In Pursuit of a Wish

[Squee]

Within the city of Rothendust, otherwise known as the capital of the world, a ship had been docked, sitting in the waters for at least a day now, the crew had already spread throughout the town, though being pirates most had already made their way to the local inn. The weather was wonderful, sunny, though a bit warm for those used to more mild climates. It was currently about 3 hours after noon, most of the city was busy, carts moving back and forth through the commercial areas, people buying and selling goods and services, some ladies of the evening provocatively strutting through crowds of men in an attempt to draw them in.

In a certain Inn dubbed 'Nancy's Harbor Cafe' sat a tall man, dressed in a green suit, an awfully fancy one for his current setting. Many empty bottles on the counter directly next to him. It was clear he'd been here before with the way he talked to the barmaid, as if they were old friends. Though in fairness, he himself had been greeted with many smiles after buying the entire bar rounds of drinks simply for being there as good company. It was hard to not notice him with his loud yelling and roaring laughter.

This was Saethos, a man of many skills and even more friends. Standing up and yelling, Saethos demanded the attention of the entire room and maybe some patrons outside, "Life is a party and I intend on celebrating it! Another round for ye, lads and lasses!" Nodding her head, the barmaid poured more mead into mugs and passed them down the counter until everyone had picked one up. By now Saethos had gotten people more drunk than he'd been yet, his massive size and iron tolerance made that an easy and frequent occurrence.

Drinking the entire mug of mead, though it hadn't tasted the greatest, he let out a sigh of happiness and stared into his mug. The barmaid, older than most but with her beauty all but faded, looked at the large man, staring into their eyes. "Are you sure you can pay this tab?"

With a booming laugh, Saethos looked at her, "I'd better, this is the best tavern in the city, t'would break my heart to see myself not welcome in here!" The musicians nearby, gleefully playing their music, began to play a familiar tune, often played behind one of his favorite shantys. Standing up with excitement to sing, he'd suddenly realized just how many he'd had, suddenly losing balance making him feel gravity shift beneath his feet as he caught himself with one hand on the counter and one of his feet falling back. He wasn't quite drunk enough to hit the floor just yet. Letting out a chuckle, he began to stand, towering above every other patron, and sang the words along with the song.

In the same room sat a dragoon, drinking mostly free drinks from his quartermaster. He'd spent his own fair few coins on drinks but if he'd paid for his own along with the drinks Saethos paid for he'd have lost consciousness by now. The room wasn't quite spinning, but if he were to stand he'd be hard pressed to stand still without constantly trying to catch himself from falling. Leif was rarely this drunk, today was a special day though, as the crew had been at sea for maybe a few days longer than they should have been. It was time to resupply and enjoy their time on land. Unfortunately, being this drunk so early meant he might not enjoy his evening.

Drinking the most recent round that Saethos had bought, Leif looked at the barmaid, "Hey, listen...if he can't pay...for it all then I uh...I can help." Getting the words out in his drunken slur was certainly a challenge. overall it was difficult to think completely straight. One thing was certain, Leif liked to look out for the crew in every way. They had his back and he had theirs, it was comfortable working with his crew. He'd been with them for quite a few years now and he felt very comfortable with all long time members of the crew. The captain was a bit intimidating, but he was glad for who his captain was, the man earned his position.

The Boatswain, Keryth, was certainly an interesting one. An enigmatic person, Leif was a bit discomforted as to his lack in knowledge for who they were, sometimes even questioning his gender. He didn't smell like a man, but there wasn't much to go on other than instinct. Still, a Dragoons instinct was not something to ignore. The good news was there was nothing he could pick up that was worth being afraid of.

In charge of all persons health was Doctor Linder. Never sure if she preferred being called Doctor Linder or just by her first name Jasper, he always referred to her as just Doctor. She was a Kindred, which to Leif were a funny folk. They had a very strange odor to them. They smelled nothing like death but still reminded him of the smell of a dying person. He'd often taken a few extra sniffs to take it in, it was something that would always vex him.

Rinata...She was fun. She was the cook, and Leif did love to eat. Eat and drink. She was fairly cute, too, but she had a very 'off limits' feel to her personality. She smelled like blood, and not the normal blood of a pirate, but something darker. Not evil, just darker, almost like a necessary demerit on her history. He'd learned the hard way not to question these as a child, just because a Dragoons instinct can give them clues to a person doesn't mean they need to dig any deeper. It is the burden of their instincts.

It took a special kind of person to take pleasure in being a gunner. Both of the crews notable gunners were both frighteningly good killers. Both of them specialized in the act. The Esper was not particularly frightening next to Klein. Klein didn't smell like blood. He smelled like murder. The odor made him shudder when he thought about it.

Lastly, the carpenters. Rán was a nice lady. There wasn't much mystery to her, Leif was comfortable spending time with her. Arryn was a bit more on the tough side in terms of combat, but it also wasn't a carpenters job to be a fighter. He really liked both, neither of them were hard on the eyes, either. Perhaps one day he'd get to know them just a bit better.

Then their was Leif. He didn't always feel like he belonged with the crew. Dragoons were not very rare to find at sea, but in this crew he was certainly a minority between Elves and Humans. His past was one of the more peaceful pasts out there. He'd not often talked about it because of how it lacked in dramatic tellings compared to his companions. That was a slightly intimidating thought. Perhaps he'd have a dark part of his life, he'd just not faced it yet. The drunken ponderings of a dragoon sailor certainly were interesting.
_______________________________________________________

@Greenie @Lavender Lights @Cresion Breezes @PoetLore @Applo @QuakeUPSB @Sanctus @ShiroKiyoshi

 

[Greenie]

Sitting near the two, a little further down the counter, was Rinata. Seeing they had just docked, and she most likely wouldn't be seeing another bar for a bit, she decided she may as well come along with the rest. It had been a while since they had docked and set foot on land. She had strong sea legs, but there was something about standing on unmoving land that had its own pleasure. Not that she would give up the life she had right now. A moment's pleasure wasn't enough to leave behind a life of adventure.

She grabbed hold of her mug, looking down. Unlike Saethos, this was just her first, and still only half drunk. Well, Rin wasn't much of a drinker, anyway. She didn't have the stamina, and she'd rather not test herself anytime soon. She brought the mug to her lips, chugging down the contents, mead. Well, it was better than what they had been drinking on the ship in the last few days, that was for sure. She smacked her lips when she finished, a smirk on her face as she looked over at the tall and very green man. "Sit down, you're making the rest of us look tiny." Oh, she didn't really care about that, and she was certain that the rest of the patrons had heard of how tall the Daydream Riders' quartermaster was. Still, it wouldn't do for him to topple over and make too much a fool of himself.

Speaking of making a fool of himself... did Leif have enough money to pay? Rinata scratched her head, looking at all the mugs currently on the counter. Ah... can't blame them. She cast an affectionate glance in their direction before chuckling to herself. It's been a while anyway. She pushed her bangs out of her way before reaching back and untying her hair for a moment, only to tie it up once more, making sure unwanted wisps of hair didn't get in her eyes. As much as she wanted to stay here and enjoy the banter, watching grown men act silly so that she could regale them while they waited for food in the days to come, she didn't think it would be right to waste time. Not when she could finally cook with fresh ingredients! Even the thought made her mouth water.

Rin pushed her mug away from herself before sliding off the stool she'd been seated on, boots hitting the ground with a thud. "Well, boys and girls, I'll be back in a bit. Don't have too much fun without me, hm?" She started for the door but then paused. "Hm..." She reached into her satchel for her coin purse and pulled a few out, heading over to the counter and setting them there, giving a small shrug and grin. "One from me, what the hell."

With that said and done, she waved a hand. "See y'all..." She could have said to take care, but what would that make her? She was the cook, not their mother. The thought cracked her up as she exited the inn, and she couldn't help but laugh, though a tinge of sadness was there.

"Now, now," she muttered to herself, tightening the satchel and making sure it was secure, "no thinking about the damned past." She hardly did anymore, truth be told, but sometimes the crew reminded her of a family, and that in turn brought memories of back home.

Thankfully, a distraction came to her in form of a rather large black bird. He had been waiting on the roof of the inn, and he made sure he informed Rin of how he was rather annoyed at not being let in by letting out a couple of loud raspy 'caws' as soon as he landed on her shoulder. "And hello to you too," Rinata told him in a rather dry tone. "A little bit of waiting and you have a tantrum, hm? Come on, let's buy some food. If you promise not to steal, I'll buy something special for you. And if not, well, you know the drill."

As she walked, she continued talking to the raven, who in turn cawed his replies. Any passerby simply thought she was being silly or perhaps a little mad.​

 

[PoetLore]

Arryn sat at a table away from the bar with her back to the wall. She usually chose such a seat, so that she could see everyone, and know where everyone was in relation to herself. If someone were to ask why, she'd likely just shrug and maybe attribute it to habit, but the truth was that she didn't like the idea of being surprised. No one could sneak up on her this way, and that's exactly the way she liked it.

