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Post by Snoe on Apr 24, 2017 1:57:41 GMT
Mordugrad... a cautionary tale of human folly. The statement is true yet there is more to the story; this world stood host to only one race before the Fall. Humans filled the worlds vacant corners with cities and villages, dove the depths of forgotten places and toyed with the powers left to them by the gods. The capital city of this world was Mordugrad, hundreds of miles, millions of people, impossibles structures and marvels all powered by Neth-crystal.
Magic in this world is part of the living soul, from animal to mortal men and women it radiates constantly, and every living thing can harness this power. Yet where life gathers this radiant magic grinds and pushes against itself and into the ground below, compressing it into solid form. Magic became mineral and so humans had discovered something truly incredible. These crystals amplified and stored residule magic and the more life gathered in one place the more crystals formed. Pre-fall humans had just begun mastering this new discovery, mining beneath Mordugrad and more humans gathered in this city. It was a cycle of greed, more people more crystals, more crystals more people. The city expanded and the mining continued. The earth growing hollow beneath the weight that stretched both upward and outward.
The city crumbled and crashed into itself... millions died in the ruin. Yet that was only the beginning of the Fall. The sudden death of that many mortals had created the first Sorrow, the Rhistal, a being born of millions of disembodied souls wound together through fear and the desperation of trying to survive. This being crawled from the ruins and commited the only crime a God could take notice of, devouring souls, and by the hundred of thousands. Its desire to survive stole the lives of countless souls.
The details become scattered and rumour but facts remain that the Gods Thurat and Alyma made themselves known if only to preserve the remaining life. The battle shattered a continent the location of Mordugrad thought lost it became the Fallen City people afraid to speak its name as the God of Death Thurat denounced the greed that caused this cataclysm.
Alyma had taken it upon herself to reform the remnants into new peoples. Races born of the former human nations willingly or unwillingly; Alyma did she pleased, the Goddess of Life is unpredictable and what were the whims of mortals to the whims of a Goddess.
The Thusians, Lomalum, Roe-Lian, Corpa and Ikesk making up the five largest nations, the Humans viewed as cursed remnants of the Fall scattered about the world their nation clinging to life beneath Corpan oppression. Thus was the brief history, of the world.
****
The rain had been relentless, the cobble stone streetways flowing like rivers down to the harbor where yet more water crashed into the shore line. The harbor itself shielded from the tide by the arm of the south cliffs, the Ikesk were rather prudent in choosing to invest into this port town. Yet in the wind one can hear the tide crash echo over the city it was rather soothing to a point like a thunder storm.
This was Olen City sitting on the south east of Human territories or rather the Sturnlands. Not the greatest place to live considering the nothern neighbors; the Corpa a race spread over two of the three continents and surprisingly successful despite their habits of treating the other races as if they were cattle.
Olen was not far from their reach yet this was the perfect time for this plan. The plan of which was a colony expedition, there would be no shortage of humans seeking to flee before the Corpa entered Feast season. The plan was put together by a collection of investors, the Lomalum guild master Coranth Mael, Ikesk lender Oshuu, and Thusian merchant Enmel Talon. Though in all honesty while Coranth manned the helm, of this expedition the plan had been put together by Talon... in a subtle manner.
Mr. Talon, member of the long lived Thusian race. It was always difficult to tell Thusian men and women apart aside from their unique facial features and adorments, they were lithe effeminate creatures with black and red detailed skin. Not the most magically gifted but power and skill were different measures. Back on topic Talon had been discussing the prospect of a new colony to the east, hints and reports delivered to the right people in the right places over the course of ten years. Enmel had been preparing for this for sometime though refused to take the lead, retaining his preferable title of Neth-crystal merchant and jeweler.
“Hey! Mr. Talon!” Enmel was in his room above the Glass Hammer Tavern, his human assistant pounding on the door franticly, Enmel sighing to himself and putting the finishing touches on the set of scrolls. The colonist camp to the south of town was a few days away from setting off to the South Lo- Bridge and this kid was likely here to bring up something Enmel didn’t want to hear. Probably more scam artists trying to exploit the humans that showed up for the trip.
“Come in Tommy.” Enmel turned on his seat his one good eye narrowed on the door. The Thusian may have been little over 300 hundred years old but hardly looked older than the twenty year old human that came into the room.
“Thankyou Mr. Talon, th-there’s a mi-missing armory wagon!” Enmel sighing yet again in exasperation... idiots think they can get away in the rain... Standing to leave Tommy looks away shyly. “S-sir you should get dressed its raining.” The Thusian not entirely dressed and not all that shy tail lazily swinging as he turned to grab his things and waving the young human away.
Enmel was fairly well known, the ‘One eyed Thusian’ was usually how people descirbed him to others. The gold embroidered eyepatch being a dead give away, he dressed in his traveling leathers and prepared his scroll case slung across his back. There were probably a few detatchments and mercenaries out looking for the stolen wagon but Enmel had a good idea where to find these ‘clever’ thieves and whom was in charge.
Starting out into the rain, he met with Tommy “Tell Coranth to send a few capable folks to Bilgewater Gap, we’re looking for a band of ten maybe twelve idiots, led by Ebel and Nol Crix Lomalum brothers and mercenaries.” Those two think themselves brilliant, Enmel warned his partners about hiring them but the belief that Lomalum never steal is bullshit, its like saying all Thusians are sexfiends. “I’ll meet you there.”
(Ooc:left room for your intros don't feel the need to be involved in the wagon incident, place your character where ever is appropriate to your story. If there are questions or you need to discuss plans please use the QA thread. If there is a need or desire for a romantic encounter feel free to create a spinoff thread in the mature section. Also spin off of this reality in general ate acceptable if you've your own journey to explore in this world not tied to this one you're welcome to do so. Have fun)
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Post by DodoDestroyer on Apr 24, 2017 22:53:11 GMT
Darmantine of the Hill Plains. One of the few human kingdoms left in the world, it is one of the smaller of their few numbers. What it makes up for in size is quality. It is known for it's culture and arts. Musicians, artists and dancers usually begin here where they create elegant works of the creative imagination to build their reputation and with hope, gain notice from the King and Queen. Well known for it's honour and grace, Darmantine while not the most majestic human Kingdom, it has still mad it's mark known in the current world..
...and today will be it's fall...
Inside Darmantine Castle, the doors to the Royal Chambers burst open with urgency. First to step through is a woman with long, white blonde hair tied into a plait behind her head. She wields a sharp sabre in one hand and a twelve inch dagger in the other, the way she holds them within her palms, the way her fingers wrap around the hilts show that she is very familiar in their use. Their steel is stained with the deep crimson colour of blood, which is also splattered across in patches on her attire, feathered hat and her cheek. She shows no bleeding wounds nor signs of injury. This is not her blood. She is on high alert. Eyes darting around the room, searching for threats while her wrists itch to slash at any possible threat to satisfy the bloodlust she feels in battle. The woman is waiting for a fight, and she is right to feel this way. After the quick analyse, she waves her dagger to the door in a beckoning gesture. Stepping through the door is another woman, dark brown hair shines down her shoulders and her deep purple dress radiates Royalty. Although she does not have blood on her like the swordswoman, she looks ragged and exhausted. Hair is tussled and her expression weared. In her arms, she carries a bundle wrapped in a soft blanket.
"Your majesty, t'will not take them long for the Corpa to follow. You are correct about this passage?" The swordswoman asks, her Darmantian accent is noticeable which gives her voice a graceful tone, even though her words were quite blunt. Her eyes do not look the Queen, but at the door they once came through, she takes a stance the woman has always been familiar with. Her sabre arm outstretched and pointing the weapon forward while her she holds the dagger inverted and wrist rests on the bicep of her sabre arm, point of the dagger facing forwards. Calculating eyes the door like a coiled viper, ready to strike the moment it creaks open. "Yes, Amelia. I need some time, but t'is our way out." The Queen replies as she trials her fingers against a wall in the far corner. The passage they talk about is a secret tunnel that leads them to the outside of the Darmantine Outskirts and hopefully, away from the Corpa. It seems they seek to cripple the kingdom and assert their presence by killing and devouring their leaders. The King is dead, he fought valiantly but a mere human against a horde of Corpa is bound to end in tragedy.. Amelia is mentally punishing herself for failing her duties as the Royal Protector. There was nothing she could do. If Amelia dived into the fray they would both die, and the Queen would be left defenceless. But she feels there must have been something else she could have done to keep him alive...
"We do not have time." Amelia states, risking a half second glance to the Queen. In this quick moment, there is already sounds of movement coming towards the door at speed. Her heads snaps back to face it just at the moment two Corpa burst through. Both armed with swords of their own and their sickeningly sharp teeth are slick with blood. These do not appear to be the grunts she has cut her way through so far. Seems they have acknowledged the protector as a challenge... They both lunge forwards, striking out with the swords and hoping to catch her off guard. The woman meets them halfway and sidesteps a downward slash while parrying a diagonal cut with her sabre in one swift movement, she twirls her body into a fast spin as her momentum allows the dagger to slice one Corpa across their ribs. It barely makes a grunt and attempts to go for one of its meal's openings at her blind spot. The sabre meets and deflects the blow as Amelia lifts her hand over her shoulder, the blade guarding her exposed back as sparks emit from the impact. She ducks into a forward roll to dodge yet another slash that would have surely took her head clean off. Her movements are alien to a soldier or warrior, she moves like an energetic dancer through battle. A dance of death as her blades cut through the air and through flesh, though she has only managed to connect one attack so far, they have been working in tandem to keep her occupied.
The trio begin to circle around one another, Amelia adopting her stance once more and keeping both Corpa in her sight. No words have been uttered since this conflict began, metal clashing against metal is the only sound filling the chamber. Amelia has quickly realised what they are doing. Their aggression is forcing her into a defensive to block their constant attacks and leave no room for her to counter. When she parries one, the other will lunge a second after. Her speed and strength is something almost unnatural for a human, but it is nowhere close to that of a Corpa. They will overpower her sooner than preferred. She catches a glimpse of the Queen, turning her head to watch the battle in fear and then turning back to work on opening their escape, repeating these actions in quick success. Amelia has to keep fighting until it is open... She has to fight to survive.
The battle continues, a flurry of movement from the human and she dodge, dip, duck and dive through their attacks, deflecting and parrying slashes but the battle is slowly tipping out of her favour. She can keep up with their attacks. One manage so disarm her of her dagger before kicking her to the floor. The wind knocks out of her lungs as her back hits the hard stone floor, sabre knocked from her hand at the impact and left completely vulnerable. Out of instinct, she quickly rolls to her left towards her to recover and get back into the fray. If only it was that easy... One Corpa grabs her ankles and drags her on her stomach away from it. She turns on her back and tries to kick her ankles free, she is fighting with every ounce of her being. She breaks their grip, but they quickly get it back and continue to drag her. She turns her head to find the other. She finds him approaching the Queen, she presses herself into the corner and holding the bundle close in fear, eyes wide as it slowly comes closer, enjoying every second of her helplessness with sick pleasure It squirms underneath the blankets, cries of a baby in distress is heard. The bundle is the baby Prince Alec, their only child. This sight alone is enough to keep going. She can not fail, she will not fail.
Her soul reacts to her will to continue and her refusal to die here. It ignites like a wild fire and spreading through her body, renewing her energy and activating her magic. Embers glow on her skin and clothes, causing flickering flames to dance over them. The swordswoman becomes an entirely different opponent for the Corpa. One that will bring their lives to an end. Amelia pulls her feet towards her, it's grip is strong but it did not expect the sudden movement and is pulled towards her, her fire magic gives her newfound strength. She throws herself up and her hands wrap around it's neck. The flames burn the skin and melt through the flesh. It screams out in agony and she takes advantage to free herself from it's grasp. She tucks her legs into her stomach as she rolls onto her back and kicks upwards, the momentum brings her to her feet once more. Her eyes spot her sabre just as the Corpa recovers enough to bring it's attention back to her. They both dart towards one another, Amelia repeating her move from before and ducks the blow into a forward roll, this time picking up her weapon as she does. Back on her feet, she slashes the blade onto the stones she stands on. The sparks created ignite the steel and bursts into vicious flames. The two Corpa rejoin to attempt their previous method, but they look more wary of her now... Her expression is stoic, but the flames show her true emotion: a passion so fierce that it threatens anything that opposes it. Amelia is the first to attack, she slashes towards them viciously. Although they deflect her attack with ease, the air suddenly explodes into a bright and fiery light. The flames cannot be blocked by mere blades and burns the two Corpa. Through their pained cries, Amelia rushes through the flames that still linger in the air, they swerve out of her way to allow her passage unharmed, as if they are alive and allied with the fire woman. She attacks relentlessly and impales one through their stomach, the flames instantly cauterize the wound. Instead of retracting her sabre, she slashes through it's right hip and almost cutting the accursed monster in half. With it's organs cooked from the inside out, it dies before hitting the ground. Flames begins to spread through the Chamber, Amelia's fire is beginning to burn the room down. Surprised from the sudden burst of flame and the quick yet brutal execution of it's comrade, it takes awhile for the remaining Corpa to come to it's senses. It's anger is clear in it's growls and lunges recklessly. Amelia easily parries and dodges the attacks with graceful movement and leaving deep cuts that counter every blow, setting fire to it's clothes and causing great pain, she fights like a woman possessed by a demon, never showing fatigue nor slowing down at all. In desperation, it abandons it's sword and tries to bite through the fire woman. Teeth meet steel, something the Corpa forgot in it's desperate move that her blade is burning hot and a pungent smell of burning flesh steams from the mouth. It doesn't have time to scream, she pushes against the blade until it's back meets the wall. Amelia doesn't stop pushing, forcing the blade to cut through the mouth and decapitation from the Jaw. As the headless body falls, she finally comes to her senses. The flames die out on her body and remembers the ones she is protecting.
She turns and rushes back to them, dropping to her knees beside the Queen to check them both. "Do not worry..." she murmurs weakly. "Sweet Alec... He... He is fine." Amelia pays half attention as she looks over the Queen. Her stomach... The dress is drenched in her blood and it begins to pool around where she sits... Amelia's dagger is in her hands and it is matted with fresh blood. It must have somehow clattered near her while the Corpa closed in, she defended her child with the cost being her life. Amelia begins to zone out, she doesn't hear the flames build behind her and she doesn't hear the quiet mumbles. She.. She can't... She can't die... She will not lose two today. Sheathing her sabre and snapping back to reality, she takes the dagger and hooks her arms under her legs and around her shoulders. "The passage?" She asks urgently. The other woman nods weakly and with a shaky hand now free from the weapon, she touches a stone near the lower left. It glows a white rune, and the stones begin to disintegrate into dust... The Queen is a mage adept in illusions, she must have hidden this long ago which explains why she needed time...
"No..." she says as Amelia attempts to pick her up. "I'm... Already dead..." she says, slowly losing her life-force. "Take him... Keep him safe... Please..." she pushes the baby into Amelia's chest, a pleading look in her eyes. She removes her arms from the Queen's body and reluctantly takes the baby. As if it is aware that he is being separating from his mother permanently, Alec cries increase in volume and his little arms reach out to her. The swordswoman is lost for words... She can't leave her like this. "I can't just-" Amelia starts, but silenced by the Queen shaking her head. "No... Go now... Go!" she says with the last of her Strength, shoving the swordswoman's shoulder weakly. Standing to her feet slowly. She nods once to her former Queen and friend in farewell. "I'm sorry." She whispers with her eyes closed, then turns down into the passage and disappears.
The rest of the travel is a blur. She remembers walking down the tunnel until she reached a clearing... And kept walking. She was paranoid that she would come across more Corpa. With a baby in her arms, fighting would be difficult and rather be avoided... Luck was on her side and eventually found herself at the docks. Ships evacuating Darmantine, civilians fleeing for their lives. Amelia was mistaken for a mother with her child and allowed on-board immediately. The stress and rush made them fail to notice her weapons. She does not care, her thoughts are clouded with the recent events and haunted by the King's brutal massacre and the Queen's final words.
