Delighting in Nephvir's ability to talk to her (directly into her thoughts, the only person on this plane she's ever encountered who can do so), Daewen lets flow loooooonnnnnnnnnng thoughts and feelings and stories for a long few minutes until she finally realizes that she never answered his original question! Nephvir finally manages to stick a cork into her stream of consciousness, quieting her thoughts down to a moment of blessed silence, before she manages to think/talk No clue...but any chance I can get to send some Drow souls towards my Queen for punishment is a step closer to me getting a promotion!
The moment of bliss is quickly overtaken by a shudder of cold that makes its way though the cowl of her hood, past her nose, and straight down her spine to her tiny little boot-ensconced toes. Her own uncomfort is quickly replaced with empathy for her friend/acquaintance/partner/body she sometimes adventures with, Zhisshikassa. The sudden awareness that his species was cold blooded came to the forefront of her thoughts. Dear Nephvir, is there anything we can do to help Zhisshikassa before he turns into a lizard popsicle? she thinks.
Mock has definitely been leaning into the whole fresh-faced adventurer ruse - not that it’s much different than how she normally acts. A drink or two in, sprawling in her seat, her tall frame taking up as much space as possible. She’s greeted everyone with a cheer and a raise of her mug, her tail flicking around to belay her true pleasure at seeing everyone again.
As everyone else seems to get up, Mock does the same. She’s got a thick coat, the cream color of it a stark contrast against her dark blue skin. No cloaks for her - she doesn’t have the patience for how much they seem to trip her up. Heading for the door, she bumps her shoulder against Zhi as she moves past him. “Good to see your grumpy soul 'gain, buddy,” she teases. “Missed that scowl and cheery attitude of yours.”
The spade at the end of her tail smacks against Raza’s leg back before she throws her a wink. “Don’t worry ‘bout it, Raz. I getcha.” She straightens up the axe still strapped across her back and grins at Raza. "And if ya still want a drink later, I'll buy ya one next place we get to. Owe ya after last time, after all."
RAZA: She gives a small wave to the group. “Hi All, I see I missed the reunion.” She looks longingly at the mugs on the table. "Oh, no you di' 'int!"Kasha says, her head moving left and right, holding up a finger. She snorted in a laugh. "Ha! Raza! Hoi!"she waved, getting up with the others. "You've made it just in time!"
ARORA:"It's good to see you my friend! And, you're right... it's too bad all the candy shops are closed, I could really go for some of those chocolate covered peanuts!" She gives out a good laugh as they all start exiting the tavern. "I know, right!?"she gasped. "They're like vitamins! Khkhkh! I used to know someone who had a bag of holding and they were filled with them!"she shuddered in delight, "GbptHt!"
ZHI:"Your enthusiasm for this excursion is admirable," Zhi comments, voice more raspy than usual. ""Ensure your ardor falters when challenged by your wit. I suspect this night to be dangerous." Kasha, with no intention of making fun of you, merely expressing fondness, imitates your voice like an impressionist and says, "Yes, sir. Admirable enthusiams mode engaged! Commencing wit to be challenged when my ardor farts."Even though you hate it, she wraps her arms around you in a quick hug. Squeezing, perhaps, a little too tightly.
RAZA AGAIN: Releasing Kasha from her embrace, she pulls out a small packet and shakes it in front of the druid. "Got your favorite! Chocolate covered peanuts!" Kasha openly and affectionate returned the hug, unashamed. As a cat, one of Kasha's favorite things to do was to play with Tiefling tails, hers and Mocks were her favorites. At the sight of bag, Kasha almost threw up from joy and gasped so loud you thought she was going to pass out. She took it and her eyes watered. "Great Nuts of the Squirrel Elder! How did you know?!"she choked out, and immediately began eating so fast you thought she would choke. She leaned into you as she ate, and you could feel the affection she radiated for you.
MOCK: Of course, Kasha was also happy to see Mock and her "muscles of magnitude", as she would occasionally say. She reminded her a lot like Misha, an old friend from a world far away, with her size and strength. One big difference was that Mock didn't have hair red like fire, or encased in Acheronian armor, and, of course, didn't talk regularly about "Duty", "Honor", and "Glory" all the time. Mock was, however, equally brave, fun, and a pleasure to be around. She put up with Kasha, and they had an understanding that they both enjoyed. And, like Misha, Kasha was undoubtedly loyal and fun to be around.
Like a little spider monkey, she gave Raza a kiss on the cheek for her gift to her, and leapt on to Mocks broad shoulders. She slips her hands inside your coat, as if trying to inspect your physique with her hands. "Hi Mock! Oh my grathious have you gotten bigger thinth last we met?!"she inquired, chewing. "Impossibru!"After giving you a quick bite on any flesh she could find, she dropped down, hugged you as hard as she could, as if pretending her small wiry frame could even possibly lift such a mass of muscle and looked up at you, hopeful. "Pleath throw me again at something, if we get into a fight?"
Zhisshikassa rises from his seat and treats himself to as much of a stretch as he can muster. Despite the overabundance of clothing he wears, shivers shake the Pureblood's step. He frowns as he finds his muscles more stiff than expected. He had hoped for his cold-blooded muscles to entirely defrost after the journey towards Rybalka - no can do, apparently. He manages a single stride forward before tripping over Daewen moving underfoot. Barely catching himself by sinking a clawed hand into the edge of the circular table, twin hisses erupt from below his cowl as Zhisshikassa - and his now disrupted familiar - unexpectedly almost topple over. "Watch yourself," he seethes, straightening his back and wrapping himself further beneath the winter clothing he wears. Two crimson eyes glare from beneath. Out of the entire crew, Zhi entrusted Daewen with the most respect - and despite his indifferent, morose demeanor, Zhisshikassa reluctantly concedes to holding some respect for Daewen's skills. "Trip up some Drow instead."
