs. A dripping wet skirt sat wrapped around her waist where her deer half should have been. Her hand would draw back her reddish hair, revealing the pointed ears of a Silnari.*\"Sometimes we're just hiding in plain sight.\"*She'd walk back over to the edge of the water, sitting down on drier land as she'd give herself a moment to dry off.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli straightened, listening a bit more politely now. Her brow raised as the stranger was building up to something, then rolled into a dumbfounded look when four legs had become two, and her face was struck with shame when this whole situation was turned around to reveal the foolishness of her short temper, and the ignorance it breathed. It seemed all she could do was look aside, chuffing in the absurd humor of it, shaking her head.* \"A bargain well struck... I shall remember this lesson for centuries to come.\" \n\n*She moved to the water's edge, and placed her blade upon the grass.* \"I usually do not allow my less 'best of times' rule over my manners, I suppose I should chalk observing such an unexpected weakness as part of training.\" The tholian then moved back to the water, easing herself into a sit where the water would come up to her belly.* \"What are you called, faelike? Even or no, I like to know who I've scorned.\"" }, { "author": "Melody Vander", "message": "*Melody would grab at the longer strands of her hair, wringing out the dampened areas from where the water had managed to reach it from her splashing about. She'd silently watch the Tholian move out from the water and place the sword down before returning back to the water where she could sit more lax in. Melody would let out her own quiet laugh, more so from the suppressed tension in Ehakli finally setting aside her own frustrations.*\"My name is Melody Vander.\"*Melody would say to answer the woman.\n\nEventually she'd lower her hands away from her hair and would bring them to rest on her lap for the time being.*\"Currently a Bounty Hunter though I used to work for law enforcement back in Northern Mentia.\"*Looking back towards Ehakli, she'd offer a more encouraging smile in the knowledge that she would hold the lesson with her.*\"What may I call you miss?\"*She'd ask.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*From her position in the water, Ehakli made eye contact with Melody from across her right shoulder, which she did as words exchanged, only occasionally letting her eyes drift to look at the moonlight upon the water. Even the falls just down the way sounded tranquil in such a night. In one such instance, her focus was quickly returned to Melody.* \"A bounty hunter? Well now, this is precisely why it's good to remember those scorned, Melody Vander.\" *A wry smile crept on her face, and made an obvious look back over her shoulder to where the placed her blade, eyes darting back to the faetaur, the wryness not having left.* \"Did I disarm myself too soon?\"\n\n*A small laugh as she looked back to the water, if anything to signify that it was only said in jest, despite what gears might have been turning inside her head of anyone who might place a bounty on her. It has been quite a number of years since she's taken a life, but some memories live long lives as well.* \"I suppose not, if you are asking for my name. I am Ehakli, of Lymian's House Aibaer.\" *She twisted her lips a bit when she considered the usual following of the pleasure of meeting, but it might have come off as something hollow considering the circumstances.* \"I don't know many who go from constabulary roles to more adventurous hunting of those on the wrong side of one's opinion of order. Does this sing of a tale of a criminal escaping beyond the confines of those laws you've enforced?\"" }, { "author": "Melody Vander", "message": "\"Only if you're a convicted felon.\"*She'd tease back to answer the Silnari's question. Outside of her practicing for combat out in the middle of the woods and her clear disliking of company, Melody had no reason to believe she was on the run from anything. Perhaps simply someone looking to get away from the city for a while or someone who valued their alone time. She didn't make a move to the weapon, simply watching the woman look between it and her as if debating on whether or not to grab it again. Melody would grow more lax, part of her curious of the Dark Elf as she'd introduce herself.*\n\n\"It's nice to meet you Ehakli.\"*She'd say with a dip of her head. Melody would listen as she'd asked her question about her transfer between jobs, soon causing her to shake her head.*\"Oh, no ma'am. It's nothing like that. I simply wanted to work on law enforcement in other countries. Sure Mentia has its troubles, but I felt my work could be better used in Salvania. Since I'm not registered as a law enforcement there, I've just been helping where I can while I've been traveling, so I just decided to take on the profession of a bounty hunter for the time being until I can work my way back up.\"*She'd reach for her armor piece, tugging it back over to her to put back on later.*\"If it makes you feel any better though, I keep my bounty hunting focused on the more troublesome criminals.\"" } ]

[ { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli turned her head to the side to give a quiet \"You too\" To Melody upon the offering made that the tholian herself hesitated to state, listening in peace to this being's ambitions through Mentia to Salvainia, idly lifting her foot from the water in her sitting to try to block the boom from her eye with her big toe, before Melody's last comment gave her pause, lowering her leg and looking back to her in an expression of mock offense.* \"Are you saying I do not appear the troublesome sort, Miss Vander?\" *She scoffed with a light chuckle, looking back to the moon.* \"I must truly *Have* Lost my form over the years.\" *The eternal playfulness in the tholian's heart thought to try to do something spooky with the skeletons, but such a display would only be childish and unnecessarily unnerving. 'In all things, timing.' she privately reminded herself.*\n\n\"I haven't considered much on the laws and matters politic in the Mentias since the coronation of Emperor Bianiafai outside of what is demanded of business there. Salvainia though, my, ever since this land fell from the Silnarian Empire ages ago, their more unmanaged brand of freedom has certainly garnered a reputation for concerningly powerful that work underhandedly. Some consider their criminal elements to be instrumental to Salvainia becoming so strong in the theater of trade. Hm. I wonder, Miss Vander; is it morality that drives you to law? If you uncovered a plot in Salvainia, and the nation's strength in trade suffers for it, where do your philosophies lay upon such a thing?\"" }, { "author": "Melody Vander", "message": "\"Miss, I would never assume you as such at first glance if I can help it.\"*Melody would say back, noticing a quirkiness in the woman hoping to come off as such. She didn't think someone would go out of their way in it unless trying to come off as threatening, but if intimidation was how to prefer things then she couldn't really argue with it. Some people simply had their preference when it mattered towards how they came off to other people. She never took elves as the threatening sort outside of their wide range of magic and political power. Though violence wasn't typically paired with them. They seemed so, high-class for it. At least to involve themselves in direct combat anyways, but she couldn't deny not having seen some elves participating in battle, it was simply an odd sight for her.*\n\n\"Morality does drive me in making a place better than it was.\"*She'd say to her, hearing of the potential that some countries could simply run on their criminality.*\"I'd like to make it feel like a much safer place than most are these days, though I can only do so much with the entire balance of a country fighting me to keep its criminal background.\"*She'd place her hands down on the ground behind her as she'd lean back to look at the moon high above in the sky.*\"People seem to believe that it's just naivety driving the want to make the world anything better than what it is, but even you seem to question why my first assumption wasn't you being a potential criminal.\"*She'd let out her own exhale of air as if it being a more saddened chuckle.*\"I'd hope it wouldn't come down to it.\"*Melody would say eventually, not quite answering the woman's question in her not being quite sure herself. There was no telling where her job would end up leading her. Though if there was some plot she was meant to uncover than she supposed there was no stopping her with going through with such. A plot merely stems from something else that leads her to it rather than her own investigations. If said plot was threatening enough to require her line of work, then there was no stopping the outcome of it. It would simply be her job to uphold the law.*" }, { "author": "Ehakli of House Aibaer", "message": "*Ehakli did a sort of double take when Melody first responded, giving a queer glance from her shoulder, the tholian found herself at a loss of words as her jest not only failed to land, but seemed to push this fae creature into their ideals. As she continued on to answer her second question, Ehakli seemed to just stare at this creature as philosophy waxed into the melancholy.* \"Oh, you're being serious. You're... A touch different than most faelike I've met.\" *A mild puff of mirth.* \"More assumptions on my part it seems, hm?\" *Her tone seemed more mocking of herself than anything there.*\n\n*A twist of her lips, she thought a moment before saying more.* \"Well, people are often fools who wouldn't know what a better world would be if it was cooked and served to them under their noses. I'd sooner accept a misguided perception of naivety than a bitter willful ignorance, for what it's worth.\" *She looked around the area they took rest in.* \"Nations rise and fall like tides, and in both eb and flow carry a storm within them where laws and expectations change in every beat. My own family is attached to an old recognition of this, and make their work on preserving the stories that offer anchor in morals meant to withstand these tides as it washes back and forth around them. To make effort in preserving a moral ideal in a world that does not see it, well, of course many would wave such an effort off as naivety, but I believe that is what makes it noble.\"" }, { "author": "Melody Vander", "message": "\"Well we're not all the same.\"*Melody would say in a matter-of-fact tone, tilting her head back to eye the woman. It was often Melody was given a tone of doubt when it came to putting in effort to helping the world, but it was nice to see not everyone had given up on it. At least so it seemed with Ehakli. She wasn't quite sure where this Elf's morals lied, but she seemed to carry her own sort of wisdom.\n\nShe'd offer a smile towards her, a silent showing of agreement to Ehakli's words.*\"At the end of the day, I'd like to be able to say that I at least tried. I know there's only so much people can do at times, but that's why I wanted to get into law enforcement. To try to help where I could and... I came to Salvania... To bring what help I can here. It may take a while to get used to the customs, but I'm willing to learn at least.\"\n\n*She'd glance away from Ehakli, scooting up to the water just close enough so that her feet could soak in it for a while.*\"You said you're heading away from Salvania earlier? How come?\"*She'd ask out of her own curiosity.*\"Are you going home or... Leaving it behind...?\"*She felt it was one or the other, unless Ehakli was a traveler of sorts that went from nation to nation. To her, the woman seemed more like a warrior, though as far as her loyalties, she wasn't sure. Perhaps to her family as she had mentioned them.*" } ]