She held a thick piece of wood in her hands and a sharp knife. The wood was beginning to have the look of something that only she could see hidden within it's depths, but it was far from complete. Whittling relaxed and pleased her, so on times like this when they were on land she tended to create little figures, or carvings for fun. Sometimes she sold them, sometimes not.

She looked up at Saethos when he began singing, and lifted a brow. He was a happy sort of person, she'd give him that. If truth be told, she was envious of his ability to embrace life's joy with such abandon. She'd been with this crew for quite a while, and she'd come to think of them as family, though she'd imagine all of them would be surprised to know it. sharing times like this was not her usual habit, though it had little to do with them. She enjoyed their company when she had the chance of it, but she held herself back from them as well. Until she knew if the wishes were reality, and if they would work, she would likely keep to her solitary habits. No sense hurting people.

She wasn't quite as tispy as the others, mostly because the barmaid didn't always bring more around to her with every new round Saethos ordered. She had a fair tolerance though, so she wasn't even bleary yet. She saw the captain not far from her watching as he always did, though he seemed to be a bit foggy as well. She wasn't ever sure what to make of him, to be honest. He kept a little distance as well, but she doubted for the same reasons.

Without realizing it her foot was tapping along to the music as she whittled and carved away the excess from the wood that was hiding the eagle within. The basic form was there now, and she sheathed the knife and pulled out a smaller tool and began making tiny feathers on the wings. Biting her lip and scrunching her face up a bit she leaned into the sculpture as she worked, taking her time to get every detail perfect.

She looked up when Min left and she waved an absent hand to her as she passed. She'd be glad of the fresh supplies when they were back on board. She looked at the eagle and frowned. She probably should be making more productive use of her time as well. Drat Min and her work ethic. She sighed a heavy, sad kind of breath and walked over to the captain's table and set the eagle down, "Keep an eye on that for me?' she asked, "Please?"

She looked at it longingly, but shook it off and then turned her attention to the captain, "Do you ahve any special projects for this trip?" she asked, "Or shall I just get the normal load of wood for repairs?" Sometimes they made furniture pieces or added beds for extra crew. She never knew until the captain announced it. This might be one of those times she might have a bit of heads up before hand.

 

[Quake]

Seated at the far end of the bar, Keryth smiled underneath her helmet at Saethos' comedic antics. She rather enjoyed her crewmate's company, and it was nice to be on land after being on the ocean for as long as they had been. Unfortunately, she couldn't drink. To do so, she'd have to remove her helmet, exposing herself to the rest of her crew. Despite the time she'd spent with them, there was a part of her that worried that they wouldn't except her if they found out about her identity, especially after all the different things they'd been through. So after swirling the mead around in her mug and staring at it intently, she slid it back down the bar towards Saethos.

"Thanks for the drink, but I've got a couple things to take care of before I join the party." Reaching into her side pouch, she tossed a couple coins on the counter. Keryth wasn't a fan of owing anyone anything, even if it was just a simple drink that she hadn't even consumed. As she stood from her seat, the young archer noticed Rinata, their cook, head out of the inn. Keryth rather enjoyed Rinata's company. Her food was quite good as well. She only wished she could eat with the rest of the crew members. Unfortunately, Keryth's identity was a bit too important. As such, none of the crew had ever seen her eat or drink. Instead, the archer would always take her meals to her cabin space, where she would eat alone. It was a lonely act, but Keryth did it to maintain her identity. Because of this, Rin's food was always comforting to her lonely soul.

A couple moments after Rin disappeared out the door, Keryth decided to head out as well. As she went through the doorway, Keryth began running down a mental list of everything she needed before they left for their next location. Realizing that the market would probably be her best bet for finding what she needed, The masked archer turned and headed into town, stopping at street vendors every now and then to view their wares.

 

[ShiroKiyoshi]

Klein was sitting on a table, but the events leading to his current position nearly got him kicked out of the inn. Upon entering the inn Klein noticed a table open and clean compared to other tables -- there was only a glass or two sitting on it, but no one around to claim them. The chairs had been pulled out suggesting someone had left, so he helped himself and hopped up onto the table and used a chair as a foot rest. When he got comfortable and Saethos had bought the first round of drinks a pair of men came to sit down where Klein was. At first neither party acknowledged the other, but eventually one of them got tired of staring at the man on the table and asked Klein to move. Klein declined and returned to being a vegetable staring at the wall. That's when the men got up and whether they were just going to yell or grab him, Klein would not have it. He had just got off the damned boat and didn't have the energy to deal with them.

Klein stood up with his claw and blade out. The blade held to the neck of the man behind him and the claw ready to clamp down on the neck in front of him. He then didn't say anything as the room froze, for the obvious reason of seeing what Klein would do, but the men acted first. They held their hands up in surrender and allowed him to have his table. Annoyed that he wasn't able to kill them and get away with self-defense Klein sheathed his blade and lay back down onto the table and apologized with a silent motion to the barmaid who stood ready to lecture him. The men simply grunted, but after a few more drinks everyone had forgotten Klein ever existed. While they danced and drank Klein simply watched his prey bounce around the room without a care in the world.

I'll kill 'em on the way out... Might not have to. If they drink anymore they might fall over dead on their own. Drink to your declining health my "compadres".

As Klein wondered about the pair who disturbed him upon hitting land after so many long hours on the boring seas, he started to drum with the metal claws. The two had been marked by Klein. It was hard for him not to focus on them, but soon enough the blood lust faded after not being indulged and he sat staring at nothing again. That's when he saw most of his crew leaving and leaving coin for their drinks. Meanwhile, out of sheer habit, Klein was grabbing drinks and piling them behind him. He was taught it was rude to refuse a drink when offered.



After a while Klein looked behind him at the glasses and blinked. He hadn't realized he collected so many, he sorta just picked them up. He then grabbed a glass and examined the liquid before taking a sip. He stuck his tongue out in disgust before setting it back down on the table and resting his head on his hand staring at the captain's back and then wondering about what was so fascinating about outside that everyone was going. Eventually the two things meshed and Klein had an idea. Without something to do he had mustered the energy to communicate in order to alleviate himself from the sickening smell of beer and men. With a big smile and pulling his hood down he jumped up behind the captain, confident he would be able to get out and explore with a companion.

"Hey, cap! Let's go see what's outside! Everybody else is going! Come on, come on! We have to go get stuff for the ship anyway, right?"

Klein placed his hand on the captain's shoulder hoping that he was drunk enough to just listen to him.


@Sanctus

 

[Sanctus]

Everyone had separated to go about their own business; most captains would deem that risky considering their piracy background, but the captain trusted his crew. The lot of them were a tame bunch, likely due to his own lenience. He would place trust in their morals, and their vow to the ship. A black boot rested on solid land, the lack of motion at first was unnerving. Motion of the sea though at first harsh, ultimately it is what helps a pirate sleep at night... Rocking a sea hardened man and woman to their slumber. An amber eye looked toward the ground beneath them, the dark wood of the dock. Tonight might be a restless one. Taking another step the captain of the Daydream Raiders would be on his way, he would not be going to the tavern just yet... No, first he needed to meet with an old acquaintance.

Merchants, townsfolk, men, women, children even paused briefly as the captain ambled by. Eyes fell on the man as his stride maintained a consistent speed, they all knew who he was, and they all had their opinions about the man. Savage, gentleman, beast, handsome, grotesque, regardless of their opinion they all shared a familiar feeling, respect for his strength. Stepping in his path was a little dragoon girl unaware of his presence, she was far too busy playing tag that she had nearly run into the pirate. Realizing a little too late she had turned on her heel which prompted the girl to fall forward from the momentum of the sudden turn. A brief yelp of surprise was heard and, just as her face nearly collided against the stone floor below she would feel a tug on the back of her collar. She was brought back to her feet, when the girl turned to look towards her savior she would see the gloved hand of Alerio grasping her garment. Her eyes snapped upward quickly after falling on the captain's dark features. A golden hue stared back at her before a warm smile pulled at his tanned lips.

"Best be careful little one." His voice was deep, lightly gruff but nonetheless smooth; almost like velvet. "A shame it would be to fall and scar a lovely face." The dragoon girl's eyes widened, taken back by the captain's comment before bequeathing a giggle. Alerio took a step forward lightly ruffling the little girl's hair as he passed. Onward he went black frame vanishing in the crowd. It was not long before the captain was at his desired location, the old trading post located in the middle of the market district. Being a pirate meant being a criminal, most merchants wanted little to do with criminals... Luckily for the raiders they knew a man who could gather materials they needed for venture out in sea, Bonifass.

Most pirates found their way to Bonifass rather they liked it or not... After all not many wanted to deal with a pirate's coin. The captain stepped up to Bonifass' makeshift office, a wooden and stone establishment and just outside was a Berserker, a rarity even in the capital of the world, Rothendust. Stopping in front of the large man Alerio looked upward, his one good eye taking in the man's features... A mound of muscle, a great large brown beard his head was shaved kept short due to the warmth of the region. The man's eyes were cold, stern a shade of blue that bore right through the captain. The beast of a man blocked the entrance to the shop. Alerio gave the man a light nod before stepping to the side in an attempt to pass him, this was followed by the Beserker doing the same, blocking him. Another attempt only to be foiled once more... Alerio gave off a light smirk before peering upward once more.