Nephvir tensed up imperceptibly when he heard Zhi's interaction with Daewen, subconsciously stepping in between them. "Zhi. Good to see you. Glad you could make it, we could use your help." Curt, formal, with respect. He shortened his name out of convenience and also to dig at him slightly. He had no significant fondness for Zhisshikassa but he did recognize his abilities and value to the team. With his hissing reaction to Daewen he reacted without thinking, then controlled his thoughts and words. Always looking over his shoulder with Zhi... not a full trust perhaps? He is very cold... in more ways than one. He sends a message to Daewen, "I don't know that he has a heart to warm up. I think he delights in his... coldness. If he ever threatened you...." He let the obvious conclusion linger unsaid.
As Kasha was saying her hellos, Nephvir sneaks up behind her. In happier days, he might goose her buttock in her leather pants and laugh, but the fleeting thought moves out of his mind, instead he taps her on the right shoulder, comes up behind her on the left side, with a grin. "Hi Kasha. Good to see you. Very glad that you are here. And eating your favorite snack I see. Are you ready? Have you seen Doc? It's unlike him to be late..."
NEPHVIR:"Hi Kasha. Good to see you. Very glad that you are here. And eating your favorite snack I see. Are you ready? Have you seen Doc? It's unlike him to be late..." Kasha turns to the right, and seeing no one there, startles to see Nep on her left. "Hi Nep!!"she squeaks, happy to see him. She buries herself in him for a hug, like a little sister hugging an older brother twice her height. "Oh, sorry! Got chocolate on your.."she trails, dusting him off. "Oh, you bet your goose i'm ready. I have not see the Doc! Strange for him to be late, but last time I saw him, he made some silly comment about giving me a bath, and we know how THAT would go, ah? Ah? Ah?"Her eyebrows bobbed to a comical height, implying that worlds would collide should such an event occur.
"And if ya still want a drink later, I'll buy ya one next place we get to. Owe ya after last time, after all."
Raza gives Mock a toothy grin. She always felt comfortable with her and enjoyed her company. "I'll definitely take you up on that!" She responds. "I know, it's good to see everyone again, isn't it? " She replies quietly, to the side, trying to dodge Kasha as she jumps around on everyone as usual. "Watch out, monkey!" She laughs as she's almost pushed into Nephvir.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
As the group continues to walk to the Cathedral, Daewen casually reaches into a pocket inside her cloak, and then cupping something, reaches out to Kasha for a hearty handshake.
(Sleight of Hand: 9)
Grinning under her cloak, Daewen manages to slip a small cachet of Kasha's favorite "herb"....for later, she intones with a sly grin, knowing that Kasha is just like every other druid she's run across, with her sneaky desire to smoke various and sundry greenery they find in the woods.
Zhisshikassa casts an approving look from below his cowl towards Raza. He was reassured to hear someone didn't abandon their formalities. Wait...formalities? Zhi frowns and rubs his forehead. He was clearly working on his socialization as if he would the arcane formulae he engrosses himself in during rests. Greetings and politeness was unnecessary in the jungle where speaking was best done to the point and without any extravagant words. "Forgive me for neglecting an adequate greeting - I find them at best, unnecessary, and at worst, a waste of time." Zhisshikassa clears his throat and pauses for a moment to think. "What is it - ah. How are you?" he slowly rasps, testing out a new phrase. Each word rolls slowly off his forked tongue as if he practiced the phrase multiple times beforehand. His soulless gaze remains unwavering and unblinking.
“Good to see your grumpy soul 'gain, buddy,” she teases. “Missed that scowl and cheery attitude of yours.”
In the second unexpected bump of the day, Zhisshikassa is nearly thrown off his balance once more as Mock's shoulder crashes into him. It wasn't a hard blow - certainly not, but any who spend time near Zhisshikassa know him to be - at least physically - fragile, to say the least. He has troubles carrying his own component pouch at times, sure. Nobody has quite mustered quite enough courage to ask him if he needs some aid. Zhisszhikassa swivels towards Mock. A coil of muscle writhes from underneath Zhi's cowl as his familiar - a cobra; what a surprise - irritably awakens from the movement. Zhisshikassa held little respect for warriors who use as little tact as the flailing wildness warriors of rage tend to approach combat with, but Mock was powerful enough where Zhi has begun to reconsider sending a request to the higher-ups about having the brainless warrior be transferred. "Mock. I would hesitate to attribute 'cheery' to my demeanor - I sense you are being humorous, yet I cannot quite tell. Vocal inflections are beyond me. I suppose an appropriate response is to mirror the compliments?" Zhisshikassa offers. "Let me make an attempt - I have missed your kindness and physical power." As if confirming the latter, Zhisshikassa rubs his poor, cold, nearly-frozen shoulder. At least he didn't bruise.
ZHI:"Your enthusiasm for this excursion is admirable," Zhi comments, voice more raspy than usual. ""Ensure your ardor falters when challenged by your wit. I suspect this night to be dangerous." Kasha, with no intention of making fun of you, merely expressing fondness, imitates your voice like an impressionist and says, "Yes, sir. Admirable enthusiams mode engaged! Commencing wit to be challenged when my ardor farts."Even though you hate it, she wraps her arms around you in a quick hug. Squeezing, perhaps, a little too tightly.
Still peering intently towards Mock, Zhisshikassa suddenly freezes up as Kasha embraces him. Zhi had forgotten how physically affectionate the Half-Elf could be. While he found physical touch uncomfortable at best, even more concerning was the rest of the party found it enjoyable - they found Kasha's behavior cute. A mixture of irritation and defeat overcomes his expression as he reluctantly threads his arms around Kasha's in a mimic of the hug - and almost immediately afterwards doing his -2 Strength best to wriggle away from the embrace. "I did not seek to encourage your enthusiasm. Fine - I digress. I only hope for you to survive the night. As someone who is entirely dispatched from enthusiasm itself, I recommend forgoing it for the sake of safety," Zhi recommends. Emotions. One of the only concepts he could never quite grasp.
"Zhi. Good to see you. Glad you could make it, we could use your help." Curt, formal, with respect.
