Apollo Galata
Present day
Abelsol


To say that Doul was a good servant would sorely sell him short. In the span of a day, the man had sent out and received back intelligence on the route Reina took to escape. Aptly, he drafted a follow-up route that would get them to Abelsol within two days. Horses were tethered at the neighboring town, prearranged for purchase and prepared for travel. Apollo was in need of nothing, and all he had given Doul was a goal.

For two days, from first light to day’s end, Apollo and Doul took to the main roads, skirting around Stanislav checkpoints at the proper times. As the sun crowned the third day, the gates of Abelsol came into view.

“Surely if it were so easy for us, we can’t be the only ones searching for her here,” Apollo said as the thought struck him.

Doul nodded. “Soothly said, Milord, but do not fret overmuch--”

“--I’m not!--”

He smiled. “--It may not be so dire as it may seem. The people remember the true and just voice her family sounded from the council. They will not be so loose-lipped with those that seek her harm.”

Despite himself, he found Doul’s words reassuring. But Apollo only grunted in assent, keeping the feeling inside.

As a nobleman accustomed to a soft bed, the cold hard ground and the jostle of the horse pounded aches into his legs and back. And when they dismounted at the city gates, he could feel a sharp line of pain race up his back. A few hissing breaths. He didn’t want it to show.

Strangely, all the stress and ache of travel seemed to be lifting rather than dampening Apollo’s spirit. In fact, ever since they’d left Thalia, his heart had felt lighter than ever before. He was surprised that he could laugh, and wanted to. The contradiction was striking to his mind, but he could not pierce its depths.

At the first inn from the entrance to the city, they reserved a room and stored their belongings. After asking the barkeep a few questions about the state of the Thalian refugees and whether anyone had seen a young woman with long, dark-blue hair and a healing stave, all to no avail, Doul and Apollo parted ways: Doul to the thieves’ guild to purchase intelligence and Apollo to the marketplace to sell his rings.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • Love
Reactions: Falcon
Jirn - Abelsol
After a long and hard walk, Jirn had finally arrived at his destination: The village of Abselol. Looking around at the Marketplace, it wasn't too much of an unfamiliar sight to him as he alongside his crew had made stops at villages similar to this one to resupply or to sell various treasures in their time. Taking a gander around, the Marketplace was at least well organised so he didn't have to struggle with finding everything. Taking a walk towards the Weapon side of the area, he took a look at his axe to find it had been damaged from the encounter with that Sword Wielding Brigand.

"Hello there, can I help you?"
"Oh, hello. I need to purchase a new weapon. Do you have any Axes in stock?"
"Ah, an Axe Wielder I see. You certainly have the strength to wield one of these. Luckily we have plenty of Steel ones in stock."
"That'd be ideal. How much?"
"60 Silver."

Jirn reached for his bag of money and paid the Merchant accordingly.

"Thank you very much. Can I help you with anything else?"
"That'll be all. Thank you."
"Come again soon!"

Then Jirn walked over to the general side of the market to obtain food, water and basic survival supplies. Since he was to better himself, he'd have to be prepared for situations where he'd be either stranded on an island after an incident at the seas, or if he was separated on land. That was when he overheard a conversation between a Merchant and a routine of guards talking about a group of Ruffians, specifically mentioning one with an Axe.

"(They couldn't possibly be talking about the group I was in, could they? We mostly operated by sea and most of the Merchants got along with us.)"

Continuing to shop around, he was slowly but surely packing himself ready for a trip across the plains. If he was lucky, he could find someone to help train him to overcome his weaknesses, and return back to his family.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Arell McCain
Islas de Abaroa
Levitum

Arell had spent the last night reading through some more of his books, sitting behind some crates with a latern until dawn broke and he didn't need it anymore. So far all he found in any connection to what they were looking for were the names Jack Rodgers the Pirate King and Miha, but it was only brief and didn't specify specifically what it was he was given by her. Before he could delve any deeper to find any clues, the sun was higher in the sky and he was almost at the halfway point in the book when he heard Rendan calling his name. Blinking after what felt like a lifetime of not doing so, he marked his page and stood with sore and popping bones and a small groan. Rubbing his eyes, he stretched and turned to face the samurai and approached with the book at his side, his tome put away in a satchel he had on him, a little worn but well kept, another hand me down from his mother.

"I'm right here! I was doing some reading." He said, slightly sheepish for keeping Rendan waiting.

@Verran @Thundermage

Martha Fabre & Gertrude
Abelsol

"We plan to get what we need quickly, and thank you for letting us know." Gertrude answered, while Martha put a hand on her chin.

"We'll have to keep an eye out for trouble as well." Martha added onto what Gertrude said all ready. Placing her hands on her hips she tilted her head slightly.

"Afterwards Gertrude needs to grab her horse and we should be ready to leave then." She added then as an afterthought.

@Conway
 
COLLAB POST BETWEEN:

Jessica2477, @Fyrra, and @CaptainMarvel


In a dimly lit pub just outside of a small town called Tahir, a young woman laughed with trails of fire magic following her hands, dancing on the makeshift stage the owner had set out. Her smiled glowed as brightly as the gold of her clothing's ornaments that adorned her figure, each sway and movement of her limbs causing a jingle. Patrons of all levels of sobriety enjoyed the extra entertainment, some watching in awe and others for less innocent reasons, while the rest were downing their beverages and having a good time with their friends. The newfound environment, completely opposite from the stuffy snob taverns she had been forced to grow accustomed to, was a huge breath of fresh air. The folk of this side of the country was so loud, obnoxious, and brotherly in their own ways. Suraya would dare say she felt more at home here than in the heart of Ufral, where her mother and father were waiting for her.

Ever since her disappearance from the Farrokhzad noble house, she had been exposed to more than she could have ever dreamed of. Away from the prim and proper lifestyle of a nobleman, from the lies, the manipulation, and just generally free of care from the world was where Suraya felt happiest. Like this, moving her body to the rhythm of whatever music that happened to be playing was where her heart belonged. No matter where the stage or in what country, Suraya would perform for anyone willing to watch. She would happily give up everything she was worth if it meant staying like this for the rest of her days.

However, just as she finished her dance and bowed to accept her applause, the doors opened to reveal less friendly faces. Suraya looked over to see three men, dressed in typical mercenary gear. Each man was armed with different weapons; one with a bow, another with an ax, and the final with a sword and shield.

They eyed her, recognizing her as their target. The men didn't need to say anything for Suraya to understand what they were going to do.

The pink haired girl pouted, "Looks like the show's over..." Her eyes quickly searched every possible exit. The door, the back door, and the windows. Taking the back door route was too high of a risk since she wasn't familiar with this tavern. The bowman of the mercenaries was guarding the front, which meant her easy capture if she tried to run to it.

"Escape tactic One! Let's go Naira!"

With that, Suraya took a running start and jumped through the thin and flimsy glass of the pub's window. Though her arms were a bit cut, the dancer immediately got back up as the mercenaries quickly moved to try and catch her.

Hearing her name above the cheers and whistles of an eager crowd, a girl in the audiences finished her drink and bundled up in her cloak, its violet hues possibly an easier mark than her hair's a particularly vibrant shade of green. This was not their first escape from what Naira could only assume were the hounds of one of Suraya's suitors, but the accomplice's hesitation toward the window told of their recent introduction.

In the end, the girl opted for the back route, scrambling past a few barmaids and cooks while awkwardly donning a satchel and repositioning her staff to fit through a door, and once outside, she stopped to search among the grass, heedless of any pursuers that could be on her trail. Eventually, she found what she was looking for, and reached down to pluck a weed from the ground. Raising it to her lips, she blew between the blades, producing a loud, high-pitched whistle that shrieked across the evening sky.