Keep him safe.
She swore to keep her duties, and she made a promise many years ago. She will not lose them all. Alec will be safe in her care and anybody threatening his wellbeing will meet their end quick and brutal. She failed twice today, she will not fail thrice... She wonders where the ship will take her, but one thing she knows for certain...
Darmantine is no more.
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Post by Shift on Apr 25, 2017 0:30:53 GMT
Matthew scanned the surrounding area. From what he could see, two guards were stationed in the front, and most likely a few patrolling inside. Lomallum from the looks of it. He expected as much, seeing how built they are for defense. He pulled up his mask and made sure his hood was on before moving out of his cover in the branches of a nearby tree.
The home he was looking upon was that of a retired merchant Roe Lian. While most definitely not the richest merchant in the world, he was well-off in terms of wealth. The Roe Lian, from what he has heard, has been nearing the end of his life. As for security, the guards should be easy to bypass. Lomallum were defenders, not fighters, and defense does little to stop an intruder you cannot see. So far, that was all he knew for this heist. His lack of extensive knowledge didn't bother him much, however. His skills as a thief are extensive, and he had faith in his abilities.
He stuck to the long branches of the tree, being mindful of the Lomallum underneath him. Said Lomallum were scanning the ground level, and undoubtedly there were some guards up on the second floor. The tree he was crawling on was particularly high up, too high for the Lomallum by the door to see. Unfortunately, it was in sight of the second floor windows. While this did allow a potential entrance, it also provided the opportunity of discovery on him. He moved silently to an area of the branches with more leaves and stayed still. Only his eyes moved, as they darted around the outside of the building, looking for a possible route. That was when his eyes landed upon the stacks of smoke rose from the chimney upon the roof of the building. He could potentially enter through the chimney, and with his magic he would be unnoticeable. With a plan in mind, he took to action. He peeked through the windows, looking for any threats. There were none so far. From what he could see, there was no fireplace on the second floor, meaning that the chimney must lead to the first story instead. Matthew hopped to a branch leading to the roof. With a quick glance at the roof he could tell that he couldn't make the jump, and so he moved to another. He edged as close to the end of the branch as possible beforeleaning in with his arms to the roof. As soon as the branch showed any sign of breakage he shifted his weight to the roof, with his toes touching the branch. The guards could easily look up at him and send someone to check on the second floor window and discover him, so he was not willing to make a noise. He angled his chest a tad as he moved the branch upward to avoid rustling it, and once he was satisfied he moved onto the roof.
Once he was atop the roof, he crouched down slightly and walked sneakily torwards the chimney. The chimney was big enough for his slim figure to fit in, to his delight. It was here he decided to use his Martial magic. He focused on his fingers, and moved them in a fluid-like motion. A coil of black smoke slithered along his hands as he crouched down torwards the chimney. The mystical smoke moved along his arms, and was now reaching his shoulderblade. He clenched the bricks inside the chimney and eased into it. The smoke moved along with his movements as he he slid down the chimney, disguised by the chimney's smoke and his newly created smoke armor. He slid down without a sound, and hung just a bit over the small flame in the fireplace. He carefully set himself down, trying not to touch the flames. He crouched, still moving in a motion not too different from that of the smoke surrounding him, both from his magic and that of the chimney. He swerved his head, scanning the floor for any guards. He could see two so far, both of which looked rather tired. That sure makes things easier for him. Time for the real heist to begin, he thinks to himself as he plots out a route of the house.
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Post by Deaths on Apr 25, 2017 8:07:06 GMT
Logan’s fangs bite deep into the belly of the woman he called mother. She was a plump tanned skinned human, her hair was dark as a crow and her eyes were as green as grass. She always had a smile on her face and a kind word on her tongue. Now the kind face was pale, sad, and defeated. All the love she gave gone in a moment of desperation and hunger. Tears fall down Logan’s face as he finally broke and gave into the beast, his cursed heritage finally winning out even though he swore he’d never be that monster.
Luckily this was just a dream another nightmare, they come now and again usually when he hasn’t eaten meat in a while. His stomach growls, it has been a long while. He looked around the camp site, the night before, Fiala ‘convinced’ the local fauna to form a lean-to it served its purpose well keeping out the rain that loudly pounded on it. Besides the sound of rain beautiful music can be heard playing. Fiala was already making breakfast, her flute enchants the plants, and her melody forms a trail of flowers leading towards her concert.
Grabbing his clothes Logan changes ready to face the day, normally his mask is the first thing he puts on, but travelling with Fiala for nearly a year now has made him feel less ashamed of his maw. She accepted who he was though he was unsure if she really did at first. She was a kind motherly woman and he was glad to have her as a friend. He walks out of the temporary tent his boots squish in the mud, as the rain smacks against his hood. Following the trail of flowers, he walks towards the enchanting sound.
Everything was going well until one of his alarm spells went off, he immediately turned towards it only to laugh at himself. A hawk flew by letting its prey slip through its talons, an albino mouse flops on the ground. One of his legs were clearly broke, it lost a lot of blood and it was hardly breathing. And it looked delicious, the hunger was real it hurt. Just a taste a small bite the little mouse’s bones would taste so good. The thought of the sound of those tasty bones breaking, makes his stomach growl in anticipation. He approaches the little mouse, it was all white except for the splatter of blood on its body. It was the size of a snowball and just as soft. Logan kneels down next to the poor rodent, picking him up and cradling its body in his hands.
“MOM! Logan bit me!” The voice of his older brother Roderick fills his head, He turns his head to find the voice, all of the sudden he was back home a lot shorter and a lot younger. The metallic taste of blood filled his mouth, Roderick was bleeding from the leg crying and screaming for mom while a fearful look was in his eye. The smell of stale wood, and old books fill his nose, he was home the old orphanage where he grew up. This old place took children from all walks of life, Logan’s Corpa ancestry was proof that any and all were accepted here. Roderick was a year older and a full human, he had curly brown hair that matched his eyes. Though all Logan can see in them is fear, he honestly doesn’t know why he bit Roderick. Logan has never felt the need to bite before, it felt good too. Like it was something he should have done a long time ago. Just then mom flew the door wide open, Logan’s Thusian little sister Kara was held tightly against mom’s chest, with her face cowering in mom’s breast as she cried. Mom took care of Roderick’s wound, it wasn’t as severe as his crying made it seem; still Logan felt nothing but guilt and fell to his knees crying. Kara walked over to her older brother cautiously, and confused on why he was crying, he wasn’t the one hurt after all. She walks over to Logan and gives him a gentle pat on the head in an attempt to make him feel better. She was barely five years old her small red hands smack on Logan’s head hard in her failing attempt at comforting him.
After a few hours of sulking in his room Logan stares silently as the door knob turns. Dad opens the door and commands him to follow without uttering a word. He was brought outside, towards the back of the orphanage. There was a small farm attached to it, that all of the older children worked Roderick was there looking angry while father stood sternly for a moment. Father was a good man he loved all of his children equally and would die a thousand deaths for all of them. He scratched his chin covered salt and peppered beard, the beard was his pride always clean cut and never a stray hair allowed. It matched the hair on his head both in color and in cleanliness, something he made sure all the boys understood. “If you want a woman to love you, you need to love yourself.” One of the many words of wisdom he loved to spout off. “Alright Logan you harmed someone, not only that you did it without provocation. Worst of all you harmed your brother, do you have anything to say?” Father’s ruff voice rumbled and shook Logan to his core, his silence was his answer. “Very well. I’ll give you the choice of your punishment.” He begins the sentencing of the small half-blooded boy, he picks up a branch from the ground resting it on his shoulder. “Either Roderick gets a free hit in the same place you bit him, or you do all of Roderick’s chores, including your own until he is healed and then for one month after.” He pauses giving Logan a time to answer. A moment of silence falls on them as Logan he looks up at his father with a face full of conviction. “BOTH!” He yells full of confidence. His father laughs and with a shrug passes the stick to Roderick.
The smack of the stick breaks Logan from his memories, as the slowly dying mouse still sits in his hands. Placing his left thumb into his palm letting the sigils connect and allowing the magic to flow, a pure white mist envelopes the little mouse, and causing his wounds to mend. The mouse has been given a new lease on life, it squeals with delight and licks Logan’s hand it then runs up his arm and sits on his should nestling against his hair. “Not today.” Logan smirks as he quietly mocks Thurat, his stomach growls again reminding him why he was out here in the first place. He continues to follow the music this time with his new friend. “You’ll need a name little guy, I’m Logan and that’s Fiala.” He enters a clearing where the beautiful music is originating, being played by an even more beautiful woman. Logan was sure a poet could come up with something charming to say at this time, but he wasn’t that kind of person. He leaned against a tree as it began to bear fruit. He becomes lost in the music as he begins to daydream again.
It was a clear summer day, as Logan lost and hungry walked the countryside. The only sound was his internal monologue, and his footsteps against the dry dirt. It was around noon and he’d been walking all day, his feet were tired his stomach grumbling. He’d thought he went insane when he began to hear music in the distance. An enchanting woman sat slightly off the road playing her flute, surrounded but flourishing plant life. “What are you doing?” He asked kindly as he approached the woman. She replied that she was making lunch as she pointed up at one of the tree. It had grown fruit all over and they were far larger than normal. She offered him some and he gladly picked enough for the both of them. Things were going well they chatted for a bit and her name was Fiala and she was exploring the world looking for rare and interesting plants. He was also an explorer though he wasn’t looking for anything so specific. He went to grab a few more fruits he heard her yell a commanding ‘no’ after that he was weightless floating a few inches off the ground right past his target. Fiala began to explain that the fruit he was about to pick was extremely poisonous, normal he’d be thankful for the lesson and saving his life, but the feeling of being separated from gravity cause his stomach to become upset. Upon landing he becomes ill losing most of the lunch he just ate. Fiala was apologetic for what happened, but Logan reassured her everything was alright, there was no way anyone would know that would have happened.
Logan grabs a few more approved fruits, and thanks Fiala again, hoping they cross paths again they say their goodbyes, after a few minutes of silence they both realize they are headed in the same direction. As fate would have it not only are they headed the same way they both have the same destination. A small awkward laugh break out and they agree to head together. The next few weeks they had more and more chance meetings. One would be leaving a ruin as the other enter, one would be completely surrounded by monsters in the woods when the other made their heroic rescue. Since fate or the gods or some mischievous force decides to force them together they agree to travel and have become good friends since. Though Logan wishes she didn’t abuse the levitation spell as much as she does.
She eventually finishes her song, Logan walks over to her smiling. “I made a friend just now.” He states cheerfully his voice gentle, as he pulls the mouse from his hood. “Poor guy was almost eaten by a hawk, but lives to fight another day. He needs a name though, I’m terrible at naming things.” He sighs slightly as he sits down on a stump near Fiala. “Sooooo.” He pauses unsure of how to tell her about the small stop before they head to Olen City to sell some of the artifacts they have found, and weren’t needed. “Mind if we make a small stop? My home is a little out of the way and well.” His voice trails off a bit, as he continues to talk. “It’s kind of my birthday today, and when I became an adventurer I promised I’d visit every year on my birthday.” He barely speaks above a whisper embarrassed about how a man of his age is still running home for his birthday. “Besides I kind of told them in my letters that I made a friend and you’d be joining me. My mom wanted to meet you and you’ll love my family they are great.” He smiles weakly at his bad sell of his plan, hoping things go well.
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Post by projectekertest33 on Apr 28, 2017 17:34:44 GMT
(This is a combined intro for me and J)
Lagnil sat on a rock so still others might think he was frozen. His partner Erik was constantly moving getting up to polish his axes or snarl at the other mercenaries as they waited. "This is such bollocks Lag!" Erik moaned sitting down again. "We know where the fuckers are let's just gut 'em already!" Lagnil blinked. "The terms of our exchange with Coranth were that we would wait for Master Talon before making a move to attack now would break the exchange." He said in his oddly monotonous voice. "You're such a fucking stick in the swamp Lag! We'd get paid either way!" Said Erik twirling his axes with a grimace. "But we would have broken our word." Said Lagnil his toneless voice somehow conveying horror. "Ah fuck I wouldn't even be here if Coranth didn't pay so well!" Lagnil looked down at him with scepticism. "I suppose this has nothing to do with what Ebel said about your clan last month?" Erik spat. "Maybe it does a bit but so fucking what? He insulted me and now I get paid to kill the fuck! Seems fair." Lagnil seemed to smile. "Indeed the exchange is most acceptable but for now Erik patience." His tentacles wrapped around his trident caressing the runes marked on it as they lit up to his touch. "As soon as Master Talon arrives will shall be making you favourite kind of exchange with Ebel and Nox." Erik grunted and started pacing again. "Fine but the bastard better show up soon!"
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Post by Raz on Apr 29, 2017 20:38:41 GMT
The day was beautiful. The sun was shining without a cloud in sight. The birds were chirping and the sounds of the bumbling brook ahead of the encampment was relaxing. Or it would've been had this place not existed on the border to one of the most depraved and vile races the world has ever known. This race was known as the Corpa, even thinking of the freaks of nature made Calthok's blood boil. Lomalum are generally gentle giants in most cases, however, when it came to the Corpa few would be sad if they all were wiped away by a sorrow. The devastation those fiends are capable of is immense. Images of his first encounter with the Corps flash through the centurions mind. They fight with abandon, seeming to revel in the bloodshed and slaughter of the weak. Each feast season they would swarm past whatever outposts the Lomalum put up to watch for them. The stories told of the carnage that came during those dark times were horrendous.
That was until the Senate finally began to take this threat seriously. They enacted a plan to finally stop the slaughter. That plan was known as the Hadrisil initiative. It involved creating monumental defences that spanned the breadth of the border. First steps was to stop the Corpa so they could begin construction. That was what Calthok and Koa were doing when they first enlisted. The border legion held off waves upon waves of Corpa for thirty seven years while they prepared the defences. Only mere months ago did the defences become fully complete. They were a marvel to behold. He stood outside of the wall among his soldiers, they were the first line of defence. The trees had been cut down and the grounds dug out to form a trench the Corpa would have to cross. This trench is riddle with spikes. Once across they meet the entrenched forces of the first cohort as well as the spikes facing away from the wall. Balistae and archers line the wall, behind the wall catapults simply litter the grounds. Signal fires had been arranged in all directions to allow for quick notice of approaching Corpa.
"Even so, these defences are only a bandaid solution." He thought. "We can build our walls to be tall but they will eventually find a way through them. The Senate will have to realize that the only way this is going to end is if the fight is taken to them for a change." His thoughts were disrupted by the sound of his brother calling for him. "Calthok." Calthok looked over at his twin and noticed he seemed quite alarmed. "What is it, Koa?" He asked in his deep basey voice. His brother handed him a note. "Its from home." That in itself was not cause for alarm. Mother oftened wrote to them, as did their sisters Lisilia and Cora. "It says you are to return home immediately."
Calthok started at this, "What? But the feast season is nearly upon us surely it can wait..." His voice died in his throat as he read the letter. It was a short one but the message shook him to his core. "To my precious son's, I hope this finds you well. Both of you need to return home immediately. It's your father. I don't know how much time he has left but he's been calling for you. Don't worry about your positions, I have already cleared it with your Legate. Please come home, my sons. With love, mother."