Zhi exhales - finally, someone who spoke his language! Direct and to the point. The ulterior implications behind Nephvir's words remain unheard by Zhi's ears - social implications were notoriously lost to the Yuan-Ti. Zhisshikassa defers to simply staring towards Nephvir from underneath the cowl hanging over his head. "I expect we will, Nephvir, as we will equally be in need of your abilities," he coldly rasps, a hand clutching one of three fur cloaks surrounding Zhi's figure as it threatens to fall off from the sheer amount of clothing stacked in an attempt to keep warm. He couldn't quite summon a sheet of fire in his palms to keep warm - secrecy was imperative. "Are you not familiar with killing Drow? Have you any advice?"
"Forgive me for neglecting an adequate greeting - I find them at best, unnecessary, and at worst, a waste of time."Zhisshikassa clears his throat and pauses for a moment to think. "What is it - ah. How are you?"
Raza blinks a few times when Zhi actually responds to her salutation. Giving him a smile, she responds. "I'm well, thank you for asking." She doesn't torture him further by reciprocating the question and moves towards Kasha, still a bit surprised.
Zhi exhales - finally, someone who spoke his language! Direct and to the point. The ulterior implications behind Nephvir's words remain unheard by Zhi's ears - social implications were notoriously lost to the Yuan-Ti. Zhisshikassa defers to simply staring towards Nephvir from underneath the cowl hanging over his head. "I expect we will, Nephvir, as we will equally be in need of your abilities," he coldly rasps, a hand clutching one of three fur cloaks surrounding Zhi's figure as it threatens to fall off from the sheer amount of clothing stacked in an attempt to keep warm. He couldn't quite summon a sheet of fire in his palms to keep warm - secrecy was imperative. "Are you not familiar with killing Drow? Have you any advice?"
“As for me it is simple, stick them with the pointy end. That is pretty much it. I hope to be able to use my skills to find them and dispense with them quickly and quietly. As for you.... whatever you can do, perhaps use your skills to... burn them up? I would like you to warm yourself over their roasted bodies. I am sure you will have different methods than the rest of us.” Nephvir regards Zhi and gives him a curt nod of the head.
Arora never was one of many words but could engage in conversation when needed... that's probably why she took a slight liking to Zhisshikassa, he was to the point and didn't dance around any subject, just gave you the facts, cold as they may be sometimes. As the group moves along the snow and ice covered street, Arora makes her way over towards him and places her hand lightly on his shoulder "I'm so glad to see you here Zhi, your skills are most valuable in these 'excursions' and I'm sure you will prove to be an asset once again." She helps pull his falling coat back up onto his shoulders "Are you warm enough?" she asks a bit concerned "It is dreadfully cold out."
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D&D 5E BEYOND: Ada- Sorceress /Isa- Sorceress / Naris - Oathbreaker Paladin CYBERPUNK RED DISCORD: Isa - Solo 5 / Angel- Solo 5 / Faun- Tech 5 / Raja - Nomad 5 PATHFINDER 2e DISCORD: Crystal - Sorceress
"Shit, Shit! Shit!!!" Centurion whispered to himself as he sped towards the Thirsty Serpent. 'I can't stay long...' Famous last words if there ever was one... he thought to himself as he dodged and weaved through the crowd of bodies. What had started as helping one sickly old man with a phlegmy cough, had turned into a pop-up clinic of sorts to what seemed like half the bloody town! By the time he had finally managed to extricate himself, and only because the denizens of the of Rybalka had begun to head towards the Cathedral themselves, he had lost most of the night and his medical supplies fixing up the town's ailments. Luckily he had stocked up on extra kits and still had a couple remaining should the squad need them, but it was far from ideal. It seemed that even after a year of this, old habits died hard.
When he had arrived at the Tavern, he was a bit dismayed to see that not a single member was still inside. He hoped that they had all at least arrived in Rybalka and were following orders in blending in with the crowd, but he could never be sure with this lot. Hoping that no one was doing anything foolish, he dashed off again in the direction of the Vigil, hoping to eventually spot a few of the squad.
(Right before the group would've approached the Cathedral)
Finally spotting the tall tiefling up ahead (she was easy to spot no matter where she went), Centurion stopped for a moment to compose himself and catch his breath before walking at a quickened walking pace towards his squad member. Division Two... he thought to himself in a mixture of fondness and annoyance as he approached her. It's been a year and I'm still not sure if I should I should be grateful or depressed that I was stuck with this lot on a regular basis. He stopped in his tracks and sighed again when he spotted the rest of the team walking together as a pack. Did they not realize that they drew a ton of attention to themselves walking together like that? Most of them didn't exactly blend in easily with a crowd and they weren't the most subtle group in the world after all despite the clandestine organization they were apart of. Sighing again, he made up the remaining distance before calling out, "Hey! Hold up a minute!"
(Assuming you all turn around and stop)
Centurion stopped in front of the squad and gave them a once over before speaking. At least they dressed the part and no one's wearing the Order's emblem brazenly on their chest. Perhaps this mission will actually go smoothly..."Hello Mighty Ducks D2" he began, deigning not to acknowledge why he was late (he already garnered little respect as it was). "Glad to see we've all been assigned to the same 'task' again. I'm assuming you all read the briefing but as reminder we're here to watch, be discreet and intervene should that prove necessary. Understood? And to do that, it means splitting up. Kasha, pay attention. We should go into groups of two and blend into the crowd at different locations to cover as many points as possible. If you spot our, 'tasks', ideally try to subdue or capture them quietly. If that's not an option, then, well, do what you all do best. The usually teams will suffice. If nothing happens, rendezvous back at the tavern. And once you're all ready to go, I can let you know where best to set up. Any questions? Kasha, were you listening? Tell me what you're supposed to do..." Centurion had learned early that there was a sweet spot in the amount of orders or suggestions he could give to any squad before they started to tune him out and do their own things; it was rarely ever more than one.