And in the distance, a horse's whinny called out in acknowledgment.

Not far from the pub, a young woman dressed in armor flew through the evening air. Atop her kinshi mount, she was something of a spectacle to those below her. In truth, she would rather not be somewhere so public, but she had a job to do. Getting to Thallia was her priority, and this was simply the most direct route there. Besides, she needed somewhere to stay. Why not here? Tahir wasn't the most densely populated place, after all. She doubted that one lone Midori scout would cause much uproar. So, she stared straight ahead, the wind blowing through her hair as her kinshi flew onward. Her mind drifted for a moment, and the girl allowed her thoughts to wander.

That is, until something crashed below her.

Mei Takahashi's mind snapped back into focus. She pulled on her reins, prompting her kinshi to stop. Looking down, Mei surveyed the pub for a moment, before noticing the source of the crash: a red-haired woman who, evidently, had just leaped through a window. At the pub's back entrance, another woman emerged, whistling through something she picked up off the ground. The kinshi flyer grit her teeth, wondering what kind of trouble she'd just stumbled upon. She'd heard of some runaway noble matching the woman's description...could that be her?

"Sora, down," Mei commanded, getting a low chirp from the kinshi in response.

In one swoop, Sora dove toward the ground, rearing back up so as to land on his talons. A small dust cloud shot up as he landed, though neither kinshi nor rider noticed. Mei drew her lance off her back, keeping it in her right hand, while maintaining a grip on Sora's reins with her left. Whatever was going on, she had a bad feeling; having been in a scuffle or two, Mei could tell when something was about to go down. Whether she needed to get involved or not, though, was the question.

Suraya, hearing Hrist's song, smiled. If she can hold out long enough in combat against these fools, then she might be able to walk out of there unscathed. She was fast, but she could hear that the mercenaries were faster.

She reached into bag, taking out her Fire tome. "Why can't you fools just leave me alone?"

The pink haired girl suddenly stopped and readied her magic in her palm, turning her body to direct the attack at the men.

"Scatter!" One of them shouted.

The three dodged mercenaries threw themselves to the side, narrowly avoiding Suraya's red arcanic circle that immediately burst into flames. As she prepared for another attack, the bowman quickly readied a net interlaced with a rippling darkness Suraya couldn’t make out while the ax and sword mercenaries watched her carefully.

Suraya gave a flourish of her hands, sending down a large fireball at the men to forcibly separate the group.

However, before the next attack could be dealt, a dust cloud emerged and a thud sounded. She looked over to see a large kinshi and a rider on its back. Suraya wasn't sure if this person was friend or foe, but then again, she loved it when things got interesting~

"Is that a bird?" Naira mused aloud when a gust of wind and dust heralded the arrival of an interloper, the distraction costing her a speedy mount onto her horse's saddle: said horse stopped at the girl's side to nudge her with her face, bringing her back to attention. Of course, since Naira wasn't the target of these hired hounds, her sense of urgency may have been momentarily misplaced.

Once in the saddle, that changed. With staff in hand, she rounded the corner with a mighty gallop, neatly crossing into the fray in the midst of the pursuers' dispersal. A quick glance revealed the presence of a few warriors, an archer, the large bird-rider, and a number of unarmed onlookers fascinated by Ms. Suraya's encore. This was Escape Tactic One: a flashy showdown that encouraged audience participation, and ended with a dramatic exit.

And, thinking better of charging down the trio with only her staff to back her up, Naira called out to their audience, "Alas, the caliphate approves not of our showing! A desert rose belongs amongst the sands,, or so they should have us all believe, but she would wilt under the constriction of such conviction, as even a tiny net such as that one carries with it a death sentence! But not this day! Spare us the honeyed promises of your masters, for we see the poison they conceal!"

One of the peasants coughed.

Another one shrugged. "Your friend commands a mighty inferno. I doubt a rope net should hold her for long."

A child giggled. "Just stomp on them with your horse, you don't need our help!"

Mei narrowed her eyes as the woman's attackers showed themselves. Mercenaries. She watched as a fireball forced the men to scatter, though she knew it would not be enough to chase them off. Just then, the other woman appeared, this time atop a steed of her own. As the mercenaries gathered themselves, Mei surveyed their equipment. She especially noticed the archer among them, suddenly feeling wary. Archers gave soldiers of her particular brand...problems. All the men were seemingly armed to the teeth, though, meaning they came prepared for a fight. The two women, however, appeared to be on the defensive. And from the rather...theatrical display that she'd just witnessed, they were in need of help.

Her mind was made up right then.

"Leave the peasantry out of this," Mei spoke, pulling on Sora's reins. At that, the kinshi took flight, hovering roughly ten feet off the ground. "I'll help you both, if you can handle that archer."

Out of the corner of her eye, Mei noticed the mercenaries had finally recovered. Her eyes moved between the two women, though her expression remained calm. The two women should listen to her...if they had any sense, that is. Of course, that was a rather dangerous assumption. Still, there was no time to discuss the matter further; one of the mercenaries, armed with a sword and shield, was making a charge right toward her. Sora reared upward as Mei flipped her lance around, ready to strike. Suddenly, he dove back down toward the mercenary, while Mei struck out toward him.

"Oh I love it when things get interesting!" Suraya giggled a little then readied herself for another attack.

She opened her tome to a marked page and readied her magic. The crimson mist flowed from the pages to her ready fingers, becoming hotter with each second. The ax mercenary was making a charge for her while the shielded one was making a dash for the bird woman. She wasn't sure if they had a strategy in mind, but that was the least of her worries.

The bow man behind his friend was readying up to attack their new companion.

Suraya reacted quickly, deciding that she could take a punch if it meant keeping the pretty bird alive.

With the magic at the ready, she launched another fireball. The ax man had covered his body with the large ax he carried, however there was no impact. The magic zipped past the ax wielder and flew towards the bow man.

"Fadel, watch out!" The ax mercenary called out to his friend.

The bow man quickly saw the magic incoming and threw himself out of the way, taking some scalding damage to himself and to the bow.

The ax man moved to shove Suraya with his weapon though the dancer did her best to leap out of the way. The mercenary swung his ax, though he was using the flat edge of the weapon to try and knock her over.

Having successfully pressed the flyer into service through somewhat roundabout means, Naira returned her attention to the skirmish, surprised that it was only these three in the fray even now. That the trio even appeared to ignore her presence rather than remove her was a boon in itself, especially when the archer dove to the side. With the archer momentarily prone and the swordsman engaging their new ally, Naira tugged her steed's reins to the side and nudged her feet into the horse's ribs.

"Clear a path," the girl whispered as she leaned down, from a trot to a full gallop, straight at the axe-wielder in front of Suraya. Then, just as she was about to crash into him, the mare tugged to the side and Naira drove her boot into the warrior's skull, speeding right past him only to slow down and turn around, ready to either continue the charge, withdraw to use her staff, or pull Suraya into the saddle and flee at a moment's notice.

Among the civilians, the child and the man in glasses cheered.

Suraya leaped out of the way of the horse in time for the axe wielder to get a boot to the head. Though Naira had done a good bit of damage to him, the axe mercenary got back up and picked up his weapon quickly.

"Damned brat; Just go to your mother already!" The man exclaimed at Suraya moving in to charge after her again.

Suraya tried to get out of the way again, doing her best to try and get her distance but the axe man stubborn to keep close. "Why can't you just leave me alone instead?!"