"A little far from home... Are you not?" Alerio spoke.
"Aye." The Berserker replied curtly.
"Might I pass?"
"No." A brief chuckle escaped the captain's lips, how... Frustrating.
"Hired muscle then?"
"Aye"
"Bonifass must be aware of his swindling then..." The captain placed a hand on the hilt of his blade, prompting the giant of a man to grasp at the hilt of his axe.

"As captivating as you are, there are other places I much rather be.. One such place, inside that shop." Alerio stated bluntly.

Just before things could get out of hand the door behind the Berserker opened revealing a older man in his fifties. Black unruly hair turning gray at the side, the top balding. "Please please I will have no fighting outside of my shop!" He squawked loudly. Beady eyes took in Alerio's frame before they widened with slight fear. "C-captain Alerio... What brings you to my fine establishment?"

The Berserker stepped to the side allowing the two to speak unhindered. "Vulnus will do Bonifass." Alerio pushed passed the Beserker, at the same time reaching within his cape to grasp a brown bag, he pressed that same bag against the Berserker's chest. The captain stood frightening close to the small merchant. "Regardless of title, stating a man's first name denotes friendship." The captain's one amber eye burned into the man's features unwavering. "And we are not friends."
Bonifass eyes widened in fear, a drop of sweat rolling down his temple towards his cheek. "I-I knew you would come... That is why I employ-" Much to the man's dismay the Berserker was already gone.

"W-what where?"

"Another man you cheated, offer more and allegiances change. They always do. You stated you knew I was coming, we should make this short then." The captain pulled out his blade and shoved the metal against the man's neck, with another hand he grasped the man's tunic and forced him inside. Behind him the captain kicked the door shut, shutting out the light of the afternoon. Bonifass' back was against a wooden table Alerio bearing down from above.

"P-please don't kill me Vulnus please!... I-" Bonifass' plea was cut short, Alerio's blade digging into the man's neck blood slowly leaking downward.

"To cheat the Daydream Raiders, is to cheat death Bonifass. You are aware of this... Yet..." Alerio began rocking his blade back and forth against the man's neck steadily slicing deeper, Bonifass desperately grasped at Alerio's cloak one hand clutching the garment, the other his shoulder.

"Pricing for food, wood, wine and mead have tripled since we have last touched down in this port Bonifass. Why is that? Answer quickly while you still have a head." Alerio stood up straight that one amber eye cast downward over the man, his blade pressed down deeper.

"W-women..." Bonifass whispered weakly.
"Women? Explain."
"T-the raiders are employed of mostly just women!..."
"Your point?"
"N-no" Bonifass' words began to weaken as Alerio's blade dug deeper against his throat. Regaining some breath he tried to speak again.
"I-I thought if I could increase prices I would turn out higher profit... W-with no.."

"Resistance? Because the raiders ranks are filled with women?" Alerio's one good eye narrowed. Most old fashioned pirates looked down at women being part of a crew, most believed having one on board would bring about a curse to that ship. Ludicrous. The captain turned his head slightly to look towards the floor in thought before slowly slicing his blade across Bonifass' neck scaring it deeply... Lucky for Bonifass, Alerio's cut wasn't too deep, in spite of that the man had the risk of bleeding out. Alerio reached into his cape and pulled out a white cloth shoving it against Bonifass' open wound. "Each woman in my crew, are leagues more capable then you. Bonifass. And each of them would gladly lay down their lives for the Raider cause... As I myself would. " That said Alerio swiped his blade forward ridding the metal of blood before sheathing it once more. Captain Alerio turned on his heel his cape flowing majestically as he did so.

"A quarter. Our next haul will be a fraction of our usual price. Consider yourself lucky to have a wife and child to feed, they should not suffer your greed." A hand moved to grasp the handle before him pushing the wooden door open, light poured into the small shop causing his frame to become nothing more then a black silhouette. "Next time we dock here, prices will not increase. If they do, my 'women' will be paying you a visit... And I assure you Bonifass they are not as kind as I." With that said the captain left and the door slammed behind him. For a moment Alerio stood outside the shop his one good eye momentarily blinded by the light of outside, he needed to shake off this anger he felt. Turning he walked towards the tavern, likely by now most of his crew was there.

How right he was, they were right at home in this cheery atmosphere. Captain Alerio went to find himself a table towards the corner of the tavern, upon a wooden hair he sat. His back was pressed backwards against that same chair relaxing in a bit as music filled his ears along with Saethos' loud boisterous laughter. The captain could feel the frustration of his prior encounter slowly melt away as the cups of mead were brought to him, cup after cup he grew more relaxed but nonetheless aware and focused on his surroundings. For just a brief moment Alerio's one eye closed before opening once more to see Arryn close to him, her hand on the table. Amber hue moved to her hand to gaze at her latest creation. An eagle, a light chuckle escaped the man's lips as he grasped the eagle in a gloved hand.

"...They say eagles can soar the skies so very high above." He brought the eagle closer for inspection.

"Higher then most birds." A finger lightly tapped against the wooden structure. "A fitting creature for the Raiders."

Placing the bird on the table once more he turned that one eye upward to look over Arryn's features. "No need to gather the wood. Arrangements have been made Arryn." The captain gave a light smile before looking towards his crew, at least the few that were there. The merriness of the tavern halted for a moment once Klein one of Alerio's more hotblooded crew members nearly threatened to kill two other men. The pleasant conversation with Arryn was put on hold, and Alerio's features darkened staring directly at Klein and the two men. With a light shake of his head he watched the pirate slowly lower his weapons, it was a clear warning from the captain to stop. Did those men deserve the blade? Maybe, Alerio was honestly not paying attention. He wasn't sure if Klein saw Alerio's disapproving glare, but what mattered was the calm that followed. Features softened once more before bringing a cup of mead to his lips to take a sip of the fine liquid. Once more the captain leaned back to relax against his chair before hearing Klein's voice behind him. The boy had always been quick.

"Buildings, people, though here I see fine drink." Alerio mused lightly looking downward toward his wooden mug. Once more he brought the frothy liquid to his lips, cold and satisfying. Placing the mug on the wooden table in front of him he mused curiously.

"What might entice me, Klein?"

 

[Lavender Lights]

In a corner sat a small girl, who hardly looked her age, smooth face with grey skin and shockingly yellow eyes, that looked more yellow against the unnatural pink hair. She had odd markings and was the shortest in her crew, only an inch shorter than Valor, but other than Valor she was miles away from everyone's height it seemed, especially Saethos who loomed over her. She also didn't drink like the others were, yes, she was certainly an odd man out.

Jasper didn't drink for two main reasons, the first, and least important reason being, she could not hold down her alcohol to save her life. Maybe it was something about her short posterior or small system, but everything came out but not after first making her too drunk to function. The second main reason she didn't drink was because she had to watch after her crew. What if they got into a bar fight and needed something stitched? She didn't trust a stranger to fix her crew, no, it was her job to tend after the wounds. Though she didn't believe any wasted race could injure the Raiders, they were too good and worked well under drunken pressure.

Jasper still felt like she had a million things to do though so she was torn between watching Saethos make friends with everyone, and the rest of her crew enjoy drinks, or getting her work done. But slowly as everyone ventured out of the Nancy's Harbor Cafe, or continue to drink Jasper decided it was time to get her own work done. Nobody would miss the small Kindred if she slipped out and did some work.

Jasper had some refills to make on her supplies, it was something she enjoyed doing for herself. If she could make sure all her supplies were fully stocked before a trip it helped lessen the crushing anxiety she felt. Even though she had been traveling for 3 years with the crew, a short time compared to some of the others, she still felt the same anxiety take over her and she was brought away from land with all the rich herbs, villages, and immediate supplies. She knew she had to be as prepared as she possibly could when she was out on sea. The anxiety never lessened but the adrenaline and love of the adventure still over powered the fear, which is one reason why she kept doing what she was doing.

Jasper strode up the market streets, she had memorized the list of herbs and other items she needed. She had to remember to get some glass jars to help with the organization of her herbs and medications. She had a small brown satchel tied with brown rope up and around her shoulder. She made a mistake once of not bringing a bag to hold her purchased items.

This was one of her favorite parts about docking, she loved all the merchants and the busy streets. She loved all the races that played, spoke, and connected. She could sit and watch this all day, but she had work to do. Jasper also didn't like being away from the crew for very long, always kind of afraid they would manage to lose her or forget her. Though an irrational fear, as Jasper had to remind herself.

"Do I have everything for more pledgets?" She wondered out loud as she wandered. She liked her pledgets, they were perfect for applying ointments. She liked to have these prepared, as it was best to soak them in a water and vinegar mixture and set them out in the sun to dry. Sterilization, important while you are out at sea.

"Oh! Thread? Do I need any tools? No, I don't need tools." She talked to herself, nobody really looked at her strange for this. She was thankful, things could be worse for her out here.