"Hi Mock! Oh my grathious have you gotten bigger thinth last we met?!" she inquired, chewing. "Impossibru!" After giving you a quick bite on any flesh she could find, she dropped down, hugged you as hard as she could, as if pretending her small wiry frame could even possibly lift such a mass of muscle and looked up at you, hopeful. "Pleath throw me again at something, if we get into a fight?"
A loud laugh leaves Mock as she lets Kasha climb all over her. She doesn’t even try to stop it, entirely used to it by now, and hugs her back as tightly as she dare. “Yeah, course I’ll throw ya ‘gain!” She grins down at her and ruffles her hair. “We’ll make a move outta it or somethin’!”
"Let me make an attempt - I have missed your kindness and physical power." As if confirming the latter, Zhisshikassa rubs his poor, cold, nearly-frozen shoulder. At least he didn't bruise.
The cobra across her compatriot’s shoulders doesn’t even cause her to bat an eye anymore. She does reach out and try to balance Zhi, though, her grin softening a little. Once he’s stable, she lets her hands drop. He doesn’t strike her as the type who enjoys touch - not like most of the rest of them, at least. And Mock can respect that. “Aww, appreciate that, Zhi. Knew I was growin’ on ya.”
Sighing again, he made up the remaining distance before calling out, "Hey! Hold up a minute!"
Hearing a call from behind them, Mock turns around to see the last member of their little group. Her pointed teeth flash as she beams widely. “Hey, Doc, ya made it! We were startin' to get worried!”
Nephvir pauses to listen to Doc's description and instructions. He holds up his hand for a question. "Doc, good to see you, as always. Are we using codenames this time? What about aliases? Are you going to take the name Harry Ballsack or Lee Key Bum again? Ben Dover? What should our names be?" He holds a completely straight face.
Nephvir sends a message to Daewen "Bwaaaahhahahhahaaaa!" while turning his face and then turns back deadpan face toward Doc.
As the group continues to walk to the Cathedral, Daewen casually reaches into a pocket inside her cloak, and then cupping something, reaches out to Kasha for a hearty handshake. Insight: 19
Kasha looked at what Daewen had handed her. She opened it, sniffed, made a strange face, and tossed it over her shoulder.
ZHI: "I did not seek to encourage your enthusiasm. Fine - I digress. I only hope for you to survive the night. As someone who is entirely dispatched from enthusiasm itself, I recommend forgoing it for the sake of safety,"Zhi recommends. "You got it, there, toots!"she salutes, trying to hold back a snorting laugh. Kasha had indeed survived many a night, and appreciated the advice that she'd never take.
RAZA: "I'm well, thank you for asking." She doesn't torture him further by reciprocating the question and moves towards Kasha, still a bit surprised. Kasha looks up at you, momentarily, and makes a silly face, as you both walk alongside each other, in another classic attempt to make you smile or laugh.
CENTURION: "Glad to see we've all been assigned to the same 'task' again. I'm assuming you all read the briefing but as reminder we're here to watch, be discreet and intervene should that prove necessary. Understood? And to do that, it means splitting up. Kasha, pay attention." At this, Kasha jerked from playing with Raza's tail, and stood straight, looking off in the distance and trying to look serious. "Split in two!"
NEP: "Doc, good to see you, as always. Are we using codenames this time? What about aliases? Are you going to take the name Harry Ballsack or Lee Key Bum again? Ben Dover? What should our names be?" He holds a completely straight face. Kasha snorted so loud, her entire composure crumbled.
MOCK: A loud laugh leaves Mock as she lets Kasha climb all over her. She doesn’t even try to stop it, entirely used to it by now, and hugs her back as tightly as she dare. “Yeah, course I’ll throw ya ‘gain!” She grins down at her and ruffles her hair. “We’ll make a move outta it or somethin’!” Kasha was so happy she did a little dance in the snow. She couldn't wait to have a name for such a maneuver!
Ten feet from the entrance, by an open pair of finely-carved wooden swing-gates depicting the rising sun, an imposing man greets each villager with a personal message or a guiding and assuring hand on the shoulder. As you all get closer, you hear phrases such as, "Evenin' mayor," or "Light be with you, Igor." He gives you all a beaming smile not usually associated with portentous events and says, "Well met, travelers! Find a place to sit and enjoy the service. The day's dawn heralds new events for all us. Yuri! Seats for this group!"
At this final call, a man looked up from halfway down the cathedral and beckons you forward. Places are found for you all as those close by offer greetings and ask your names. The welcome is genuine and heartfelt, reflecting that the coming service is a period of warmth and rebirth.
As you sit down and wait, the villagers around you are talking in hushed tones about a "coming darkness" and the words "Vigil of Light" are repeated many times. While the exterior of the cathedral is gray stone, the interior is built of lustrous wood from local trees, as are the simple benches which serve as pews and line the hall on both sides from front to back. A large fire on a raised plinth burns brightly, bathing the weathered and wrinkled faces of the villagers in a flickering, otherworldly orange glow.
"What's this all about?" Kasha asked, perhaps a little too loud.
"The fire is never allowed to die,"says a villager. "The crackling? 'Tis said to be the spirits of warriors long since passed from this world. They talk to us, not to warn or teach us, but help relive their glories so we remember the sacrifices they made for their children and grandchildren. War is never an easy affair; those involved are swept up and away, ofttimes lost in the minds of our rulers. Here at Klavek's edge, we recall those that brought light to our lives; to this day they give us vision, warmth, and shelter. Juriendor has shown us such things; soon he'll arrive to share more wisdom."
Daewen pantomimes like she has to go to the bathroom, and gets up to wander. But that's all just an excuse to scope out the Cathedral, looking for signs of danger. What sort of entrances and exits are there, other than the one they came in through? With all eyes looking inward, she chooses to look outward. Anyone looking especially shifty or out of place?
The cathedral has an entrance you just came through, and two storage areas for storing coats, cloaks, and other snow gear. There are rows of pews, about eight of them, all facing towards a raised stage, like a church would. The large ceremonial fire is there. Since you've never been here before, you can see, as far as you can tell, only one entrance and exit, the way you just came. As of this moment, there are no signs of danger.