The bow mercenary, this time, aimed his arrows at Naira. He shot one, then another, and another directed towards the green haired woman, careful to not hit his comrade.

The sword mercenary moved his blade to swing not at Mei, but at her kinshi's head first then at her. It would be easier to completely immobilize the soldier first before going in for the kill.

Mei let out a huff as the swordsman narrowly dodged her blow, so that she merely cut his arm. But instead of retaliating at her, he aimed right for Sora's head. She pulled hard on her kinshi's reins, causing him to rear up into the air.

"Dastard! Who do you think you are?" she shouted, her grip tightening on her lance.

At the very least, Sora was alive. How cruel, to target a foe's mount! If that was how this man wanted to settle their bout, then so be it. Mei pressed her heels in, prompting Sora to dive downward. She readied her lance, aiming for the mercenary's left arm. If she could render his shield arm unusable, he'd be quite defenseless. Overreliance on a shield made for a lousy fighter.

Taking a shot to the shoulder, Naira gave off a pained grunt: she'd been caught on the turnaround, but still ducked in time to avoid either of the other shots meant for her. Between that, and the swordsman having issues with being cut down like the rabble he is, Naira considered her retreat. Evidently, her boot was not enough to subdue the axe-wielder either.

With Suraya trying to escape her assailant, Naira nudged her horse in the same direction and gave a light kick, gripping her staff with an injured arm and charging forth once more. When the girl drew nearer to her companion, she leaned to the side with her good arm outstretched, ready to lift the noblewoman into her saddle.

"Grab on!"

Suraya reached for Naira's hand and leaped upwards, clinging onto the horse for dear life. She, with the help of her friend, adjusted her seating onto the horse.

"Follow us if you can! And thanks!" She yelled at the woman on the kinshi, readying up her magic before shooting another fireball at the swordsman to give Mei a chance to escape. Suraya would also have to work against the archer unless they wanted problems.

Wincing from the arrow, Naira lowers herself down the moment Suraya made it into the saddle, guiding her horse toward the bowman in their retreating gallop. Each bounce brought the duo a moment closer to escape, or a moment closer to their doom, but the man was just slow enough on the draw that he was forced to either dive out from Hrist's path or be trampled.

As he dodged, the local onlookers whistled.

The ax man cursed “Damn! Move! Grab the horses!” He commanded his friends, rushing to try and follow the girls.
 
  • Love
Reactions: Falcon and Takumi
Veran Nodded to Martha and Gertrude, they needed to get out sooner than later. "Agreed, we should move faster rather than slower." He glanced to Gertrude, "I would suggest that you get your horse now to expedite this, but that would be unwise as, I am just some hired blade you met last night." Veran's statement was not a threatening one, it just seemed to be matter of fact, and him understanding what they would think of him. He looked back to their surroundings as they now entered the market. It was fairly lively, but still not too crowded yet as it was earlier in the morning.

Veran turned back to the two women, "I scouted this out earlier, food will be over there, clothing, if you need it, is just beyond that, other mundane supplies will be over on this side, and If you need arms and armor, that is on the far side." Veran pointed out the directions of the stalls that he had scouted that morning, then turned back and kept an eye on the surroundings. "You two do your shopping, I will be your eyes for now." He fell in behind them ready to follow, keeping a close eye on the alleyways and suspicious people, without being too conspicuous himself.
 
Sissel looks at Ludivine's wyvern, studying it. He wanted to remember why he was so intrigued by wyverns. It was as if he met one in his childhood. However, this was not the case as his head hurts when he thinks about it. "Um ma'am, is it ok if you tell me about your wyvern?" He thinks he is looking for a particular wyvern, but he doesn't know what. His hand reaches out but he's afraid to anger t again.



Angel looks around for people to help her with her pained hunger. She hasn't eaten in quite some time and her pegasus is hungry as well. She looks around for a vendor or a friendly person. She sees a market and enters the market. Rose walks behind her following her handed commands. She bumps into Veran as she was paying more attention to her mount than where she is going. "I-i'm sorry sir. I didn't mean to..."
 
Apollo Galata
Abelsol Marketplace

The Abelsol marketplace was like a series of connected streams. Trickles of people poured from one section of buildings to another, breaking off into stalls and alleyways now and then. The minstrels playing on street corners set a beat they all walked to with spry and light steps. In the midst of the bustle, Apollo suddenly came to a stop, staring up at the signs and banners around him.

The jeweller was supposed to be here, on the second corner from the weaponry row.

Or was this the third corner?

He started to turn, but someone crashed into him, sending them both stumbling.

"Eyyy! Watch it, kid! Quit standing around!!" It was a large man, with tattoos strung along his left arm.

Apollo only glowered and moved out of the way. He was distinctly aware that he was alone.

So this must be what it feels like to be a commoner, he grimaced.

After asking directions from the man selling apples (and buying three apples later), Apollo made his way to the jeweller shop. The array of gold and sparkling gems within set him at ease.

"Welcome, my good sir! How can I be of service?" The jeweller spoke with a refined cadence. Apollo relaxed. A smile grew over his face.

"I'm a nobleman from Thalia, Apollo Galata."

"Ah... sorry to hear that, sir," the man was assuming that Apollo was selling all he had, a refugee fallen from the grace of a comfortable life. Apollo shook his head.

"No, no... Though I appreciate your sympathy, we Galata yet maintain our title and soon will restore our lands," he said. "These are my personal possessions. I seek to sell them at a fair price for a personal cause." Apollo touched his belt for the small pouch that held his rings and felt only leather. He turned around, patting his front and his back. He raised his head, aghast. No! Where had he left them? When did he lose them?

Falling back against his heels, he realized the culprit. His hands curled into fists. "I will be right back, sir."

He turned back down the road into the crowds, searching for a man that stood with his head above the rest, who had tattoos strung up his right arm. Beside a stall full of swords, he saw him. The man was laughing with the blacksmith, his head falling back, the guffawing noise quaking the air around him. Apollo felt for the knife on his belt and drew it.

"You there! Thief!" He cried out at the top of his lungs, drawing the attention of the patrons, the shopkeeps, and, most importantly, the guards. "Return my rings, snake!"

The large man suddenly stopped laughing. He turned on Apollo with fire in his eyes. Clearly he had expected an accusation, and he returned with an air of practiced arrogance. "Pipe down, kid! You're crazy!"

"Take off your left boot." Apollo's voice had narrowed to a sharp command. "And hand it over."

The tattooed man was shirtless, and his trousers so clung to the skin that they would hide nothing. His boots, on the other hand, were made of cloth and fur, and the gusset was wider than his calf. Doul had taught him to look for the odd thing out -- it was always a giveaway.

The large man laughed. He shook his head. He turned and ran.

"Guards!! Guards!!!" Apollo called out with growing urgency as he raced after the thief.
 
  • Love
Reactions: Takumi and Falcon
Martha Fabre & Gertrude
Abelsol

"I understand your sentiment, but I only didn't bring him because children run about and did not wish to risk it. Even so, if I whistle he'll come. As I trained him to." Gertrude assured, and had actually left Toma untied to anything before leaving. If someone was foolish enough to try and steal her horse, said horse would come to her instead. And if said rider was caught? She'd deal with them.

Except for when Martha's brother took him, but that was when the two were still new partners. Now? Their bond was strong.

Gertrude placed a hand on her chin as Veran brought up where each thing was, and Martha seemed to have an idea what her line of thinking was.

"Food, then clothes, should be all we need, right." Martha spoke, earning a curt nod from her retainer in answer.