Thankfully nobody denied her buying wares, as she sometimes faced being a Kindred. She decided this must be a good sign of a great upcoming trip. "Should I find Rinata? She did seem to leave first. I hope she's okay," Jasper walked a few steps forward then stopped, "or should I be finding the others?" Jasper turned and walked a few steps back. Then stopped, "Oh I don't know. I should put these supplies away somewhere." Jasper's thoughts trailed off and ended up leaving her near the side of the street where merchants were selling goods and wares to think about where she should go. "Maybe I will wait for a scream or for someone to mention a fight. That's typically where I am needed after all."

 

[Cresion Breezes]

The harbor area always had great winds, the wind that mixed both the salty fresh air of the oceans and the various scents of food, incenses, and spices from the markets. Valor liked this air, although Espers don't need to breathe, it is always pleasant to be surrounded by such an atmosphere. Currently, on the rooftop of an inn, lied a small figure that stood out nicely against the clay and brick colored tiles. Although most people who are traveling won't even bother looking up at a trivial rooftop even once, so the figure stayed there, without disturbance.

Puffy clouds lined the sky as Valor laid there on the roof, they didn't like to go spend time with other crew members when they are in a cafe or similar places. There are many reasons for this, such as not being able to drink or eat anything ruins the mood, or that crossbow that they carry cracked the door frame unintentionally, or some other trivial reason that bothered Valor for some reason. So this is where they stayed when the other members of the crew were drinking and having fun.

Looking up at the sun overhead, Valor got up from the roof. It has been a long time since the crew went in there, and their patience was running out. Valor was never the Esper who just like to idle without doing anything, to them, moving without reason seems like something natural, some sort of proof that they were alive. In reality, barely an hour has passed since the crew has gone in, but it was more than enough time for some regular sea-side drama to settle in. Expectedly, a loud booming voice echoed from within the building, it even shook the roof tiles that Valor was on, and was captured by their sharp Esper senses. "Hm..." A small grunt came out from the blue Esper, as they slid down a bit towards the edge of the roof.

After getting to the edge, Valor simply leaned over an area of the wall where there was a window to the tavern. Through the beaten windowsill and somewhat murk stained windows were the so-called sea-side drama going on. Saethos was drinking, not surprising at all, probably drunk too, still not surprising at all. As Valor silently thought about the amounts of drunk crewmates that they might need to deal with in the not so distant future a blond figure came and took the seat beside the window, effectively blocking it. "Ah..." Valor, regardless of their actions, was experienced with people at least. With this young man, Klein, around the crew their amount sea-side drama could've very well doubled.

Sure enough, soon the chattering in the tavern stopped as the blond young man pressed a blade against some stranger's neck. "Teh, hehe." A small chuckle like sound escaped the Esper. He was a killer alright, but not much an assassin. With murderous intentions that can be felt through a glass window, it seemed like that this kid still has ways to go. Sure he was a good fighter and gunner, but still had a decent way to go before a full-fledged assassin. Valor thought about teaching him a few things here and there, as a senior, as a crewmate, but with distractions everywhere that thought is usually gone within three arrow shots, and Valor doubts that their small stature will seem credible to the little hot blood anyways.

After getting bored again with the scene within the tavern, Valor dropped down from the roof with the idea of walking around and perhaps getting new metal parts for their weapon. Usually, this won't be hard, a simple drop from a not very high roof-top. But the wind seems to carry extra bad luck today. In mid-air the Esper's sky blue cloak flutter majestically with the wind......and was caught in a near by tree. That cloak could be considered a part of Valor, judging by the amount of time they've kept it. It has been caught before, in battles and missions, but whatever caught it usually was burnt into ashes or blown into pieces. Valor suppressed that thought, using their weapon or magic here would definitely result in some mass damage, and the tree could even be property of the inn. Not wanting to cause a scene in a busy harbor district, or being known as "that one Esper who was stuck in a tree" to the whole area, Valor thought about just waiting until someone comes. This wasn't an emergency, and besides, the streets did have some charm when view dangling from a tree.

Sadly, the mindset didn't last more than a few minuets, before the small blue Esper started to swing around and desperately trying to find a non-destructive way out of the situation. A few seconds passed before they realized that Klein was gone from that table around the window, and the view in the tavern was clear again. The first movement that Valor registered was a woman with dark hair, leaving the place. "Rin?" The Esper quietly murmured. No one else familiar seems to be leaving the place.

"Rin! Rin! Rinata!" The voice sounds less like a seasoned pirate and more like some child who lost their parents, but it was what Valor was made with, as much as they wish it could be changed. It was also the only thing that Valor could use at this point if they want a peaceful way to resolve this situation, finding help from someone they know.

"Rin!"

@Greenie

 

[Applo]

If asked most of the inn's staff and regulars would say that sailors tended to bring something of the sea with them onto land. Whether it be a smell, a gentle rock in their stance or maybe just a certain look in their eyes, there was always something that distinguished them from the rest of society. Having said this though any of the people asked would've deemed it very strange for any sailor to actually bring some of the ocean with them. This, however, was exactly what the otherwise unremarkable girl propped midway along the bar seemed to have done. She had hesitantly sidled in looking like a drowned rat with water dripping from her hair and clothes some half an hour earlier and now there were small puddles around her feet and on the bar. Normally this would have been sufficient cause for the offending party to have been forcefully shown the door. However, it appeared she was a member of the Raiders crew based on the general lack of reaction from any of other apart from the shifting of mug away from the growing puddle. While they were buying and drinking mead at a rate of knots the barmaid decided to content herself with dark stares and sharp comments each time she brought the girl a fresh drink.

Rán critically examined mug of mead that the barmaid had just banged down on the counter in front of her. She would have preferred a cider of some sort or the other but seeing as Saethos seemed to be paying and she wasn't one to look a gift horse in the mouth it would do, besides with a little something added to improve the taste it could be alright. While the barmaid was busy pouring yet another round of drinks Rán slipped a small metal flask out from the top of her boot and after checking no one was watching, poured a large dose of her own concoction into the mug. When the contents of the mug had finished bubbling, she peeled an errant strand of hair off her face a tucked it behind her left ear before in one fluid motion bringing the mug level with her mouth, tipping her head back and pouring the liquid down her throat and then setting the mug gently upside down on the bar.

Eventually her throat stopped feeling like it was about to melt and Rán turned around to lean her back on the bar and drank in the sights, sounds, and warmth of the crew on leave. It was moments like this, when she right in the middle of all the hustle and bustle of the crew and yet free to just sit and watch that she enjoyed the most. Rán listened to the snatches of conversation that rose above the general babble or at least she tried to until Saethos decided to drown everyone out as he launched into song. Looking over to the first mate she couldn't help but laugh as he swayed back and forth whilst not quite keeping time with the band.

It was when she saw the little doctor slip out of the door that Rán began to think about her own tasks, the most important of which was finding a replacement for the pan she had ruined in the production of her latest brew. If she hadn't already, Rinata would surely notice that the pan was missing when she restocked the ship's stores, but If Rán could get a replacement in there before that, well then perhaps Rin would never know. It would probably take Rin at least a couple of hours to gather all the supplies she wanted but there was something that Rán wanted to do for herself first and so with a grunt of effort propelled herself away from the bar and started moving slightly unsteadily towards the door, making her excuses to a few of remaining crew members.

Once outside Rán had no real idea where to look for what she wanted but set off at as purposeful a speed as she could manage, sure in the knowledge that she would find who she was seeking soon. After getting slightly lost Rán eventually staggered out of an ally onto one of the city's grander streets and was cheered to see the to see the ladies she was looking for selling their wares not more than two hundred feet away. She was just about to make her approach when her stomach suddenly told her that there was one very urgent thing to do first and Rán sprinted back into the alley with a hand clamped over her mouth.

 

[ShiroKiyoshi]

Klein shrugged and turned on his heels so he could see through a window, but had his eyes closed as he was joking.

"I don't assume much captain, but I will try and find something..."

Then when he opened his eyes he caught a glimpse of a man in the crowd of people passing the inn, still sitting in the same place as before.

"...he's still there? I guess he really does want to talk to me."

Klein mumbled this to his chest before he then walked to the other side of the table and pulled out a chair. He spun it around with a hand a few times until the back was facing the captain so that Klein could lean on it. Then Klein plopped down and tapped his fingers along the only sleeve he had. He then looked to the captain with a bored look.

"Captain!"

Klein cried in a loud and obnoxious child's voice. When he confirmed he had his attention he then pointed to the guy looking around on the street. He obviously took notice of Klein's point and started to cross the street. This caused Klein to slump down even more as he did not want to deal with the man, he considered this quest for the wish a vacation, almost, and did not wish to be bothered with what he could only assume to be a request. Killing someone he had no problem with, but to fulfill a request normally required some level of planning and he didn't want to do that.

The man was fit, but looked scraggly around the face. He appeared to not have had much sleep and blended in with just about every other commoner that passed him. Inside of the coat he wore Klein noticed an indentation that confirmed his suspicion this man wanted something from him. Well, that and the fact that he came over with a simple point. So, far Klein hated him just by looking at him.