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Post by Alexodia on Apr 30, 2017 0:09:47 GMT
As the ship began to pull into the harbour, rain crashing down upon the deck with waves restlessly attacking the creaking wood, Jiaying sat motionless below deck, her back pressed up against the wooden walls of the cabin. Sitting on the far side of the cabin on the furthest bed, away from everybody else with one knee brought up to her chest and the other leg stretched out, she blocked out the rambunctious ravings and guffaws of the sailors nearby; keeping her focus, she continued to absentmindedly spin a single gold coin between her fingers, expertly rolling the coin over her knuckles as she patiently waited for the ship to dock at any minute. The ship ride had been less than pleasant; weeks with these idiotic sailors had taken a toll on her patience. And on top of having to stop for two days because the ship captain had neglected to work out the intricacies of sailing straight into sovereign territory, it seemed that this ship was one more suited for outlaws than upstanding citizens; she'd had to put up with rambunctious swearing and fighting and fucking almost every single waking minute she was there. It was fortunate that being among outlaws generally garnered you the personal space you desired should you make such an endeavour known; they had more pressing matters to deal with, and it was no skin off of their back if a mysterious woman with her hood drawn half the time didn't even engage in the small talk. But regardless of the company she'd kept, Jiaying was admittedly quite ready to leave this infernal shitheap behind and let the waves deal with it as they wished. Or better yet, the Ikesk; it may be too much to hope that the ship captain manages to piss off the Ikesk on his ocean travels in the middle of nowhere, but after she'd left, she could imagine as she willed. Maybe they'd actually begin to be of use as fish food.
The sudden jerking of the ship brought her out of her focus, catching the gold coin between her knuckles with expert dexterity as she looked up. Observing the rest of the sailors begin to get up and gather their things, as well as some simply leaving with the gold in their pockets as they headed to the nearest bar, Jiaying quickly pulled her hood over her head, concealing her face as she lifted her legs over and stood up at the side of the bed. Pulling her satchel up from the side of the bed and ducking her head slightly as she fixed the strap over her shoulder and across her body, she reached over and grabbed her staff delicately from where it had been propped up against the wall. Swiftly lifting it up and over her head to fix it behind her back at a diagonal angle, she headed off in the opposite direction of the ladder towards the deck, towards the far end of the ship. The hollering of the sailors quickly fading out into silence as Jiaying headed further off, she kept her eyes on the walls for several seconds as she walked, her focus flitting from wall to wall until her eyes came across the nearest window; the floor was soaked with saltwater from the waves crashing through the opening, but the roaring of the sea was all too recognisable. Sharply changing course towards the window, Jiaying rapidly closed the distance as the ship came to a full halt, the craft ceasing movement altogether apart from the gentle undulation caused by the waves as Jiaying deftly jumped upwards and grabbed the top of the porthole window's supports, curling her body into a ball as she swung forwards through the tight window and out of the ship, leaving empty and silent quarters behind her.
Bracing as the powerful wind hit her and the rain started crashing onto her body, Jiaying released her right hand from the porthole support and swung her body around to face the ship, grabbing onto a wooden support on the side of the ship and stopping her body in motion as she fixed herself in place hanging onto the side of the ship. Releasing her left hand from the window as she looked up in determination, Jiaying set off upwards, scaling the outside of the ship with relative ease against the harsh weather as she grabbed onto the supports on the side of the ship, using them as handholds and footholds as she continued to climb, the memories of the first times she learned how to climb trees present in her mind as she scaled the wooden behemoth. Swiftly reaching the bulwarks of the ship despite the unforgiving rain and wind, she expertly pulled herself up over the bulwark, her legs sailing sideways before planting themselves on the slippery deck of the empty ship. Pulling her long-coat closer over her body and pulling her hood tighter over her head, she set off down the deck of the ship, unperturbed as she passed over the hatch near the deck where the captain of the ship had taken residence to converse with the passengers of the ship. All of the crew had immediately left the deck in order to go down to the nearest tavern and get shitfaced almost as soon as they'd docked, explaining the empty deck, but it appeared the captain was still there. With a favourite enforcer of his. Catching the faintest drift of their conversation as the captain addressed the passengers about their 'immediate payment for services', Jiaying smirked with contentment as she stepped over the hatch unnoticed, heading to the plank leading into the docks, alone and with every single piece of gold in her satchel. Save the single gold piece she'd left behind, of course. They had housed her, after all.
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As she walked along to the beginning of the docks, moving silently and fluidly amidst the throng of sailors and passengers and cargo, her eyes remained sharp as she looked along the streets of the town; with the rain and the wind causing most of the inhabitants to keep their heads down and get to wherever they needed to be as fast as they could, it allowed her to blend in better with the grays and the blacks of the docks and keep her invisible, but it also made it slightly more difficult to see what she needed to see. She'd know what she needed when she saw it, though; she'd been doing business with the wily little shit for long enough, now. She knew his mannerisms and how he walked, talked and interacted with his world. Out here was too open to do business, but a port town often provided ample opportunity. Reaching the end of the docks and turning left to head up the stairs into the muddy street, she quickly blended into the throng ambling through the streets before she ducked out and headed down the nearest alleyway; the hustle and bustle had prevented anybody from noticing as she headed deeper into the alley, and that allowed this part to be that much easier, she noted as she stopped and looked upwards to her left at the side of the red bricks of the building in front of her. Looking left and right to quickly ensure that nobody was watching, she pulled her hood closer as she took a step backwards, before running forwards and launching herself at the brick wall, running up the side of the building for a split second before she reached out with her hands, her grip finding the bottom of the windowsill on the side of the house. Gritting her teeth as she looked up once more, she once again began to scale upwards, her hands and feet constantly letting go, reaching out and finding new things to grab hold of as she headed upwards. Leaping upwards slightly to grab the second window a floor above the first, she felt her grip start to loosen slightly for a second before she marshalled her strength, pressed her feet against the brick of the house and pulled herself upwards, scaling the window once more, continuing with deep, practiced breaths as her hands eventually found the roof of the building, hoisting herself up onto the roof.
Bringing herself up to less of her usual height as she crouched down to prevent being seen, she scanned the town; from this vantage point, she could see almost every single building in the entire town, as well as the direction of every single street. She'd start at the major streets; that allowed the best view of everybody from a vantage point that nobody cared to notice, and with the densely packed buildings creating narrow alleyways, it would be easy to jump from building to building to continue her search. The wide main streets were more of a problem, but this wasn't her first rodeo; she'd figure something out. Turning slightly to face the building opposite the one on which she was standing and the building facing her back as she climbed, she took a few steps backwards before setting off running towards the gap, landing her foot on the edge of the roof with perfect precision and pushing off with force. Sailing through the air as she jumped from one building to the next, she easily cleared the gap and landed without a problem as she continued running, slowing her momentum to a steady pace as she crouched down once more to reduce her visibility. Heading towards the other side of the building and looking out into the main streets, she began to follow the main street back into the town along the building wall, staying close enough that she could see into the main streets and the pavements on both sides, but not close enough that one would instantly see her if they decided to look up. Her dark colours masking her against the grey sky as she continued, she was practically invisible as she continued her hunt.
Her eagle eyes still sharply surveying the street as she jumped from building to building, she began to lose hope for this particular area of town; it had been over a block, and she still hadn't noticed whom she had meant to notice. He was around here somewhere, but perhaps not in this place. Perhaps on the far side. This place was a place for rambunctious sailors, clamorous taverns, and store owners selling their wares, and she began to turn off to the nearest alleyway in order to head over to the other side of town, keeping her eyes on the nearest main street when her eyes caught a figure that had just exited a nearby tavern. Plain at first sight with their riding leathers around their body, her instincts stirred inside her as she took in the figure. And she knew better than to mistrust her instincts. Keeping her eyes sharply on the figure as she crouched even lower against the roof with her knee almost level with her cheek, she watched as the figure turned around for a split second, before turning back. But that split second was all she needed; the quick flash of a golden eyepatch gave her all the information she needed to know. He was here after all. And not a moment too soon, she mused as the figure headed off in what appeared to be the direction of the coast, likely out of town or close to it. Her eyes burning in determination and caution, she kept her eagle-eyed gaze on the figure as it headed off, feeling her muscles move in harmony once more as she continued across the rooftops, her destination altered and her resolve strengthened. She was still invisible, for now, but all she had to do was wait and follow in the shadows for as long as she needed. Sooner or later, the perfect opportunity would arise for her purpose in this town to begin.
All she needed now was patience.
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Post by Serph on Apr 30, 2017 0:51:13 GMT
Fiala could hear the rain pit-patter against the plants sheltering her that morning when she woke. She’d asked the plants to grow around them for shelter and she hadn’t been disappointed with how dry they had managed to keep her and Logan. Smiling fondly and brushing the plants with her hand, she silently thanked them and moved to get ready for the day. Running a brush through her hair and washing up a bit with some of the collected rainwater from last night. A few leaves curled together made a fantastic bowl. By the time she had finished the rain was but a drizzle and she slipped out with her flute, moving silently to avoid disturbing her travel companion so she could collect get breakfast.
Wandering a bit away so she could find the trees she wanted, she settled herself at the base of one of the larger ones, using the leaves to keep the drizzle off her while she got ready. If it rained again, at least her flute wouldn’t get soaked. It had been a gift for her 30th and she had been taking great care of it ever since she’d gotten it. Lightly placing her fingers along the wooden structure, she took in a deep breath and started to play. The melody came naturally to her as she started, soft coaxing of the notes flowing out from her flute. She couldn’t help but let her eyes drift upwards so she could watch the trees as they started to flower, pink petals spreading out in full bloom for a mere moment before the fruit started to form in appreciation of her song. It was a view she’d certainly never get sick of at least, nor the reaction of anyone who found her getting them to bloom. She could still remember Logan’s shocked face at the fruit when they first met.
She’d been playing for the plants in exchange for breakfast when she’d accidentally attracted the attention of another. He’d seemed so confused as to what she was doing and his wide-eyed expression when he saw the fruit the plants still made her giggle every now and again. She’d almost thought he’d never seen fresh fruit before and with how quickly he’d scarfed down some of the fruit she almost believed it too. Holding back a laugh Fiala finished up her song, the cherries nearly the size of plums now that she’d finished. “Thank you dear,” Fiala half-whispered softly to the plant as she started to pick off a few of the fruits that had grown nearest her. She glanced away from her work when Logan greeted her, a small white mouse in hand. Oh how cute, she’d pick an extra cherry or two for him. “You could always name him Cherry,” Fiala suggested, passing Logan some of the cherries she’d grabbed for him and his new friend. “Just don’t let him eat the pit.” She advised, pushing herself to her feet so she could get a few more for herself, listening as Logan started talking to her from the stump.
Fiala stopped her work when he mentioned his birthday and frowned at him, “You should have told me it was your birthday!” she scolded lightly, though she sounded more hurt than mad. “Of course we can go stop and see your family!” she continued, though she started handing him more cherries. She hadn’t even been given the chance to prepare anything! Pouting slightly she moved to the next tree to gather a couple more, leaving a few fruits on the first tree so it could still spread it’s seeds later without struggling. “Should we bring your family cherries? I think there were some raspberries around here somewhere too..” Fiala started saying as she tried to think of what would be good for a birthday party. There would be a lot of berry trees around them so she could probably find a few other fruits at least! They’d certainly keep until they arrived, but a bunch of fruit hardly seemed good for a party. She would have tried to make something special had she known, but at the very least she hoped a variety of fruits might make a good second best. Fiala picked a few more extra cherries before wandering back over to Logan. “How far away from your home are we?” she asked, trying to sound innocent as she started plotting a path through the forest so she could grow a few more things.
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Post by Raz on Apr 30, 2017 2:33:37 GMT
For a moment Calthok simply stared with incomprehension at the letter in his hands. The idea of his father, a hero in his own right, being reduced to a bedridden old man seemed so otherworldly that at first he thought this some cruel joke. This, he knew, wasn't a jest. Even Lisilia wouldn't send something like this to him for her amusement. Upon making this realization he calmly handed the letter back to Kia. His voice was quiet when he spoke, "When did you get this, Koa?" His brother took the letter back and pocketed it. Koa shared his brothers sadness, "Just moments ago, Cal. Chances are it's a few days old. But brother, do you really think he's.." He said leaving the question unsaid. Calthok nodded slowly, "Yes. He'll not have let mother send something like this if there was any chance he'd recover. We have to go." Koa looked pained, "But the men.." Calthok waved off the concern. We've trained them the best we can Koa. If they aren't ready to stand together without us, then they aren't going survive either way. Let them know Demetrius and his second will fill in for us." Koa nodded, his gaze still harbouring much concern for his brother. "Alright Cal. I'll tell them. Get the things ready and speak with the legate before we go." Calthok nodded numbly, "As you say, Koa." He said before walking around his brother to speak with their commander.
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Post by Snoe on May 1, 2017 7:07:08 GMT
Enmel enjoyed the rain, reminded him of home. IN Galyia when it wasn’t raining the sun blazed so hot that the downpour looked as if it never happened. There was no ‘mild’ weather back home, and travelling taught Enmel that lesson, humans had it a little more mild but they put up with the constant fear that the Corpa MIGHT attack, but that was a fear for every race. Luckily there was time to prepare, Corpa didn’t believe in sneaking up on their prey during the FEAST the survival of the fittest was their guiding principle, hell your average Corpa didn’t live passed 20 but those passed a hundred rarely died on the battlefield. A dangerous people but oddly polite if you knew the right people, Raum was amenable if you had something he wanted, Cybbil was a nutcase she might throw you a party or where your remains as a ballgown. Who’d have imagined they were mother and son.
The coast was as wild as ever, almost frightening, but with all this weather it made it double hard to figure out if he was being followed; happened more often than he liked. Luckily his valuables were under gaurd at the camp... except for the weapon cart he was heading to gather up this very second. Lomalum craftsmanship put him back a few thousand silver, but the best was the best and this little trip was going to need it.
Bilgewater Gap was a narrow defensible position that opened to the beach and a limestone mine that’d been decommissioned since the demand was down, good escape route and hiding place if you knew the network. Wonder if those idiot thieves thought to get a map of the tunnels. Coranth would already have a few passages sealed by now... if Tommy ran as fast as Enmel remembered.
The Thusian was faster and the way was short, not more a half an hour at full run. He came up on the far path, the only route out of sight. Enmel needed to get as close as he could without being seen for his initial plan to work. He beat the main group there, though there was an interesting pair waiting for him an Ikesk and a human. They hadn’t noticed him yet “Well hello.” He walked up casually “You boy’s in for a little fun?” Enmel asked keeping a steady walk as he caught his breath.
“My slithery friend.” Addressing the Ikesk “Mind coming in from the water when the shit hits the fan? Good, great, glad you agree.” Turning his attention to the human Enmel smirked “Hello cutey, I want you to approach from above, cliff-side keep an eye on me, I’ve only got one.”
Enmel didn’t waste time by waiting for them to agree, whether they helped or not was their, choice one that made Enmel’s plan harder or easier depending on them. “The only real threat are the Lom brothers down their, the rest are small fry otherwise those two wouldn’t be in charge.” Fact of the matter Enmel didn’t like them from the get go, but none of his arguments got through to his partners SO he may have made it easy to steal the armoury waggon in order to ‘dispose’ of them. Dirty tactics but to everyone else ‘thieves are thieves’ even if they were baited they still stole.
Enmel parted from his new friends without another word and snuck as close to the centre of this thieves den just at the mouth to the mine. The two towering bothers and his brethren drinking in celebration “Ebel! Nol! How are you two doing it’s been awhile.” Enmel spoke as if greeting friends at a tavern arms stretched as if to prepare a hug.
“Talon... Fuck off before we crush you.” Ebel... always the asshole. They really didn’t see Enmel as a threat: good. The Thusian was always more dangerous when his opponents didn’t take him seriously... same was said of everyone but Enmel was in a whole nother league in that regard.
“Come on, is that anyway to treat your former employer.” Enmel walked closer and closer to the group only one of the humans getting up and drawing a weapon as the Thusian got closer and closer. Only the Roe at the far end of the camp was wary... typical, the Roe had a few stories of Talon. Their history was mostly oral after all.