As Veran told them to do their shopping, Martha nodded and with a, "We won't be long, promise." The two woman were off.

Gertrude always kept a small list in mind, all they needed was enough food to last them at the very least perhaps a week. Maybe not even that if they traveled quickly. Clothes on the other hand, would have to be for Martha. Something to keep her from having to wear her armor too much, but with enough room to fight in if she ever had to. Knowing her Lord's preference, she'd probably have to find an outfit with pants more than anything.

Splitting up, but keeping within eyesight, both lord and retainer bought a few vegetables and fruits, as well as some dried meats and jerky. Regrouping, the two moved on to the clothes.

"Oh, how can I help you lovely ladies?" The woman behind the stall smiled.

"We just need some simple travelling clothes, specifically with pants." Gertrude spoke, before motioning to Martha.

"Ahh, I see. Hm, I might have soemthing for you dears! It might even bring out your lovely hair and eyes even more to catch a husband along the road." She joked and winked causing Martha to sputter in embarrassment, while Gertrude coughed into her fist to hide her laugh.

After advertising her wears for a bit, Martha eventually picked two outfits, one with a brown leather bodice and and skirt, a cream colored long sleaved shirt and white pants as well as knee high brown leather boots. The other a simple white short sleeve shirt with a bodice as well, it's material seemingly cotton, the lord really couldn't tell. Said bodice was a dull gray, the pants with it a muted blue. These came with knee high boots as well, the same color as the bodice. Martha paid for these, and threw in a simple brown hooded cloak as well. By the time both woman were ready to go it seemed trouble decided to brew elsewhere.

Both turned their heads in the direction they heard the shouts of 'theif' and 'guards', and Martha placed a hand on her hilt. Gertrude simply nudged her charge and shook her head. If it ws the ruffians Veran mentioned, right now it wasn't their problem.

If the supposed theif came their way, then it would be their problem; one she'd deal with quickly if needed.

@Conway @ElDorado @Others probably nearby
 
  • Love
Reactions: ElDorado and Falcon
Introduction Post - Mercia the Mercenary

"So, your name is Mercia? No last name or anything?"
"No."
"Okay. Any family?"
"Yes. However they are no longer among us."
"I see that this is going to take a while, given your stance and your ties. How about you start off with your story?"
"It all started when I was younger. Around five to be precise..."​

In her Youth, Mercia was a very scared and shy girl. Any stranger that she'd see approach her or her parents she'd hide behind her family. Her Father was a Mercenary working for a few villages every now and then. Using the money he obtained from accepting jobs, he paid for food, water and basic living items in order to survive, however they couldn't quite afford proper housing, so they lived their lives in a Campsite. Sleeping in tents and utilising a classic campfire in order to cook and eat their food. They lived on the outskirts of Midori, surviving however they could. However at the age of fifth-teen, Mercia's life was to change forever.

One rainy day, a unfortunate tragedy struck. A pair of Bandits attacked their campsite and caught her father off-guard, killing him and then slaughtering her mother while she was still asleep. After watching her family get killed by them, she knew she was next as she knew that Bandits were typically very thuggish and downright stupid. Retreating into her tent, she found herself with a dilemma; She needed a weapon. Rushing around her chest in the tent, she found an Steel Sword which appeared to of been used a fair bit but was still in good condition. Attached was a note inside which she didn't have time to read so she took it off and put it on top of the chest. She rushed outside, holding it in a way that she remembered her father would, and encountered the Bandit Pair.

"Oh look. The little brat thinks she can beat us. What you think, Barz?"
"Bub, I think we need to kill 'er. She clearly wanna die."
"Yeah, heh'e, let's kill 'er and then chuck her corpse down the riv'r."
"Heh'e, let's do it."

"That must of been tragic. What did you do?"
"I wanted to cry, I really did. Back then, I was a snivelling coward. Anything would scare me, would... shift me into a direction where I didn't want anything to do with it. But something clicked into me... Like my body just didn't want to give in..."​

"Eh, let's just kill 'er."
"Yeah."

The two Bandits brandished their Axes and rushed for her, both launching themselves for one combined attack when she seemingly blocked both of them with the Sword. She stared at the Sword that was holding the axes back and thought back to a memory with her father:

"Now Mercia, let me show you something cool."
"Okay papa~"
"Hmph. Hah. Hee, haaa. Yaaah! Hoop. Haaaah!!"
"Woah~ So cool, papa!~ Can you teach me how to do that?"
"From what I've seen of you Sweetheart, you always were a photographic learner. You see something, you almost read it like a book. But I couldn't possibly teach you something so dangerous when nothing could possibly go wrong here."
"Aww..."
"Sweetheart. Always remember that me and your mother love you very much. We'll keep you safe. I promise. My work as a Mercenary won't stand in the way of your safety."​

Once that memory faded, she took the opportunity to strike! Grabbing the hilt properly like her father, she pushed both of them backwards. Standing upwards with a pose befitting that of a Mercenary, she fought back and kept her composure throughout the entire experience. Baffled by the sudden pressure thrown upon the two bandits, they looked to each other.

"What? How the 'ell are we losin' to a girly?"
"Yeah, and a baby no less. I remember seein' her hiding behind her fath'r all 'da time."
"Eh? Then what is 'dis we're experiencing then, 'ate?"

"What did you do once they were confused?"
"I stood my ground, and made myself known to the thugs that dared attack me and my family."​

"My name is Mercia. I'm no longer the cowardly baby I was ten years ago. Thanks to you two, I no longer have any regrets or fears. After cutting down my father and my mother before my very eyes, you made me heartless. Broken. Emotional... But then I remembered my father's advice when he showed off his prowess one day."

The Bandits rushed towards her with undisciplined movement in which she simply blocked their attacks once more and knocked them back with a kick to the chest.

"I won't allow you to take any more lives. I will strike you down, and you will never live again. On my father's name, I shall end you right here!"

And with that, she continued to attack them until they had drawn their last breath. Watching the rain clean up the incident, she went back to her tent to read the note that was left behind:

"Mercia... If you're reading this, then you must of seen the Steel Sword I snuck into your chest this morning when you were out playing. I had hoped that I was to teach you how to wield the Sword in the chance that you wanted to follow in my footsteps. Take good care of this sword, Mercia. It's yours."
"(Thank you, Father. I won't let you down.)"​

"I see... That must of been quite a day for you. I'm sorry for your loss..."
"Someone has to be. But not me."
"What happened after that day?"​

The day after the incident, Mercia woke up with an expression of determination. She couldn't stay in that campsite anymore and she couldn't rely on others anymore as she felt no one else would know how to live the same life as her. She grabbed a nearby shovel and created small graves to put her mother and father in. Using two big pieces of wood that was left for Campfire Fuel, she etched their names into the wood and picked a few nearby flowers and planted them there as a memorial, with her father's sword stabbed into the top of the wood while she used a Flower Pot that her mother bought her on top of her grave. Going into her parent's tent and opening the chest, she found whatever money she could and had a long harsh journey to a village in Midori.

Seeing her plight when she walked into the village, someone offered her a place to stay until she could get onto her feet. Agreeing to the person's generosity, she took residence in a house which was small but cozy. Only one person was living there despite it being a two bedroom house on one floor. As she grew up, she got used to village life and started learning how to fight properly in the art of Swordplay. After several years of living in Midori, she had found a filer which was asking for potential recruits to become a Mercenary.