However, it only got worse as Klein was forced to pay attention to his cautious walk, he was slow, and looked around, not wanting to be seen. He was new to all this Klein could tell that much from just that, but the real cherry on top was when an officer just happened to walk by him. The man struggled to keep his composure and was stopped. This made Klein sigh and fix himself in his seat, preparing for the worst: accidentally stabbing him.

"There's a stalker coming over here. He won't stop staring at me. It's weird. I'm gonna kill him."

Just as he finished his comment the man walked through the door and stood staring at Klein once again, but with Klein's history it was reasonable to understand any man's fear to approach him with a request. Klein decided he would use this opportunity to get a feel for his captain's personality or more importantly his opinion towards his "hobby". Having never actually fulfilled a request around Alerio the man was not aware of Klein's full set of skills. Klein was just glad everyone had at least three drinks in them at this point, minus Alerio and himself, otherwise he'd have to turn the man away.

The only reason he was really allowing this was to find whoever told him about Klein's location and kill them, but to tell the captain this would ruin Klein's chance of figuring him out.

"Oh, the stalker is here. Take a seat stalker."

Klein kicked the nearest chair to the man and he caught it. He then observed his options: sitting next to the killer or mysterious eye-patch man. He chose to sit as far away as possible while still being at the table. He looked between the two and pulled out a bag of coins before addressing Klein.

"This is what I am offering. The target is my wife."

"Oh, you're a sick stalker. I mean I enjoy killing, but killing your love? That's cold."

"I understand your concern, but-"

"I could care less about who you want dead or why, but the kill is not satisfying so the coin better be."

"You would do well to listen to this-"

"What's that stalker?"

"Must you interu-"

"I don't like you."

"I see that-"

"Then shut up and tell me how much you're paying me, sta-lk-er."

"1,000 coin."

"Double it."

"That's ridiculous."

"So, is killing your wife, interrupting my lovely day, and stalking me."

The man grunted and reached to take his money and leave, but something stopped him and he looked to Klein, relaxing.

"Alright, 2,000 coin. You're being too loud. 1,000 now and when you kill my wife you can collect the rest from her treasury."

"Oh, a rich woman?"

"Yes but, do not harm the children."

"If they stay out of my way they will be fine stalker, but whether I even take this request is up to my captain. I do technically work for him."

Klein then turned to Alerio and raised a brow.

"What do you think cap? I have no problem with killing any of them, even this worm." Klein said as he shoved a thumb in the client's direction.

@Sanctus

 

[Squee]

With the song being played done and the band more than happy to see a member of the crowd join in with his vocals, and a fitting booming voice as well, Saethos went to take a drink from his mug only to realize that his constant movements with the music and swaying left and right had landed most of his mead on the floor. Another boisterous laugh followed after he'd realized just how much of a mess he'd made. Slapping a coin on the table, he'd told the barmaid, "Sorry, lass, it ain't fun cleaning up after a rowdy sing'a'long!"

His pockets were getting light. It hadn't mattered much to him, in fact he was thrilled to see his money was able to get everyone in a better mood and satisfy both crewmates and strangers alike. Now, after distracting himself, he stood tall, easily looking over the entire room. They may be here to relax and have a good time while resupplying, but they were still his crew. He may not be captain, but it was his duty as quartermaster to look after the crew. He saw Leif sitting with a bit of a buzz, Alerio sitting, also watching the crew, Klein sitting nearby with a stranger, and that most of the crew had left the inn. They were a strange crew, one of the few to have an Esper. Espers made fine sailors, but usually piracy was a pleasure that the race of enchanted armor didn't partake in, it was a selfish act more often than not.

Saethos, however...He was a pirate for a far more different reason. Even different from his crew. He'd tell them his wish was to be reunited with his fiance and his brother, meet with his father and mother once more, and make his life back to what it was before, but this was not a complete truth. If he were completely honest, he'd have told them that he'd be perfectly content with his life coming to an end, that way he'd see his loved ones once more in the afterlife. Only Alerio knew this fact, Saethos desperately didn't want his crew to know how harmed he'd really been by the events of his past. The only thing that kept him going were 2 things he'd learned from his many experiences. Life is a party; celebrate it, a lesson he certainly lived to prove he'd learned better than most. The other being a bit more meaningful. If you're plan involves dying, make the most of your life and make everyone elses wishes come true first. That's what has kept him with the Daydream Raiders all this time.

For now, however, Klein didn't seem too happy with the stranger, which certainly would not do. Saethos loudly interrupted, "Klein! My lad! How'd you expectin' to make friends with a stranger sittin' so far away to 'im?" Forgetting just how strong he is while drunk, he slapped his hand on the table and nearly tipped it over before immediately grabbing the strangers chair and pushing it close to Klein. "Let me help ye' for get better acquainted, eh!?" standing once more to gain the attention of the barmaid, Saethos shouted, easily being heard by another, "4 drinks here, miss! One for me friend, one for 'is friend, an' 2 for me!"

Leif, on the other hand, had heard everything. Being a Dragoon, his sense of hearing was definitely worth noting. It didn't really matter, though, none of this concerned him. He knew what kind of person Klein was the instant he'd smelled the air around him. The unmistakable smell of murder and mayhem. This made no difference to Leif, the crew members he liked were enough to make him feel an apathy towards one of his ilk on the crew.

Patting down his pockets to get a rough count of how much coin he had left, Leif threw a few onto the bar. The barmaid, a tough looking woman with a face that said she'd seen it all, counted it and tried to hand back the change. Leif gestured for her to keep it, but instead she just stuffed it in his pocket, an odd thing to see. For a woman like that, the action certainly wasn't fueled with fear of pirates. Hell, most of the patrons here had the scent of a pirate, retired and aspiring. It was getting a bit obnoxious, really. This drove Leif to go outside and get some air. breathing heavily inwards and slowly letting it out with a stretch. He could walk straight, everything just felt a bit different. Looking up at the sky, he felt as though today would overall be a good day.

 

[Greenie]

Rinata had barely begun walking to the nearest market when she started mentally making a list of all the things she would have to buy. Vegetables, salted meat, salted fish. Cheese! She rather loved cheese. Maybe eggs as well. Rum, hm... Leave that for the end, the captain and the boys can decide on that. She had to think more practically. Not that rum wasn't practical, but for the time being, it was best to concern herself with the non-liquid portions of their diets. A cow? Hm... beans... Probably a couple of pots and pans. Her eyes narrowed a little before she let out a sigh. Oh yes, Ran, I do know you took it. Eh. Keep it. She hardly wanted to use it after whatever concoction had been made in there.

She rubbed the back of her neck, wondering if she should have written all this down. She was also wondering if she had enough money for all this.

The raven, known as Velasco, let out another caw. He recognized voices and faces, and he most definitely recognized the voice that was calling out to his person. He ruffled his feathers but stayed put on Rinata's shoulders. If it was one of the others, like Klein or Saethos, he may have taken to the air, the former because of his weird personality and the latter because of his much too cheery one. Velasco was a bit of a grump, especially when he figured making mischief and a scene was something meant only for corvid-kind.

This Rinata knew from a once long conversation. However, he seemed fine with Valor, or tolerant, in any case. For Rin, well, she couldn't quite help it. The esper was so... small. She had once considered herself short, living with her tall brothers. It was almost comforting at times to have someone smaller than her. And of course, so adorably cute.

Not that she would ever say such a thing out loud to the esper. She didn't know their exact age, but she was better they would probably rather not be called cute. Still, they reminded her of a child, and despite the large crossbow they could wield, she still tended to treat them as a child.

So, it was with a cheerful smile that Rin turned around when she heard her name being called. "Valor?" she replied, eyes brightening, looking around for them. They hadn't entered the tavern, so she had assumed they had been wandering about, perhaps looking for something new to buy.

Her smile wavered, however, when she heard the urgency in their voice. "Hm..." She quickened her pace, following after their voice. Velasco let out a caw and took to the air. It was he who found the small esper first, landing on the tree, head cocked as if amused by the sight.

"Valor- oh. Huh... well that's unfortunate." Rinata had followed the raven to the tree and looked up at the sight. "Lucky I'm not wearing a dress today." No, she was dressed in her plain brown trousers, ready for a little climbing. She could have sent Velasco, but she was quite sure he would simply laugh instead of being useful. No, somethings you just had to do yourself. Besides, it wasn't as if this was something hard.

It wasn't too long before Rin reached the reached the offending part of the tree where Valor's cloak was caught. "Brace yourself," she called, "I'm unhooking it!" That said, she did the deed, and their cloak was free.​

 

[Sanctus]

Amber hue was forced upward at the wail of his title. That one eye would rivet towards Klein's baby face for a moment to hear what the young man had to say. The captain disliked the sudden cry, but it wasn't apparent it bothered him... Captain Alerio always did his best to practice patience with his crewmen. Golden gaze followed followed the young man's gesture until ultimately his eye fell on a disheveled fellow. He walked within the crowd, his steps nearing the tavern. Already with a mere look Alerio was beginning to surmise the man's interest in who he assumed would be Klein, or perhaps another member of the raiders.