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Delighting in Nephvir's ability to talk to her (directly into her thoughts, the only person on this plane she's ever encountered who can do so), Daewen lets flow loooooonnnnnnnnnng thoughts and feelings and stories for a long few minutes until she finally realizes that she never answered his original question! Nephvir finally manages to stick a cork into her stream of consciousness, quieting her thoughts down to a moment of blessed silence, before she manages to think/talk No clue...but any chance I can get to send some Drow souls towards my Queen for punishment is a step closer to me getting a promotion!
The moment of bliss is quickly overtaken by a shudder of cold that makes its way though the cowl of her hood, past her nose, and straight down her spine to her tiny little boot-ensconced toes. Her own uncomfort is quickly replaced with empathy for her friend/acquaintance/partner/body she sometimes adventures with, Zhisshikassa. The sudden awareness that his species was cold blooded came to the forefront of her thoughts. Dear Nephvir, is there anything we can do to help Zhisshikassa before he turns into a lizard popsicle? she thinks.
Last to know and first to be blamed...
As a free action, can I regret my life choices?
Mock has definitely been leaning into the whole fresh-faced adventurer ruse - not that it’s much different than how she normally acts. A drink or two in, sprawling in her seat, her tall frame taking up as much space as possible. She’s greeted everyone with a cheer and a raise of her mug, her tail flicking around to belay her true pleasure at seeing everyone again.
As everyone else seems to get up, Mock does the same. She’s got a thick coat, the cream color of it a stark contrast against her dark blue skin. No cloaks for her - she doesn’t have the patience for how much they seem to trip her up. Heading for the door, she bumps her shoulder against Zhi as she moves past him. “Good to see your grumpy soul 'gain, buddy,” she teases. “Missed that scowl and cheery attitude of yours.”
The spade at the end of her tail smacks against Raza’s leg back before she throws her a wink. “Don’t worry ‘bout it, Raz. I getcha.” She straightens up the axe still strapped across her back and grins at Raza. "And if ya still want a drink later, I'll buy ya one next place we get to. Owe ya after last time, after all."
RAZA: She gives a small wave to the group. “Hi All, I see I missed the reunion.” She looks longingly at the mugs on the table.
"Oh, no you di' 'int!" Kasha says, her head moving left and right, holding up a finger. She snorted in a laugh. "Ha! Raza! Hoi!" she waved, getting up with the others. "You've made it just in time!"
ARORA: "It's good to see you my friend! And, you're right... it's too bad all the candy shops are closed, I could really go for some of those chocolate covered peanuts!" She gives out a good laugh as they all start exiting the tavern.
"I know, right!?" she gasped. "They're like vitamins! Khkhkh! I used to know someone who had a bag of holding and they were filled with them!" she shuddered in delight, "GbptHt!"
ZHI: "Your enthusiasm for this excursion is admirable," Zhi comments, voice more raspy than usual. ""Ensure your ardor falters when challenged by your wit. I suspect this night to be dangerous."
Kasha, with no intention of making fun of you, merely expressing fondness, imitates your voice like an impressionist and says, "Yes, sir. Admirable enthusiams mode engaged! Commencing wit to be challenged when my ardor farts." Even though you hate it, she wraps her arms around you in a quick hug. Squeezing, perhaps, a little too tightly.
RAZA AGAIN: Releasing Kasha from her embrace, she pulls out a small packet and shakes it in front of the druid. "Got your favorite! Chocolate covered peanuts!"
Kasha openly and affectionate returned the hug, unashamed. As a cat, one of Kasha's favorite things to do was to play with Tiefling tails, hers and Mocks were her favorites. At the sight of bag, Kasha almost threw up from joy and gasped so loud you thought she was going to pass out. She took it and her eyes watered. "Great Nuts of the Squirrel Elder! How did you know?!" she choked out, and immediately began eating so fast you thought she would choke. She leaned into you as she ate, and you could feel the affection she radiated for you.
MOCK: Of course, Kasha was also happy to see Mock and her "muscles of magnitude", as she would occasionally say. She reminded her a lot like Misha, an old friend from a world far away, with her size and strength. One big difference was that Mock didn't have hair red like fire, or encased in Acheronian armor, and, of course, didn't talk regularly about "Duty", "Honor", and "Glory" all the time. Mock was, however, equally brave, fun, and a pleasure to be around. She put up with Kasha, and they had an understanding that they both enjoyed. And, like Misha, Kasha was undoubtedly loyal and fun to be around.
Like a little spider monkey, she gave Raza a kiss on the cheek for her gift to her, and leapt on to Mocks broad shoulders. She slips her hands inside your coat, as if trying to inspect your physique with her hands. "Hi Mock! Oh my grathious have you gotten bigger thinth last we met?!" she inquired, chewing. "Impossibru!" After giving you a quick bite on any flesh she could find, she dropped down, hugged you as hard as she could, as if pretending her small wiry frame could even possibly lift such a mass of muscle and looked up at you, hopeful. "Pleath throw me again at something, if we get into a fight?"
Zhisshikassa rises from his seat and treats himself to as much of a stretch as he can muster. Despite the overabundance of clothing he wears, shivers shake the Pureblood's step. He frowns as he finds his muscles more stiff than expected. He had hoped for his cold-blooded muscles to entirely defrost after the journey towards Rybalka - no can do, apparently. He manages a single stride forward before tripping over Daewen moving underfoot. Barely catching himself by sinking a clawed hand into the edge of the circular table, twin hisses erupt from below his cowl as Zhisshikassa - and his now disrupted familiar - unexpectedly almost topple over. "Watch yourself," he seethes, straightening his back and wrapping himself further beneath the winter clothing he wears. Two crimson eyes glare from beneath. Out of the entire crew, Zhi entrusted Daewen with the most respect - and despite his indifferent, morose demeanor, Zhisshikassa reluctantly concedes to holding some respect for Daewen's skills. "Trip up some Drow instead."