"And that's how you came to find us."
"Yes."
"So why exactly do you want to become a Mercenary?"
"I want to follow in my father's footsteps. He became a Mercenary to feed me and our family. If things hadn't of gone the way they did, he'd of trained me personally."
"I see. Well, we'd be happy to have you. Welcome aboard, Mercia."
"Thank you."
"Do you have anything you want to say before we conclude?"
"If there's one thing I learned from that incident 15 years ago, is that life isn't always sunshine and rainbows. Someone or something will ruin you to the point where you feel yourself to be useless, terrified and afraid to live on. Emotions like those are an obstacle and you must conquer them in order to push past despair and fright, and fight to live. You either control yourself and remain at peace, or die knowing that had you kept yourself at bay, you'd still be alive."​
 
Ludivine Daulfern
Mentions - @derek cazenari



She took the letter when it was handed to her, taking a brief moment to read it while Fosc eyed the wolf boy warily. It was a poem, written in what appeared to be red ink if she had to guess. Ludivine, once finished, handed the letter back to Sissel. "I'm afraid I know too many women that write poetry, and this sounds like what any of them would write." She told him.

At the mention of her wyvern, she couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. Ludivine had had the suspicion the other evening that Sissel was a foolish man who meant no harm, but looks could be deceiving. She would just have to tell him limited information about her wyvern then. "Fosc is my companion and comrade; been with me since I was a child. I've had him since he was an egg, and from that day, he has been trained to attack and defend... Was there a bit of information you were looking to obtain?" She asked.

Fosc lowered his head wearily at the gentle pat from his owner, giving the wolf permission to pet the wyvern this time.
 
  • Like
Reactions: TheMidnightSin
Sissel breathes deeply as he tells Ludivine "Well, That's the thing. I don't know what. I just need to look for... something" he said. "I mean... I just remember seeing a wyvern somewhere. At least i think." Truth is he lookin for the wyvern that killed his father. He does not like admitting this because of the fact that his father was part of an army as well, as he taught him about magic. The wolfskin looked at Fosc anf concluded. "No, not him. Sorry for the trouble.
 
Thalia, 23rd day of Zoi in the Season of Growing 1012 ADW.
8 Days after the fall of Thalia.
Capital City of
Thalia
@TheMidnightSin


Lordess Commander Amelia Tersch surveyed the hall. A gallery wing in a museum, to be specific. The hall was lined with paintings, statues, and mosaics. She meandered across them, looking at each with interest while her guard of six visible soldiers tailed, walked afore, and to either side of her kept pace. Exquisite portraits that detailed those of fame, beauty, or those who simply caught the artists eye. Landscapes showed the Thalian country side with such finesse that she even recognized some of the Stanislavian mountains from them. Great events were portrayed from across time. Even if they were only such interpretations. Such was one that she stopped in front of. Massive in size and scope, the painting took up almost all the space from floor to ceiling with only a few inches to spare. Its width was such that it spawned longer than a fully grown wyvern. It’s title was simply, “The Sealing.”

But what it portrayed was far more less simple than its title suggested. No, what lay before them were the Companion of the Seal of Ages in their final, cataclysmic battle with the ancient Isolde. The dragon, in majesty, was unleashing a torrent of ice and fire while the companions, resplendent in the colors and garbs from their homelands, stood unified in their gesture of defiance as powerful magics swirled about them, facing Isolde head-on. Their backs were to the Lordess Commander, forever more protecting her from the tyranny of the ice dragon. Yet Amelia couldn’t help but appreciate the irony of it. Not of the painting itself, but where the curator’s had place such an epic piece. It was far from the main entrance to the museum and tucked away in a section under the heading “relics of the past.” It seemed that Thalia had the same knack of any other land she had visited, that the past would be, in time, pushed to the side and forgotten. Regardless how important the event was.

As much as Tersch enjoyed the art museum as, at the least, it gave her a break from the borderline melodrama of running the nation rather than commanding her troops, she was expecting an arrival today. Not of one of the Grand Warlords. No, she’d have greeted one of them in the council chambers or at the gates of the city. Instead, she was waiting for one of the brigadiers of another legion to reach her. While she would have rather deployed one of her own, her legion was currently fully employed in the task of bringing peace to Thalia. A mission that was, overall, working. Less and less people were leaving the nation, and some had even returned. However, one of particular note had not, and it bespoke trouble beginning to rise on the horizon. It was time to cut that off. The soldier she had requested was high enough in the ranks that loyalty was a slim question, and discreet and skilled enough that she had confidence that he would be able to complete the task she had for him. Directions had been left for him and she had several soldiers who would direct him to her at the entrance. Speaking of, he should be arriving any minute now.
 
Valen walked up behind Arell. “Mornin’.” He sighed, not tired, but clearly annoyed. “Captain assigned me as ‘your bodyguard.’”
The reason for the captain’s decision? Probably either to punish Valen for his outburst or the ease his mind. Whatever the reason, he was not pleased. He did not want to babysit some kid. It should not be too hard, he thought, as the kid looked smart. If he wasn’t, then the captain signed them all a death warrant. “So, where to first kid?” His axe was on his back, clear and visible.
He looked up and waved to the samurai. “Mornin’. Fine weather for a day on the town.” He seemed friendlier towards the samurai. He even smiled a bit.
@Verran @Takumi
 
Veran was trailing a little ways behind Martha and Gertrude, keeping an eye on everything that was happening around them. He spotted a man moving into an alleyway, a little kid darting between the stands looking about, a homeless man who seemed to be paying more attention than normal. All of these things could be nothing, but any one of them could be a sign of something to come. Veran was not being paranoid, just cautious, and meticulous. He noticed the homeless man seemed to be looking for people who might be more generous with their coin, and that kid was just running to his mother. He kept being very observant noting anything of interest, and crossing them out once they proved to be something else. Veran was also sure to not be too conspicuous himself.

Gertrude never left Martha's side which gave Veran the peace of mind to hang back and be this cautious. Even if their swords were just for show, which he knew they weren't, he knew the two of them could hold back an attacker for long enough that he could move in to assist. He noticed a larger man bump into someone, and noted it. His attention did not stay on them, as he noticed another man moving out of another alley, saying something, glancing in the general direction of Martha and Gertrude, then move back into the alley. That was definitely something to keep an eye on.

His attention was drawn back as the blue haired kid shouted and confronted the man. A chase ensued, with the kid shouting for guards. He glanced to Martha and Gertrude, it seemed like Martha wanted to act, but was held back by Gertrude. A smart move. Veran however was much closer and it seemed like the chase was spilling in his general direction. He glanced back to Martha and Gertrude, and gave them a nod before walking over to a stand that was directly in the Theif's path. He picked up a little trinket that this man seemed to be selling and looked at it as if his was inspecting it. The chase got closer and closer. Veran took a step back as if he was trying to see it in the sunlight, extending his leg back just a little further than normal. This last second move caught the thief off guard as he tripped over Veren's foot, crashing onto the ground and sliding to a stop. That same instant Veran put the trinket down and walked back off into the street. He did not want to interact with the victim of the robbery, and so moved off so that once he was done dealing with the thief, Veran would just be a wandering head in a sea of people. He glanced back to Martha and Gertrude giving them a nod, before falling back unto his role, keeping his eye on the comings and goings of the people around the market.

((( @Takumi @ElDorado )))
 
Apollo Galata
Abelsol Marketplace

With a shout and a clatter and a thump, the man tumbled to the ground. The dust curled around him, and shifted as he moved to his knees. A string of curses poured from his mouth.

“Ehh!! Get off!!”