“Beat him down, maybe we can ransom him.” Nol was a little more intelligent than his brother... but not by much. Enmel’s one eye scanned his surroundings and as a few more men and women rose to follow their leader’s orders. A crowd... even better. Enmel played scared stuffing his hands into his satchel pulling out a stack of papers and coins. Pretending to plead as he drop some of the papers and dropping the coins, while several got close enough to be standing on those items.
Enmel’s stance changed and he straightened up in a cocky display Looking down at the scraps he dropped and reading the words on them aloud one by one. “Crack.” A page under the closest foot disintegrated with blue flash, the meagre light soaking into the leg of that human, a strange expression coming over him as he took another step; his leg crumbling under his own weight as the bone gave away. Enmel looked to another and another “Agony and Flash!” Two pages burst one criminal screamed in pain and the other page exploded into blinding light, Enmel rushing forward knife drawn plunging it into the throat of the blinded one and rolling to finish the other two pain struck fools before rolling back into the safe zone of scattered pages. His scrolls were laden with stored magic, Thusian’s didn’t have a lot to use on a spot but anyone can pour magic into an item for later use, but the object destroyed itself with this method, being one use Enmel left his Crystals behind.
Pulling a full scroll from the case on his back Enmel read it “Cross-Bow-Call-Hail-of-Arrows.” The item burning up again but in its place a Enmel’s Crossbow and a quiver of bolts came to his hands and he finished by levelling it at his attackers “Next Up?” the paper in the sand acting as a barrier and bow making an attack very difficult but escape possible. If the two from earlier were going to help the Ikesk could catch those approaching Enmel from behind and the human above could prove a nasty surprise for those in front.
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Post by projectekertest33 on May 1, 2017 10:50:34 GMT
Lagnil blinked as the Thusian strode in and then left again like a breath of wind. Lagnil turned to Erik who seemed to be looking confused "He called me cutey... does that mean I should kill him?" Lagnil shrugged with his tentacles, the land-walkers ways always seemed strange to him. "I believe it was supposed to be a compliment so killing him would not only be an unfair exchange but also break the terms of our exchange with Coranth." With that Lagnil slipped into the water.
Here he felt at home. He could feel every current in the river, the fish and smaller creatures moving around him, Lagnil missed the Ocean but his kin would not allow him to return there so he made do with the lakes around Olen when he wanted to relax. He floated just beneath the surface his natural colouring making him almost invisible in the murky water.
Through the water Lagnil heard talking followed by screaming and took that as a sign that the battle had begun. He touched a rune on his trident and the water around him propelled him out of the river at high-speed landing on top of two humans who'd been coming up behind Talon. Lagnil's tentacles quickly wrapped around their limbs squeezing until he felt dry snaps, Lagnil disliked killing so only did it when he had no other choice, a philosophy not shared by his partner. A Roe Lian was drawing her bow to take aim at Talon but Lagnil's tentacles quickly touched two runes and a ball of water formed out of the air at the tip of his trident and shot towards the archer knocking her onto her back. Lagnil began striking out with his weapon the wickedly sharp points causing many of the thieves to retreat clutching at profusely bleeding wounds his tentacles also did their part tripping up opponents and then rendering them immobile allowing him to safely take them out of the fight.
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jackygirl
Red Card
My milkshakes bring all the girls to my dungeon
Posts: 704
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Post by jackygirl on May 1, 2017 17:22:31 GMT
Erik scaled the cliffs still muttering. Bloody Thusians, weird sex-freaks... Finding a good hiding place he put his hunter training to use making his breathing shallow and completely concealing himself save for a single eye showing in a gap between two rocks to keep an eye on the situation.
As the fight started Erik grunted in appreciation looked like Talon wasn't all talk after all. "Time to settle a score." He snarled as he leapt from the cliff landing on Ebel's shoulder who turned his head just in time to take one of Erik's axes to the eye. "NOW WHO'S CLAN IS A BUNCH OF CORPA FOOD!" Howled Erik as he embedded one axe in the giant's shoulder to prevent himself from being dislodged and began hacking away at his neck with the other. Lollalum necks are thick but Erik had sharp axes and a great deal of enthusiasm so Ebel quickly fell to his knees clutching at the blood spewing from his neck that had stained Erik's clothes and arms.
As the titan fell Erik jumped from his huge frame rolling between two humans cutting one of their legs off at the knee as he went past. Popping up Erik began his war-chant a song of blood, steel and fire. To his enemies he would have seemed to double in size, his axes becoming more vicious and his eyes burning with unnatural flame. All of that was just an illusion though those who didn't have the chant directed at them would simply notice that he had become slightly faster and stronger. Hacking his way though the bandits Erik went back-to-back with Talon while Lagnil took out numerous enemies with his trident and tentacles. Erik didn't agree with Lagnil's tendency to leave enemies alive but he could appreciate how well the Ikesk handled crowd-control. "COME ON YOU BASTARDS!" Yelled Erik. "I'VE GOT ENOUGH AXE FOR ALL OF YOU!" He gesticulated wildly with his axes spattering gore around him.
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Post by Raz on May 1, 2017 17:23:52 GMT
Calthok's legs moved without any conscious effort on his behalf. His mind was adrift in a sea of emotions that threatened to sink the calm he desperately clinged to. His chest felt tight, his stomach felt as though he had just swallowed a boulder. He knew this day had been coming for a long while. Ever since Quora mentioned in her letter a few months ago that father wasn't feeling well, he'd been dreading that the old veteran wouldn't recover. His father was old, even for a Lomalum, still the thought of losing him weighed heavily on Calthok. Chances were that he'd be gone before- "No, I can't think about that." He muttered to himself as he climbed the hill towards the Legates abode. "Focus on now, nothing else." He thought, pushing down his emotions. That was how he dealt with instances like this, bottle it away and when the time for a feast season came, unleash everything. Flashes of blue flames searing Corpan flesh, a skull caving in with a crunch in the wake of his hammer, and the face of a Corpan officer twisting from confidence to fear appear in his mind. To some they would frighten, to him they are comforting. However as much as he would enjoy reflecting on his accomplishments he realized he was standing in front of the Legate's HQ. It was a large stone structure that acted like a miniature keep, murder holes sat closed above him as he walked inside the building.
The interior was dimly lit by torches on the first floor as windows would pose a security risk should the Corpa get this far. This way the Lomalum could bloody the nose of the Corpa to the bitter end if they tried to clear the building. He stepped past two fully armed guards, they stood at attention upon seeing he was the Primus Pilus and allowed him to pass.. The reflection of the fire from the wall sconces danced on their arms and armour. In an emergency situation they would place their shields together and jab with their spears. Their immense size allowed for just the two of them to completely block the doorway if they wished. As Calthok marched past he noticed that the common room at the base of the tower was empty aside from the guards. He did ,however, hear excited voices chattering to one another from the second floor. "But if they circumvent our line and instead strike from the sea with their infernal allies we'll be cut off." Calthok heard a tisk sound as he walked up the steps towards the voices. "Scipio you forget, if their allies help them strike at us via the sea they will be fully throwing their lot in with the Corpa. If they do so, they declare open war against not only us but on every race that does not wish to be devoured by the Corpa. Trade will plummet and we will be plunged into a world war. Even the Corpa don't want a war of that magnitude. Aside from that- ah Centurion." Says Legate Marcus Serelius upon spotting Calthok.
"Legate," Calthok says taking off his helmet and tucking it underneath his arm. He dips his head in respect before straightening up to address his commander. "Matters involving my father dictate that I must return home for a short time." Marcus nodded, "Ah yes, I received word of this early this morning." He says gesturing to a letter on the edge of a map of the continent. "It pains me to hear of your father's condition. He was very much a mentor to me and many of the men in the legions. You have my leave to return home. Have you made arrangements for other to fill in for you during the up coming conflict?" Calthok nodded, "Yes sir. Koa is giving the men instructions as I speak sir. Demetrius and his second will lead the first cohort while I am away. They are good soldiers, others can vouch for that as well." Marcus waved away the reassurances. "If you vouch for them then I will accept that as enough." Calthok bowed his head once more, "Thank you, sir. With your permission I will set off immediately." The legate held up his hand, "Hold a moment centurion. Have you met Legate Scipio Aldulphus?" He said acknowledging the presence of the man who had been quiet during the exchange. Calthok shook his head very slightly, "No, sir. It's an honour to meet you, sir." He said dipping his head to Scipio. "Greetings centurion. I am Legate of the Eastern border legion. Tell me, what do you think would happen in the next war between the Corpa and ourselves."
Calthok was taken aback. Superiors generally did not ask the thoughts of their lessers, to his credit he gathered himself quickly. "If we were to fight the Corpa again..we would bloody them badly sir. But we would eventually fall." He said with a moment's hesitation. "Not that I do not have faith in our people's ability to fight but if we are always on the defensive, they will eventually batter us into submission. Unless we take the war to their lands we will make no headway against them." Scipio nodded appearing satisfied with that answer. "I see. Interesting, that is all centurion. You are dismissed." With that Calthok gratefully hurried his way out of the room and then out of the building altogether. That wasn't the experience he had been expecting. Regardless, he needed to get his things together to get ready to ride out.
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Post by Shift on May 1, 2017 21:47:33 GMT
Maathews head tilted as he peeked out the outside of the chimney. He noticed the stairway leading up to the second floor across the room from him. That would make a good place to go. He glanced over torwards the two Lomallum, who were standing in the middle of the room, scanning the area. However, they were tired, which was evident by the frequent, slow blinks. He'd need to time it perfectly if he was to pass unnoticed. He crouched down, the smoke still evident around him, and snapped off a piece of dry firewood. He leaned a little out of the chimney and threw the firewood at the wall behind the Lomallum. Thankfully, it made enough noise to alert the guards in the room enough to look torwrds it, if only for a second. As they began to rotate their head's, Matthew leaped into his plan. He bounded off the fireplace and made off torwards his destination.
He knew he'd have to keep quiet as he moved, but unfortunately he couldn't cause another distraction so he'd have to make it all the way in one go. He made sure to not make too ch pressure in his strides so as not to create any excessive noise. Finally, he had crossed the room in time. He pressed himself against the wall of the staircase as he noticed a voice. "Ahh, probably the wind" A male voice spoke. "Since when did the wind cause a piece of firewood to smack the wall? You know what, I can't deal with this today. Check upstairs or something, why don't you?" A deeper voice said, most likely the older of the two. Matthew cursed silently to himself as he moved upstairs stealthily.
Once upstairs, he scanned the room quickly. Two tables, mostly odd little trinkets from here and their, although a few items seemed to worth something. A comfortable bed. A dresser, which had an array of clothes lazily put on top, a closet and finally some bedside tables. Matthew went to the closet and came inside, leaving a crack opened. He heard heavy footsteps, and towner of those footsteps soon revealed himself. The Lomallum from downstairs had arrived. The guard glanced around, and paced slowly throughout the room. Matthew took this time to see what was in the closet. He could feel some clothing... and that's it. Well, this did not turn out that great. He peeked through the crack. The guard was still their, facing the other way at the little trinkets. Matthew slowly opened the door, and crouched low to the floor as he walked out. The guard began to hum a little tune to himself. Matthew noticed the guard's belt, which, now that he could observe it better, had a small bag in it. From the sound of it jingling as the guard moved slightly to better see the trinkets, it was money. Silently, Matthew drew a knife from it's sheathe and creeped closer. Once he was close enough, Matthew positioned his hand under the pouch as he moved in closer with the knife. In a quick, solid movement, he cut the pouch and the silver coins began to fall silently onto his gloves. Once no more coins fell out, he moved away a tad. His smoky armor had dissipated already, but he had another use for his powers. He raised his hand up to his face, and a wisp of black smoke appeared. He moved his hand back, flexing his fingers as the smoke grew, his body regaining it's smoky exterior. Slowly the smoke around him floated torwards his hand, and he prepared to launch it.
As he pushed forward with his arm, the smoke flew torwards the stairs. Matthew imagined the smoke as clay, and molded it with his hands as it moved away. The smoke began to take a much more human appearance, as it now ran down the stairs, seeming to float in every step. The guard in front of him ran torwards the smokey decoy, yelling out warnings to his guard buddy. However, just as the smoke was about to fully descend the stairs, it dissipated instantly. The older guard was particularly angry about the ordeal. "What do you mean, you saw a man made of smoke? I see no one! If you mean that thief, how can he just dissapear?!? You're sleep deprived." The other guard tried to defend himself, at a lost for words at the disapearing smoke. As the two argued, Matthew was busy looting the place. The clothes couldn't be taken, but the trinkets would be able to be sold. He checked the dresser, which held a few stray coins, and finally, the bedside tables. Inside of them were: 10 pouches worth of coins, a comb, and a few books about the different races and their cultures, eating habits, history, and safety protocols. He put them in his bag, and opened the window leading outside. He leaned out, taking note of the slowly calming argument under him, and climbed onto a branch of the tree. He shut the window, and went away into the night to a contact of his willing to buy some stolen goods.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on May 2, 2017 8:22:48 GMT
It takes a day for the evacuation ship to reach port of the Olen City docks. Citizens of the former Darmantine are exhausted from sleep deprivation, haunted by the memories of their homes and loved ones destroyed in the Corpa attack. Amelia is one of the rare few to sleep, if only a couple of hours. It is a little unsettling from an outside perspective, a woman who has slaughtered hundreds in battle and shown no mercy to any yet she is still able to sleep like a kitten. Some would say that she is psychotic, she would simply say she can live with her actions. Besides, being exhausted is the last thing she needs when going to a foreign land. Her senses must be sharp incase somebody tries to take advantage of the vulnerable refugees once their feet touch dry land. She joins the masses that file out off deck, tired shuffles and grim movements sends a heavy mood into the atmosphere. Using a tattered cloak she found inside the ship, she throws it over her shoulders and over her head to conceal her face and weapons. More importantly, to hide Alec cradled in her arms. The last thing she needs is the ruffians of the docks to notice she is holding a child and dub her as an easy target. She would rather avoid any stalling in her journey.
But unfortunately, her predictions are usually correct. She sees different species approaching the poor souls that have separated themselves from the main crowd and begin to shake them down for coin upon seeing their elegant clothing. Everybody else in the crowds that have gathered to witness the survivors of a fallen Kingdom turns a blind eye to this extortion, even other humans. The discrimination and bullying of the original race before the fall is not uncommon, most still blame them for the near destruction although there is no ancestors alive that were directly or indirectly involved anymore. Some just use that as an excuse for racist intentions, seeing humans as inferior and to be treated like filth on their boots. It is a poor display of humanity in Amelia's eyes, always viewing cooperation and alliance as essential for war as well as daily life, but it is something that will remain unchanged for decades to come. And even more misfortunate comes towards Amelia as she sees a Lomallum and a Thusian stride towards her, their steps express overconfidence. Alliances between the two races is a sight she is familiar with, operating closely together usually. The Thusian is dressed in mismatch clothing that is obviously stolen while the Lomallum Wears pants tight for it's frame and shirtless. The wear on both their clothing shows that travel quite a bit or it's the only clothes they own.