Around him, background noise began to drown out, the clatter of plates and mugs slowly melting away into obscure thuds. Customers of the tavern became blurs, right now all that mattered was that man and his intention. Alerio was a man with many strengths, it was why he became captain of the raiders, why he was respected by the crew. One such strength he possessed was gift of observance, a simple talent but a powerful one. As the man approached the door of the tavern up to when he walked up to the two he was being analyzed.

Gaunt face, restless eyes... Weary. A look of desperation. A gold eye shifted toward his garments.

Clothing somewhat fitted, well tailored. Fit frame... May work the fields. Hand grasping his breast pocket... Carrying some valuable. As the man neared he was able to hear the faint jingle of coin, a good amount. So this man wasn't exactly poor. The man was upon him, and Alerio's gaze had not let up. Given their reputation the man chose to sit farther back.

Once the man was in the chair he allowed Klein to talk, and what he had thought was indeed correct. The stranger had approached with a job proposal, not for the raiders however... But for Klein. Captain Alerio was never one to delve too deeply into the history of his crewmen. It was honestly none of his business, and likely they had reasons to keep their pasts behind closed doors. Alerio could understand that sentiment, he himself held dark secrets... But from what he knew of Klein, he knew the young man at one point was an assassin. He wasn't told this, the captain merely settled on this conclusion after witnessing Klein's erratic behavior.

Klein was twisted, and he hid that maliciousness behind a veil of fictitious childish innocence. He has seen the result of felled men from Klein's claw, ripped to shreds... Hardly recognizable. Likely at a young age the man was taught how to act... Like a human.

Much like a wolf wearing the wool of a sheep.

Alerio slowly brought the mug of mead to his lips once more taking a drink as the conversation progressed... Kill his wife? A wicked plot indeed, but he wanted to keep the children alive... Well he was a father after all. Perhaps this sudden want to kill was set on by debauchery. Setting the mug on the wooden table once more Alerio shifted his gaze towards the giant of a man walking to their table, Saethos was always so difficult to miss.

Now.

Alerio was left with a choice. Partake in murder, or slay this man here and now. It was difficult to fight back the grin when Saethos forced the man closer to them, visibly making the man much more worried. He could see the sweat gathering across his forehead.

There was a moment of silence as the captain weighed his options. Without word Captain Alerio stood and in one swift motion drew his blade, he pointed it straight at the man's breast pocket.

"A thousand coins."

He was short and curt in his response, deep voice echoing across the tavern as all fell silent at the draw of his blade. Captain Alerio had never drawn his blade in this tavern, but everyone knew his reputation. They knew he was not a man to trifle with. Growing impatient Alerio lightly tapped the man's breast pocket.

"Where is your beloved now?"

 

[Applo]

A strand of hair floated slowly across Ran's vision and she watched it briefly before sending it tumbling away with a small stream of bubbles and closing her eyes. The noise and bustle of the busy city was just a dull murmur to Rán as the cool water helped to clear her mind of the alcoholic fog that had been enveloping it. The awkwardness and embarrassment of events since she'd approached those women on the street was something she was ready to endure for the chance to wash properly with some privacy, something that could be hard to find aboard a ship. For Rán this was as happy as she had ever felt ashore and she was savoring the feeling until something tickled her foot.

Bolting upright Rán let a surprised squeal when she found a naked women standing at the end of the bath looking at her with a puzzled smile. After plunging back under the water she wriggled and contorted to try and cover herself as best she could, although as Rán soon realised the tin bath tub offered no protection at all from the woman's gaze. Eventually out of sheer desperation she settled for lying on her front so that only her back was on show and buried her face under her arms. Judging from the tittering come from the other end of the bath the intruder was enjoying the scene rather too much.

"Well Madam did say she had a shy one for me but I wasn't quite expecting you my dear" The woman said in a honeyed voice as her hand trailed in the water, brushing against Ráns back. "Not that I mind at all. Something a little different can be a lot of fun. You can call me Rosie my dear, and what should I call you?"

Rán's desperately tried to think of a name, any name that wasn't hers own but all she could focus on was how had this lady had gotten through the door that she was sure she had blocked. After a moment Ran heard Rosie's footsteps as she moved round the bath

"My n-n-n-na-name is R-R-Rán" She answered in a barely audible whisper giving up on a fake name.

"What was that Pet? Don't worry I won't bite" Rosie said before adding nastily "Not unless you want me to that is."

Rán's cheeks singed with embarrassment as she swallowed the lump the had formed in her throat and tried again. "My name is Rán"

A solitary finger worked its way up Rán's neck, stopped under her chin and without meeting any resistance lifted Rán's gaze away from the side of the metal bath tub and level with a pair of bright blue eye.

"Well then Rán, now that we're properly introduced" Rosie whispered from little more than an inch away from Rán's face "why don't you tell me what you'd like to do darling, or would you prefer me to suggest something hmmm?"

Before Rán had a chance to answer, Rosie had drawn right up to her face and Rán she felt the soft warmth of Rosie's lips brushing against her own. For a handful of seconds Rán's mind was completely blank and then panic took over and she quickly, almost violently, pulled away from the courtesan's face.

"I just want to bathe" Rán whimpered.

"Well if you scoosch up just a little I'll join you." Rosie responded "I'll make certain it's the most comforting bath you've ever had."

"Please I just meant a bath by myself, to wash, someone told me this was the best place to do this. I thought I blocked the door so that I could leave before you got here, I'm sorry, the coin is on the table by the drawers please I just want a bath." Rán bust out in one long wail as Rosie stood up to join her.

For a moment Rosie looked confused as she tried to comprehend the torrent of words and then everything about the woman seemed to change and she laughed. This wasn't the sultry suggestive laugh of a moment ago but a laugh of genuine amusement.

"You mean to tell me" she said with a broad smile "That you came to Mrs Palms house and paid for a session all so that you could have a bath. Ha You really are a funny little thing my dear."

Rán watched over her shoulder as Rosie moved to the far end of the bath and picked up a little pile of clothes before striding purposefully over to the counter Rán had indicated and carefully counting the coins. Satisfied she gave Rán a little nod and moved towards a large curtain and sweeping it aside to reveal a second door. Rosie's hand was on the handle when she turned back to look at Rán with a slightly concerned expression.

"Is this really what you want" she said whilst gently jangling the coins in her hand. "This is quite a lot for just a bath and I'm sure I know somethings you might enjoy so, are you certain there is nothing that I can tempt you with?."

---

Nearly half an hour later, a decidedly rattled Rán peered round a doorway onto on of Rothendust many side streets. When she saw no sign of anyone who might recognise here Rán stepped quickly out onto the street and pausing only to tuck her newly rewrapped braid behind her ear she set out in search of the market which she had been told was only a few streets away. Several times she thought she heard someone laughing and while she knew it couldn't possibly be aimed at her she'd push her head further down a walk faster each time.

Rán knew she'd found the market by the crowds of people milling about she made her way along the various stall buying little trinkets and other goods that took her fancy. The hunt for a replacement pan was proved tougher than she thought it would be and despite looking intently at every stall with pans for sale her prize eluded her at every stall she visited. There were pleanty of pots for sale but none of them looked like the pan that Ran had tunred green.

Feeling defeated she sat on the edge of a fountain and wandered what to do now. She was never any good at this sort of thing, she never knew what was the best thing to do. It was part of why she liked life at sea, there were always orders. Rán liked orders, even when she didn't like the orders, she understood orders. If the Boatswain Keryth or maybe Arryn had been here, they would've known what to do now whereas Rán just felt at a complete loss and so continued to sit where she was and glumly watch the crowds pass her by.

 

[PoetLore]

Arryn pressed her lips together and curled them to the left in a slightly angst filled expression. She nodded though and grabbed the eagle back when Klein moved to sit at the table. She moved away and over to the next table and retook her seat with her back tot he wall. Some day, she would manage to have a conversation of more than three words with the captain, hopefully before she died, or the journey to find the wishes ended. Klein was being more strange than normal and though she'd taken the small whittling tool from her pocket her gaze was constantly being drawn to the table next to her.

She did not see the man until he was actually walking past her and warily approaching Klein and the captain. Her eyes appeared to be focused on her carving, but her fingers moved to tuck her hair behind her slightly pointed ears. She was listening, and prepared to do whatever was necessary, though with those two, she was thinking the man was in more danger than her crew mates. However, one never knew for sure. He was nervous, she could almost smell the sweat and fear on the man, and he was moving in a stiff and unsure manner. This was not a place this man usually frequented, that much was certain.

She heard the pouch of coins hit the table and furrowed her brows. He was telling Klein he was too loud but he just threw a bag of coin on a table in a bar full of pirates, not the brightest move by anyone's standards. Why not just stand in the middle of the room and announce yourself to have money and offer to be robbed, murdered or worse? It would be a bit quicker and far less trouble for everyone involved. But then her ears twitched, and she turned slightly toward the table. He wanted Klein to kill his wife, that was different.