On the man’s leg, a scrawny young archer wrestled. His fingers were prying at the boot, trying to wedge themselves inside. And for a moment, he managed to grab hold of something. But it was only a moment; for in the next instant, the tattooed man’s right leg game down on his face with a crushing force, sending him sprawling backward.

As Apollo groaned, covering his face, curled in pain, the tattooed man loomed over the boy, raising an arm heavy with brawn and intricately decorated in ink. “Don’t!” He took Apollo by the collar, his fist falling like a hammer on the boy’s stomach. “Mess!” Then his chest. “With me, boy!” Then his jaw, and the boy went slack.

It was then that a guardsman turned the corner, his sword drawn. “Stop right there, criminal scum!” He shouted, and three others in uniform fell in line behind him.

“Pfeh!” The thief released Apollo, sparing him further punishment, and took off running, throwing passerby aside and ducking down the first alleyway on his left.

The guards were in hot pursuit, calling out that the criminal stop, cease, desist, turn back! Their boots kicked up a cloud of dust, obscuring the boy who lay on the road. He was coming awake, groggily moving, blinking profusely.

@Takumi @Conway
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Angel goes around the market as a mercenary grabs her. Rose kicks the mercenary sending him flying across the room. Angel looks around and runs to the armory. She goes to the counter.

"Aye girl, how you doin!" The merchant asked.

"Can i have a lance please?" she asked.

"Aye you must be a pegasus knight" the merchant said.

"Yep! I am."

The merchant gave Angel a lance.

"Aye. since you look new ill give it to you on the house."

"Thank you sir" Angel turned.

"Hey girl, how about a drink?" the merchant said as he tries to sound seductive.

"um... nah." Angel said playfully. The merchant sighed as another pretty girl(angel) walked away. "give 'er a weapon huh? seemed simple in the book..." he mumbled.
 
Last edited:
Elijah Goldhawk
Abelsol Marketplace

The sun rose in the sky and with it our local wandering rogue let out a yawn. Elijah had been on the road to Abesol long enough to earn himself a few cuts from bandit attacks, a crick in his neck from sleeping on rocks, and an odd taste for pastries. However, as the carriage he hitched a ride on (after helping the merchant survive their own bandit attack) bumped and jumped along the dirt road Elijah let out a sigh of relief. He swung around the post holding the tarp down to the wagon and took his ceremonial breath of "rest". It was something he always did. Taking in the scents to get acquired with his new home for the next few days to weeks.The merchant pulled his carriage up to the guardsmen at the gates to the town and exchanged a few words before whipping his reins once again.

"I must thank you once again." The merchant muttered.

Elijah blinked and broke himself from his trance. He had been so excited to sleep on a bed and actually tend to some of his wounds that the words passed right through him, but he smiled seeing the soft expression on the merchant's face and his head looking down.

"Hey, don't let it get you down," Elijah said as he placed a hand on the merchant's shoulder, "You're an adventurer just like me, you just don't carry a pointy stick, so you can't let some idiots bring you down."

The merchant immediately perked up and held his head high, "You're right! I won't let some pesky bandits bring me down!"

The sudden energy the merchant showed was off-putting for Elijah as up until this moment he'd been one of the mopiest guys he'd ever met. The guy literally cried for a whole hour after Elijah saved him but, Elijah kept his nervous smile up for the merchant as the fires of determination and passion shined brightly in the small round man's soul. The carriage then suddenly hit a rock throwing Elijah off-balance and almost sending him face first into the dirt, but using his nimble body he was able to turn the momentum into a lunge followed by a roll. The merchant clapped after realizing what had happened.

"That's exactly why I brought you along!" The merchant exclaimed. "Anyways, come here, so that I may repay the debt I owe you."

Elijah chuckled and got onto his two feet. "You compliment me too much. Anyone can do what I do if they train hard enough."

As Elijah walked over to the carriage the merchant went into the wagon compartment and shifted things around. It took a minute, but eventually Elijah heard the clack of metal against metal. The merchant scooped up a handful of coins and placed them in a small coin purse. He was swift in tying the knot and grabbed Elijah's travel pack. He had a big smile on his face as he shoved the coins into his bag and heaved it over the edge for Elijah.

"No one can do what you can do boy! Same as no one can sell as good as me! Now I must be off! Visit sometime." The merchant said as he whipped the reins and sped off to register with the town.

Elijah, now alone, looked around trying to figure out what to do, but the words of the merchant echoed inside of him. However, it didn't take long for the sound of his stomach to echo throughout the town.

"Well, I guess that's step one, huh?" Elijah muttered as he held his stomach.
 
Martha Fabre & Gertrude
Abelsol

Martha watched as Veran tripped up the theif, and found a small amused smirk growing on her face. Returning Veran's nod, she collected the clothes she bought, and Gertrude took them and set the folded items in a sack at her side.

Though, the unconcious boy got a slightly worried look from the lord. Should she check on him? Gertrude didn't want her getting involved, but the theif is gone now so....

Martha glanced to Gertrude, before motioning to the downed archer. Sighing, the retainer nodded curtly, before leaning to quietly tell her to stay close to her line of sight and if anything were to happen, to call for her first and foremost.

Moving through those in the crowd easily enough, the Midorian was kneeling beside Apollo, while Martha moved to another stall, one close by that Gertrude could easily see, and pretended to look at the wares while halfheartedly talking to the shopkeep, though her face quickly grew red as he threw compliments her way, and quietly regretted trying to talk with the man at all.

Gertrude, despite noticing the exchange, brought some of her focus back to Apollo despite the slight amusement she had.

"Hey, can you hear me?" She asked quietly, gently nudging him.

@Conway @ElDorado
 
collab with @Verran
Mentions: @Nomad-22 @Jessica2477



As she glanced about the room the first thing Reina noticed was that the bed seemed to have housed only one occupant last night and that Agato was in the room with them. That meant that at least two of the men had probably had an uncomfortable night of it since she somehow felt she knew which of them had taken the bed over. The second thing her eyes went to was the fact that for once she could see Agato's face.

The night before she had been able to see helmet and shadows. Now his features were plane in the daylight. He was younger than she had first thought. No more than a handful of years her senior, possible a little older if age had treated him sell, but not by much, surly. And the dark Beard was very unexpected. It somehow seemed to ad a bit of warmth to a face she was quite sure would otherwise be cold and impassive. Reina also had a good idea of which of them had given her the blanket. She had heard the clink of metal plate. The cleric now leaned forward a bit trying to make out his eyes, to see if she could spot some shred of honestly in them... but another sound caught her attention.

It was the click of the door opening as Sadia brought word of their breakfast. Reina was ashamed to admit she had jumped, looking for a moment like a deer startled by a hunter, one hand going to her staff as if prepared to wield it like a club, before she tried to cover by looking like she was just combing tangles out of her hair and found a knot. When she spotted Gavril she offered a sad attempt at a smile as if to reassure him, praying he didn't notice the fact that she hadn't quite managed to relax all the way again.

Sadia easily marked Reina’s startled reaction and was mutely entertained by it. Not a trace of it creased into the slightest smile on her face. On the contrary, she frowned in concern saying, “Rachel, Rachel,” closing the door behind her, “you need not worry. It is only I, Sadia. I know the terror of last night is fresh in your mind, but you’re surrounded by friends and guards.” She stepped casually across the room. An even stride to show she had recovered from Agato’s sudden glower. “Now, there’s the matter of finishing your hair. Do you still want me to cut and style it? How would you like it done?” She pivoted and then sat on the end of the bed, surveying Reina with professional interest, as if judging what might look best.