"Check this out, Grom. A lost mother and child wandering the docks alone, almost sounds like the start to a tale you'd hear out on Sea." The Thusian speaks out with painfully rehearsed charisma, merely earning a grunt of agreement from the Lomallum now acknowledged as Grom. Alec's squirming and whines of discomfort betrayed his presence. He is hungry and cold, a whole day inside a ship is not pleasant and his only way of communicating his needs and distress is making noise, not ideal for his Protector's attempt of going unnoticed but one she has resigned to accept was unavoidable. The two have the tone and rough look of sailors. A Lomallum, she can picture as a sailor but a Thusian? That is something she hasn't seen often but perhaps it is more common than she thinks. From what she has quickly analysed, the Thusian is the speaker of their little operation while 'Grom' is the silent muscle for intimidation. She frowns ever so slightly behind her hood, hidden from the two ruffians. It's a classic tactic really, it works on the cautious and fearful. They should not have picked Amelia though because while she is cautious, fear is something is something that has been unfamiliar with her for a very long time. She inches her hand to rest on the hilt of her sabre gently but with purpose should this not be resolved without incident. The two do not notice her slow and subtle movement as the Thusian continues his rehearsed lines. "A bit perilous don't you think? A lonely pretty little thing like you in a rough place like the docks, all alone?" She has to resist scoffing at that. This one is clearly not paying attention, he would have noticed her stance is anything but scared of the docks nor can he even see her face in full to see if she is 'pretty'. She doesn't have time for this shit, but remains patient and waits for them to lay down their bargain. "However, me and Grom are reasonable folk and out of the goodness of our hearts, are willing to help you out. Your possessions are what makes you a target, my dear. But if you do not have anything on you, then nobody will bother you!" They make it sound as if their idea is the greatest discovery since the founding of a neth crystal's use. "My name is Argo and this is my good friend Grom. He doesn't talk much but he's a good man. Here's what we suggest, we will take your possessions from your hands and hold onto them until you have settled into the city and return them to you, safe and sound! Fortune is on your side today, that we approached you before any else did. What do you say?" His smile at the end of his little speech is sickeningly sweet, which says 'you have no choice in this matter'. Amelia seriously begs to differ, she is tired of them already.
She looks up slightly to them, revealing her face and locks eyes with Argo. Her eyes tell she is every bit serious when she speaks her words. "I'm going to say no. I can take care of myself and the child, now please step aside. I do not wish to harm either of you." She says calmly but with force. Argo's charming little smile fades and sighs in frustration, annoyed that their little quick coin scheme isn't going as smoothly as he had hoped. Grom them takes a step towards Amelia, hands slowly curling into fists and makes a rumbling sound from it's throat that resembles something similar to a growl. "Listen, sweetheart. I don't think you really understand, you will be making this much harder for yourself by refusing our very generous offer." His charm is still within his tone, but it is more strained this time. Argo doesn't have much patience it seems. After a few seconds silence due to Amelia's refusal to accept, Argo has clearly had enough of her stubbornness and grabs her wrist carrying Alec. This is the final move he makes before her instincts kick in and she springs to action. The fingers resting on her sabre quickly curl around it into a firm grip and pull it out of it's scabbard with impressive speed. Using the momentum, she brings the blade's path directly into Argo's wrist, cleaving through it like a hot knife through butter. Amelia is now in a combat ready stance, holding her bloodied sabre in the air. Not a second has past as she complete the fluid movement, her speed is almost inhuman. Amelia's origin of speed is a mystery, whether it is fueled by magic or her natural ability is something people have yet to discover. The Thusian takes a second to realise their hand is no longer where it should be, the attack far too fast for their brain to comprehend. He begins to scream in pain and panic, blood pouring from the gory wound looking from their stump to the twitching hand on the dirty floor. Grom, the Lomallum, takes a longer period for it's brain to fully realise what has happened. Amelia takes advantage and twirls around as the blunt side of her sabre goes over her shoulder and hooks on the cloak before throwing it off her body and onto the front of Grom with a downward slash. The blade is just short of missing, but the cloak flies off it and cover it's face and torso, unable to see through the thick fabric. Like a brute, Grom begins to swing it's massive fists wildly towards where it saw Amelia last standing. She dips and dodges the first two blows, dancing her way in front of the Thusian clutching his bleeding stub. She slashes across Grom's thick hide, her blade maybe sharp but it barely draws blood. That was not her intention though, she immediately ducks low and spins to the side into a graceful twirl as the next punch rockets forward. Instead of hitting Amelia's it smashes into Argo's face and sends them flying to the ground like a ragdoll. The swordswoman, now behind Grom, kicks the back of his knee with as much force as she can muster. Even with that, the giant only stumbles to one knee barely, showing their natural poise and defence. She would be impressed if she weren't drugged by a combat high, completely overtaking her mind as she slashes the blade into the side of it's neck. The tough and dense bone structure stops her sabre from cutting through and decapitating it, but sliding the blade out and another spin of her feet, the second slash cuts into the hide completely and nicks the jugular vein. Grom falls to it's other knee and one hand holds itself up off the ground, the other hopelessly trying to stop the gushes of blood leaving it's body as it quickly bleeds to death, lifeless corpse falls onto the unconscious Thusian. The fight was brutal, bloody and one sided. Amelia feels lucky that these two were morons and not fully experienced warriors, fighting with only one arm put her at a disadvantage.
Alec cries out in full volume, the Thusian's screams disturbed his peace. Amelia puts her sabre back into it's scabbard and brings the to hand cradle him with extra support. She feels awkward... How do you make a child stop crying when they are just upset from a loud noise? Her posture falters for a second as she thinks hopelessly for a solution. He's hungry from earlier, milk will sooth him right? She makes a shushing sound gently as she can, which sounds rather hesitant and without confidence when it comes to calming a juvenile down. Alec continues his cries, to which Amelia gives up for the time being and seeks out to feed him quickly. She will head over to the nearest tavern she sees and ask around where she can get him sustenance. Maybe some women can be paid for breastfeeding? No, Amelia that's stupid. Just shut up. As she mentally beats herself for the ridiculous idea, she notices wary glares sent her way. She has just shown her true capabilities in front of a massive audience, a human that can fight must be seen as a monster to the other races while the humans are probably scowling her for attracting all the unnecessary attention. Not to mention she just killed somebody and crippled another in self defence, that will alert the authorities no doubt.
The day couldn't have been anymore shitty as she enters the tavern. She won't be able to stay here for very long which means Alec will not get a proper warm place to sleep. She will have to grab him something to feed on and then leave.
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Post by Raz on May 2, 2017 13:33:57 GMT
"And who, are you? The proud Lord said, that I must bow so low? Only a cat of a different coat. That's all the truth I know." Sang Koa as the two brothers rode their enormous horses towards Duruma. They were a stout breed to be certain, they were bigger than even Calthok. There exist few beasts capable carrying a fully grown Lomalum without collapsing. However, there are not very many of this breed as they only rear offspring once every five years. Originally they were not even on this continent but a small island to the east small herds of them were found. The use of such a creature was discovered almost instantly. Still, Calthok felt uncomfortable riding atop one. He felt much more at home with the ground under his feet. Koa, still singing, had no such reservations however. Calthok groaned, "Ugh brother can you stop? You've been singing of these rains and of the north for days now. Where did you even hear of these songs?" To this Koa just shrugged, "A human girl passed by camp a few days ago. They must've been a bard of some kind. Didn't catch her name, though she had the strangest little sword I've ever seen. Blasted thing looked like it was a massive sewing needle." Calthok scoffed, "A sewing needle? Humans are an odd lot to be sure. They're interesting but they have horrible weapon designs. Not like my Sigmar." Calthok said with a touch of pride. Koa nodded, "You have no arguments from me there. Besides, if I didn't sing I'd be stuck brooding like you've been."
Calthok looked stung when he heard that. He pulled back on the reigns and the beast came to a stop. Koa having seen the look on his brothers face, stopped as well. "Koa, how can you say that? Father may be dead and you're joking about how I'm upset?" Koa's face fell as he realized how that may have sounded to his brother. "Cal I didn't mean it like that. I'm just.." he sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. "I'm not good with things like this. You were always closer to father than I was. I'm sorry." Now it was Calthok's turn to sigh. He trotted over to Koa and patted his shoulder. "That's not necessary. Just try to take this seriously and I'll try not to keep brooding, deal?" To that Koa's face lit up. "Deal. We should reach the city within an hour or so."
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Post by Alexodia on May 2, 2017 23:35:04 GMT
The rain did little to sway either her footing or her resolve as she followed the Thusian from a distance; she'd grown up with rain, after all; she was simply used to a hotter, more humid atmosphere. She'd spent years learning how to conceal herself and move as quickly as possible in all types of weather, but it didn't change the fact that cold weather still locked her bones up a little. She still managed to keep herself hidden as she moved from rooftop to rooftop; by this point it was practically second nature to keep herself in the shadows without being seen, but it did raise the question of where exactly the Thusian was going. She couldn't exactly follow him to the ends of the world without being seen, good as she was; plus, the Thusian seemed to be heading in the wrong direction for the both of them. Heading out of town made it practically impossible for her to follow in a clandestine manner, given the open road and the lack of concealment, and given that the Thusian was picking up the pace, undoubtedly planning to break into a sprint once he reached the open road leading away from the port town, she'd have to either shift everything into fifth gear immediately, or she'd have to come up with something else. Her mind racing as she ran across a rooftop, gearing up to leap across to the next building, her mind raced, willing herself to make a decision before it became too late and she had committed herself to one course of action that she couldn't come back from.
Mentally cursing, she immediately slowed down her running; backpedalling with her body as much as she could as her feet screeched and slid across the wet rooftop, her speed decreasing all the while, she quickly assessed the distance between the edge of the building and her current position, she backpedalled even more furiously as she moved the points of her feet sideways facing inwards, bringing her right foot back for leverage as she came to a screeching halt a foot or so away from the edge; any further, and she'd have gone straight over the edge of the building, and given her drastic lack of speed, there's no way that she'd have made the leap; she would have plummeted straight down into the alleyway from two stories up. Looking over the edge quickly to assess the height of the building, she internally cursed once more. It'd be a miracle if she hadn't broken her neck once she hit the ground. Looking upwards from the alleyway, she craned her head to look over at the open road leading away from the port town; she was on the far end of the town now, and her expression grew darker as she watched the tiny blot of a Thusian grow smaller and smaller, running away from the town towards god-knows-where. The only thing she knew was that it was far away from her.
Crouching down into a squatting position, her mind threw various thoughts back and forth; having a nice, civil tailing was apparently out of the question now, so the query of actually getting to him remained. There were various different options; she could follow him, of course, but that wasn't her style at all. More importantly, the Thusian never did anything without a good goddamn reason; if he was running off towards nowhere at that pace, then it was fairly safe to assume that he had business. Business in which he likely wouldn't appreciate her involvement, which normally didn't bother her that much apart from the fact that she had business with him herself, and she didn't exactly imagine him to be generous to a customer that had potentially sabotaged his previous business dealing. She'd always seen the Thusian carrying more on him, though; he always travelled light, but never that light, she mused as her eyes narrowed in thought. He must have everything elsewhere. And if all of his belongings were elsewhere, it made sense that he would return for them once his business was done. The urgency in which he moved and his lack of luggage suggested that he believed it to be a quick exchange, so she didn't surmise that long a wait. When she caught him, he was exiting a tavern. Her eyes widened imperceptibly upon realisation; she knew that tavern; they'd done business there before. She didn't like this place at all; too loud. Too wet. Too...everything. She hadn't paid much attention the first time around, but she was certain that the tavern was where his luggage remained, in a room that he'd no doubt rented out for the time being. That settled it then, she mused as she stood up to her full height, turning around where she stood and setting off in the opposite direction, expertly picking up a much quicker pace than she had exercised when following the Thusian. A new destination it was.
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Her agility always served her well in towns with closely-packed buildings; it made traversing the city so much easier and quicker when she could leap across buildings and clear difficult leaps with the practised fluidity that she was taught as a young girl. It didn't take her long at all to reach the tavern once more, using the chimney of the building to stop herself rapidly once she reached the building directly across from the tavern. It was relatively quiet on the outside, but she knew that it would be relatively boisterous once she entered; often good for those that want to do business discreetly when nobody cared about what you were doing while also shouting loud enough that nobody that was interested could hear without getting too close for comfort. Her expression turning into one of blank determination once more, she released the chimney and turned around as she picked up the pace, heading towards the back alley of the building in order for a safe descent.
Starting off in a jog, she quickly threw her feet up and landed on her back, the tiling sharply pushing against her back as she smoothly slid down the diagonal roof of the building, feeling her body slide down quicker and quicker as her feet found thin air, then her legs, then suddenly the rest of her body as she flew off of the roof and through the air in a downwards, diagonal direction. The other building's walls coming sharply up to greet her before she impacted the floor, Jiaying braced her legs as her feet found the wall; allowing her legs to bend for a split second to absorb some of the impact, she instinctively let her body flow with the movements as she pushed off with her feet as she continued to fall, putting the brunt of her force onto her left foot as she pushed off and upwards as much as she could. Her descent slowing infinitesimally, she let her body spin around with the movement as her body was spun around to face the wall of the building that from which she slid off; copying the previous movement but reaching her hands out to slide down the wall to slow her descent and give herself some balance as much as she could, she pushed off, putting the brunt of the force on her right foot this time as she pushed off and upwards to slow her descent. Her speed now slowed a noticeable amount, she felt her body sharply move to the left; facing the length of the alleyway as her feet impacted the ground, she allowed her legs to crumple underneath her as she expertly turned her fall into a forward roll to ease the momentum. Quickly righting herself as she fluidly transitioned into standing up, she wobbled from the impact of the force, feeling her legs almost give way before she steeled herself, locking them in place as she looked upwards towards the sky, taking in the high rooftop from where she'd allowed herself to fall, before grimacing and setting off into a fast-paced walk. No matter how many times she did that, it still hurt like a motherfucker whenever she did it from high enough. Thankfully, nobody was around to see her fuck up if she had done.
Coming out of the side alleyway and heading into the busy, open street of the port-town for the second time since her arrival, she paid none of the citizens no more heed than her hypervigilance allowed her; walking straight across the road, her hood still drawn over her head, she crossed the distance in little time, stepping out of the road onto the pavement and pushing the door open to step into the raucous tavern. Once she was inside, she slowed her pace somewhat; this place's inability to keep quiet for a second down here in the pub served clandestine purposes well in more ways than one; it was a good place to discuss plans, but it was also a good way to conceal that which one may not want another to see. Like an assassin. Drawing her hood up even further as she continued through the throng of people, her eyes constantly surveying the pub for dangers, she smoothly slid and maneuvered her way through towards the back, where the rooms would be up the stairs. The door was close to the bartender, she noted with inquisitive eyes; the door also led into the kitchen, so it was difficult to get in there without the bartender seeing you come through without her permission. Not an easy task for someone unaccustomed to such things. Lucky for her that such things came as easily to her as breathing, she noted as the bartender quickly made her way towards the kitchen, calling for a replacement bartender into the kitchen; a swap-over rendered her unable to follow her straight in, but as with all bartenders, she noted as she saw the younger woman head through from the kitchen, she was overly focused on the bar itself as she instantly headed to make sure that all of the ale was stocked up and that nothing had been stolen from the bar. Moving with practised ease, Jiaying swiftly darted forwards and maneuvered herself under the bar flap without moving it, righting herself and heading through the door without a sound before either bartender had even begun to register her presence anywhere.
Quickly heading up the stairs, Jiaying tried the first door, enclosing her hand around the doorknob and pushing. As the door swung open to reveal an empty room, her eyes quickly darted around the room for anything of note before she closed the door once more. Not the room she was looking for. She tried the same process with the next two doors, the doors both swinging open to reveal empty rooms, before she tried the fourth door and pushed, only to feel it push back against her with unyielding force. Locked. Feeling the ghost of a smirk grace her features, Jiaying looked down either direction of the hallway, listening intently for any potential intruders, before kneeling down in front of the doorknob. Reaching into her bag and scrambling around for several seconds, she looked down into her bag and grasped her lock-picking equipment; it had served her well in the past, and a flimsy tavern lock shouldn't provide much of a challenge, she mused as she held her lock-picks in both hands and set to work. Her suspicions proved right when she heard the lock click after an absurdly small amount of time, she smirked once more as she set the equipment back in her bag and stood up to her full height; enclosing her hand around the doorknob once more, twisting and pushing to feel it move in unison as the door swung open, she found it strangely difficult not to hum the opening notes to 'Hallelujah' in triumph as she headed through the door.