Nephvir tensed up imperceptibly when he heard Zhi's interaction with Daewen, subconsciously stepping in between them. "Zhi. Good to see you. Glad you could make it, we could use your help." Curt, formal, with respect. He shortened his name out of convenience and also to dig at him slightly. He had no significant fondness for Zhisshikassa but he did recognize his abilities and value to the team. With his hissing reaction to Daewen he reacted without thinking, then controlled his thoughts and words. Always looking over his shoulder with Zhi... not a full trust perhaps? He is very cold... in more ways than one. He sends a message to Daewen, "I don't know that he has a heart to warm up. I think he delights in his... coldness. If he ever threatened you...." He let the obvious conclusion linger unsaid.
As Kasha was saying her hellos, Nephvir sneaks up behind her. In happier days, he might goose her buttock in her leather pants and laugh, but the fleeting thought moves out of his mind, instead he taps her on the right shoulder, comes up behind her on the left side, with a grin. "Hi Kasha. Good to see you. Very glad that you are here. And eating your favorite snack I see. Are you ready? Have you seen Doc? It's unlike him to be late..."
NEPHVIR: "Hi Kasha. Good to see you. Very glad that you are here. And eating your favorite snack I see. Are you ready? Have you seen Doc? It's unlike him to be late..."
Kasha turns to the right, and seeing no one there, startles to see Nep on her left. "Hi Nep!!" she squeaks, happy to see him. She buries herself in him for a hug, like a little sister hugging an older brother twice her height. "Oh, sorry! Got chocolate on your.." she trails, dusting him off. "Oh, you bet your goose i'm ready. I have not see the Doc! Strange for him to be late, but last time I saw him, he made some silly comment about giving me a bath, and we know how THAT would go, ah? Ah? Ah?" Her eyebrows bobbed to a comical height, implying that worlds would collide should such an event occur.
"And if ya still want a drink later, I'll buy ya one next place we get to. Owe ya after last time, after all."
Raza gives Mock a toothy grin. She always felt comfortable with her and enjoyed her company. "I'll definitely take you up on that!" She responds. "I know, it's good to see everyone again, isn't it? " She replies quietly, to the side, trying to dodge Kasha as she jumps around on everyone as usual. "Watch out, monkey!" She laughs as she's almost pushed into Nephvir.
Kasha held on tight. There was no avoiding the monkey hugs. This group of people, she wanted to keep for as long as possible.
As the group continues to walk to the Cathedral, Daewen casually reaches into a pocket inside her cloak, and then cupping something, reaches out to Kasha for a hearty handshake.
(Sleight of Hand: 9)
Grinning under her cloak, Daewen manages to slip a small cachet of Kasha's favorite "herb"....for later, she intones with a sly grin, knowing that Kasha is just like every other druid she's run across, with her sneaky desire to smoke various and sundry greenery they find in the woods.
Last to know and first to be blamed...
As a free action, can I regret my life choices?
Zhisshikassa casts an approving look from below his cowl towards Raza. He was reassured to hear someone didn't abandon their formalities. Wait...formalities? Zhi frowns and rubs his forehead. He was clearly working on his socialization as if he would the arcane formulae he engrosses himself in during rests. Greetings and politeness was unnecessary in the jungle where speaking was best done to the point and without any extravagant words. "Forgive me for neglecting an adequate greeting - I find them at best, unnecessary, and at worst, a waste of time." Zhisshikassa clears his throat and pauses for a moment to think. "What is it - ah. How are you?" he slowly rasps, testing out a new phrase. Each word rolls slowly off his forked tongue as if he practiced the phrase multiple times beforehand. His soulless gaze remains unwavering and unblinking.
In the second unexpected bump of the day, Zhisshikassa is nearly thrown off his balance once more as Mock's shoulder crashes into him. It wasn't a hard blow - certainly not, but any who spend time near Zhisshikassa know him to be - at least physically - fragile, to say the least. He has troubles carrying his own component pouch at times, sure. Nobody has quite mustered quite enough courage to ask him if he needs some aid. Zhisszhikassa swivels towards Mock. A coil of muscle writhes from underneath Zhi's cowl as his familiar - a cobra; what a surprise - irritably awakens from the movement. Zhisshikassa held little respect for warriors who use as little tact as the flailing wildness warriors of rage tend to approach combat with, but Mock was powerful enough where Zhi has begun to reconsider sending a request to the higher-ups about having the brainless warrior be transferred. "Mock. I would hesitate to attribute 'cheery' to my demeanor - I sense you are being humorous, yet I cannot quite tell. Vocal inflections are beyond me. I suppose an appropriate response is to mirror the compliments?" Zhisshikassa offers. "Let me make an attempt - I have missed your kindness and physical power." As if confirming the latter, Zhisshikassa rubs his poor, cold, nearly-frozen shoulder. At least he didn't bruise.
Still peering intently towards Mock, Zhisshikassa suddenly freezes up as Kasha embraces him. Zhi had forgotten how physically affectionate the Half-Elf could be. While he found physical touch uncomfortable at best, even more concerning was the rest of the party found it enjoyable - they found Kasha's behavior cute. A mixture of irritation and defeat overcomes his expression as he reluctantly threads his arms around Kasha's in a mimic of the hug - and almost immediately afterwards doing his -2 Strength best to wriggle away from the embrace. "I did not seek to encourage your enthusiasm. Fine - I digress. I only hope for you to survive the night. As someone who is entirely dispatched from enthusiasm itself, I recommend forgoing it for the sake of safety," Zhi recommends. Emotions. One of the only concepts he could never quite grasp.