She was still working on the eagle but she heard Klein say the captain had to give permission. Oh dear. Saethos pushed the man's chair in and things got a lot more tense but she was still only listening to the exchange. She heard the man balking at the increase in price, but she was startled enough by the captain's sword being drawn to actually fully look at the table. She watched then, openly, as he asked where the woman in question was, though she couldn't tell if he was going to kill the man or take the money and kill the wife. There was some money on the table, so it could go either way in her estimation.

She hadn't completely figured out the captain, though she had been trying. she'd been trying to figure them all out, and thus far, she'd only pinned down a few of them. Klein was easy to see as what he was, especially since he made no great effort to hide it. Some of the others though, were not at all as they seemed. Her gaze drifted from the captain to the man to Klein and back, waiting to see how the whole scene would play out.

 

[Arwen]

Semira had entered the port city of Rothendust earlier in the day, keeping her dark green cloak hood up to mask most of her face. She had opted for a simple long sleeved, hunter green tunic, tight mud brown riding breeches, knee high black boots and brown riding gloves in order to hide the tint of her skin. It was actually the nicest outfit she owned, a gift from her father, with the promise of a horse to come. The horse never came though.

Meanwhile her face was coated with a layer of make-up Tabitha had gifted her upon her leave. A part of Semira felt guilty for accepting such an expensive gift, one meant to be used for Tabby's wedding day but Semira knew it was gift both of friendship but also guilt. Guilt that their friendship had come to an abrupt end and that she hadn't done more. Also Semira knew the make-up would help her hide her grey tinged skin, at least her face for she didn't want to use it for her hands and arms and waste the little make-up she had been given. Even with the her face a light olive color, she feared someone would question her golden brown eyes, which most would call a golden hazel.

She adjusted her small pack on her back, mostly full of her carpenter tools that she just couldn't leave behind along with some extra clothing, all the money her family had, some dried meat and stale bread. Her entire life contain within one simple bag and it made her heart hurt. Her sword was a comfortable weight at her hip as was the slight pressure of her daggers strapped to her thighs.

Unsure where to go or what she was looking for she spent the morning wandering the city, walking through the street markets which exposed her to sights and scents she had never come across before. The spice merchant caught her eye since she enjoyed cooking but despite her temptation to buy some, she knew it was a waste. Continuing on her exploration she skimmed the carpenter at his workshop with a variety of furniture on display. Semira wrinkled her nose at the minor mistakes most people wouldn't even notice but her expert eye saw a mile away. She stood behind an older woman dressed in finery who was speaking to the the carpenter about a jewelry box. It was a thing of beautiful with an intricate design on the lid polished so the honey colors of the oak shined, however Semira could notice where the lines were thicker then other parts and the lid was just slightly off. The price the man was quoting was too high for the piece regardless of it's over all beautiful. Semira shifted so her back was the carpenter and she bowed to the woman as if she was a servant.

"My lady, I have the news you requested," she said leaning in to whisper into the woman's ear.

After leaning away, the woman stared at her mildly shock turning back to the jewelry box and gave it a hard stared before saying, "yes of course. Thank you Jane. I am sorry sir but I must be away, I shall think upon it and return."

The woman moved away giving Semira a motion to follow her. Semira blinked having thought the woman would merely walk away. She followed the woman and silently they walked away from the carpenter and deeper into the market.

"My thanks to you for your warning. However, I am curious as to why you would warn me."

"I apologize if I overstep my bounds my lady, but I am a carpenter myself and could not allow that man to cheat anyone."

The woman turned to looked at her, Semira lowered her head not meeting the woman's eyes.

"A carpenter? You?"

"Yes, my lady. In my village, I learned."

"I see. Well you have done me a service and for that I am in your debt. If you shall ever need assistance merely ask for the home of the Duke De Castille and ask for the Duchess Laurina De Castille. What is your name dear?"

Semira had raised her head to stare at the woman in shock, she licked her lips, blinking trying to think of an answer before finally replying, "Semira Ross," taking Tabitha's name.

"My thanks again Semira Ross."

Semira watched the woman walk away, studying her grace and pose. Semira shook herself, telling herself it was an coincidence. There was no way that woman was related to her father. Life just didn't happen that way. Semira decided to leave the market area and wandered towards the ocean which she had never seen before in her life. The smell of the salty air grew the closer she become along with other smells. She wrinkled her nose trying to place the different odors but then realize she rather not know. She openly gawked at the huge ships and scrambled out of the way of some sailors who swore at her.

By midday her stomach was growling and she had been wandering the docks and fish markets. She turned her head towards something called 'Nancy's Habor Cafe' where music was playing and the smell of food wafted towards her. Semira entered and found it filled with the sights and sounds of people, food, and music. A barmaid came forward and Semira request a corner if available which luckily was. Seated Semira merely asked for whatever the barmaid thought was best. The woman gave her a look Semira couldn't understand but decided not to ask.

She knew keeping her hood up would make her suspicious so she lowered it slowly, self conscious that her make-up wasn't fooling anyone and any moment she would be kicked out. Glancing at her reflected in the dingy window, she relaxed sightly seeing that it seemed the make-up had held so far. Luckily while her hair was an odd shade, she wasn't the only one in the tavern with the color. Semira gave a thanks to the barmaid who put down a plate of food and a mug of honey mead and took the money Semira handed her. The food was simple but delicious and the mead well made.

Suddenly from across the room a man obviously in his cups stood and began to sing along with the music. She shook her head and chuckled softly thinking about the men back in her village and how loud and drunk the man got after defending the village against bandits. It was the only time she felt like a part of the village and not an outsider.

As she continued her meal something else caught her attention which seemed to involved three men, a bag of money, and one sharp sword. Semira wasn't sure except what had happened but one thing was for sure, a fight was probably about to break out. At least she had gotten to eat most of her meal, she thought. She tossed back the rest of her mead, and waited silently, watching to see what would happen and when to make her exit. Though she was curious as to why the fight was happening, she had heard something about a wife. Maybe a love affair finally come to light.

 

[ShiroKiyoshi]

The man was petrified. There was no other description that could fit him better. Scratch that. He was a man frozen by Medusa's stare, with Hades breathing down his neck, and Cerberus towering above him. He was only moments away from shitting himself. And the man in question here is of course not Klein -- no Klein was rather enjoying the actions of his fellow men -- but the soon to be widower shook in his boots and scooted his chair back whatever distance he could manage with the giant Saethos resting against it. He then pulled his collar away from his neck and swallowed a wad of saliva.

"Yes, a thousand coin." The man said hoping he understood Alerio. "A thousand coin for her death."

The man dared not to try and move Alerio's blade, but Klein was not one to be so fearful and reached over, gently pushing the blade aside, and taking the stance of a frog right in front of the client. He then reached his hand out toward him, the clawed one at least. The man thought about reaching out for the hand, but Klein's glare and smile turned thought into action. Klein then of course left his mark in the man's hand by crushing it.

"I asked for two thousand coins. Now, you said I could get it from your wife's treasury, but ho- Oh."

The man then passed out from sheer fear of the group and Klein just sorta blinked. He had heard of this from stories in taverns that his kind normally waited for jobs, but it never actually happened to him. Not knowing what to do with him he looked between Saethos and then quickly back to Alerio before dropping him. His head hit the table with a thud jingling the coins and Klein couldn't even think about killing the worm, he was just so pathetic, he could prick him in the neck and he might die. Klein then stood up on the table, walked down the unconscious man's back, and hopped down onto the floor. He then picked up one of the many drinks he had collected and pulled the man's head back. Klein then proceeded to rapidly splash him with the drinks until he woke up.

"What is your name?"

"Irving?"

"No, its stalker. And where is your wife now stalker?"

"St-stalker? Oh my- I actually did it-"

"We can't talk here. Follow me everyone it's time for a walk."

Klein then scooped the man up out of his seat and started to push him along.

"Cap' mind grabbing the bag? I got my hands full."

The man stumbled around, still a little drowsy from suddenly going out of it, and Klein laughed as he did. He found the man, in his current state, to be like a toy he could push around and control. So, he started to just shove him and watch to see which way he went until he made it to the door. Klein had all of five minutes to push him around because the door was not very far. Klein then swung open the door for Irving and watched him stagger outside and shield his eyes from the sun. Its light seemed to wake him because then he turned to Klein ready to speak and Klein decked him. The man started groaning and blood started to trickled down the cuts in his face.

"Alright, you lug its time to get ya' home."

Klein knew that the sudden shock earlier had awakened him to the error of his ways and even after seeing how much Alerio was ready to kill a woman for the sake of money, Klein still did not have a clear enough definition of his personality to feel safe letting the man talk. Irving, the man, or stalker started to fumble this way and that not daring to talk while he was in Klein's care, but slowly and surely they began to pass the suit of armor in the tree and made their way to his home. The walk was farther than expected, from what Klein could gather about him he lived closer to the tavern, but it was possible that was his life before the wife which suggested their relationship was recent. Klein couldn't infer much else, but something wasn't right.