This room was occupied. More to the point, it was full; not with people, but with equipment; a few scrolls usually didn't necessarily constitute full, but it did when you dealt in such things, she mused as her thoughts became clearer. It wasn't hard to discern whom this room belonged to, and judging from the state of it, the occupant had either left in a hurry or expected to be back here before relatively long. Both worked in her favour, she mused as she gently closed the door all the way, hearing it click once more as she surveyed the room briefly before heading over to the bed. She had ample time to survey the room, she considered as she slung her bag off of her shoulder, letting it drop to the ground with a clunk before she reached over her head and lifted her staff from her back, gently setting it against the wall before leaning back on the bed and pressing her back up against the headrest. Looking over to the bedside cabinet, she absentmindedly picked up a single piece of silver, proceeding to twirl it between her knuckles as she waited patiently. She'd waited for much longer stretches of time in the past. She was a hunter, after all.
The sooner this was done, the sooner she could go home.
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Post by Deaths on May 5, 2017 3:14:43 GMT
Logan was taken aback by Fialia's excite meant, he clears his throat to get her attention as she rambles on about what to bring his family. He can't help but laugh as his hands are filled with a variety of fruits. He's never seen her so energetic, well except for the time they met that talking venus fly trap. "I really should sent a letter to him some how..." Logan's mind wanders as he remembers his encounter with the very gentlemanly plant. They had been exploring the jungle lowlands to the south when Logan was distracted by some ancient text carved into a wall. All of the sudden vines began to wrap around his ankle and crawled up his leg, assuming it was Fiala playing a prank he told her to knock it off. To his surprise she yelled back that it wasn't her, the vines constricted around his torso and he was pulled into the air effortlessly. His hands pinned against his body made it impossible to use his magic, all seemed lost as he was slowly being lowered into the hideous plant maw. Until Fiala came to his rescue with fire in her eyes she puffed up her chest and gave that plant the scolding of a life time.
To Logan's surprise this one talked back, he was never sure if they did for Fiala, but had never heard one do that. The Dionaea began to apologize for his lack of manners and gently put Logan down. It had been years since he had company, and he had simply forgot how to be a proper host. He introduced himself as Randal and welcomed them into his home. In exchange for the company Randal brought them as much treasure as they could carry, and invited them to come again. On their way out Logan couldn't stop laughing until Fiala annoyed perhaps or just generally curios asked him what was so funny. Logan with a toothy grin shook his head and said with a chuckle. "Nothing you'd make a great mom is all."
Snapping back to reality his hands now ridiculously full of berries Logan speaks up. "Its quite alright Fiala, I already wrote ahead to let them know you might be coming, you don't need to bring anything. Besides I'm going to be dropping off some gold from them anyway. That'll put them in a happy mood." Logan puts the fruits into a bag careful to separate the cherries from raspberries. "If you really want to though, my mom has a huge garden with plants from all over the world. It's quite impressive so I'm sure she'll be thankful for whatever you give her." He chuckles as he ties the bags shut. "Maybe we can find a way to move Randal there, I'm sure he'd love the company and it would give my home a little extra security." The thought did seem quite sound, though the logistic to move such a beast made his brain ache.
Shrugging to himself he finishes gathering his supplies, once Fiala is ready they begin to head out. "Not too far maybe an hour at worst luckily the rain stopped so the walk won't be to terrible." Logan states a hint of excitement sits in his throat, after all who doesn't love coming home to people who love you unconditionally? "So as you know I was adopted, my father's name is Micheal, you'll recognize him by his grey hair and in ability to laugh." Logan smiles at the teasing of his father, he wasn't a bad man at all he just was so serious all the time. "My mother is Karen, she well she looks like a mom?" He questions tryign to describe her. "She's a sweet, kind, and plump woman." He whisper that last part. "And I swear she can hear everything." He sighs thinking back to how she heard ever swear no matter how quietly he spoke them. The sandal to the side of the head sure did fix his cursing habit.
They had finally arrived the sun was still high it must have been a bit before noon, the clouds had broken a bit but it seemed more storms may roll in. The first thing they spot is the large wooden watch tower Logan and some of the older boys had built last year. Father was always nervous about the family especially now with him getting older he felt the need to shore up defenses just in case. A figure could be seen in the tower a longbow positioned next to him, the humanoid waved towards the two travelers and began to descend down the ladder on the back of the tower.
Roderick approached with his arms stretched out for a hug as he walked towards Logan. "It's good to see you little brother, I told Katherine you wouldn't be late." They embrace for a moment and then shake hands both smiling at each other. "Oh this must be the friend I read about. I'm Roderick, Logan's big brother." He puts his right arm around Logan and pulls him into a mild choke hold. "Please let me know if he was rude in at all. I'll make sure to straighten him out."
Logan begins to pull away only feeling the hold tightening. "Roderick let go, why are you..." Logan's eyes widen as he begins to squirm in a panic. "You traitor!" He yells as he struggles more. "Katherine you better not do whatever you think you're going to do!" He yells at no one, as he eventually is released. Small giggles could be heard coming from one of the bushes not far from them, and it seemed to be inching closer. Until it poofs away in a cloud of smoke replaced by a Thusian standing at four and a half feet, with a wicked grin on her face.
"LOGAN!" It yells as it jumps onto his back full of smiles, she begins to hug him as tightly as she could, while speaking at a mile a minute. "What took you so long you're late, you said you'd be here yesterday, where's my present?" He happiness changes to annoyance at the failure to produce such a present at command.
"It's my birthday why do I have to give you a present?" Logan begins to protest as he succumbs to the hug, and begins to piggy back carry Katherine around.
"Because you love me, and because you said you would every time you came home you'd bring me a gift." Her voices becomes somber Logan knew it was fake but Katherine was such a skilled actress, she could star in any play in the world. "Don't tell me you forgot about your favorite little sister." She begins to cry fake tears to really sell the act. Though she interrupts herself as she notices Fiala. She crosses her eyes at Logan's companion silently judging her. "And who are you? Logan doesn't have any friends, because he's dumb and annoying. So why are you here?" Never missing a beat to insult Logan Katherine's tone becomes accusatory towards Fiala.
"Don't be rude." Logan snaps at her as they begin to walk towards the manor, passing some of the farm land on the way. A few cows were out to pasture being watched by one of the newer boys. The wheat field was coming in nicely, Logan was washed in a sea of nostalgia thinking back on the farm work. "Thank the Gods that's over." He thinks to himself. "Fiala this is Katherine my younger sister. Katherine this is Fiala she's a good friend of mine so you treat her better than you treat me." Logan chuckles a little as he flicks Katherine against the temple.
"Fine...It is a pleasure to meet you Fiala." She mumbles into Logan's shoulder as the group continues to walk towards the house. It was a huge manor with enough room to house twenty people, though it looked old it was still in great condition. Father renovated it as often as he could, making sure there was always a strong roof over everyone's heads.
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Post by Raz on May 5, 2017 16:46:45 GMT
"Well, we're here." Said Koa as he gazed upon the mountain city. "Home." Was Calthok's reply. It had been many months since they had received leave to return home. Their mounts iron shod hooves clipped noisily along the ground as they marched over a cobblestone bridge. From the look of the stones, it appeared to have been created recently. "This entire area used to be a field the last time we were here. This river and those breastworks are new as well." Calthok glanced over towards his brother, "You noticed as well? Seems it wasn't just the border that received aid." His brother nodded, "Aye, they've been adding onto these walls for centuries though. What's interesting is what they're doing on the coasts. Great earthen bunkers with balistae have been built. Concerns over the Ikesk have been growing as of late." Calthok was about to ask how Koa knew this when a voice hailed them from the wooden gate ahead. "Halt! Announce yourselves and your intentions in the city of Duruma." Calthok had to choke down his laughter at the young Lomalum's serious attitude. Koa grinned and shouted to the young man. "I am Koa of house Urool and this is my brother Calthok. We are here on leave from the border to see our family." The reaction that those words had on the young man were priceless. His eyes seemed to grow twice as large and his mouth hung agape, "By Alyma's left teet! Urools!" Calthok rolled his eyes, "Yes, we are Urools. Now if you would open the door sometime before feast season that would be appreciated." The unblooded Lomalum couldn't have moved any faster to open the gate for them. He shouted for some of his other guardsmen to help him pull the gate open. Slowly the wooden gate creaked open. The brothers proceeded through only to see another bridge and another wall, this time made of stone, not too far off.
The man they had rebuked barked an order to one of his fellow guardsmen. "Make sure the other walls know of their approach. Please enjoy your stay in Duruma, sirs." Said the guardsmen who quickly went to closing the gate as one of their comrades ran off to the other walls. Initially Calthok thought they would run into the same situation again at the next gate however it was not so. The portucullis was raised and the gate was opened. Inside of this wall it was easy to see that there was expansion outside of the mountains interior. Bustling urban areas dotted the walls interior. Previously only small farm estates could be seen beyond the wooden pallisade they had passed before. Here though the city's dregs existed. Hawkers, beggars, and all form of lower classes assailed them as they marched through the gate. There was a mixture of foreign cultures here. Humans, Lomalums, Roe'lians, and thusians could be spotted in in the throngs of people. The war horses were not enjoying this close proximity though, neither was Calthok. Once the crowd saw him reach for his warhammer they quickly backed off. "Vermin." Koa glanced at him with an admonishing look. "Brother, be nice." Calthok merely shrugged. This form of treatment that he was giving the lesser folk wasn't common for Calthok. The situation with their father and the abandonment of their posts were weighing heavily on him. It was not until they were reaching the third wall that he seemed to relax. The merchants here didn't swarm over them but they did happily shout out offers for the centurions. Since the sun was beginning to sink lower on the horizon, creatures of the night were beginning to slink onto the streets. These soiled doves also politely offered their own services to the brothers. Both of whom kindly refused, for now.
The sun had just disappeared from the sky when the brothers reached the final gate. This wall was completely made of iron and covered the entire cavern entrance. Here a female voice hailed them from atop the wall. "Cousins! How good of you to return." She whistled and the gate was opened for them. "Go to the manor. They're waiting for you." Koa replied, "Good to see you as well cousin. How do things stand?" She shook her helmed head, "Not well. You best hurry." That was all that Calthok needed to hear. They spurred their mounts on at full gallop through the cobblestone streets. Glowing forges and blue tinted streetlamps illuminated their journey. A few people had to dive out of the way as they raced forward to their ancestral home. The path they took their was one they had had memorized since they were children. It took a few minutes before they saw the looming stone structure. They were stopped outside of the estates gate by the house's guards. "The house isn't accepting any visitors rig-Calthok?" He looked over at Koa before nodding and pushing open the gate. "Hurry, lads. Their isn't much time left." The brothers hopped off of their mounts and handed them over to the old guardsmen. Calthok bounded ahead and would've torn down the door had it not been opened for them. Inside the house he could see his many relatives dressed in sombre mourning attire. Everyone looked at them in surprise given their entrance. "Where is he? Why is everyone dressed like this?" Calthok asked his sister Quora. Lomalum didn't wear this form attire unless... Koa picked up on this before Cal did, "No." Quora, teary eyed nodded. "He's gone, Cal." She said to her older brother. She tried to hug him but he held her at arms length. "No, no that isn't true. Where is he?! We rode here as fast as we could. He can't be gone." He said as he looked from his sister's to his mother. "He can't be." His mother nodded, "He's gone my son... Thurat claimed him just hours ago. Oh sons I'm so sorry.." She said as she wrapped her arms around a broken Calthok. Something deep within Cal's chest broke when he saw his mother start to cry.
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Post by Serph on May 6, 2017 2:01:01 GMT
Fiala had finally gathered as much as they could carry in cherries for the trip when Logan started chatting about ‘Randal’. Fiala blinked in confusion as if trying to figure out what Logan was referring to, before the realization dawned on her. He was talking about the Venus Fly trap he named. “He would keep any nearby bugs in check, and it wouldn’t be too hard to move him,” Fiala noted. Randal was only a tiny little fellow after all and somehow he’s managed to survive without being strangled by the surrounding vegetation so he’d probably survive a replanting. Uprooting him would be the toughest part, but even that wouldn’t be too bad if she got the other plants to move away for a bit. Still the way Logan mentioned ‘company’ for Randal made her wonder if he still hadn’t realized what happened that day. She thought he had realized himself at this point, but maybe not?
Fiala remembered the day clearly, she and Logan had gone to explore the ruins together. He wanted the treasure that was inside and she had wanted to know why plants like ‘Randal’ were all over the place despite the fact that they didn’t normally grow in the area. After all someone had taken great pains to get these plants to grow in such an unusual place, it would make anyone curious as to why! So naturally she explored the outside of the ruins and when she found a plant she’d never seen before, so she naturally she carefully collected it and its fruit to study it and well, long story short Logan ate some of them. Seeing the post effects of the seeds wasn’t the strangest thing she’d ever seen, but watching Logan tangle himself in the vines in his confusion was certainly up there. Especially since he’d immediately panicked after tangling himself and flailed unsuccessfully against the vines in an effort to get loose. If anything he only tangled himself up more to the point where he couldn’t even move. One trip to grab her flute to help him and she noticed the missing seeds and well it wasn’t hard to put two and two together. She’d huffed a bit that he’d eaten the seeds and was ready to scold him, until she realized it was her fault he ate them. She had forgot to put them away and left them with the other fruits, and then told Logan their dinner was everything ‘over there’ while she packed up some of the extra fruits for the next day. It was not her finest moment. Or his.
She found out later that it was a Datura stramonium which explained the odd behavior and general symptoms, but it certainly didn’t worry her less since he didn’t seem to remember he had been poisoned. It was during his confusion that he’d spotted ‘Randal’ who was growing nearby. He seemed to pin his entrapment on that poor little plant, but she had thought he was joking the first time around. It didn’t occur to her that he genuinely believed Randal to be capable of snaring him in such a trap. Maybe that’s why he had brushed off her apology so easily the first time around, he hadn’t realized what she had been apologizing for. Fiala paused to consider how best to tell him when Logan started speaking about his family excitedly. She’d clear it up with him later. Laughing lightly, she tried to focus on their next destination. “I can’t wait to meet them.”
It wasn’t long until they arrived at a watch tower. A minute or two probably passed, but it felt like only a couple seconds as Logan’s siblings rapidly ambushed him and in one case started making demands about presents. Fiala tried hard not to giggle at the behavior. It was so cute to watch them all. Even when his little sister tried to cross-examine her. How sweet, she was getting protective. “It’s nice to meet you too,” Fiala said sweetly to Katherine as the girl seemed to hide from her. Keeping a smile on her face, she followed the siblings towards their home, making sure to walk on the outside so she wasn’t blocking them from talking to each other. She let her eyes curiously wander towards the house, half wondering where the garden Logan’s mother kept was, but she doubted she’d be able to see it from where they were. “Is it just the four of you living there?” Fiala asked curiously, eyes taking in the size of the house again as she ceased her searching.
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Post by Snoe on May 6, 2017 23:16:24 GMT
Enmel watched his back up take down the remaining majority and one of the Lomalum with relative ease. Guess this pair could be put on Talon’s personal pay roll, Coranth couldn’t match the Thusian’s funds but that was a well kept secret. Enmel Fired off a few well placed bolts, couldn’t have too many survivors or Talon’s reputation would soften, not something the Thusian wanted; he was already tiny and harmless looking but having an unbelievable reputation of dealing harshly with those who’d steal from him prevented more of these occurrences than any number of guards.
The wet THUNK! Of crossbow bolts striking head shots on three more thieves before the other brother flew into a rage seeking the human that stood at Enmel’s back. Lomalum and their familial attachments... Thusians born in Galyia always had a hard time contemplating the concept of ‘family’ though being raised in a ‘school system’ was the way of their kind. Education was the primary concern though the way th system was taught many of his people how subvert the rules in persuit of fun.