Zhi exhales - finally, someone who spoke his language! Direct and to the point. The ulterior implications behind Nephvir's words remain unheard by Zhi's ears - social implications were notoriously lost to the Yuan-Ti. Zhisshikassa defers to simply staring towards Nephvir from underneath the cowl hanging over his head. "I expect we will, Nephvir, as we will equally be in need of your abilities," he coldly rasps, a hand clutching one of three fur cloaks surrounding Zhi's figure as it threatens to fall off from the sheer amount of clothing stacked in an attempt to keep warm. He couldn't quite summon a sheet of fire in his palms to keep warm - secrecy was imperative. "Are you not familiar with killing Drow? Have you any advice?"
"Forgive me for neglecting an adequate greeting - I find them at best, unnecessary, and at worst, a waste of time." Zhisshikassa clears his throat and pauses for a moment to think. "What is it - ah. How are you?"
Raza blinks a few times when Zhi actually responds to her salutation. Giving him a smile, she responds. "I'm well, thank you for asking." She doesn't torture him further by reciprocating the question and moves towards Kasha, still a bit surprised.
Zhi exhales - finally, someone who spoke his language! Direct and to the point. The ulterior implications behind Nephvir's words remain unheard by Zhi's ears - social implications were notoriously lost to the Yuan-Ti. Zhisshikassa defers to simply staring towards Nephvir from underneath the cowl hanging over his head. "I expect we will, Nephvir, as we will equally be in need of your abilities," he coldly rasps, a hand clutching one of three fur cloaks surrounding Zhi's figure as it threatens to fall off from the sheer amount of clothing stacked in an attempt to keep warm. He couldn't quite summon a sheet of fire in his palms to keep warm - secrecy was imperative. "Are you not familiar with killing Drow? Have you any advice?"
“As for me it is simple, stick them with the pointy end. That is pretty much it. I hope to be able to use my skills to find them and dispense with them quickly and quietly. As for you.... whatever you can do, perhaps use your skills to... burn them up? I would like you to warm yourself over their roasted bodies. I am sure you will have different methods than the rest of us.” Nephvir regards Zhi and gives him a curt nod of the head.
Arora never was one of many words but could engage in conversation when needed... that's probably why she took a slight liking to Zhisshikassa, he was to the point and didn't dance around any subject, just gave you the facts, cold as they may be sometimes. As the group moves along the snow and ice covered street, Arora makes her way over towards him and places her hand lightly on his shoulder "I'm so glad to see you here Zhi, your skills are most valuable in these 'excursions' and I'm sure you will prove to be an asset once again." She helps pull his falling coat back up onto his shoulders "Are you warm enough?" she asks a bit concerned "It is dreadfully cold out."
D&D 5E BEYOND: Ada - Sorceress / Isa - Sorceress / Naris - Oathbreaker Paladin
CYBERPUNK RED DISCORD: Isa - Solo 5 / Angel - Solo 5 / Faun - Tech 5 / Raja - Nomad 5
PATHFINDER 2e DISCORD: Crystal - Sorceress
"Shit, Shit! Shit!!!" Centurion whispered to himself as he sped towards the Thirsty Serpent. 'I can't stay long...' Famous last words if there ever was one... he thought to himself as he dodged and weaved through the crowd of bodies. What had started as helping one sickly old man with a phlegmy cough, had turned into a pop-up clinic of sorts to what seemed like half the bloody town! By the time he had finally managed to extricate himself, and only because the denizens of the of Rybalka had begun to head towards the Cathedral themselves, he had lost most of the night and his medical supplies fixing up the town's ailments. Luckily he had stocked up on extra kits and still had a couple remaining should the squad need them, but it was far from ideal. It seemed that even after a year of this, old habits died hard.
When he had arrived at the Tavern, he was a bit dismayed to see that not a single member was still inside. He hoped that they had all at least arrived in Rybalka and were following orders in blending in with the crowd, but he could never be sure with this lot. Hoping that no one was doing anything foolish, he dashed off again in the direction of the Vigil, hoping to eventually spot a few of the squad.
(Right before the group would've approached the Cathedral)
Finally spotting the tall tiefling up ahead (she was easy to spot no matter where she went), Centurion stopped for a moment to compose himself and catch his breath before walking at a quickened walking pace towards his squad member. Division Two... he thought to himself in a mixture of fondness and annoyance as he approached her. It's been a year and I'm still not sure if I should I should be grateful or depressed that I was stuck with this lot on a regular basis. He stopped in his tracks and sighed again when he spotted the rest of the team walking together as a pack. Did they not realize that they drew a ton of attention to themselves walking together like that? Most of them didn't exactly blend in easily with a crowd and they weren't the most subtle group in the world after all despite the clandestine organization they were apart of. Sighing again, he made up the remaining distance before calling out, "Hey! Hold up a minute!"
(Assuming you all turn around and stop)
Centurion stopped in front of the squad and gave them a once over before speaking. At least they dressed the part and no one's wearing the Order's emblem brazenly on their chest. Perhaps this mission will actually go smoothly... "Hello
Mighty DucksD2" he began, deigning not to acknowledge why he was late (he already garnered little respect as it was). "Glad to see we've all been assigned to the same 'task' again. I'm assuming you all read the briefing but as reminder we're here to watch, be discreet and intervene should that prove necessary. Understood? And to do that, it means splitting up. Kasha, pay attention. We should go into groups of two and blend into the crowd at different locations to cover as many points as possible. If you spot our, 'tasks', ideally try to subdue or capture them quietly. If that's not an option, then, well, do what you all do best. The usually teams will suffice. If nothing happens, rendezvous back at the tavern. And once you're all ready to go, I can let you know where best to set up. Any questions? Kasha, were you listening? Tell me what you're supposed to do..." Centurion had learned early that there was a sweet spot in the amount of orders or suggestions he could give to any squad before they started to tune him out and do their own things; it was rarely ever more than one.Zoldier’s Curse of the Crimson Throne: DM/ Redii || Zoldier's Strange Aeon's: DM
"Hi Mock! Oh my grathious have you gotten bigger thinth last we met?!" she inquired, chewing. "Impossibru!" After giving you a quick bite on any flesh she could find, she dropped down, hugged you as hard as she could, as if pretending her small wiry frame could even possibly lift such a mass of muscle and looked up at you, hopeful. "Pleath throw me again at something, if we get into a fight?"