Korwin knew full well that Reina had been studying him since she woke up and was most glad when Sadia returned to disrupt it. Being stared at was just plain strange unless one was trying to read the person. He wouldn’t have put it past Reina to try and attempt that, but he also know that, as she was, Reina would fail. Beyond the instant glare at Sadia, his face portrayed no emotion. No light of kindness nor malice reached his eyes. An empty void of anything would be all she could get, if Reina were to pick up an anything at all. Deception began with nothing, after all. “Yes, she’s right,” he said, slightly stirring himself, “get your hair finished, then we’ll deal with my employer. By then, the food will have arrived and we’ll get whatever else is needed for our journey. But we should leave today. Preferably with one of the meandering tribes, but we shouldn’t wait for one. The longer we stay, the more we’ll be in jeopardy. Agreed?”

"I - well yes," Reina started giving Sadia a slightly startled look at her behavior. But then she supposed she was going to have to get used to the woman's new persona... that is unless she was going to tell Gavril the truth and if she did that.... No she had to pretend. She had already made that choice.
"-- but if there's a market we could go to after... I could use a few things," There was a hesitance to her voice. As if she knew she needed some supplies and was almost ashamed to admit she didn't already have them.

Sadia clapped with glee. Shopping! It was always an exciting venture. Who knew what they could pick up in the market at any day. A new skirt, a wonderful coat, dosage of hemlock, or perhaps a fresh bit of lace to do up one’s hair. Always a wonderful time to her. “Yes! A trip to the market will be perfect. We’ll be able to do any finishing touches and pick up something fun to do on the road while we camp. That is, if we have the funds for it.” Suddenly concerned, her brows drew together in a knit as Sadia worked out how much coin she had on her and what would be fun to play.

Sighing, Korwin shrugged. “Well, there’s no helping it. Regardless, I want your word that we leave today, no matter how late in the afternoon or evening we finish these errands.” It was certainly a nuisance to have to do, but he supposed he couldn’t expect the runaway princess to simply have all she needed on hand. Guess we’re lucky she brought anything at all really.

"I think I can be ready to leave tonight," Reina answered softly, "but the way things have been going lately... I don't want to make any promises that could be tossed aside if we got attacked or something...." She had to be practical after all. Nothing had gone to plan the last week or so.

Soon after she moved to a small stool Sadia had provided, and held as still as possible while the older woman works on her hair. She was sure it would be noticed how tense she was during the whole process, and how our eyes never left the reflection in the small stand mirror provided in one corner. She hoped it would passes other things, at least to Jebei and Gavril. It was a relief she had not been left alone. If one could be left alone with Gavril hovering like a mother hen.

It took a surprisingly short amount of time for the process to be finished. But then, Reina supposed that it took less time to cut hair when it was short.

Korwin regarded Reina with a slightly exasperated look. “If you want to bribe the guard to not tell the tale of a band of armed strangers leaving in escort of several women in the middle of the night, that’s your business. But bribes can be outbought, so I would strongly recommend that we leave this afternoon. This evening at the latest as that will look strange enough. Also, if we get attacked in the middle of the market, then ready or not, we leave immediately as whatever cover that is to be had will either be blown out of the air, or be suspect enough that many will wonder as to why, again, some strange group of armed individuals would be so involved in a midday brawl.”

The woman set to work. Deftly pulling out a pair of scissors with pointed ends and snipping Reina’s hair. Never pausing, yet always considering. As she worked, she made idle conversation, even if she was the only one who would respond. “My lady Rachel, you must relax. Having such an over-stiff posture is bad for the joints, you know. It helps make you jumpy and nervous, so relax. You remind me of the time…sir knight please move,” she suddenly shot at Gavril, “you’re blocking the windowlight! Anyway, as I was saying, Rachel, you remind me of when I first took a position as a maid in an inn. Serving maid, that is. I was so nervous. My first job and all I could think about was what would happen if I spilled a drop from a drink. So fearful was I, that I tottered around the establishment, as if my knees didn’t bend it at all. It went on most of the knight before the matron, fed up with such a stiff waitress, came storming out to me and simply slapped the mug right from my tray. Then we stood there and looked at each other. For a whole minute! Then, I realized I wasn’t fired. So I laughed! She laughed! Heck, most of the inn was already laughing because they had no idea what was going on and the man next to me had ale all over him from the matron hitting the mug from my tray. It made me relax. Problems happen, but being rigid about them helps not a soul. Relax Rachel. It will all be fine at the end.”

"I didn't mean to leave at a time when it was problematic," Reina replied looking clearly startled at Agato's reaction, trying to ignore Sadia completely. "I just - well I've gotten used to traveling in the dark.... I thought it was safer." She knew it was a naive response the moment she spoke the works and hastened to correct herself before Agato could jump into the opening. "I mean I suppose at the time, when I was alone, it was. But now there's a group of us and night travel would draw too much attention if we're a guard hired by a merchant and all that..."

She winced a moment as Sadia's voice droned in her ear and the first moment it was safe to do so without ruining the haircut glanced back at her. "Please shut up. That's not helping. I'm not a horse that can be soothed with soft words."

A moment later her gaze was back on the Mercenary and Gavril. She wanted to look to see where Jebei was too, but Sadia had the scissors back at her hair. "And if we are attacked, if I don't get out of sight fast enough, I'm sure Gavril would be more than willing to toss me over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. He's done it before. I do need to at least try to get supplies though." Her hand clenched on her bag which she hadn't let out of her sight since waking. "Aside from my cloak, and the cloths Sadia was so kind as to bring last night... this is all I have."


With a moment of Hesitation she held out the back for inspection. Inside there wasn't much inside at all. The orange healing focus and a bag of coin being the most valuable contents. The bag also contained a mostly empty water skin and a second bag that had once held her food supplies but was now full of wild berries and herbs, and what looked like a carefully wrapped but badly burnt bit of pheasant with a charred feather still attached. Feeling around a tiny shard of steel was found, probably harvested from a broken farming implement, along with a bit of flint no larger than Reina's first knuckle. That was it.

"I- I would like to get a bed roll and a knife of some sort and... well maybe a proper tinderbox," She continued softly. "I don't really know what else is necessary but... if I'm supposed to be a merchant's daughter I wouldn't say no to a hairbrush or bar of soap... and rations... I'm no good at hunting, although it's been very good foraging so far." It only made since that her healer's herbal knowledge would help in that capacity, and truth be told Reina had been very relieved to see so many plants she recognized.

"I do have some idea of what the will cost - if recent events haven't caused prices to skyrocket." she continued, "By my calculations a fifth of what i have in coin? I imagiine taking over your contract will cost considerably more though..."

Sadia’s face immediately plummeted. A look of mild fear and apology creased her fair features as she somehow seemed to shrink. Becoming cowed. Not that it stopped her hands from her work, but she could only muster up a quiet “my apologies,” as she placed the finish touches on Reina’s hair before she backed away.

It was humorous to Korwin. Not because it was mere acting, but because he knew that it was at least half genuine. She always loved the attention and affection of others. Like a wolf-cub. So eager to rip out the throat of prey, yet just as willing as to be pet and coddled with excessive yipping, he mused before returning to the mild absurdity and luck that was getting her hair cut be the would-be assassin. The idea of continued travel by night with any sort of speed and without injury was almost ridiculous. Certainly, the moon had been of help these past few nights, but not all of them since Thalia surrendered its independence to Stanislav. The fact that she had made it so far without serious incident, until crossing paths with Sadia of course, was noteworthy to say the least. If for nothing than how inane it was.