Nol shrugged off a few shallow shots from Enmel’s bow, a pair of metal gauntlets ready to smash the pair. Cursing and hollaring without making much sense the brute was steps away. Enmel looked back to his comrade... he wasn’t going to like this but it was going to save him from being trampled. Enmel back kicked Erik to forve him into a kneeling postition and jumped upon the human’s back and spriboarded from their to the charginging Lomalum, launching the human away from the path as the Lomalum charged through and the Thusian digging in a dagger and swinging to the beast’s back. Unraveling a ribbon scroll around the brutes shoulder neck and waist before speaking into the Nol’s ear “Goodbye Nol, it was a pleasure.” Backflipping off of his perch Enmel held tore the ribbon Scroll from its spool and read the word repeated along the length now wrapped around the Lomalum’s body “Sever!” The ribbon burned away and the shocked Nol gasped as red lines formed where the ribbons once were and blood spilled from them.
The Lom literally fell to pieces in the sand as his compatriots stared in fear. “Alright! Who’s next?” Seeing the survivors either trying to run or tangled up with an Ikesk. “Can you two do me a favor and meet with Coranth, he’ll be by shortly but I’ve got things to do back at my room. OH and tomorrow come by the my room at the Glass Hammer, I think I might have a job for you down the road.”
With that said Enmel picked another scroll from his bag and set down his satchel “Gather.” The scroll burned but the coins and pages he scattered piled together in neat stacks in the sand before he picked them up. The benefit of being 300 years old is having handy little spells for tedious things. If only he had enough power to summon a horse... a crossbow was as good as it was going to get and even that only lasted for 20-30 minutes.
Enmel took his things and left, Coranth rounding the main path noticing Enmel but saying nothing as th Thusian waved. Coranth hated when Talon stole the moments like these, Enmel was proving a point and getting Coranth to take him more seriously as a partner in this endeavor. To that Archon level Guildmaster Enmel was seen as little more than a merchant, despite the reputation; the down side to the impossible stories.
It wasn’t long before Enmel was back at the Tavern. Walking back since he didn’t have to beat anyone to the beach. Stepping through the door after noticing the guards looking about the street here and there. Turns out those shakedown artists at the docks were ‘dealt’ with. This mmade Enmel’s night a little brighter to say the least, he didn’t have to waste anymore scrolls for a little while atleast.
Pressing into the Tavern Enmel caught wind of blood on the air... Leo the bartender waved Talon over “Hear the news boss?” Enmel nodded, and watched the bartender turn his gaze to a woman and child.
“Yes I have Leo, glad to hear that trash was cleaned up.” Being vague wondering how sharp the woman was to what was being said around her “If you find the good samaritan be sure to give ‘her’ my best, and if she’s sticking around I think I have a job opening... Goodnight Leo.” The bartender nodds and Enmel heads upstairs to his room.
Leo, walks over to Amelia and produces a key, and a coin pouch “Master Talon’s regards, your meal will be by shortly... any requests?” Not elaborating too loudly surely she heard the exchange. The key was to a rented room upstairs the number embossed on the brass.
Enmel walked up the creaking stairs and took to his room, the door handle unlocked... interesting. Enmel casually moved in mulling over whom would be paying him such a visit, noticing the dark figure resting in his bed “Before I say anything rash, you may want to share your name.” Enmel had a trap under the sheets and with one ‘rash’ word his problem wouldn’t be so troublesome... though that depended on what happened next, there were several traps here and this wasn’t the firstime he’s been paid an evening visit.
Talon sat at his desk and waited for a response. A word on his lips and dagger resting under his hand.
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Post by Raz on May 7, 2017 17:16:34 GMT
Quora helped Cal and Koa to their living room, they were both sat down on a marble bench. Koa was devastated by this sudden disastrous turn of events. He wasn't as close to his father as his other siblings but even he felt the ache of loss. But his reaction was nothing in comparison to his brother. Calthok was lost. He simply sat at the bench with his eyes fixed upon his hands. This worried Koa immensely. He had never seen his brother like this before. Even after close friends had fallen in battle, Calthok never acted this way. He would be furious or saddened but never lost.
Hours passed without much change. Relatives and close family friends would walk by and offer their condolences for the family's loss. Koa would thank them for their kindness while Calthok would remain silent. Most of them had the sense to not take offense to the silent treatment. Most of them did, however, one rather drunken and belligerent old uncle did take offense. He freaked of liquor and was perpetually swaying from side to side like a sailor. He frowned at Calthok when he didn't thank him. "Pup, your father, my brother, is gone. If you keep wallowing in pity you'll embarrass him even more than you already have." He began to rant at Calthok. "He's probably rolling in his grave right now knowing that the future of this house will be with a nothing like you." Calthok remained silent, though he did look up at the uncle. Calthok's face held showed nothing, no anger or sadness. Koa was outraged at this sudden blatant disrespect that their uncle was showing. He was about to stand and confront him when Cal put a hand on his shoulder. The older man simply continued to glare down at them, "Cowards, you'll lead this house to ruin." He said before shambling off towards the kitchen. However, their mother having seen this unfold had Quora escort him outside.
Koa looked at Cal with astonishment, "Why did you let him get away with that?" Cal simply shook his head. "I didn't want to see mother cry over another family member in the same day." He said quietly. "He was right about one thing though." Cal said as he got to his feet. "Dad wouldn't want us to sit here all night mourning him." He took his brother's hand and pulled him up to his feet. "He would've wanted us to revel in his memory, to sing of the accomplishments he achieved." Koa found himself nodding, as did many of the assembled cousins, aunts, uncles, even mother nodded along after wiping her eyes. Calthok looked at to his younger cousins Aventus and Tenrir. "Go down to the cellar and bring me the kegs we had made after grandfather passed." They did as they were asked and when they returned, the women of the family were in the midst of orchestrating a feast. Some of the more musically inclined members of the family have returned with various different instruments. Children who had previously nothing to do but watch their parents be sad were now being entertained by one of the family's elders. He spoke of the wild tales that Calthok's father had undergone. One of the younger girls helped him tell the story by making little light shows to help the kids understand.
The bards started singing of the great many adventures that the late patriarch had been on, but the one they returned to is the battle of Senri's Drift. A tale on how a group of explorers went into the lands beyond the border. They were set upon by Corpa for days on end. Of a contingent of only 125 men, 75 returned home despite all odds. They surely would've perished had Calthok's father not shocked the Corpa by making a desperate raid into the Corpa camp. He was said to be a blur of steel and electricity, it was during this raid that Cybbil's grandmother and grandfather was cut down. He tied their heads to his shield upon killing them, this caused the remaining Corpa to back down at the sight of this reaver. That shield hung above the fireplace with the bleached white Corpa skull tied to them.
Spirits flows freely this evening as much of the family indulge heavily. Food, drink, and song is had by all of the Urool house. The merriment doesn't end until late into the morning. Family members trickle out slowly over time until it is only the immediate family who remain in the manor. Calthok is asleep on the bench with a mead horn in his hand. Koa was asleep in the kitchen, his head resting on the granite table. Their sisters and mother had retired to their beds earlier during the festivities. Quora was the first one to wake up and head down the stairs. One hand she held to her head and winced. "Drank way too much." She murmured. She ignored her sleeping brothers and went into the kitchen, she grabbed a few herbs, crushed them and set them inside of a pewter pitcher. She pours a watered down mead into the pitcher then set it on the woodstove. She lit it and waited until the liquid began to boil. She nodded, appearing satisfied and lifted the pitcher with a glove on. She poured it's contents into four silver cups then put out the fire in the stove. Her sister was making her way down the stairs, her groans ruin the morning's stillness. "Ugh, why did I drink so- urp, fuck." A voice from the kitchen calls to her, "Language sister. Get that lug on the bench up." Quora said as she went over to Koa and shook his shoulder. "Up and at em, Koa." He groaned in response and held his head. "Ow. What is it?" He says as he sits up and squints at his sister. She sets the mug before him. "Drink. Mom wants to talk to you two."
Lisilia sees the sleeping Calthok and can't help herself. She takes the half empty mug from his hand and and dumps it on his head. His eyes shoot open and he stands up, "What in Thurat's name are you doing Lisilia?" He asks before wincing at the shooting pain behind his eyes. His own voice sounds like it's a thunderclap in his ears. Quora walks into the living room with Koa following her. She hands Calthok and Lisilia the two drinks she has. She heads to the kitchen and returns with her own cup. "Well," She says, "That went better than I thought it would." Lisilia nods but sighs, "I still can't believe he's gone though. I knew this day was coming but it always felt so far off." Calthok nodded but didn't say anything. Instead he just sipped his drink. The headache immediately started to lessen, he had missed this. He still felt a heavy weight in his chest but it is much less than it was yesterday. Koa sipped his drink and sighed, "He's gone but we'll never forget. Now, what is it that mom wants to tell us?" The sisters exchanged a look. "What's going on?" Cal asked, clutching his cup with both hands. Quora sighed before looking at the two men, "Dad left something for you two before he died. A letter. Mom wants to give it to you when you're not hungover so hurry up and finish your drink."
Given this new information the two brothers quickly finished their drinks and rushed up the stairs to their parents room. Their mother was sitting on the bed staring at the letter when they opened the door. She looked at them with a smile. "Your sisters told you I imagine. Here," she said passing the letter to Calthok. He read it aloud.
To my dear sons,
If you're reading this it means that I was not able to say goodbye to you in person. For this I am sorry. I wish I could've seen you. You're no longer boys, you're men of House Urool and I can't tell you how proud of you I am. You've each achieved so much already, I wish I could've been there to fight alongside you. I'm writing this to not only tell you of the pride I have for you both but that I also have one last request. Many years ago a Thusian by the name of Enmel Talon saved my life and helped me turn this family into what it is today. This Thusian resides in Olen city, he recently sent me a letter asking for my aid. I cannot do this task he his asking of me. This is why I am asking for you to take on this quest for me. Help your old man settle one last debt.
May the old gods and the new be with you both.
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Post by Alexodia on May 7, 2017 20:32:59 GMT
Jiaying's usual placid demeanour still unshaken by the occupant's entrance, she nevertheless found his request of her name rather baffling. Also irritating, given the Thusian's traits. They've been in vaguer situations than this, and the Thusian hasn't failed to identify her; she was sitting on the bed, after all. Her hood wasn't drawn up, the lighting was relatively fine, although her mind was admittedly drawn back to several of the times when the Thusian had chosen to exercise his rather impressive paranoia, even in times unnecessary. At an off-glance, she could almost admire the Thusian's dedication to knowing everything that went on, before the other part of her brain took over, of course, leaving her even more annoyed than before. Stopping the coin rolling across her knuckles dead in its tracks as she fixed the Thusian with an eyebrow raised in slight exasperation, she very pointedly turned her head to look at the staff leaning across the wall next to her, the red of the design glinting in the light, holding the gaze for a few seconds before looking back to the Thusian with an unimpressed glare. Even he knew that there wasn't a chance in hell he'd miss the staff; the pattern was rather distinctive, and even if it wasn't, he'd put a synced Neth crystal into the thing; there's no way he wouldn't recognise it. Either way, she despised travelling too far, and being away from the Jungle made her bones itch. She had to do what she needed to do and get out.
"How about instead..." Jiaying spoke up after a few seconds with a cool tone, injecting some of her boredom into her icy expression as she reached down to the side of the bed and picked up the satchel with her left hand, holding it in the air and shaking it slightly during her eye contact with the Thusian. "...we get down to business so we can both leave this place as soon as we can." she finished, putting the satchel back on the floor and lazily placing her foot behind the bag before pushing off with her foot and sliding the bag across the floor, the leather soundlessly gliding across the floor before coming to rest at the Thusian's feet. "I won't pretend to be interested in where you went off to running up the coast." Jiaying continued, her features returning to their usual expression of boredom. "I don't think I could be if I tried. Instead, let's just make the exchange and then we can be on our way, hmm? You wanted one of a particular size. Don't say that I never deliver." Breathing in deeply through her nose as she looked around the room, taking in the scrolls and the waylaid equipment all over the room before she turned her attention back to the Thusian.
"I thought you should know that I'm rather running out of stories to tell to the Undyne when I come across them." Jiaying admitted offhandedly, her tone extremely blase. "I was lucky that I didn't have to go outside of the Jungle for what you wanted, but it doesn't stop these trips from being a pain in the ass. With that in mind, it's time to hold up your end, Enmel. What have you got for me?" she inquired, a single eyebrow raising up again in anticipation. The bartering system that the two of them shared could be quite interesting at times; sometimes it was simply gold or silver for her to use at her leisure, but many other times, her compensation was something else entirely, of a value of a different sort. She still often sold them for passage and the like; she didn't mind stowing away on ships and travel. She even preferred it. But for when she had business to attend to, and she didn't need anything fucking it up, that's when she bit the bullet and paid for stuff. Regardless, she didn't doubt that whatever he had would interest her; at this point, her standards were getting lower and lower just for a higher chance to get back home, and put the memory of soothing an Undyne behind her forever. At least until the next time it happened.
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Post by Deaths on May 12, 2017 0:06:47 GMT
"No, there's ten of us living here currently." Roderick answered Fiala's question with his usual kindness. "Myself, Katherine, mom, and dad of course." He inhales for a moment readying himself for all the introductions he'll have to make. "Anthony he's a little blonde boy about eleven years old, he is out with the cows right now. Samantha she's a new arrival, mom thinks she's about seven to eight months old. Poor thing wound up on our doorstep in the middle of the night." Roderick cuts a glance at Logan with a half smirk. "Nothing good ever comes from children being discovered, isn't that right Logan?" Roderick smirks as Logan rolls his eye, turning his head to Fiala he points passed the house where part of a barn can be seen. "Over there a bit passed the barn is mom's garden, Kaylee is usually over there she's amazing with the plants." Roderick continues walking as he keeps the conversation going. "That's to be expected, she's a Roe-lian after all. Then there's the twins, Alice and Sarah. Good luck telling them apart they are both little red headed hellions, but that's how two year olds are. Logan was a monster and Katherine tried her best to out do him." Roderick smiles as Katherine grumbles under her breath clearly annoyed by the taunting, she attempts to slap Roderick, but Logan keeps her arm pinned around his collar. "Finally there's Logan. There are a whole bunch of us, but not everyone still lives here. Though they do come to visit similar to Logan, but the rest were able to settle down find spouses and real jobs." Logan stops in place for a second, but recovers his stride that jab from Roderick hit a little bit deeper than Roderick realized.
"Yeah that's our whole little family, though I haven't met Samantha yet." Logan speaks up taking the reigns of the conversation away from Roderick. "I'm glad Anthony found something he's good at, he'd always get so mad that he was just the worst with a bow, and had no magical ability. Poor boy was crushed he couldn't follow in his amazing brother's footsteps." Logan smiles softly thinking back to the days when he would give magic lessons to Katherine as Anthony would look on in envy.
"Which amazing brother is that? Does Anthony have a brother I don't know about?" Katherine feeling ignored butts into the conversation. Her comments are only met with another flick on the head from Logan.
"Rude." Logan chastises her again, as they finally make it to the front porch. "Damn that old chair is still here huh?" Logan walks up the steps and approaches a well worn wooden rocking chair sitting empty all by its lonesome. Logan puts Katherine down as he loses himself for a moment. The front door swings open as a giant figure of a man walks out, his hair is slicked back and just like his beard it was neat trim and covered in black and gray. The imposing figure slaps Logan's wrist and stares angrily at him.
"The last time you touched my chair you damn near burned the house down, you best believe I won't let you touch it again." His hard face softens as he notices Fiala, he nods politely and speaks to her. "My apologies for the outburst Miss 'Fi alll la' was it?" He takes his time pronouncing her name hoping he got it correct, even though he is much more calm his face was frozen in a permanent scowl. "KAREN!" He turns his head and yells inside the house. "LOGAN'S HERE!" A few moments later the sound of hurried footsteps can be heard running through the house.