A loud laugh leaves Mock as she lets Kasha climb all over her. She doesn’t even try to stop it, entirely used to it by now, and hugs her back as tightly as she dare. “Yeah, course I’ll throw ya ‘gain!” She grins down at her and ruffles her hair. “We’ll make a move outta it or somethin’!”
"Let me make an attempt - I have missed your kindness and physical power." As if confirming the latter, Zhisshikassa rubs his poor, cold, nearly-frozen shoulder. At least he didn't bruise.
The cobra across her compatriot’s shoulders doesn’t even cause her to bat an eye anymore. She does reach out and try to balance Zhi, though, her grin softening a little. Once he’s stable, she lets her hands drop. He doesn’t strike her as the type who enjoys touch - not like most of the rest of them, at least. And Mock can respect that. “Aww, appreciate that, Zhi. Knew I was growin’ on ya.”
Sighing again, he made up the remaining distance before calling out, "Hey! Hold up a minute!"
Hearing a call from behind them, Mock turns around to see the last member of their little group. Her pointed teeth flash as she beams widely. “Hey, Doc, ya made it! We were startin' to get worried!”
Nephvir pauses to listen to Doc's description and instructions. He holds up his hand for a question. "Doc, good to see you, as always. Are we using codenames this time? What about aliases? Are you going to take the name Harry Ballsack or Lee Key Bum again? Ben Dover? What should our names be?" He holds a completely straight face.
Nephvir sends a message to Daewen "Bwaaaahhahahhahaaaa!" while turning his face and then turns back deadpan face toward Doc.
As the group continues to walk to the Cathedral, Daewen casually reaches into a pocket inside her cloak, and then cupping something, reaches out to Kasha for a hearty handshake.
Insight: 19
Kasha looked at what Daewen had handed her. She opened it, sniffed, made a strange face, and tossed it over her shoulder.
ZHI: "I did not seek to encourage your enthusiasm. Fine - I digress. I only hope for you to survive the night. As someone who is entirely dispatched from enthusiasm itself, I recommend forgoing it for the sake of safety," Zhi recommends.
"You got it, there, toots!" she salutes, trying to hold back a snorting laugh. Kasha had indeed survived many a night, and appreciated the advice that she'd never take.
RAZA: "I'm well, thank you for asking." She doesn't torture him further by reciprocating the question and moves towards Kasha, still a bit surprised.
Kasha looks up at you, momentarily, and makes a silly face, as you both walk alongside each other, in another classic attempt to make you smile or laugh.
CENTURION: "Glad to see we've all been assigned to the same 'task' again. I'm assuming you all read the briefing but as reminder we're here to watch, be discreet and intervene should that prove necessary. Understood? And to do that, it means splitting up. Kasha, pay attention."
At this, Kasha jerked from playing with Raza's tail, and stood straight, looking off in the distance and trying to look serious. "Split in two!"
NEP: "Doc, good to see you, as always. Are we using codenames this time? What about aliases? Are you going to take the name Harry Ballsack or Lee Key Bum again? Ben Dover? What should our names be?" He holds a completely straight face.
Kasha snorted so loud, her entire composure crumbled.
MOCK: A loud laugh leaves Mock as she lets Kasha climb all over her. She doesn’t even try to stop it, entirely used to it by now, and hugs her back as tightly as she dare. “Yeah, course I’ll throw ya ‘gain!” She grins down at her and ruffles her hair. “We’ll make a move outta it or somethin’!”
Kasha was so happy she did a little dance in the snow. She couldn't wait to have a name for such a maneuver!
Ten feet from the entrance, by an open pair of finely-carved wooden swing-gates depicting the rising sun, an imposing man greets each villager with a personal message or a guiding and assuring hand on the shoulder. As you all get closer, you hear phrases such as, "Evenin' mayor," or "Light be with you, Igor." He gives you all a beaming smile not usually associated with portentous events and says, "Well met, travelers! Find a place to sit and enjoy the service. The day's dawn heralds new events for all us. Yuri! Seats for this group!"
At this final call, a man looked up from halfway down the cathedral and beckons you forward. Places are found for you all as those close by offer greetings and ask your names. The welcome is genuine and heartfelt, reflecting that the coming service is a period of warmth and rebirth.
As you sit down and wait, the villagers around you are talking in hushed tones about a "coming darkness" and the words "Vigil of Light" are repeated many times. While the exterior of the cathedral is gray stone, the interior is built of lustrous wood from local trees, as are the simple benches which serve as pews and line the hall on both sides from front to back. A large fire on a raised plinth burns brightly, bathing the weathered and wrinkled faces of the villagers in a flickering, otherworldly orange glow.
"What's this all about?" Kasha asked, perhaps a little too loud.
"The fire is never allowed to die," says a villager. "The crackling? 'Tis said to be the spirits of warriors long since passed from this world. They talk to us, not to warn or teach us, but help relive their glories so we remember the sacrifices they made for their children and grandchildren. War is never an easy affair; those involved are swept up and away, ofttimes lost in the minds of our rulers. Here at Klavek's edge, we recall those that brought light to our lives; to this day they give us vision, warmth, and shelter. Juriendor has shown us such things; soon he'll arrive to share more wisdom."
Daewen pantomimes like she has to go to the bathroom, and gets up to wander. But that's all just an excuse to scope out the Cathedral, looking for signs of danger. What sort of entrances and exits are there, other than the one they came in through? With all eyes looking inward, she chooses to look outward. Anyone looking especially shifty or out of place?
Perception: 15
Last to know and first to be blamed...
As a free action, can I regret my life choices?
The cathedral has an entrance you just came through, and two storage areas for storing coats, cloaks, and other snow gear. There are rows of pews, about eight of them, all facing towards a raised stage, like a church would. The large ceremonial fire is there. Since you've never been here before, you can see, as far as you can tell, only one entrance and exit, the way you just came. As of this moment, there are no signs of danger.