“Yes,” he began, “we’re not going to travel by night unless the need calls for it. Walking by day is far easier, faster, and better, even when alone.” He included those last three words with a sharp look at Reina. Emphasizing that it was truly no safer. Yes, there was a smaller chance of being seen when moving by night, but there was a greater chance of crippling injury, wasting more valuable time. Furthermore, it relied on her trackers not finding her during the day. Should that happen, it would mean only a minimal chance of escape. With how Thalia had only just fallen and, assuming she had escaped during the fall itself, it would have been far better for her to have taken the speed of the day and used her friendly citizens to her advantage before any of the faster, Stanislavian pursuers could overtake her.

However, he didn’t say any of that. Korwin was in no mood to waste time in giving a thorough reprimand. That could come later during the pause of a campsite. Instead, he said, “I’m glad you’ll do that, Gavril. Now, as Sadia is done with your hair, let’s deal with my current employer so that we may have a quick breakfast and be on our way to the market.” Korwin had no objection with the materials she thought of. In fact, he was mildly pleased that her brain was active and working right after waking up. With luck, they would be on their way before the sun even thought about setting.


Reina almost felt bad for snapping at Sadia, at least before she remembered the woman had tried to kill her so short a time ago, yet with the cease of her voice she was able to un-tense more and let the woman do her job. She couldn't help but touch her hair a little as the woman finished and she looked in the mirror. "How did you do that?" she murmured. "I look like I'm 14 again... 14 and blonde.... like you were born to craft disguised." She had offered a stick earlier even if it had been unintentional. Might as well give her a treat now. Keep Sadia satisfied and hope she didn't reconsider their deal....

A moment later she had moved forward to collect her bag back from Korwin and carefully began folding and placing her cloths inside, making it clear that she wanted to be able to go anywhere at a moment notice. That at least should satisfy him that she was listening and trying to learn, even if her brain was on over load.

"Where should we meet your Patron?" she asked minutes later as the job had been finished rather quickly. "Is there anything I should know, or avoid mentioning? aside from the obvious I mean. Can the other's come?" The last question was meant mostly for Gavril who she was certain would find a way to tag along regardless.

Sadia remained mostly subdued, saying, “oh, it’s nothing, milady. Just a bit of skill picked up in my down time. The little lasses of some patrons loved it so. Made it so that they enjoyed their time with us.” Ignoring Sadia, Korwin replied, “we’ll meet him in his room. He’ll be up by now and wondering where I am. Or not really caring. And sure, everyone can come.”

"I'll follow you then," She answered simply, sliding the strap of her bag over her shoulder and hugging against her chest. There was uncertainty in her gaze, along with sorrow and fatigue.But she had a mission, and this was her best shot of fulfilling it. She wasn't going to quit now.

Korwin nodded and lead her and any who followed, which included Sadia who knew that Reina would not trust her in the room alone. Down the hall they went, past wooden paneled walls and doors before stopping and knocking on one.

“Who’s it?”

“Me.”

“The devil you been doin’ all night?”

“Just open up and you’ll get your answer.”

The door cracked open, revealing Gonz’s piercing glare. “When I said ‘doin’,’ I wasn’t…”

“Stow it Gonz, she’s here to buy out my contract.”

“Is she now?” His gaze raked her face, attempting to see past any façade, before saying, “well c’mon in then,” and backing away from the door.

Reina studied the man right back as she stepped into the room behind her new companion, taking in his much older years by the grey in his hair and the dark eyes that were as hard to read as Agato's. Though in her case she couldn't hid the sorrow in her face or the nervous way she clutched her bag and bit her lip.

"I know this sort of thing is generally frowned upon," forgetting for a moment to try to hide her Thalian accent before catching herself. "And will probably cause at least some inconvenience to you. And I am sorry for that. But this man did me a great favor last night and I think traveling with him might give me the best chance I have of getting safely to--" but she trailed off uncertain of if this was even the right place to start. For a moment her gaze darted between the two men before she took a deep breath and attempted to start again. "You should call me Lady Rachel." Realizing a moment too late that a merchant's daughter was untitled.(edited)

“Lady, is it? Well, you’ll forgive a broken down old duffer, such as meself, if he doesn’t stand on much ceremony. I’ll call ye Rachel, and ye’ll call me Gonz, if ye even can claim at that when switching accents on me. But, maybe these old ears are just going a bit deaf. Anyway, you want Agato here, eh? Hah! I doubt that tune will stay for long. He’s a horrid man, I assure you. Still,” and at this he gave Korwin a look.

Korwin shot an equal glare in return. Gonz raised an eyebrow. What then passed were a series of glares and looks that were even intelligible to Sadia. Perhaps the only description that would suffice would be to call it the silent language of jerks. Long practiced in their non-verbal communication of barbed insults and curses that, somehow, amounted to a conversation that they obviously understood. Finally, Korwin gave an almost silent snarl and Gonz, smirking in triumph, pulled out a leather bag of coins and counted out some silver. Setting it aside, he tossed the bag to Korwin.

“And with that, he’s yours! He’s at least proficient at his job, so I suppose that counts for somethin’. Anything else I can do for ya, Rachel?”

"I - " Reina started looking back and forth between the two of them completely bewildered, "Can I compensate you for the inconvenience, Mr. Gonz?" She felt it was only right to offer. After all she had no idea if her taking Agato from him would lead to any major changes in his plans.

"Ha! Are ye kiddin'? Yer pretty much doin' me a favor by taking him off my hands."


She couldn't hide the way her eyebrows climbed at this pronouncement, even with the new haircut Sadia had given her. "Well - If you're sure... But if we ever meet again and there is something I can do...." She could almost feel the look of warning she knew she should be receiving right now.

Korwin indeed was shooting her a look. But it was not one of warming. Instead, it was one of masked incredulity. For he knew full well that Gonz was not inclined to take advantage of any of that. No, it was rather that she was pretty much just stroking his ego at this point. Leastwise, that’s how he saw it. Not to mention that Gonz was basically throwing Korwin into this deal with the silent purpose of ‘finding his place in the world.’ The insanity of his nonsense could not be overstated.

In any event, Gonz just laughed and said, “lass, there’s not a thing you could do for me right now. I’m a well enough man and that’s all that matters. Now stop looking to try an’ balance scales, and accept the gift. Though, I imagine he’ll be just as much a burden.”

The sudden emotion and relief in her face was enough to show anyone how near the breaking point she actually was. "Thank you!" she stammered and for a moment the Thalian was back in her voice as she reached out a hand in gratitude. "Thank you." A moment later her eyes were back on the others. "Market?"

Gonz took her hand both genially and gently. “You’re welcome. Travel safe.” Korwin agreed to the market immediately, happy to be done with his business with the merchant. Sadia made the quick interjection of breakfast, before agreeing to the market after that.
 
Apollo Galata
Abelsol Marketplace

Shifting like the waves of the sea, the world eerily fell into place. He felt his hand reaching his face, but couldn't see past his feet, the dirt path moving like a river. Shakily, Apollo tried to stand, but only fell back on his rump. His head pounded and stretched, pain lacing along his chest and abdomen.

"Ahh," the voice was groggy. His voice. "Ahh, I, yes, I can hear you, I can," moving the hand that nudged him away, he leaned in the opposite direction as if repulsed. Peering through hooded eyelids, he asked the woman with unveiled suspicion, "Who are you? What do you want?"

Her face was a blur to him, as his eye was puffing up as they spoke. He was sure the whole left side of his face was turning a dark red hue, scraped with dirt and blood.

@Takumi @Conway
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • Like
Reactions: Conway and Falcon