A short plump woman comes down the stairs an annoyed look on her face, a small bundle clutched against her. "What are you yelling about!" She whispers sternly at Micheal, her green eyes grow wide as she produces the biggest smile the world has ever seen. She passes the bundle to Katherine, who has an immediate look of disinterest, but holds it gently her face shows how afraid she is of dropping it. Karen gives Logan the tightest hug she can while shooting Micheal a look, "I just got her to sleep be quiet you old loud mouth." She scolds him as she turn her head back to Logan. "Its so good to see you Logan." She says her eternal smile still on her face. Looking at Fiala she approaches and hugs her as well, whether Fiala allows it or not doesn't matter Karen's hugs always connect. "It's so nice to finally meet you I'm Karen, Logan has told me so much about you in his letters. He says you're amazing with plants." She lets go of the hug and gives Logan a once over. "Thank you for feeding the boy, he always had a habit of eating the spoiled fruits, or the wrong mushrooms." She sighs amused at the memories she has created.
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Post by DodoDestroyer on May 13, 2017 15:52:02 GMT
Amelia has been sitting in the bustling tavern for awhile now in a lonely table of the corner. Her display of violence seems to have already been the talk of the joint, people keep whispering and giving her sideway glances while others are giving her table the widest berth possible without making it look too obvious. She is wondering how many of these patrons were friends with Argo and Grom, and how many are contemplating chasing her out of this place because of the death of one and the crippling of the other. Alec has ceased not ceased his crying, it is not as loud but still continues nonetheless. Amelia feels lost for a solution to aid him, she has rocked him the way she has seen his mother and even tried speaking in a soothing voice, though she doubts he can hear her through the canopy of noise and laughter. Milk is still on her list to search for and with how desperate she is getting, she is really considering asking and paying for a woman fit for breastfeeding in all seriousness.
It is then a Thusian comes into the bar, a bright eye patch on their face and a confident stride in their step. She can tell from her small observation that this one has no doubt in their abilities, cunning and perhaps even deceptive. She questions their Gender, it's always a tad difficult working that out with a Thusian... Not just their appearance but their movements and posture always seem ambiguous, but that is not important right now. Amelia watches them speak to the bartender, she cannot hear what they say over the noise and lip reading hasn't been her strongest suit, but is working on it. No longer seeing any point in observing some more, she is about to turn away from them until the Bartender looks her way. It's subtle but hardly anything escapes her eyes, constantly watching out for dangers in the past with her duties. Now she's suspicious of the Thusian. Her best bet is that he has caught wind of her actions, maybe he knew the people she killed. It has her on edge to say the least. After a brief exchange, the Thusian makes their way to the rooms while the bartender makes their way to her table. Amelia keeps a hand over her dagger while her arm holding a distressed Alec, rocking him as best she could as she went through several ways she could get them both out of this unharmed. She is expecting this encounter to go many ways... But the bartender giving her a room key with a pouch of gold coins wasn't one of them. She raises a suspicious eyebrow at the name of Talon. She hasn't recognised a single face in this place, let alone this one.
"Yes I do, an answer to a question. Who is Master Talon?" She asks bluntly to the bartender. Her first guess she caught their attention by the brutal takedown on the two hustlers, that the duo were getting in the way of whatever Talon and this is their way of thanks. Suddenly a second thought appears in her head, one of great importance... "And do you have milk? Suitable for infants?" She asks. She doesn't care if the bartender finds it comical, she needs Alec's feed.
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Post by Snoe on May 15, 2017 3:44:12 GMT
Enmel smirked at the response he’d garndered from his late night visitor. Jyiang never was one for a joke... not these days any way but that was something neither of them were keen on brining up. The old acquaintence was something of a recluse as of late... well the last, who knows how many years. “Aren’t you going to humour me? I swear darling you’ve got to lighten up... besides how am I supposed to know if that thing follwing you around isn’t wearing you like a suit.” Enmel pointed out, the best route to test such a thing was behaviour.
Catching the satchel tossed his way and pulling it open to check the crystal. “Nice make, young... but of above average quality.” Talon held the crystal up to the light and examined it closely “So you got it from an Undine...” He looked a little closer and examined the texture “...Oooo you got this from Faust, that must’ve been a pain in the ass...that one is such a killjoy.” And also why Enmel didn’t go and get crystals from Undyne and Djinn himself. “Good job by the by, I’m proud of you.”
Enmel smirked placing the Crystal on his desk, and facing his guest more directly. “That said, you’re right we should get down to business; that item is worth 200 silver OR you could take 50 silver and put the rest toward a downpayment on something very special.” Enmel pulled a small egg like item from his pocket, looking akin to black jade with runic markings lining its surface along with a two prong key hole in its face. “This is Thusian Lock Box, and if you come with me for a little job I have one for you.”
Enmel revealed his wrist and spoke a muttered phrase, and a key rose from his dark flesh “These things are nigh impossible to crack.” Talon sunk the key into the tiny box and twisted it open before setting it on the floor. From that egg lines of blue light stretched out and formed the shape of a box, and expanded into a large form settling into a black jade casket. Enmel opened the lid and there lay a bed of silver coins, and pouches. “So if we’re doing business, what do you think come work under me for a little while make some extra coin get an extraodinarily rare item, OR take a bunch of coin and we’ll meet around the same time next year?”
Meanwhile downstairs.
“Enmel Talon, that one eyed Thusian that walked in, he owns this bar and does alot of business in Olen, he wants to thank you subtly for dealing with those criminals and he wants to you to meet with him down here tomorrow to dicuss employment.” Leo continued with a nod “He’s a good guy.”
Then came her question of milk, and Leo noticed the child “Absolutely Miss, we can get that right away, Master Talon has more than a few connections that you can make use of... I’d suggest you listen to his offer seriously tomorrow... now lets get you taken care of.” Leo happily went about getting these tasks done.
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Post by projectekertest33 on May 20, 2017 20:48:24 GMT
Lagnil's pure black eyes watched the Thusian leave as swiftly as he'd arrived. "I had previously believed the Thusian reputation for being flighty too be exaggerated." He mused to Erik whom he noted with mild distaste was executing some of the more severely injured, a mercy probably but still he felt his partner took too much pleasure in it. "It appears however in the case of Master Talon it might have some worth."
One of the bandits he'd crippled with his tentacles reached out for him "Help... please!" Lagnil stared down at him confused. "You broke a deal made in good faith the fact that I have allowed you to live at all is already an unfair exchange to me as it takes far more effort to incapacitate instead of killing what could you possibly offer to make this proposal equitable?" The bandit looked up at him with pleading eyes. Lagnil gave the Ikesk equivalent of a sigh. "Very well however due to the unbalanced nature of this transaction you and your compatriots will owe me a rather large debt which I will claim in coin or other goods and services at my discretion."
From across the field Erik jeered while cutting another throat. "For fuck's sake Lag! They've already broken one contract why the fuck do you think they'd stick to this one with you?!" Lagnil shrugged. "I believe they have learnt the folly of such a course of action and all beings deserve at least one chance at redemption..." He trailed of for a second before turning back to the mercenary. "I will speak to Master Coranth on behalf of you and your surviving comrades although I cannot promise he will listen, is this exchange acceptable?" The man's eyes flicked from Lagnil to Erik covered in gore now having finished his mercy-killing and wiping off his axes and nodded vigorously. "Good I consider you a spoke-person for the rest of your company." Said Lagnil turning toward the road. "Ah I believe this is Master Coranth coming now."
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Mordugrad
May 21, 2017 16:14:13 GMT
via mobile
Post by DodoDestroyer on May 21, 2017 16:14:13 GMT
Amelia remains skeptical. She was correct to believe that the two hustlers were trouble to this Thusian, but she is wondering now what if the offer they have for her is the crooked kind, her keen senses are telling her to be wary whatever they have in store for her as she knows what kind of dealings the folks with a lot of connections have... But it is not like she has anything else going about for her so the least she could do is hear what it is and if she does not like the sound of it, she will move on.
Hours pass, the bartender serves a meal and Alec is fed some milk, she has no other reason to sit downstairs as the day begins to transfer into night. She carries the young child upstairs and to their assigned room. Upon entering, she sees that a makeshift cot has been placed here too... Well, it seems that Enmel really appreciated her actions... She removes her long coat her feathered tricone hat, two of her most symbolic pieces when she could call Darmantine her home, now represent nothing else other than clothing she has worn most of her life. All they symbolise now is the bitter reminder of what was lost. She places a now content Alec in the cot, she witnessed his mother hum him a familiar melody on numerous occasions that helped lul him into a peaceful sleep. Amelia begins to recite the same tune, the sound of it burned into her memory for such an occasion, she always prepared for any situation. Unfortunately, she was more leaning towards the occasion being the Queen was away on business and Amelia took over in her place, not because she is no longer around for him. The tune is beautiful, sounding wonderfully graceful from anybody, even those unfamiliar with a taste for musical art. As she watches Alec gently close his eyes, she thinks on what to do next. Enmel's offer is on the table, but if that does not work for her then she will need something to fall back on. While she can endure travelling place to place, the baby cannot. This will be a difficult journey for them both.
With the child asleep and has no need to have her full focus on him now, she starts to feel how tired her own body is. The little sleep, constant alertness and intense, stressful events have taken it's toll on her as well. She couldn't leave the castle with any possessions other than the clothes on her back and her trusted weapons, so nightwear is out of the question. No matter, she has never been much of a fan of it anyway. Stripping most of her clothes apart from her undergarments and trousers, she removes the scabbard from her belt and places it on the side of the bed against the wall for easy access, her dagger remains close to her person. The amount of times she has had to deal with assassins and those of ill intent while she was asleep has left her always prepared to act quickly and a very light sleeper so she has confidence Alec will be safe regardless sleeping in a foreign bed. She stays awake as long as she can while lying down, which isn't long at all. Her last waking thought is the offer, and what it would bring...
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Post by Alexodia on May 24, 2017 20:44:30 GMT
Hearing Enmel's light remark, her eyes immediately shot off to the side; the mere mention of the spirit's mark on her her flesh made her skin crawl almost on cue as painful flashbacks threatened to assault her memory. Quickly marshalling her faculties and bringing herself back to the real world with the least amount of noticeable resistance that she could muster, she clenched her fist besides her body as Enmel continued to go on about the quality of the crystal, even praising her at one point; letting out little more than an eyebrow raise in movement in response, she remained silent for the most part. She wasn't afraid to admit that some of it was admittedly cockiness in some regard; she did what people gave their lives doing most of the time, even as a profession, of sorts. It wasn't her legal profession, of course; technically, she didn't exist much in real life anyway. She abandoned the Roe-Lian and her old clan a long time ago, and even though she would have left to scour the world on her own by now anyway, the mere fact that it didn't go how it was supposed to go sat uncomfortably in her gut.
Her thoughts were nevertheless interrupted by Enmel's discussion of her rewards, causing her focus to snap back fully into place. Nothing like a reward to incentivise you. But as Enmel talked, her attention was fully diverted when he continued talking about some 'job' that he had for her, using a quarter of the payment that he had originally set out for her as a down payment. Her eyebrows furrowing together in confusion and curiosity as he pulled out a strange, egg-looking rock out of his pocket, holding it like it contained the secrets of the universe. Forcing herself to raise her eyebrows in anticipation as she projected her usual air of indifference, she sprinkled in some interest just to be cautious; she was sure that this little egg couldn't help her in most any way, but one thing she was even more sure of was that this particularly crafty Thusian, as weird as he was, never did anything without a reason. As he resumed speaking, however, she couldn't stop her eyes from widening in shock as he outlined exactly what this little contraption was and demonstrated what it could do, watching as the tiny egg transformed into the size of a gigantic chest and the key that had somehow materialised from his skin disappeared back onto his flesh as he opened the lid to reveal an amalgamation of different things.
Slightly lost for words, she struggled how to formulate any sort of answer to this. She'd heard of Thusian Lock-Boxes; she'd always wanted them, but not only were they incredibly rare in the first place, they were practically impregnable and highly coveted by anybody who prized their secrecy as well as their trinkets. Now that, she could use. Even if she decided not to keep it, it wouldn't take long at all to find a potential buyer for a prize so sought after; if she was even a little bit smart about it, she could probably set herself for life in one fell swoop. The only thing that stood in her way was the looming prospect of a job, a prospect that she didn't very much like; she didn't even know what it was, but she didn't really need to in the first place. Enmel knew that one thing she prized above everything else was her solitude, and this job very much likely entailed the opposite of that; she didn't mesh well with people, so if Enmel was asking, then he was either desperate, hopeful, or he'd become too familiar with their exchanges. If the latter was the case, then she'd have to resolve that, but her thoughts still raced through her mind as she fixed the Thusian with a wary, untrusting glare.
"The reason these little exchanges between us work so well, Enmel," she began, her tone icy. "...is because they're just that. Exchanges. You request something, I get it, and then we both fuck off back to where we came from until next time. At least, I do." she admitted sarcastically, reaching over to her side and grasping her staff between her hand, lifting it up and bringing it over to the other side of the bed before she firmly placed one end on the floor, her arm slightly raised from grasping the middle of the now-upright staff. "Please don't tell me that after all this time, you've fallen under the delusion that we're actually friends. We're not. We're partners, for lack of a better word. And changing the dynamic of our relationship isn't much appreciated." she continued, her tone still as cold as before.
"What is this job, anyway?" she asked, almost rhetorically. She wanted to know just what was the nature of this job he'd asked her to be a part of. Whether it was so fantastical that she just had to be involved, or whether he needed her particular skills, or whether he had in fact imagined they'd become friends over the course of years, she didn't know, but clarification when she rejected the offer would make her feel better. "What is this...little project of yours that I just had to be a part of? That was this important that you felt you'd upset our perfectly good dynamic? Please, enlighten me." she offered, her tone dripping with sarcasm with a facial expression to match. If he didn't know her initial thoughts before, then he would now; perhaps now she'd find out why he offered such an outing. Communication was key, after all.
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Post by Serph on May 24, 2017 23:56:36 GMT
Fiala tries not to laugh at the descriptions of everyone in the family, smiling as Rodrick explains. It’s definitely different from her own home, but there was still a similar feel to it. With all the children growing up together at her own home it was definitely rowdy, but it was nice. It seemed to be that way here too. Katherine’s verbal jab at Logan managed to finally make her release a soft laugh. It definitely reminded her of her own home. She opened her mouth to speak when she saw an older man slap Logan’s wrist away from a chair and closed her mouth, watching in mild confusion at the sudden exchange, eyebrows raising slightly in surprise. She quickly regained herself, putting a friendly smile back on her face and turning to face the man, who she assumed was Logan’s father, “Yes that’s right, it’s nice to meet you.” She just wished she knew how to address him. Logan’s dad wasn’t a great title. While she tried to wrack her brain to remember if Logan had ever mentioned his name, the man called out for ‘Karen’ who ran out with a small child. This must be Logan’s mom.
Unperturbed by the hug, Fiala allowed the woman to hug her and hugged her back, trying to answer back quietly so as not to disturb the small sleeping child. “He told me you were quite the gardener too, I hope I can take a look at what you’ve got planted here,” she half-whispered back. “And it was no problem feeding him, it’s always nice to have a friend to travel with.” The talk of food had her remembering her own goodies that she tucked away for them, she slide the bag with her share of the fruits she was carrying to her arms, “Speaking of food, I brought theses over for you,” she opened the top of the bag so Karen could see the overly large fruits she had been keeping with her. Logan naturally had been forced to carry some of the other fruits. She had thought maybe she had gotten anxious and grown too much, but considering how large his family was she couldn’t help but think it was better that she brought more rather than less.
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