As Klein, and whoever else joined him, reached the steps of Irving's home, Klein dropped Irving and stopped. There was a smell. A smell he knew too well. It made him hold himself and laugh as he took in the scent of blood. He then became a hound pulverizing the door as he ran through the large two story building looking at how untouched everything was he began to slow down and think about the cause of this death, one that made him cry with anger, when he met them. It was undeniable what had happened here. Shortly after he stepped back outside with an arrow in his hand and stared at Irving who got to his feet, but Klein couldn't worry about him. He was fighting a ghost.

"I would be careful. It would seem he has a few arrows. One of us are guaranteed to die." Klein said as he dropped the arrow. "My vote is on the stalker."

The killer didn't give time to think as he let another arrow go at Klein. His only target because he didn't think he possessed the ability to care for others. Klein then drew his blade and waited.

"I don't care what happens, at the end of this I will torture you in any way I see fit, stalker."

Not only was Klein mad that he had been double crossed by the worm, but this fight was not fun. His enemy used a cheap tactic that did not allow Klein to just run in and kill because, well there was nothing to run at.

@Sanctus

 

[Cresion Breezes]

To the left......To the right......Valor silently counted the times they've swung around the tree while gazing around. A few seconds passed without anything happening. Valor started to believe that perhaps Rinata didn't hear them through the bustling market streets, they reached behind their back for their weapon, and thought about how to free themselves but not burn down the area. Before that could happen, they caught sight of a bird that perched on the inn's rooftop, it hopped off soon after. But this seemed odd, normally a solitary loving bird like that won't dive head straight into a busy marketplace. The only logical reason it would do that is if something has its attention. Valor remembered Ranata's bird, the little winged creature that always tried to peck off the silvery accessories that decored their weapon and armor. Valor let out a little sign again, they know that bird pretty well, it was what one would expect from a raven. Grumpy and always seemed annoyed by everything. Being found by it wasn't the most pleasing result, although if it gets Rinata it would be a different story.

Luckily, soon after the bird's take off the young woman appeared at the corner of the alleyway. She expressed her understanding of their misfortune, but it was pretty obvious that she was probably hiding a laugh. Valor wasn't the type who was so full of pride that they can't stand jokes, but being found in this type of situation sure hurts, mentally. As the cloak was unhooked they landed on the ground on both feet without any waiver, a steady, perfect landing. It was the least they could do to prevent more awkwardness.

"Thanks." Valor said to Rinata calmly as they landed on the ground. The awkwardness lingered.

After a few seconds of silence, they turned around and patted the tree, "I could've gotten out of this myself, but who'd want to hurt such a fine tree like this one."

"Tehehe, well, that was embarrassing," Valor let out a small laugh like a child, "now, don't you dare tell the boys, or else I might have to deal with you here and now." Their tone was obviously light and cheerful as they joked around with the young lady as usual.

Valor always joked about death, they were qualified to do that, having seen so many lives slip right through their fingers it has became a norm many years ago. Although they haven't seen too much bloodshed since the new boy joined the crew, Valor liked to leave new opportunities to the rookies. Besides, they're passed the age for their energy to get the better of them, not like Espers had much energy in the first place.

Pausing for a moment, Valor thought about what they could do to return the favors for Rinata, they weren't the type of person who likes to be in debt to others, no matter how big the debt is. What everyone did on land was the same, buy things, walk around, drink, do odd jobs, and if you're Klein, murder. That probably can go into the "odd jobs" sections though. Valor did almost none of these things, years ago they would take up assassination jobs too, but now-a-days lying around doing nothing, and occasionally training in the forest seems like a way better life.

"Um, you have anything to do, I'll come with you." Valor walked away from the tree towards the bigger streets. "After all, having a dashing, skilled, powerful and insanely cool Esper with you makes everything easier......" Word faded out as Valor approached closer to the front of the inn. Peeking out from the alleyway, they can see Klein dragging some random man out of the tavern. Valor wasn't sure about Rinata, but they themselves weren't that interested in those shenanigans anymore.

"Anything in mind?"

@Greenie

 

[Sanctus]

Eye narrowed as the man fainted, surely the amount of dread he felt was too much to bare. When Klein reached forward to push away Alerio's blade, the captain was already in the process of sheathing the weapon. Alerio shifted his gaze upwards towards the rest of the customers in the tavern. Attention was brought downward once more hearing the splattering of mead, Klein was splashing the man with fine drink so he may wake up once more. A low grunt erupted from the captain's throat as he grasped the coin bag on the table, with it in hand he began walking towards the bar. A hand reached inside fiddling with the golden coins before he pulled out 10 of the gold pieces. Lightly he placed them on the counter giving the bartender a stern nod, a sign of apology for his crewman's crass behavior.

Hearing Klein's voice once more, prompting they were leaving the captain with a quick turn walked out of the door. Likely Saethos was going to follow, and he rather him do so... Something bad could happen, and some extra muscle was always nice. As they all walked down the streets of Rothendust the entourage received strange glances, and it made sense given what they were witnessing. None of them really blended in, from Saethos' massive frame, Klein's strange behavior and Alerio's foreboding appearance they were difficult to miss.

One comment made by the man struck the captain as odd...

"St-stalker? Oh my- I actually did it-"

Curious statement, by a confused man. The company halted and before them stood the man's establishment, was something off? Yes. Very much so, but what it could be eluded the captain at the time. For now his eye scanned the residence silently, the doors were finely crafted which meant the man was indeed well off... Already apparent from the coin he toted about.

Suddenly maniacal laughter forced Captain Alerio out of thought, an amber hue darted towards Klein in a glare. Always had been a strange one, he found his laughs to mostly be very inappropriate far too often... Which meant Klein had picked up something sinister, something neither Saethos or himself have noticed yet. Before being able to ask his crewman what he knew, Klein stormed into the house, at the same time destroying the front door.

"Klein!" By now it was too late, he was off in his frenzy. There was silence aside from Klein's frantic searching inside the house, after a couple more moments the blonde emerged and in his hand was an arrow. It's tip was stained with crimson, the liquid slowly rolled it's way down the arrow's shaft and onto Klein's hand.

"Dead..." Alerio stated simply, the wife had already been killed. Eye narrowed before casting a stern look towards the client who was grasping at the floor with both hands. The client had hired another assassin to kill the wife? What is the point of hiring two assassins...? Unless he planned to have the assassin kill Klein to ensure he remained quiet. That in itself made little sense, then he'd have to find a way to kill the other assassin to ensure everyone remained quiet... This was not adding up.

Suddenly... He could hear it, a faint whizzing in the air from behind the captain. With extraordinary celerity the captain drew his blade, turned and swiped his sword downward. His metal collided against another arrow that was shattered upon impact. Quietly Captain Alerio turned his head slightly to peer towards the arrow's origin.

Northeast... Arrow flew at a downward angle, about 60-65 feet up.

"Klein." Alerio began beginning to sheath his blade once more. "Leave the client be, I will take care of him." He turned his back towards the new hidden enemy, his body now faced the house once more. "You have something more pressing to worry about." With that he began walking into the house.

"Saethos, watch the man. Perhaps breaking a leg will ensure he remains stagnant." And with that the captain was gone, hidden by the establishment.

 

[PoetLore]

Arryn's head shook and a slight quirk of her lips showed her opinion of the fainting 'man' that was now on the ground. What sort of man fainted? She lifted a brow when Klein tossed perfectly good mead on the man. She wasn't at all sure the man was worth the effort. he wasn't leaving with that coin, so to her mind they were ahead a bag of gold. Why not just walk out and leave him?

She tucked the eagle carving in a rather large satchel she had made for toting around her works in progress. It had straps that her arms slid through so that the weight and bulk of the pieces would hang behind her and not obstruct her movements. She knew the captain and Klein would be leaving, and she was preparing to follow. This whole thing was making the hair on her neck stand on end, and she didn't like it. Waiting a few seconds after they had actually left the bar, she slipped her arms into the satchel straps and quietly made her way to the exit.

She was a bit behind them, making note of how much attention they were drawing to themselves unnecessarily, but she drew nearer when they stopped. She looked the place over. Fine woodwork, the kind that cost a pretty penny, adorned the windows, doors and porch railing. She lifted a hand to run over the rail and a spindle. The railing was a bit rough, either from age or lazy sanding, she couldn't tell which without deeper inspection.

Her ears twitched and her head turned abruptly when she heard the flight of the arrow. The sound of the blade making contact with the arrowhead accompanied her turning, and she was gratified to see that the captain had heard the arrow in time. Her eyes also followed the line of flight and she focused on a slight movement in the trees. Watching the spot in the tree, she heard the captain tell Klein to handle the problem. She wondered what was going on, and why the man covering on the stairs had come in search of Klein. Was he looking for a scapegoat? Any murder would be relatively simple to pin on someone like Klein, but why not just have someone arrive in your company and discover your dead wife's body? She was slightly baffled, but she felt that prickling and it was not abating. She could pull an arrow of her own and fire it into the tree and rid them of the problem, but this was Klein's problem, not hers, unless the Captain ordered otherwise. her eyes followed the slight movements in the tree and her ears were twitching as she strained to hear anything that might alert her to another arrow, or any other possible attack.